How Does the TENS Unit Work?
St. Louis, Missouri
 The TENS unit is an important tool in treating TMD, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) units are used to transmit electrical impulses through the skin into the nerves beneath. Many people who suffer from chronic pain use a portable TENS units for pain management. The electrical impulses both stimulate the body to produce endorphins and also can block pain signals, preventing them from reaching the brain.
TENS units are usually small, battery-operated mechanisms that can be clipped to your clothing or carried in a pocket. Wires with sticky patches are attached to the mechanism. These patches carry the electrodes, and adhere to the skin when you place them in the afflicted area. When activated, the TENS unit discharges electricity through the electrodes, which can significantly reduce your pain levels.
Dr. Quigless uses a TENS units in two ways in TMD treatment. First, the TENS unit can help reduce the sometimes excruciating pain experienced by TMD patients. Second, the electrical impulses from the TENS unit cause the muscles surrounding the jaw to completely relax.
When the jaw muscles are completely relaxed, Dr. Quigless can determine the position the jaw should be in. Tension in the jaw muscles is usually a factor in TMD, pulling the jawbone out of alignment in an attempt to correct a misaligned bite. TMD also often causes intense spasm in the jaw muscles. This kind of spasm makes it impossible to judge the correct position of the jawbone and the proper bite alignment. With the muscles relaxed, Dr. Quigless can see where the jaw is supposed to be, and diagnose what must be changed in the patient’s bite to keep the jaw in the appropriate position.
If you would like more information about TMD treatment and how a TENS unit can help you, please contact Dr. Kirk Quigless, St. Louis, Missouri neuromuscular dentist. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions and schedule a consultation to discuss your TMD symptoms and treatment options.
(314) 244-3751
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8083 Manchester Rd.
St. Louis, MO 63144
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