Hi Geoff,
Sorry I haven't been on for a bit. I don't know a great deal about TENS units, though I know they roughly work by periodically altering the frequency or pattern of the electrical current, which somehow tricks or perhaps overloads the nervous system causing certain nerve impulses to temporarily cease. The unit I have is called an "electro-accupuncture unit" -- something of a pseudo-medical device -- it uses a steady pattern of electrical impulses run by a 9-volt battery, and essentially causes the muscle to forcefully contract repeatedly, in time legnthening and eventually exhausting if overused. No needles involved here. I picked it up for $100 in a Chinese import shop. Expensive, but very useful at times.
Accupuncture is based on the meridian system known to Chinese medicine. It is described as a series of invisible channels throughout the body through which our chi (lifeforce or vital energy flows). It is believed that imbalances, or stagnations or blockages of such energy lead to pain or illness. Needles are superficially placed in specific points (accupoints) along these meridians, which are labeled and related to the body's various organs, to balance yin and yang energies and improve the free circulation of chi.
Some Western theories of why accupucture is so effective range from the release of endorphins and other hormones, to the "gate" theory, which I briefly alluded to above. I myself believe it is something of a combination of the two theories, East and West. One probable reason for the often near immediate relief experienced is that nerves pathways can only effectively transmit one specific succession of impulses at any given time, regardless of the strength of the stimulus, and this is always the impulse furthest down the pathway (away from the brain). This perhaps explains things such as why deeply pressing on the fleshy part between the thumb and index finger (the "harmony point") can often temporarily relieve toothaches or headaches. As well, when the nervous system is sufficiently overloaded with (conflicting) impulses, it has a tendency to "collapse" in a sense, therefore in a way subverting many of the signals received or processed by the brain.
Accupuncture is generally painless and often very relaxing. The needles are very fine, about the width of a hair almost, and only placed a short distance into the skin. Occasionally one might feel a localized "buzzing" or vibrating sensation for a time, particularly if the needle is manipulated slightly. The only points that tend to be at all painful are nail points, in which needles are placed directly into the cuticles of the fingernails -- this is not real common, though I have had it done many times.
All in all, it is done in the accupuncturist's office lying on a comfortable table, they never strap you down (
), and they will be very attentive to what you are feeling, proceeding at your own pace.
Initially, regularity is the key to great success, and it's not the most inexpensive treatment if not covered by insurance -- but I've always found it greatly worth it, and as relaxing to me as any good massage I've had.
I hope this is of some help. Let me know if you have any questions. Take care.
Linear Mode
