The TENS Machine + The Gate Control Theory

The Gate Control Theory?

Some readers may be all over this phenomenon, whilst others are completely confused. Let us explain! TENS works in alignment with the gate control theory of pain. According to the theory, pain signals are transmitted from our bodies nerves to our brain through a series of "gates" in the spinal cord. When these gates are open, pain signals pass through them and our brain processes the pain.

The electrical impulses emited via the TENS are believed to stimulate non-pain carrying nerves which overload our nervous system. Our brain is kept busy and can only focus on so much information at any given time, so it prioritises the TENS pulsations, over pain signals. As a result, the TENS machine closes the “gates” ; the slower and more painful messages (your contractions) have less of an impact = we experience less pain!

The TENS machine also releases endorphins into your body; which are natural pain-relieving substances that also contribute to pain relief, promoting an overall sense of calm and relaxation.