Use of TENS for knee replacement rehabilitation

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What is a Knee Replacement

Knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty or total knee replacement, is a surgical procedure to resurface a knee damaged by arthritis. In this surgery, Metal and plastic parts are used to cap the ends of the bones that form the knee joint, along with the kneecap. Contrary to the name of the procedure, the surgeon does not replace the entire knee joint.

Knee replacement surgery can help relieve pain and restore function in severely diseased knee joints. The most common condition that results in the need for knee replacement surgery is osteoarthritis. There are around 65,266 knee replacement surgeries annually in Australia(1). More than 90% of people who experience total knee replacement surgery significantly improve their ability to perform common activities of daily living (2).

How TENS can Help 

After knee replacement surgery, some pain may appear. That makes postoperative pain relief particularly important, so the patient can be active and participate effectively in physical therapy.

This is where a TENS/EMS Machine can be of amazing help, given it works to relieve the pain, and has specific programs for rehabilitation.

TENS Machines transmit small electrical charges that blog the transmission of pain signals to the brain. TENS also stimulates the production of endorphins that relieve the pain in a completely natural way. So, when experiencing pain from knee replacement surgery, use a TENS/EMS machine to lower the pain and hep with rehabilitation.

Correct Pad Positioning for Pain Relief

• Start by making sure the machine is turned off

• Attach the pads to the skin, as shown in the picture below

• Set the program. As stated, TENS Machines have specific programs for rehabilitation

• The treatment lasts between 30-40 minutes

• Repeat this process at least 3 times a day

• Use the two channels available

Benefits of using TENS/EMS Machine

There are many benefits that come with using a TENS machine that make it an excellent allied to rehabilitation:

1. TENS Machines are a drug-free treatment to alleviate pain and they do not have side effects!

2. They are effective

3. Our devices are TGA approved so you can use them with confidence

4. They are portable so you can schedule a treatment session in the comfort of your home or wherever suits you

5. They are easy to use !!!

6. They can treat any specific area and they can be used on different parts of the body

7. They have broad benefits such as increasing endurance, muscle strengths, toning, and recovering, so you can improve your overall fitness.

For more benefits of using a TENS / EMS machine, you can visit: https://www.tensmachinesaustralia.com.au/ or call us on 1300 361222.

References:

(1) Based on data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry (AOANJRR 2019) 

(2) https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/total-knee-replacement/