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Anyone suffering from sciatica pain can tell you that it’s not an easy thing to go through. This pain can literally make you scream alone and affect your concentration significantly.

However, there are still some things that you can do to get rid of this pain and among them is using a Tens Unit.

Most of you may not be familiar with a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve stimulation, but it’s one of the most effective when dealing with pains of this kind – sciatica.

Electric Shock to Relieve Pain?

It might come as a shock to many people but it’s possible to relieve pain through an electric current – but it has to be in low doses.

A Tens Unit delivers a small current through two patches you attach to the skin. The resulting current from the device blocks the nerve signals associated with the pain so you can live pain-free.

We wrote about tens unit placement for foot pain in another post, but we are now on sciatica – you will notice that pad placement is a little different but application is similar.

So what is Sciatica?

Well, sciatica is a nerve that begins on the lower back and divides to go each side of the buttocks. It branches once more at the knee and carries on to the feet. This nerve is actually the largest, thickest and longest in your body.

Such conditions as spinal stenosis and herniated disc cause inflammation and irritation of the nerve leading to pain. Sciatica discomfort starts as tingling in the upper thigh or buttocks which becomes worse over time.

It sometimes degenerates into pain, and that distribute to the back of the thigh and buttocks. Eventually, the pain moves further down the leg, and the sufferer can then feel it on their toes – it is not a pretty thing to go through as anyone suffering the pain will tell you.

And because the nerve is so long, the pain may be any place along the hips, legs, back and. The good thing is that you can actually use a TENS unit on any place along the sciatic nerve for pain relief. All you require to do is place the pad in the right spot according to the pain.

You can try different TENS unit settings to determine which is the most fitting for you – people are different and what may feel good for one person may not for another.

The Conventional Remedy for Sciatica

When you are feeling acute and numbing pain, rest can actually help deal with it. However, you should never prolong this rest as doing so can actually worsen the condition.

Exercises are typically effective at preventing and dealing with sciatica – but it will not help if the pain reaches unbearable levels.

Ideally, you should start the exercises as soon as you begin feeling the discomfort – prevention is always better than cure.

Sciatica pain medication is also available, but the most effective are opioids – taken orally. However, they come with a massive addiction risk – meaning that your body can get used to the medication and the pain will only stop after taking the medication.

There are also sciatic nerve block injections that may prove useful. However, they carry a risk of bleeding and infection – but corrective surgery is more invasive.

TENs Unit – what is it?

This is a handheld device that comes with batteries and pads that you attach to your body. You place the pads strategically, and the device transmits electric current to the target area. But where to put tens pads for sciatica nerve pain depends on individual preference.

For effectiveness, place the electrodes near the source of the pain or the pressure point leading to the pain spot.

For example, if you are dealing with leg pain, you may place the pads on the lower back. A tens placement chart from the physical therapist or doctor may guide you appropriately on placement techniques.

The electric current originates from a pack with batteries. Typically, you can administer the current at timed intervals or continuously – this is depending on the advice of your physician.

The Tens Unit therapy is ideal for people suffering from musculoskeletal pain, sciatica pain, osteoarthritis, migraines, diabetic neuropathy and frozen shoulder syndrome just to name a few.

The popularity of the device has significantly gone up, and people are purchasing them over the counter – their effectiveness is the primary source of their reputation. However, you should always work with a doctor when using the Tens Unit device.

What makes a TENS Unit Effective?

There are various explanations on how TENS unit work and among the most common is that it obstructs the pain signals from reaching the brain. Another standard explanation is that the electric current stimulates the brain to produce endorphins that distract your attention from the feeling of pain.

Depending on the amount pain you are experiencing, a TENs unit session can go as long as 30 minutes. Others need several hours for the pain to go away. Regardless of how long the session takes, the TENS unit therapy is side effects –free – a plus!

But some people may experience some irritation on the skin as a result of having the electrodes the same spot over and over again – this is always a possibility.

While studies regarding the effectiveness of a TENS unit are somewhat inconsistent, the general view is that the therapy is quite useful. Between 70 and 80% experience relief from pain during the initial stages but this drops to about 30% a few months down the line.

The initial pain relief provides an opening through which a sufferer may start a gentle exercises regimen. A good combination of the TENS unit therapy and appropriate exercises may drive pain away, permanently.

The first TENS unit settings are usually set by a professional – this may be a doctor or physical therapist. It is critical to learning on the appropriate application and placement of the TENS unit. They can then try different settings to determine which one works best for them.

Adjusting Settings on a TENS Unit

The device is pretty easy to use and adjust – no instances of complicated controls and this is a good thing.

Typically, there are three main parts on a TENS unit – you notice this the first time you lay eyes on it. These components are pulse rate, pulse width, and amplitude.

Amplitude is the strength of the current and should be subtle to avoid scalds – as earlier mentioned, this is always a possibility as people want the soothing feeling and pain relief to continue for longer. No matter how bad you want to start on the therapy, take extra care – be gentle on the amplitude settings. The pulse width is how long each pulse takes – measured in milliseconds.

The pulse rate is the regularity of the electrical pulse.

Additionally, the device comes with three other basic settings.

1. Acupuncture
2. Conventional and
3. Burst setting – also referred to as pulsed

The conventional setting is usually the first and has a high pulse rate, short width, and low amplitude. This setting is typically used on first use, but the pain continues upon stopping the device. Some pain sufferers wear the device at all times and turn it on at regular intervals for relief.

The acupuncture setting delivers high amplitude and low pulse therapy. In most cases the amplitude is close to an individual’s rate of tolerance – it may be difficult for most people to take. But this setting is often more effective than the conventional setting and so preferable.

Burst or pulsed settings is the final on a TENS unit device. The setting employs a high frequency and low-intensity stimuli to bring pain relief. It delivers a steady flow of bursts or pulses that make you feel as if you are receiving a massage.

Laboratory literature indicates that irrespective of the intensity, varying frequencies have a positive effect on pain reduction by activating central mechanisms.

The best TENS unit placement for sciatica

Pad placement for sciatica is quite critical. You have to place the electrodes on the right spots if you are to experience any relief from pain.

However, you are free to play around with settings and placement to determine the most fitting for you – regarding adequate pain relief and comfort level.

The simplest way to know the best placement spot is to feel the pain area. Use your hands to press gently on the spot you think is at the heart of the pain. If one specific spot elicits the most pain, then it is the most ideal to place the electrodes. Clean and go ahead attaching the pads.

In the majority cases, the aching spots are along the sciatic nerve – you will find them here. Two or four pads are good as they create a passage through which electrodes flow. One pad should be at the top of the painful spot and the other, beneath your sensations.

If you have trouble with placement, a physician or physical therapist can always offer a helping hand and guide you through the process. Non-painful or comparable site placement may sometimes produce the same effect –pain relief. A professional will quickly point you to the trigger points or pain spots for effective placement.

The sciatic therapy is non-invasive and easy to apply. It offers a decent amount of flexibility for people that need to take control of their pain. A professional will be helpful in guiding you on the right electrode placement, but you can always try different placement and settings to determine the most ideal.

The TENS unit therapy is an ‘as needed’ kind of treatment meaning that it can help individuals resume a reasonable level of active lifestyle without any impediments.

Current Research on TENS unit

Contemporary research on the use of TENS unit is actually conclusive on the matter. The battery-powered portable device has a positive effect on pain – some good news for the doubting Thomases.

Clinical trials, as well as, basic science continues to provide evidence on the effectiveness of TENS unit. In particular, the therapy is quite effective in reducing pain from joint inflammation. Ideally, placement is usually on the injury spot, but it is also effective outside this application area.

The latest research also highlights the effectiveness of TENS unit therapy on inflamed limbs. It helps reduce pain on the injured sciatic nerve so that you can go back to enjoying your life.

While the TENS unit comes with different settings, there is no indication that varying intensities have different effects on pain. The primary objective of the various wave rates is solely for comfort but not pain relief efficacy.

Apart from pain, the TENS unit therapy has been shown to treat the dry mouth condition characteristic of patients receiving radiation and pill treatment for cancer. This is good news for people with cancer.

There is also ground-breaking research in the pipeline that shows that a TENS unit could prove helpful in the recovery process of those suffering from spinal injuries. The stimulation helps in mimicking step-like movement in paralyzed patients.

The TENS placement for piriformis syndrome is among the most effective – others are physiotherapy and intramuscular injection.

Precautions

TENS unit may not be ideal for everyone. If you have a pacemaker or heart condition of some kind, it’s probably wise to talk to your physician. TENS machine for sciatica in pregnancy should only be in consultation with a doctor.

Do not exceed six hours using the TENS unit as it may lead to numbness.

Final word

Pain can take away all pleasure of living taking with its productivity and enjoyment of the simple pleasures in life. The TENS unit therapy can demonstrate effectiveness in relieving sciatic pain which affects lower back, buttocks, legs, and feet. It is easy to use and does not have any side effects.

However, the application should be together with some mild exercises for effectiveness. The effectiveness of TENS unit alone may not be effective over time.

You may be among the group of people that are increasingly turning to massage as a form of alternative medicine – we all are.

In the age of canned foods and bottled beverages, it almost seems as if everything contains chemicals whose effects on the body are not yet apparent. Many of you are looking for a way of promoting the body’s recovery process.

The benefits of massage therapy on your body are numerous.

Massage lowers your stress level, blood pressure and helps you sleep better. The technique has been shown to promote the body’s healing process and bring about total relief from aches and pains.

Among the various techniques is the Chinese massage.

The method is comparable to acupuncture and is quite useful on a host of health challenges.

What is Chinese Massage Therapy?

Chinese tradition tells us that energy in the body has to move constantly to keep diseases at bay and relieve stress. A massage helps ensure that this flow does not stop in turn making you healthier.

While massage therapy is as old as the human race, the advent of Chinese massage is but impressive, to say the least.

There are ancient Nei Jing medical texts – that is between 722 and 481. Records from the Tang Dynasty indicate that the imperial hospital had up to 56 massage doctors.

This number was higher than the acupuncturists and herbalists combined – quite a significant number around 618-907 AD.

The technique went to Japan giving rise to Japanese Shiatsu. Swedish massage would develop later based on the Chinese massage therapy.

The development of this technique is from the combined efforts of four different groups. The first is the medical professionals that brought their complicated medical concepts of TCM and the second is martial arts with their ability to enhance healing and use the Qi.

And finally, the Taoist and Buddhist who used yoga as a form of spiritual support.

The massage continues to grow by incorporating western concepts into the traditional therapy. Contemporary medical schools and health facilities now acknowledge it and combine it with primary health care. It is now not unusual to find your local hospital including it as part of treatment.

There is a possible link between the use of the traditional practice of training and exceptional success that Chinese gymnasts and athletes demonstrate.

This 5000-year-old Chinese practice has been growing rapidly over the last two decades. People all over the world are running to it for relief from various ailments.

Types of Chinese Massage

The Chinese massage is not a single technique; it incorporates five overlapping and related areas.

1. Amno – for the maintenance of health and rejuvenation. The technique is common in martial arts and home. You may also find it in sports training and qigong.
2. Tuina – usually found in the treatment of muscle problems, internal disorders and injuries.
3. Infant Tuina – a common practice among Chinese used to treat young children and babies. The channels and points used here are quite different from the ones used others.
4. Dian Xue – utilizes simple pressure procedures to bring about healing. You will find it in health clubs as acupressure and is a standard home remedy. Acupuncturists employ it as a method of healing where they do not use needles.
5. Wai Qi Liao Fa – a bit complicated as it involves the use of external qi to bring about healing. The practice requires many years of discipline and training to become qigong masters.

The Jing Luo Concept

Jing Luo is the common concept shared by the Chinese massage and acupuncture. The theory is all about collaterals or channels.

According to Jing Luo, your body has a system of networked pathways that function to transport blood and qi, control ying and yang, safeguard against outside pathogens and bridge the internal organs with the outside.

Any blockage to the Jing Luo results in pain and other health challenges.

The massage primarily centers on acupoints or the Xue and Jing Luo. This is where the qi resides, and a therapist can manipulate it.

So how does massage have any effect on Jing Luo?

Jing Luo activates blood and qi by enhancing their intensity. It also regulates them by guiding their flow and halting any stagnation. Jing Luo also clears the channels by getting any outside pathogens that may be taking residence in your body.

The massage relaxes the soft and connective tissue associated with flexibility and movement – jin. This helps straighten the joints and increase flexibility – picture the great flexibility that Chinese gymnasts have.

Together, joints and jin are essential in the enhancing the qi flow.

In Chinese massage, pain is as a result of an insufficient flow of blood and qi. This tells us why the therapy is so effective in pain reduction.

Chinese Massage Therapy Techniques

Techniques are what matters in any bodywork system. They are what determine the fee and quality of the therapy. The majority of texts list up to 70 hand techniques used in Chinese massage. These may range from soft tissue practices, joint manipulation, and percussion.

Even though there are some differences, the hand techniques have a particular resemblance to the western massage.

In general, the methods fit into two groups – the ying involving sedation and yang for stimulation.

However, each category is further split according to the therapeutic principles it accomplishes.

For example, Tui fa or pushing involves the regulation of counterflow, and mo fa or rubbing is all about yang stimulation. A professional knows how to combine the different techniques to attain the appropriate therapeutic goals. This is similar to how a doctor prescribes a different medication to bring about healing.

The professional massager has other tools they can employ toward a therapeutic goal. In particular, they can apply shou fa or hand techniques on specific channels, areas, and acupoints to achieve comparable outcomes to acupuncture needles.

They can also do it in different directions, consistent with or against the channel flow. It can be clockwise or even counterclockwise.

It is also critical the manner the therapists conduct shou fa.

Chinese texts recommend softness and gentleness yet profound and penetrating hand techniques. They must achieve rhythm and persistence.

For example, a tuina massager utilizes an intense, controlled pressure in one area. Mostly, they are likely to spend the same amount of time on one area that typical masseuses would focus on the whole body – they are quite thorough.

Tuina is what finger meditation is all about – the application of a single technique many times over with qi communication and deep penetration.

Other Techniques Involved

The masseuse may begin rubbing to create friction. This generates heat for better circulation underneath.

If you are suffering from abdominal problems, the practitioner will use small circular movements. But for back, limbs and chest problems, they will utilize gross scrubbing.

Joint manipulation involving abducting, pulling, and rotation will help improve your joint’s range of motion. But finger tapping will be on your abdomen, head, and the chest regions.

There is also pinching and grasping of the soft tissues by kneading, holding, pinching and twisting. Gripping the shoulder helps resume the qi to the chest.

Chinese Massage vs. Thai Massage

Both the Chinese and Thai massage is quite essential when it comes to pain relief and stress relief among others. There are a lot of comparisons between the two therapies that beginners may confuse between the two.

However, if you are to carefully analyze the two, you will notice that they are entirely different.

One significant difference is in the posture.

In Thai massage, you have to lie on the ground while the practitioner performs a number of yoga postures.

The Ayurvedic in Thai is what distinguishes the two in terms of principle.

On its part, Tui Na focuses more on chi or the acupoints. And as opposed to Thai massage where you have to lie on the floor, you can receive Tui Na while seated. The practitioner tries to stimulate the various pressure points through kneading, pushing and stretching.

In the majority of the cases, Tui Na combines with ZhiYa to relieve pain and bring about relaxation. ZhiYa is about pressing acupoints and pinching.

However, Thai massage uses yoga as a technique for bringing relaxation.

Another difference is in the duration. As a matter of fact, a full Thai massage can take as much as two hours while the Chinese massage only goes as far as one and a half hours.

Application of the Chinese Massage

In most cases, the Chinese massage is often gin while on a couch or stool. Some communities China still maintain an older practice of enhancing qi communication by working on the skin to facilitate the application of herbs.

The goal of anmo massage is a balance in full-body treatment.

The technique fuses yang techniques to restart flow and remove any stagnant qi and ying to lower stress and relax.

Typically, a masseuse follows a strict routine, but they are free to adapt according to the client conditions.

Tuina, on its part, relies on a comprehensive case history to uncover a complaint, the core outline, and the treatment principles. This process is what elevates this kind of massage above others. Depending on the treatment principles, the masseuse combines various techniques to bring relief by addressing the underlying pattern.

So, what are the Benefits of the Chinese Massage?

The therapy is ideal for relieving stress and pain. It enhances blood circulation to all areas of the body to facilitate health and avoid any lactic acid accumulation. The massage also helps you relax and calm down.

Chinese massage is an excellent way for people to deal with the stress that has been bringing you down of late and affecting productivity.

Regular sessions strengthen immunity, so your body can fight illness causing micro-organisms. The massage also aids prevent degenerative diseases that likely affect the bones, internal organs, and muscles. Studies show that receivers experience improved health after just a few sessions of the massage.

Improved circulation to various pressure points accelerates the recovery process. This is especially significant for people suffering from muscular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension among others. Some techniques are even beneficial for those living with heart conditions and lung complications.

Going for a 30-minute session once or twice a month revitalizes the body for a productive you – it is essential to be healthy to be at your nest at work and what better way to accomplish that than through the Chinese massage?

Other Benefits

Studies show the efficacy of the technique in the management of the mental and physical conditions. Among them, major depressive disorder, preterm infants that fail to thrive, autoimmune and immune diseases, pain syndrome and substance abuse.

The technique is also effective on musculoskeletal disorders.

Neck pain is a common ailment and massage can help in alleviating this pain. The massage also reduces any neck dysfunction and any other problem affecting the neck. In most cases, this technique reduces pain by promoting the release of endorphin.

Improved blood flow and reduced stress help you sleep better. The technique, therefore, helps achieve better sleep for health.

You will find that you are better at shedding off the stress and tiredness of the previous day. You face the day with new energy ready to take on any challenges that may characterize the day.

Improved circulation means better organ function for a healthier lifestyle devoid of illnesses. You experience better respiration for better control of bodily functions.

Increased blood flow is also essential for a glowing and shining skin – this especially good news for those conscious about their appearance.

One study shows that the Chinese therapy helps in the recovery process of those suffering from cervical radiculopathy. Together with cervical traction or on its own, Tui Na alone may be helpful as the sufferers have reduced pain.

Typically, people suffering from cervical radiculopathy experience a significant amount of pain in their neck region.

In this case, the massager uses their fingers on soft tissue or body parts with the intention of releasing muscle tightness and pain location.

The Pediatric Massage

The Chinese pediatric massage, xiao er tui na is ideal for children who are typically frail with reduced emotional and physical barriers. Masseuse finds babies easier to heal as their qi is not too hidden.

This means they are quicker to heal than he adults despite using massage oils and a different acupoint system of massage oil.

Xiao er tui na has many benefits on toddlers.

For example, a researcher found out that it had a positive impact on kids who have cerebral palsy when mixed with music therapy. The practitioners provided segmental massage, footplate, pinching and soothing background music.

There were significant measurable differences after the massage regarding spasm control, the range of motion, and gross motor function – quite substantial.

What should you expect from a Chinese Massage Session?

The massage technique can more than thirty minutes. It is imperative to first establish trust and excellent communication as it helps you open up as the session is going on.

Before the session can even begin, it is necessary to discuss your health history.

If there are any health issues, it would be best to tell the masseuse so that they may advise you as necessary.

You will then discuss the goals of the therapy and the techniques they will use – this saves you from getting too surprised by the methods especially if you are a beginner.

In normal circumstances, the masseuse will leave you to your privacy so that you can disrobe and spread a sheet over your body.

If you are uncomfortable, now would be the best time to discuss it with the therapist. You have a choice on what to wear during the session and pause stop the session or the kind of music you prefer – the primary goal of massage is relaxation among others and which is only possible when you are comfortable during the session.

The therapists will probably encourage talking throughout the session for a number of reasons.

For starters, this helps the practitioner get the necessary feedback to determine whether there are changes needed towards the ideal outcome. Depending on you, they may increase the intensity or reduce it entirely.

Typically, the Chinese massage therapist will focus on your jin – the soft tissue linking the body. Another they will likely work on is the acupoints – links the various organs in your body what the Chinese refer to as the meridian.

You notice some similarities between the western versions such as squeezing, stretching, pressing and kneading. Some additional actions will include gentle plucking, knuckle, and dig. There may also be vibrating and hammering methods.

Don’t let it surprise you if he also walks on your back. However strange it may seem, the effort is all worth it. Chinese massage has the backing of thousands of years evolving as a form of treatment.

Final Word

The Chinese massage therapy is among the oldest alternative medicine therapies.

It involves various techniques but centers mostly on chi and ZhiYa. There are numerous benefits of getting the massage regularly. Such benefits include better blood flow, reduced pain, and improved health.

What is TENS?

TENS is an alternative for you to drugs for pain management in the beginning stages of labor. TENS is an acronym that stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation.

A TENS unit has several parts that make up a single unit. A hand-held controller is typically battery operated. The controller is connected to a series of pads that connect to your body. A gel is used to attach these pads to your body. The whole unit is fairly simple to operate.

A TENS unit is safe.

The machine works by sending little zaps or pulses through your skin. It accomplishes this by use of the leads attached to your body via pads. Once the shock reaches your skin it then moves through your tissues and muscle.

Depending on if your settings you could receive a very mild tingle feeling or a more severe zap. All levels are safe but relate to personal preference.

When you are in labor simplicity is the priority. You don’t need anything adding stress.

The controller for most units is easy to hold, even when in incredible pain. If that isn’t something you want to worry about there are options. Try a lanyard or clipping it to your gown.

Heck, tape it to your bed if you need to. Just do what is best for you!

The controls of a TENS machine are designed to be straightforward. The buttons determine how fast and how strong the electricity is. If the current setting is not strong enough there is even a boosting button. A quick press should help alleviate any pain.

Whatever it takes to get you safely through your contractions!

What is the main contraindication for the use of a TENS machine?

According to the American Cancer Society, if you have a heart problem a TENS machine is not going to be for you.

The heart has too many electrical pulses as it is to go adding possible interference. Obviously, consult with a doctor but this is a general rule.

Also if you have an implantable device should not use a TENS machine. Implantable products are defibrillators and pacemakers among others. Implantable devices work by delivering small, regular impulses that keep the heart in a normal rhythm.

A TENS machine consists of your electrical power unit connected by wires to a pair of electrodes. The electrical signals travel from the TENS unit through wires to the electrodes. A mild electrical current travels through the electrodes into the body, near the source of pain. The electrical signals the TENS machine sends may interfere with how your implantable device works.

Is electrical stimulation safe during pregnancy?

Although it may sound scary to consider small electrical shocks entering your body, the sensation caused by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is not at all hurtful, and instead feels similar to a tickling sensation.

The current used is mild.

TENS is considered to be safe and very useful during labor.

A study on TENS use during labor, which was published and made viewable by The National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health had the following conclusion: “TENS is an effective and safe treatment modality for LBP during pregnancy. TENS improved LBP more effectively than did exercise and acetaminophen.”

This study provides you great insight on the use of TENS when pregnant. The study shows that early pregnancy is not a good time to use the device, but labor is.

The machine works by blocking pain signals sent to your brain from the back and uterus. This is happening as contractions happen.

Researchers believe that electrical nerve stimulation also causes the production of natural pain-relieving chemicals in your brain.

Can I use an electric massager while pregnant?

This is up for debate. As there are so many varied models that work in different ways it is hard to say. A blanket statement would be dangerous and not helpful for sure!

Ask your doctor about what they think is best.

Bring the massager with you or bring pictures. If you bring picture maybe even print out the model number and specs. This gives the doctor a full picture of what to recommend that is best for you!

What is TENS good for?

The ancient Romans actually used a primitive version of TENS. They were small fish that sent electrical pulses when stimulated. It worked but was sporadic and unpredictable.

Today you have the ability to simply go buy or rent a TENS machine. This gives access to small electrical shocks that can help relieve pain.

Do you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome?

TENS, when applied correctly, relieves much of the pain associated with carpal tunnel. Not everyone sees results but it is worth investigating and maybe renting a unit to try.

Similarly, shoulder pain is commonly treated with TENS.

Not only does it help with physical pain but it acts as a kind of mental reboot. Many people finish a TENS session and feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

One really exciting aspect of TENS is migraines.

OK, well migraines are not exciting. They are excruciating and painful. They wear on your mind because they are difficult to manage. It can ruin an otherwise productive day.

New TENS units are coming on the market specifically designed for chronic migraines. If this is something you have suffered with I strongly urge you to investigate. If something like this could eliminate all those long painful days, it’s worth it.

One moment you are enjoying the evening on the patio after a hard day at work, and the next comes to these vibrations in foot invading your peace of mind.

The buzzing can occur at regular intervals and can feel as if an electric current is passing through your foot or hands and it is not a pleasant feeling – it can be disconcerting.

Pallesthesia often comes at night when you are trying to catch some sleep or lying still, probably thinking about the day that was. The strange vibrations do not only happen in the foot but can move to other parts like hands.

But are these vibrations normal?

Are they any cause for worry?

Should you seek medical help? And are there other types of vibrations?

Let’s find out.

What causes vibration in the feet?

There are various causes of that buzzing feeling in the foot and below are some of them.

• Anemia or B12 Deficiency: many people that at one time suffered from pallesthesia in foot reported feeling better after upping their iron and vitamin B12 intake. This actually makes sense since these nutrients are critical to nerve health and lack of them can cause the pulsing vibration in the foot. 

B12 deficiency is quite common among vegetarians and alcoholics. 

A simple blood test can uncover these deficiencies.

• Response to Stress: it is quite easy to determine whether the funny feeling in your foot is as a result of stress. Does it only happen when stressed? If the answer is yes, then there you have it.

This feeling may be an indication of your body responding to the stress by increasing the rate of blood flow and hormones in anticipation of fight or flight.

If that is the case, then you can reduce the symptoms by calming down through mindfulness or simple breathing exercises – the ones you did in high school. 

• Blocked Vein or Artery: another possible reason can be blocked veins or artery. The blockage may be from a previous injury or blood clot, and the vibrating sensation may be as a result of blood attempting to force its way through the barrier. 

• The Restless Leg Syndrome: this is a neurological condition where the sufferer has this urge to always move their leg. Pallesthesia usually comes after the movements. If there are other symptoms like numbness, motor skills challenges, fatigue, and pain, then it is advisable to see your doctor. This would be necessary to rule out other severe conditions like nerve damage, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and diabetes. 

• Medication: particular medications can cause the vibrations in the foot. If you notice them immediately after starting on a specific drug, then it is high time you talked to your doctor. Make sure you understand the implication of changing them. 

• Damaged or Compressed Nerves: peripheral neuropathy or in layman’s language, damage to the nerves can cause this condition. If you get both the vibration and numbness, then you should consult your physician the shortest time possible as this may be an indication of nerve damage.

Medical professionals still can’t put the finger on the exact cause of peripheral neuropathy but up to a third of the cases are as a result of diabetes.

• Multiple Sclerosis: usually accompanied by other neurological symptoms. 

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Herpes infection: these also cause pallesthesia or any other form of muscle twitches. If these infections are a possibility, it would be best to consult medical advice. To facilitate further analysis, an MRI may be necessary.

Why do I feel a vibration in my foot?

As mentioned above, stress is one of the major causes of foot vibrations. The response to this stress by your body and the resulting increased blood flow can lead to the vibrations.

But this may not be the only cause.

The vibration can be as a result of fasciculation. The muscle spasm or fasciculation can occur when there is some stress on a particular muscle as a result of overworking, or using it in the wrong way.

Pinching on the foot nerve can also cause this feeling.

If this is the case, then it should never worry you as the body is just trying to protect itself.

Please note that the vibrations in the foot are not the same as the foot vibration syndrome. The latter condition is a result of blood flow disturbances in the foot.

So how do you stop the Foot vibrations?

Stopping muscle spasms or fasciculation is as easy as can be.

The following home remedies will make you feel better within no time, and you can go back to enjoying your life.

1. The first thing you do is massage the area you are feeling the vibrations. This action enhances blood flow that sweeps away the stress. New oxygen and nutrients are taken to the muscle.

2. Applying heat on the area releases spasms. It causes the muscles and blood vessels to expand allowing efficient blood flow necessary for feeling better.

3. Eating a banana every day can help with your muscle spasms problem. Bananas are versatile as you can eat them raw, mix or mash together with a variety of other foods. The fruit is high in potassium and is helpful for people that often suffer from muscle spasms

4. Alternatively, you can take potassium supplements every day – 100mg.

5. You can also drink mineral water.

What does it mean when your body feels like it’s vibrating?

This can feel like you are having internal tremors. You can’t see them but can feel them. The vibrating sensation happens in your abdomen, chest, legs, and arms.

Typically, these internal vibrations are not as bothersome as external ones.

For example, you cannot feel bothered when attempting to insert a string in a needle.

These vibrations are not the same as vertigo – this is an entirely separate neurological condition where the world seems to spin around you.

But still, these tremors can be hard to take.

And because they aren’t visible, they can be difficult to explain to a medical professional.

But what causes these internal tremors?

The tremors are as a result of brain damage impacting on the nerves that connect to the muscles. But they are often too subtle to visually notice them – your friend will not see or understand what you are saying.

Conditions affecting the nervous system such as essential tremor, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson disease can all cause these internal vibrations.

According to a research, a third of the people who have Parkinson disease reported feeling these vibrations. Those with essential tremors were 55% and 36% for those with multiple sclerosis.

The majority of people suffering from internal tremors also have other symptoms such as burning, tingling and aching.

What can you do about the Internal Vibrations?

If you start experiencing internal vibrations, then it’s imperative to consult your primary care physician.

If in addition to the tremors, you have dizziness, trouble walking, numbness, and weakness, then don’t waste any time and book an appointment with a doctor.

To get the right treatment, the diagnosis must first be correct.

Sometimes, the vibrations will go away once you deal with the ailment causing them. If it is not yet clear to your doctor what’s causing them, then you should consult a specialist.

There are drugs for the underlying condition as well as the tremors – so you shouldn’t fret about it. Treatment for Parkinson includes Mirapex, Sinemet, and Requip.

The medication increases the level of dopamine in your system for a smoother body function.

For essential tremor, there are anti-seizure drugs and beta-blockers. The right Multiple Sclerosis depends on the progression and may include glatiramer acetate and interferon.

Some of the drugs you can take to control the internal vibrations include anticholinergic drugs such as Cogentin.

And if the tremors are as a result of anxiety, then tranquilizers like Klonopin will do a better job.

Are there Other Options?

An appointment with a physical therapist may be essential to help you have better control of the muscles and reduce the tremors.

And if all other remedies fail, surgery may be the next option, but it must be at the recommendation of your doctor.

There is a technique called Deep Brain Stimulation where the surgeon embeds electrodes within your brain and a generator in your chest. The electrical impulses from the device stimulate parts of the brain controlling movement.

All in all, internal vibrations aren’t life-threatening but can be pretty uncomfortable. Improvement depends on the condition causing them and the effectiveness of the treatment.

Sometimes the right remedy is a case of trial and error. If they fail to go away after the first treatment, you may need to try something else but in consultation with your doctor.

The vibrations may fail to completely go away, but you may successfully control them that they are no longer a bother.

photo credit: Flickr

What causes phantom phone vibrations?

This is a false feeling that your mobile phone is ringing or vibrating. In most cases, this ringing sensation often occurs when watching your favorite program or taking a shower. Most probably, these sensations have a neurological or psychological feeling.

Other causes of phantom phone vibrations may include difficulty in locating or recognizing the sounds that your device shares with others.

A study on phantom vibrations indicates that leaving your phone in the pocket eventually becomes like another of your body part, just like eyeglasses. You then perceive other kinds of movement as a phone ringing, but it is actually not the case. Your body grows accustomed to having the phone around, and so you readily perceive any vibration as a phone ringing.

Typically, the hallucinations are more common among young people than older. But it is a problem for people accustomed to having their phone with them.

According to some neuroscientists, the strange hallucinations are as a result of your brain trying to find patterns by filling in gaps. This is akin to seeing outlines of your wardrobe when you wake up in total darkness. The phenomenon does not occur when naked which explains a lot.

A cloth must slide across your skin for the receptors to pick it up.

Who are the People that Experience the Phantom Vibrations more?

Some of us may experience a non-existent ringing phone more than others. Usually, those that often respond to social stimuli are more likely to do the same for social texts.

And these people can fit into two groups: neurotics and extroverts.

Extroverts have a large number of friends and put an extra effort in maintaining them unlike their counterparts, the introverts.

Social information is more important to them, and they care significantly about it. They are therefore more likely to react to texts emotionally, and that heightens the reactions to text predicts. This makes good sense on why extroverts are more likely to experience phantom vibrations.

Neurotics are the other category that like extroverts is more likely to experience phantom vibrations. These people worry significantly about their social relationships and are afraid that each text may spell doom for their relationships. In fact, neurotics are more likely to experience the phantom vibrations than the extroverts.

How do you reduce the Phantom Vibrations?

About 5 in 10 individuals find phantom vibrations bothersome. If you are among them, you shouldn’t despair as there is something you can do about them.

To eliminate or reduce them, stop using your phone in vibration mode. Switch to a ringtone, and your brain will stop looking for vibrations around where you keep your phone.

Final Word

There are vibrations you can experience and which may prove quite disconcerting.

However, most of them are nothing to worry about too much but is essential to consult a doctor on the same. Vibrations in the foot may be as a result of a simple response to stress, anemia or other underlying conditions.

Internal tremors are an entirely different thing and are also as a result of underlying conditions. Phantom phone vibrations are entirely not a cause for worry, and you can get rid of them by simply putting your phone off the vibration mode.

References:

http://www.anxietycentre.com/anxiety-symptoms/buzzing-feet-hands-toes-fingers.shtml

https://rockyfootandankle.com/ask-the-foot-doctor-why-is-my-foot-vibrating/

https://www.steadyhealth.com/medical-answers/most-common-causes-of-buzzing-and-vibrating-sensation

https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2012/07/the-phone-that-wasnt-there-11-things-you-need-to-know-about-phantom-vibrations/259638/

If you are suffering from bunion pain, you are not alone. Prior studies show that approximately 23% between the ages 16 and 65 suffer from the painful foot condition. Bunions hamper your movement and negatively impact the quality of life – pain takes away the joy in life.

The good news is that you can truly get rid of bunions and live life to the fullest without surgery. A common misconception among many people is that operation is the only remedy for bunions. However, there are practical and easy methods you can utilize in dissolving bunions naturally and below we list some of them.

What is a bunion?

These are unsightly and painful bumps that form in the toe as a result of unequal weight distribution. In the majority of cases, the disfigurement occurs in individuals above 30 years and typically affects both feet.

And why do bunions occur?

According to research, bunions and some of the foot deformities are highly inheritable. That painful foot condition has something to do with your family line – it is in the genes. Other causes include diseases like arthritis and foot injury.

Experts caution against wearing tight-fitting heels and other footwear as they can directly contribute to the development of bunions.

Common symptoms include a significant amount of pain when walking and minimal flexibility on the affected toe. You will also notice irritated skin and calluses on the area.

Symptoms can develop gradually reaching a point where the only remedy is surgical intervention. Fortunately, there are few home remedies you can use and stop the developing bunions right on their tracks before they get to an unmanageable position.

Do Bunions go away on their own?

Unfortunately, bunions never go away on their own but rather are progressive.

Bunions get harder and harder to get rid of the longer you wait. Even though the foot condition will not kill you, the resulting pain is nothing to write home about.

The sooner you seek treatment, the better the chances of getting rid of the condition efficiently. The thing is, don’t just sit around waiting for bunions to go away on their own – you will be waiting a long time, and it will never happen.

Before it gets to that point, try the following remedies, and you may successfully get rid of them naturally. Only go for surgery when none of them works.

How to get rid of Bunions at Home

1.      Massaging

One of the easiest ways to get rid of bunions is a simple foot massage. Together with a range of motion exercises, massage can prove useful in retraining and relax foot muscles helping the toes find their natural position.

And of course, essential oils dissolve bunions by enhancing blood circulation in the affected area. The oils also provide relief from inflammation and pain so you can live life to the fullest.

Massaging the affected area regularly helps reduce the size of the bunion and keep hard skin and calluses at bay.

All you require to do is apply warm oil on the affected area and then massage deeply using your fingers for about ten minutes. Repeat this remedy every night.

Watch this video.

2.      Ice

Ice therapy provides immediate relief from inflammation and pain. You crush ice, wrap in a towel and place it on the area for about ten minutes. Maintain intervals of about five minutes and repeat the process for two or three more times.

Ice efficiently numbs the nerves and provides pain relief supporting the healing process. Ideally, you should repeat this remedy every time you feel pain or discomfort.

3.      Stretching

Moving and stretching your toe joints can help enhance the range of motion and bring relief to the affected area. Simple exercises include using a tennis ball to roll over your toes, flexing and unflexing them and using your hands to massage them.

To stretch the toes, you point with them right straight ahead and then curl for a few seconds. You repeat this exercise for about ten times in a day.

Alternatively, you can use a towel to wrap around the affected toe and use it to stretch the toe forward and roll it around.

4.      Chamomile

Chamomile flowers have anti-inflammatory properties that may control the growth of bunions and provide pain relief.

Add chamomile flowers to boiling water and reduce the heat to let the mixture simmer. You then let it cool a bit before soaking a towel on the infusion and gently press it on the affected toe. You repeat the process two times every day.

5.      Shoe Inserts and Pads

There are “bunion pads” you can purchase to help take the pressure off your feet and in particular the big toe. “Orthosis” help distribute the weight on your feet taking pressure off the affected areas.

You may need more heel and arch support to distribute the weight adequately. You can get the right bunion pads from a drug store or pharmacy without necessarily having to get a prescription from a doctor.

Just make sure to test the comfort level of these pads. They should significantly be taking pressure off your big toes rather than adding to it.

6.      Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin which can prove effective in pain and inflammation.

Use a mixture of half a spoon turmeric and teaspoon olive oil to apply it on the bunion. Let it stay for 20 minutes before rinsing with water.

Repeat the remedy two times daily. Alternatively, you can take a teaspoon of turmeric daily to achieve the same result.

7.      Aspirin and Iodine

Crushed aspirin and iodine halts the unusual and painful growth on the big toe. It also diminishes inflammation and keeps calluses from forming.

You crush three tablets of aspirin and mix with a tablespoon of iodine. Apply the resulting paste to the toe and wrap with a bandage so that it stays in place for several hours until it works efficiently. Repeat this daily for best results.

8.      Wider Shoes

Taking a break from your heels and tight-fighting footwear can allow the bunion to heal by taking the pressure away from your big toe. Many people find relief when they change their footwear for wider ones that allow sufficient room for their big toe to wiggle around.

Good shoes allow better circulation and let the toe to move around comfortably stopping the condition from worsening. If you are not sure which is the best size, go to the athletic store and let the specialist advice you. The ideal shoes are those with shoelaces as they are pretty easier to adjust.

According to American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, those suffering from bunions should stay away from sharply pointed and short shoes. Those with heels a couple of inches long are likely to aggravate the condition as all the pressure travels to the big toe.

9.      Change the Way you Exercise

If you are prone to developing bunions, then you should stay away from activities that may cause swelling burning and pain in your big toe. Specifically, you should avoid activities that require you to stand for long periods.

If you are on an exercise program that is causing you pain, then consider changing the regimen as it may indicate poor form. Running improperly and continually landing hard on your big toe can cause inflammation.

This is the sort of case that you need proper shoes to cushion the big toe.

10.  The Injection Therapy

Although quite uncommon, the injection therapy may prove effective dealing with bunions. Corticosteroids injections can heal inflamed bursa generally associated with the foot condition.

The patients treated with prolotherapy for their big toe problems are likely to demonstrate reduced pain and inflammation supporting the healing process.

How to get rid of Bunions on Pinky Toe

To efficiently get rid of bunions, you need first to ensure you remove all pressure from the big toe. In particular, you get proper-fitting footwear and use shoe inserts or pads to correct the deformity and provide inflammation and pain relief. Others include stretching exercises where you use a towel or use ice.

Can bunions be reversed?

With the right bunion products such as a bunion pad and toe spacer, you can reduce the symptoms and reduce the size of the swelling and deformity. However, the product may be most useful on mild and moderate bunions.

The same applies to the above solutions.

Wrapping up

Bunions can significantly take the enjoyment off your life negatively impacting on the quality of life. The above-listed remedies can efficiently get rid of the associated symptoms and aid in the healing process, so you enjoy life like the rest of your friends and family.

However, for the above remedies to be effective, you need to apply them the moment you notice the formation of bunions. There is little you can do when bunions are advanced except for surgery. Don’t wait for them to reverse on their own as that will never happen.