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Use of TENS? Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Posted 10/4/2007 2:45 AM (GMT 0)

Hello,

 

I am brand new to this forum and in the latter 6 months to arthritis.  Started in both thumbs.  On computer 10 plus hours a day (own business) and presumed related to that.  Graduated to all hand joints, knees in a relatively short time, lower back and now elbows.  Identical issues on both sides of body.  Treated recently with PT for cervical spine injury (herniated disc) and electrical nerve stimulas was used in conjunction to Ice/Cold, exercise, manipulation etc.  The greatest benefit, I felt, was from the TENS.  While I was originally diagnosed with osteoarthritis in thumbs, I have not had a further professional diagnostic done.  Old enough to know better on that score!  Therefore, my seasoned friends, any input would be appreciated.

1. best suited doctor for diagnostic

2. any history with TENS

3. is matching pain common (both hands, both feet etc.)

 

Thanks so much.

Posted 10/4/2007 11:17 PM (GMT 0)
A rheumatologist is the best doctor to diagnosis joint pain in my opinion. My rheumy prescribed a TENS unit for me to try and if beneficial to have permanently. It works quite well when I am having flare-ups in my joints. My insurance company paid for the majority of the TENS unit and the supplies.
Posted 10/4/2007 11:34 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you for taking the time to reply.  I think you are correct and the time has come to seek a professional opinion.  No use living in the dark ages!  Encouraging about Tens availability and insc. potential coverage.  Thanks again.

Posted 10/5/2007 1:50 AM (GMT 0)
I recently heard somone had great results on their neck with the tens unit. Can anyone reccomend which type to use? When I looked them up there were quite a few models.
Posted 10/5/2007 2:03 PM (GMT 0)
Hi there IrishOne & welcome to the arthritis forum :-) & to HealingWell.

I second Ides opinion as well.  A rheumatologist consult is best.  What's critical to let him know is that BOTH sides of the body pertaining to a set of joints is bothering you.  That's a little hallmark to rheumatoid arhtritis.  It effects the joints bilaterally.

And of course, overuse injury can cause the joints to become more painful (your typing and such...)

 

Best wishes!

erin

Posted 10/16/2007 6:52 PM (GMT 0)
Welcome to Healing Well. I have been visiting this site for about three years. You learn tons from the family. I have Fibro and RA so both forums are very helpful. You can come here and see how others are relating to meds, disease etc. It is good. My Rheumy is my best Doc she understands RA and is top knotch. I do use a TENS unit it does help relieve some of the pain.

Best wishes and Take care of you,

Tee
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