Whether due to an injury or a medical condition, if you're struggling with chronic back pain, your doctor may have suggested considering nerve stimulation to help with your pain management. If you're not familiar with nerve stimulation therapy, there are a few things that you should know before you pursue this treatment for the first time. Here's a look at what you need to know. 

What Is Nerve Stimulation?

Nerve stimulation, properly known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, is the process of stimulating nerves with the use of mild electrical pulses. Usually applied by wearing a belt or a series of electrodes, the electric pulses trigger nerve responses in the affected area. These nerve responses leave you feeling some tingling in the treatment area but will also help to ease the pain you feel in that area.

How Does Nerve Stimulation Ease Pain?

Although there's no single clear explanation for why nerve stimulation helps to ease pain, the working theory from medical professionals is that the stimulation of the nerves around the spinal column closes off the pain receptors in that area, which is what results in the pain relief. It doesn't actually stop the pain; it simply stops you from feeling it. You'll start to notice the relief shortly after the electrical pulses begin, and the relief will continue for a short period after you turn the machine off.

Do You Need A Prescription For Nerve Stimulation?

Nerve stimulation devices used to be only available with a doctor's prescription. They were considered durable medical equipment and were not available to the general public. In recent years, the devices have become far more accessible, though many of the retail-market options have a lower power capacity than the ones you can get from your doctor.

As a result, you don't need to have a prescription for the device, but getting a prescription machine may give you better results than an over-the-counter option from your local pharmacy.

What Should You Know Before Using Nerve Stimulation?

If you're getting ready to use a nerve stimulation device for your back pain, there are a few things that you need to know. First, make sure that you know where to place the electrodes. This usually means talking with your doctor first so that you can get medical direction about the best places for the electrodes to ensure success.

In addition, remember to replace the electrodes at the frequency recommended by your doctor or the manufacturer of your stimulation machine. The electrodes conduct the electric pulse, so they need to be in good condition at all times to protect you from injury. If, at any time, the device burns your skin, you should stop using it until you can replace the electrodes and ensure proper placement.

For more information about treatments like this, contact a back pain management facility.