New CH.com Forum - Print Page

New CH.com Forum
http://www.clusterheadaches.com/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl Cluster Headache Help and Support >> Getting to Know Ya >> T.E.N.S.? http://www.clusterheadaches.com/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?num=1311342064 Message started by trapper rich on Jul 22^nd, 2011 at 9:41am

Title: T.E.N.S.?
Post by trapper rich on Jul 22^nd, 2011 at 9:41am

has anyone had any relief with a tens unit? i just started to get my ch cycle and out offustration i stuck 2 tens pads one on my temple, one on my neck(under ear) i was shocked(literally0 but my ch dissapaied in seconds, i waited till i had another attack to test this out and again i found relief, i only hope i'm not damaging any nerves around the eye? :-/

Title: Re: T.E.N.S.?
Post by Bob Johnson on Jul 22^nd, 2011 at 10:00am

I can't recall this unit being mentioned in the medical literature on Cluster.

You do make a good case for not trying to be your own doctor! I'd listen to your advice.....

Title: Re: T.E.N.S.?
Post by RichardN on Jul 22^nd, 2011 at 2:52pm

Bob . . . I think I recall that Aussie Brian uses a tens unit . . . but the placement of the electrodes was at the base of neck. . . . NOT SURE!

My mom used one in 91' following major surgery to good effect BUT the placement was directed by a physical therapist with training in the unit.

When I was doing accupuncture, herbal meds prior to major surgery in 04', the practitioner would sometimes attach tens leads to some of the needles (he had 4 & 6 lead units . . . 2 electrodes per lead)

My (limited) understanding of the tens unit is that it "short-circuits" the offending nerve(s), thus alleviating the pain . . . kinda like electric accupuncture . . . . BUT IT TAKES A PROFESSIONAL to properly identify placement of the electrodes . . . DON'T 'hunt & peck" with this equipment. You may have gotten some relief, but you could possibly do yourself injury.

Be Safe, PFDANs

Richard

Title: Re: T.E.N.S.?
Post by Bob Johnson on Jul 22^nd, 2011 at 3:48pm

Went back to the major medical library in the U.S., and found only 4 hits dating from 1989 to 2007. Which says: no interest; apparently no important testing/trials to report.

Title: Re: T.E.N.S.?
Post by AussieBrian on Jul 22^nd, 2011 at 7:34pm

RichardN wrote on Jul 22^nd, 2011 at 2:52pm:

Bob . . . I think I recall that Aussie Brian uses a tens unit . . .

You're bloody close, Richard, and there's nothing wrong with your remembery, but I'll straightaway PM the bloke concerned.

Title: Re: T.E.N.S.?
Post by Barry_T_Coles on Jul 23^rd, 2011 at 4:41am

I'm the bloke Brian PM^d.
In the early days when I didn't know anything about CH I used a TENS for a little relief, it didn't kill the hit the way O² does but as I say it gave a little relief.

I would place 1 pad just below the offending ganglion on the neck & one just below the ear near the base of the scull, I still use it at times when the ganglion is still swollen after killing a hit.

Cheers
Barry

Title: Re: T.E.N.S.?
Post by Adriane on Sep 10^th, 2012 at 4:10am

The tens unit is working for me. This is the first attempt but OMG I am thrilled with the results. I don't even know if anyone is still viewing this forum. I placed a new post tonight called Abort immediately with a tens unit. Go see my story or message me directly. I will be reporting in again in the morning or with my next attack.... 2 hours here we come.
Adriane