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Date: 12.07.2011
From: Sharon

Subject: Tens machine

Hi, I am on methotrexate injections 10mg soon to be 15mg. I take tramadol as a pain relief with lodine and folic. I have had a flare up for the last few months which I am struggling to control. I have had a kenalog injection then a steroid inj to calm it back in march. They did not work. I saw my consultant last week and had another steroid injection which doesn't seem to be working either. So I have bought a tens machine. Not sure how many times I'm supposed to use it but if anyone can offer any advice I would appreciate it.
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Date: 12.07.2011
From: kirst

Subject: Re: Tens machine

when i was given one to try from the hospital i was told i could wear it all day if i wanted but personally i found it worked best when i used it for an hour then took it off for an hour. It depends on wether that would be practical for you. one of the things i was told was not to use it thru the night but i think that was more incase i knocked it and turned it on too much and shocked myself lol.
think there is a guide on the NHS site for useing one.
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Date: 13.07.2011
From: Sharon

Subject: Re: Tens machine

Thanks Kirst, I will have a look at the website. I am finding it a help when its on but as soon as i take it off the pains return.
I will keep on trying to see if i can get it right.
Sharon
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Date: 13.07.2011
From: nicola

Subject: Re: Tens machine

Hi Sharon
you can keep it on for as long as you like, you wont become dependant on it and as long as you follow the guidelines for its use, it should keep providing you with pain relief. Different makes and models work differently, some have adjustable settings so have a fiddle with the settings and the position of the pads to find what works best for you.
I'm a physio (with RA) and i reccomend TENS a lot for lots of different conditions, no nasty side effects and no pills to remember. If you do accidentally sit on the controls, you wont get an electric shock, just a really quite uncomfortable feeling of severe pins and needles - its almost impossible to do that though, but you wont do any damage!
Does your rheumatology dept have a physio on the team? See if you can get referred to them, as acupuncture and hydrotherapy (if available) are great for arthritic pain too. Your rheumatologist should be able to refer you, and if they cant your GP will.
All the best
Nicola
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Date: 15.07.2011
From: Sharon

Subject: Re: Tens machine

Thanks Nicola I appreciate the advice. I have tried acupuncture, I had it for 8 weeks but it didn't seem to help and i found it quite painful to be honest. What is hydrotherapy and what does it involve? I am looking for anything that will help me get back to work. Sharon
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