Urinary incontinence is not only expensive but also robs you of fun and pleasure for fear of an accident.

Fiona Rogers has researched the highly effective results of using TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) for bladder pain and urinary incontinence: a safe treatment that you can easily do at home after consulting with a healthcare professional.

How does TENS work?

TENS works by communicating with the neural pathways that communicate with bladder spinal reflexes and your brain. Electrical nerve stimulation via the skin stimulates sensory nerves that can help calm an extra sensitive bladder. When used as part of a treatment plan, Fiona saw how using TENS for bladder concerns was very effective.

How fast will you know if TENS working for you?

For an overactive bladder, you’ll typically see results in a few weeks (episodes aren’t as intense, more time between episodes…) and should use a TENS unit for at least 12 weeks as part of a treatment plan.

Keeping objective evidence of your concerns and progress, with a diary of the intensity or frequency of your concerns can clearly show you how you’re improving and keep you motivated to keep it up.

How to get started:

For an overactive bladder: Fiona recommends placing the TENS pads on the ankle over the tibial nerve. You’ll know you’re on the nerve if you turn up the pulse width and see your toes start to wiggle. Start with 10 Hz and 200 pulse width, increasing the pulse width until you start to notice the sensations. Use for about 30-minutes daily.

For bladder pain: Fiona recommends placing the TENS pads over the tibial nerve or sacrum. You can either start with a low frequency 1-4 Hz or a high frequency 80-150 Hz. Use for about 30-minutes daily.

When purchasing a TENS unit: make sure you can adjust the frequency (measured in Hertz), pulse rate (pulses you feel in one second), and pulse width (the amount of stimulation you feel, you want to be able to change the pulse width in small increments) to give you the most control and personalization over the unit.

This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding treatment, medications/supplements, or any medical diagnoses. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is in no way to substitute the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.