Chronic Pain Support Group

Physicians and professionalsdefine pain as chronic if it lasts longer than three to six months and is persistent. It's distinct from acute pain that is a direct result of injury or trauma. This support group is dedicated to those suffering from chronic pain. Discuss treatments that have worked for you, find advice for your specific experience, and find support. You're not...

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HappyNonie 02/17/2012

I know I've seen talk of this on here before but I wanted to ask for myself. Does anyone here use a TENS? Where did you get it and how much does it cost?

My insurance guy suggested it the other day and mentioned that anyone can buy one but if I get a script for it then insurance will cover 80%. I looked them up online and found so many different ones and such a huge range in prices from $40 to $350. I was thinking of just ordering one of the cheaper ones to try... is it worth it? Any experience with these small cheap ones? What should I be looking for?

I'd appreciate any input on this. I know when my PT uses the electrodes on my back it really helps and I can be almost pain free for a couple hours after just 15 minutes of treatment.

deleted_user 02/17/2012

If it works in PT then get it. Mine was ordered through my PT but all they did was call a company they work with and they did it all. I would ask first what your cost would be and what the unit/features are. Then check to see what you can get it for directly. Sometimes they inflate the price because of insurance.

mike12358 02/17/2012

i've had one for 10 or more years and it has helped a great deal it still works ok the brand of mine is EMPI they are still around mine is quite simple by todays standerds but it works well for me and it is small and easy to use. While i was hospitalized last year i got to use a new Tens unit and it worked much the same way but was a little larger is size.
I would say that size matters some that i have seen are large and complex with more than the 4 electrodes or 2 zones? that my unit has
spend the extra $ on the electrode pads the cheeper pads don't last as long taking them off and on over time
if you have any questions let me know
good luck
Michael

heatherhurts 02/17/2012

I *ave one. I don't know *ow muc* it cost because my insurance (worker's comp at t*e time) paid for it all. I wouldn't *et a c*eap one. Can you find a *appy medium? I love mine. *ood luck to you!

deleted_user 02/17/2012

I love mine!~

Superduck 02/17/2012

Hi SSL
I got a TENS unit free from my insurance company because it was prescribed to me. I have to pay for new patches that the unit cables hook onto.

I really find my TENS helpful when I am spasming a lot. Many people have different tolerances to it though, I can use mine of full blast and that is where I find the most comfort.

My understanding is that it can be helpful for spasms and neuropathy...it does not help bone/join pain.

I hope that you are able to get one and that you feel the benefits from it. Good Luck!

tendonshurt 02/17/2012

I have 2 I have the EMPI that Michael mentioned. I love it. The other one was my moms. I had 3 herniated disk in my neck and instead of surgery I wore the tens unit 24/7 for months. It worked great. I wish it helped with my tendons but it makes them worse. If your interested I could sell you one of mine pretty cheap insurance paid for both of them. The EMPI cost $100 brand new back in 1998, lol. Reusable patches are expensive. I prefer the disposable ones that stick better.

Any questions holler anytime.

Hugs,
Marci

serenityha 02/17/2012

i have one and i love it. depending on where you need the stimulation and have to put the electrodes (i can't really reach, so haven't used my much lately). i ordered mine from LG Medical Supply online it was reasonable. $50ish. you also have to buy a supply of extra electrodes because they do lose their stickiness. mine has two types of settings for intensity and frequency which i think is important.
medicare may cover now.

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