Tens Machine

[AbbyTabby7]

hi everyone I have had sciatica for nearly four weeks, excruciating pain in calf and lower back. Cocodamol, osteopath, physio and GP but no relief. I have ordered a tens machine and wondered if anyone else has used one and if it’s ok to use with AbFib. Thanks

[bmand]

If you have Afib you should not use a tens unit. You need to check it out

[10gingercats]

I cannot answer the question you ask but I had sciatica for 4 years on and off,more on than off and the only thing that worked was hydrotherapy. Most hospitals have a pool and your GP should be able to refer you.

[BobD Volunteer]

Been there had that. Bowen therapy was the only thing that sorted me out. Google it if you don't know.

[Hidden]

Hi,

My AF is paroxysmal and very little trouble these days. That said, I have a tens machine and I have used it BUT I have not been in AF when I've done so. However, I have found it of very limited value. Aggressive Chiropractor work has been best for me.

John

[AbbyTabby7 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you to everyone for their replies. I got the Tens machine, it didn’t help, in fact I think it made the pain worse. However, on your advice I have seen a chiropractor and he diagnosed piriformis syndrome. Even after one treatment I am much improved and had first night’s sleep in 5 weeks. What a wonderful site this is. Abby xxx

[sleeksheep]

I have asymptomatic AF and use a Tens machine for occasional lower back pain.

I have a mobile Tens ( about half the size of a smart phone ) and a larger stationary machine, for slight strain the mobile is sufficient but for "bad back strain" I need the larger machine.

The difference between them is the degree of pulse has a higher / lower ability with the stationary machine.

My physio and Dr. have both said its far preferable to use the tens rather than medication.

[CDreamer]

Similar to John’s reply - Chiro and rehab worked best for me. The sciatic nerve runs through a large muscle around and through the hip so if there is any misplacement there is inflammation of the nerve which causes the pain so best treated at source.

My understanding is that TENS is of limited value for sciatica but can be used as long as electrodes are not placed around the neck or the chest as it could stimulate vagus nerve - which could then trigger AF.

[Denise-]

It does say in the leaflet about not using if you have afib. But I was in so much pain I tried it and it was fine, didn't cause me any problems. Of course we are all different and have a variety of triggers.

[Leechg]

Hi, I found the Tens machine brilliant for relief of lower back pain. I kept the pads well away from my lower heart on the left hand side. I used it two or three times a day for a week or so. Go for it.

[Desanthony]

The Tens machine just interrupts the pain signal to the brain so won’t heal. Though it may make movement for some time after use a little easier so you are able to exercise and stretch. I have used a Tens machine for chronic back pain and yes it did help with the pain and if used before bed would give me a few hours sleep without pain. I found a chiropractor was best for me and helped me out of the worst of it. Though I am I. Constant pain I manage what and the way in which I do things which helps and when I don’t - I have to go back to the chiropractor- as I am in permanent AF I would probably use again

If necessary.