Full Answer
Do you know why your muscles are tense?
Some people don’t even know they are tense, while others are aware but have no idea why. There are dozens of less-common medical conditions that can cause stiff muscles, such as Lyme’s disease or lupus, but the following 5 reasons are among the most common:
What causes muscle soreness after using tens?
Muscle Soreness Again, if you experience muscle soreness the day of or the day after TENS therapy, it was probably caused by having the settings too high. Take a break from your TENS unit for a few days.
Does a TENS unit help muscle recovery?
Although its effect may not be as pronounced as that of an EMS unit, a TENS unit still works great when it comes to muscle recovery. Professional athletes and chiropractors have been using both the EMS and TENS units for pain, muscle soreness, muscle spasms, and in speeding up muscle recovery.
Why do my muscles feel tight after exercise?
This is the brains way of alerting you to a potential danger of depriving the tissues of blood flow. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS, which is experienced 24-72 hours after exercise due to micro trauma and inflammatory response) makes you feel sore and tight but there may be no actual change in muscle length.
Is it normal to have muscle spasms after physical therapy?
There are many causes for muscle spasms - the ones most often seen in physical therapy are those that arise from trauma, guarding, poor blood circulation in physical exertion, overuse and overloading. Other causes can be electrolyte imbalances and drug side effects.
What causes your muscles to tense up?
Poor posture, stress and overuse of muscles. Exercise (overexercise, poor techniques that may lead to stress on muscles) Performing work activities using poor techniques that can lead to repetitive stress injuries. Anxiety and depression which can cause increased muscle tension, leading to significant myofascial pain.
What happens when your muscles tense up?
When the body is stressed, muscles tense up. Muscle tension is almost a reflex reaction to stress—the body's way of guarding against injury and pain. With sudden onset stress, the muscles tense up all at once, and then release their tension when the stress passes.
What causes muscles to freeze up?
Spasticity is generally caused by damage or disruption to the area of the brain and spinal cord that are responsible for controlling muscle and stretch reflexes. These disruptions can be due to an imbalance in the inhibitory and excitatory signals sent to the muscles, causing them to lock in place.
How do you loosen tense muscles?
You may be able to treat muscle stiffness at home with rest, massage, and application of heat or cold. Heat may work better for muscle tightness. Cold may work better for swelling and inflammation. Options include hot and cold packs, heating pads, and heat therapy patches.
How do you relax tense muscles?
Warm-up: Preferably, three to five minutes of gentle rhythmic movement, such as walking or marching in place. This increases circulation and core muscle temperature. Stretch only to the point of gentle tension. Ease into the stretch as you feel your muscle relax.
Are tight muscles weak or strong?
Muscles that feel tight are generally short and weak.
Why won't my muscles relax?
Muscle rigidity is often triggered by stress. Stress can adversely affect your body's nervous system — including your nerves — and how they function. Your nervous system may respond to stress by putting additional pressure on the blood vessels, which results in reduced blood flow to the muscles.
Does spasticity ever go away?
If left untreated, spasticity can cause permanent shrinking and contracting of the muscles, along with joints locked into single positions. While there's no cure for post-stroke spasticity, treatments and lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms and maintain your range of motion.
What causes muscle contract?
Muscle cells require enough water, glucose, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium to allow the proteins within them to develop an organized contraction. An abnormal supply of these elements can cause the muscle to become irritable and develop spasms.
Stress, Pain, and Tension
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How Anxiety Causes Tension
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The added Anxiety of Pain
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How to Relieve Muscle Tension from Anxiety
Muscle tension from anxiety is not unlike muscle tension from other issues, such as exercise or sleeping on the wrong side of your body. While anxi...
Why do muscles contract when stressed?
Muscle tension is one of those difficult consequences resulting from stress. When a person’s fight or flight system is activated (which occurs during times of stress and anxiety) muscles naturally contract. This muscle contraction is advantageous when the body and brain signal a person is in danger. But when a person is stressed for an extended ...
How to release tension in muscles?
Massage - Getting a massage can be a fantastic approach to releasing muscle tension. Muscle tension is a physical change, and those skilled at massage can actually feel the knots (which cause the tension and discomfort) in a person’s muscles, and push them out, resulting in decreased discomfort.
Why is muscle contraction beneficial?
This muscle contraction is advantageous when the body and brain signal a person is in danger. But when a person is stressed for an extended period of time (whether in physical danger or not), the muscles are also contracted for that period of time. Eventually, this tension contributes to pain, discomfort, and trouble with mobility.
How does stress affect muscle tension?
Stress directly causes muscle tension, and anxiety is prolonged stress. Stress causes muscles to contract, and after a while this contraction leads to tension. How you respond to the tension may also affect future aches and pains. There are activities and exercises that reduce muscle tension at the time. Reducing both anxiety and day ...
Why do my muscles feel achy?
Summary: Stress causes the muscles to contract, and the tension that that causes on muscles can make them feel stiff, achy, and painful. That same tension can also cause behavioral changes that also contribute to aching muscles. Certain exercises can reduce the tension, while addressing anxiety keeps it away.
What is the act of elongating the muscles so they are not bunched together?
While not a perfect technique, stretching is the act of elongating the muscles so they are not bunched together. The same exercises that make it easier to exercise without injury are useful for muscle tension. OTC painkillers - Several over-the-counter medications could prove useful for combating muscle tension.
What is the best way to relieve muscle tension?
Warm water is very soothing to tense muscles, and can often provide a sense of instant relief of muscle tension. A hot bath is ideal, but since many people do not have the time and/or desire to sit in a bath for an extended period of time, a shower can still work well.
Why do my muscles get stiff?
There are dozens of less-common medical conditions that can cause stiff muscles, such as Lyme’s disease or lupus, but the following 5 reasons are among the most common: 1. Stress-Induced “Muscle Armoring”. When a physical threat appears, the “fight-or-flight” response makes us alert and braced for action. Modern life can be filled ...
What is the energy that powers muscle fibers?
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the body’s “energy fuel” that powers the movement of muscle fibers. When ATP gets used up from exercise, activity, or stress, it is converted into a smaller molecule called ADP, which must be recycled back into ATP before a person has more energy again.
What minerals are needed for muscle and nerve function?
Magnesium is one of the most widely used minerals in the body: it is critical to over 300 enzyme reactions and for healthy muscle and nerve function. Magnesium can be depleted by chronic stress and subclinical magnesium deficiency is associated with chronic inflammation. Potassium is another important dietary nutrient for muscle health found in vegetables, bananas, and potatoes. Approximately 98% of Americans don’t meet the recommended daily intake for potassium. Be sure to eat plenty of vegetables and perhaps try an electrolyte-enhanced drinking water. “If you have been under a lot stress, consider taking an Epsom salt bath to help replenish magnesium levels. And drink plenty of water!” says Dr. Bomi Joseph, Director of the Peak Health Center.
How to reduce tension in the back?
Suppressing or “numbing” your unpleasant feelings can greatly increase muscle armoring. Deep-tissue massage and yoga are extremely effective against tension.
How to replenish magnesium levels?
Be sure to eat plenty of vegetables and perhaps try an electrolyte-enhanced drinking water. “If you have been under a lot stress, consider taking an Epsom salt bath to help replenish magnesium levels. And drink plenty of water!” says Dr. Bomi Joseph, Director of the Peak Health Center. 4.
How does PTSD affect the body?
PTSD in particular can cause hypervigilance, causing sufferers to be on "high alert" for danger even when there is no imminent physical threat. Chronic activation of the stress response can lead to chronically tense muscles – particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders. Suppressing or “numbing” your unpleasant feelings can greatly increase muscle armoring. Deep-tissue massage and yoga are extremely effective against tension. Psychological therapy and self-help techniques designed to help you stay grounded and fully feel your feelings can help a great deal too.
How to help with tension?
Deep-tissue massage and yoga are extremely effective against tension. Psychological therapy and self-help techniques designed to help you stay grounded and fully feel your feelings can help a great deal too. 2. Low Levels of ATP from Fatigue & Overuse.
How to reduce muscle tightness?
Well, based on the study’s findings, it’s possible to reduce muscle tightness by combining a TENS unit and stretching exercises. In fact, the study also suggests that combining these two is a great way to increase muscle flexibility.
What does tens do to your body?
According to NHS, the mild electrical pulses produced by TENS units can help reduce the pain going through your brain and spinal cord, thus relieving muscle pain and relaxing muscles. The impulses also stimulate the production of endorphins, your body’s natural pain killers.
What is the difference between a tens unit and an EMS unit?
While an EMS unit is proven to be more effective for muscle stimulation, a TENS unit, which is commonly used for pain relief, also provides a few muscle benefits.
Why do tens units work?
Because a TENS unit main function is to relieve pain through nerve stimulation and through the release endorphin, the device has been found to be very effective in relieving pain caused my muscle knots.
What causes muscle pain?
Some of the most common causes of muscle pain include: 1 Muscle overuse 2 Injury 3 Stress 4 Muscle tension/tightness
Why do people use Tens?
According to Parkinson Life Center, a TENS unit can be used to provide relief from muscle soreness caused by muscle overuse, arthritis, and inflammation. Through the transmission of electrical impulses, a TENS helps eliminate pain from the sore muscles, while promoting better circulation for a speedy recovery.
What is a tens and ems machine?
A tens and ems combo machine is basically a single device that combines the functions of the two devices. In other words, a tens and ems combo unit relieves pain while at the same time stimulating muscles. In this article, we discuss a number of things that a tens unit does for muscles.
What are the factors that increase the risk of muscle cramps?
Factors that might increase your risk of muscle cramps include: Age. Older people lose muscle mass, so the remaining muscle can get overstressed more easily. Dehydration. Athletes who become fatigued and dehydrated while participating in warm-weather sports frequently develop muscle cramps. Pregnancy.
What is muscle cramp?
Overview. A muscle cramp is a sudden and involuntary contraction of one or more of your muscles. If you've ever been awakened in the night or stopped in your tracks by a sudden charley horse, you know that muscle cramps can cause severe pain.
How to prevent cramps from a sex?
These steps may help prevent cramps: Avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of liquids every day. The amount depends on what you eat, your sex, your level of activity, the weather, your health, your age and medications you take. Fluids help your muscles contract and relax and keep muscle cells hydrated and less irritable.
How to keep muscles hydrated?
Fluids help your muscles contract and relax and keep muscle cells hydrated and less irritable. During activity, replenish fluids at regular intervals, and continue drinking water or other fluids after you're finished. Stretch your muscles. Stretch before and after you use any muscle for an extended period.
How to stop leg cramps while sleeping?
If you tend to have leg cramps at night, stretch before bedtime. Light exercise, such as riding a stationary bicycle for a few minutes before bedtime, also may help prevent cramps while you're sleeping. By Mayo Clinic Staff.
Where do cramps occur?
Most muscle cramps develop in the leg muscles, particularly in the calf. Besides the sudden, sharp pain, you might also feel or see a hard lump of muscle tissue beneath your skin.
Can you use muscle cramps at home?
Though generally harmless, muscle cramps can make it temporarily impossible to use the affected muscle. Long periods of exercise or physical labor, particularly in hot weather, can lead to muscle cramps. Some medications and certain medical conditions also may cause muscle cramps. You usually can treat muscle cramps at home with self-care measures.
How to recover from brain stem damage?
To ensure the best recovery from brain stem damage, you should practice your home exercises every day after therapy. If you struggle with memory problems, have your therapist write you a home exercise sheet to help you remember exactly how to do them.
What are the effects of brain stem damage?
1. Coma. The brain stem houses a network of neurons called the reticular activating system (RAS), which helps a person wake up. When the brain stem is damaged, the RAS is compressed and can cause a coma.
What can be done to help a brain stem injury?
After a brain stem injury, the connection between the brain and muscles can become damaged or destroyed. Fortunately, engaging the brain’s neuroplasticity can allow a person to rebuild those neural connections. There are a few interventions a physical therapist might use to accomplish this.
What is the bottom of the brain stem?
Finally, at the bottom of the brain stem is the medulla.The medulla is in charge of essential life functions, such as breathing, heart rate, and swallowing. Not only does the brain stem control vital bodily functions, it’s also the link between the spinal cord and the rest of the brain. For example, the cerebral cortex sends information through ...
What happens when you practice an action?
Therefore, the more you practice an action, the more you will reinforce those neural pathways. And the stronger those pathways are, the easier the activity will become. This principle applies to every type of brain damage, even brain stem damage.
Which structure is responsible for muscle movement?
Midbrain. At the top of the brain stem rests the midbrain. This structure plays a large role in muscle movement, particularly eye movement. Pons. Below the midbrain lies the pons. The pons acts as a bridge between the cerebellum and spinal cord and helps control your balance, among other things. Medulla.
Can brain stem damage be caused by swelling?
Fortunately, brain stem damage is rare. Most brain stem injuries are a result of swelling from other brain injuries. Swelling can push the brain stem against the skull and cause damage. You can also damage the brain stem if you suffer a diffuse axonal injury that tears the brain cells in the pons or medulla.
What is TENS therapy?
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy involves the use of low-voltage electric currents to treat pain. A small device delivers the current at or near nerves. TENS therapy blocks or changes your perception of pain. Appointments & Access.
Where are tens placed?
A TENS unit consists of a battery-powered device that delivers electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the surface of your skin. The electrodes are placed at or near nerves where the pain is located or at trigger points. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.
How does transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation work?
One theory is that the electric current stimulates nerve cells that block the transmission of pain signals, modifying your perception of pain. The other theory is that nerve stimulation raises the level of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain-killing ...
What does "tens" mean?
Near or over eyes or mouth, front or side of neck, or on the head. Near reproductive organs or genitals. To areas of the body that lack or have reduced sensation. In persons who have trouble communicating or who have mental impairment and cannot provide feedback to ensure the safe use of TENS.
What is the term for the damage to the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body
Chronic pelvic pain. Diabetic neuropathy (damage to the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body). Peripheral artery disease (“hardening of the arteries” that circulate blood to the body).
Can tens therapy cause infections?
TENS therapy may result in the spread of infections. To areas of tissue that have been recently treated with radiation. To damaged skin (Except for open wounds where the intent is to use electrical stimulation to heal tissue. In these cases, therapy should be guided by a skilled therapist.)
Does nerve stimulation increase endorphins?
The other theory is that nerve stimulation raises the level of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain-killing chemical. The endorphins then block the perception of pain.
How does electrical muscle stimulation help in intensive care?
Critically ill patients in intensive care can struggle to preserve muscle mass, as they’re unable to take part in active exercise. Electrical muscle stimulation provides a way to work those muscles, without any limb movement.
Why don't tens units help?
Why a TENS Unit WON’T Help You Build Muscle. You want to build muscle, so you’re thinking of investing in a TENS unit. Before you do anything, read this article. In short, TENS units aren’t considered to be the most effective tool for muscles, though they are beneficial in many other ways. There’s a chance that you’re thinking ...
How does an EMS machine work?
An EMS machine stimulates your motor nerves, which induces muscle contractions, mimicking the way they contract during a workout. It is these contractions that make the device more effective for muscle building.
Can electrical stimulation help paralyzed muscles?
Amazingly, electrical muscle stimulation can even retrain muscles following an injury. Some evidence was found to show that the treatment can increase voluntary function in partially paralyzed muscles. That’s because the repetitive stimulating pulses effectively help to teach the body how to operate the muscles again.
Is a Tens unit good for muscles?
In short, TENS units aren’t considered to be the most effective tool for muscles, though they are beneficial in many other ways. There’s a chance that you’re thinking of an electric muscle stimulation (EMS) machine, a very similar looking device. Let’s firstly look at why a TENS unit isn’t the right option:
Can tens cause muscle contraction?
It is primarily a pain relief tool. In some cases if the electrode pads are placed on a muscle and used on a high setting, a TENS device may cause the muscles to twitch and contract. However this is not the intention of TENS therapy and not what the devices have been designed to do.
Why should you not put a tens unit pad on a wound?
If TENS unit pads are placed on or too close to open wounds or damaged skin, the wound can become further irritated. The wound may also take longer to heal. Because of this, avoid placing electrode pads on or near damaged skin. 5.
What happens if you turn your Tens unit too high?
When a TENS unit is turned too high, muscle twitching can occur. If this happens, turn the machine down immediately until twitching ceases. Make sure your TENS unit is turned all the way down and starts from zero each time you put it on. Only increase the intensity to fit what feels right for you.
Why does my Tens unit feel wet?
If your skin is wet when applying your TENS unit, or if the pads are not applied correctly, you may feel unpleasant shocks. Be sure to dry your skin thoroughly and to read your unit’s manual to ensure proper adhesion. As you can see, these TENS Unit side effects are mostly due to operator error or are minimal at worst.
What are the side effects of Tens?
Here are 10 TENS Unit side effects to be aware of: 1. Burn Marks. Most of the 10 side effects from TENS will come from either leaving on the electrode pads for too long or from setting the intensity level too high. However, most over-the-counter TENS units come with pre-set modes which help prevent users from making this mistake.
Is Tens unit safe?
And it’s no wonder. TENS therapy is a drug-free, affordable way to manage and treat pain when needed. All FDA cleared over-the-counter devices are checked for safety and usability. One of the reasons why TENS is so popular and reliable as a treatment option is that it comes with very few risks. Especially in comparison to pills, which have innumerable potential side effects, TENS is very safe. Still, users should take precautions. Here are 10 TENS Unit side effects to be aware of:
Can pregnant women use Tens?
Women who are pregnant should not use TENS near the uterus without first consulting their doctor. 6. Muscle Pain. Very few people find TENS therapy to be unpleasant. However, if you are one of the few who feel muscle pain while using TENS, chances are that you have the intensity set too high. Try a lower setting.
Can you drive a car while using Tens?
However, there is a small chance that while TENS is being applied, it will affect the way you feel and move your muscles. Because of this, do not drive a car or operate heavy machinery while using TENS.
What is a tens machine?
24 April, 2019. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation -- TENS -- machines are a common form of pain relief, especially for musculoskeletal pain 2 5 6. These machines send a small electrical current to pads placed on the skin, resulting in the activation of nerves under the skin.
What causes the release of endorphins?
Another theory is that electrical stimulation causes the release of natural painkillers, such as endorphins, within the body.
Can tens pads cause skin irritation?
This will also decrease the chances of skin irritation. TENS machines may cause mild skin irritation under the pads, producing redness and slight pain. This is most common with prolonged use, so the pads should be periodically removed to assess your skin.
Can a Tens machine cause muscle soreness?
Lower the intensity until you feel just a strong tingling sensation, without muscle twitching. Prolonged use, even at lower intensity levels, may occasionally cause mild muscle soreness.
Can you use a Tens machine while driving?
Like all electrical devices, TENS machines should never be submerged in water. They should also not be worn while driving, as they can be distracting. Do not use a TENS machine while sleeping at night, as this would be considered a prolonged time and you would be unable to feel whether skin irritation or muscle soreness is developing.
Can a Tens machine be submerged in water?
Like all electrical devices, TENS machines should never be submerged in water. If you have a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator, only use a TENS machine if approved by your cardiologist, as the current may interfere with the function of these devices. 00:00. 00:04 08:02. GO LIVE.
Can you use Tens during pregnancy?
TENS can be an effective form of pain relief for labor. But it is generally not recommended for use at other times during pregnancy because of its un known effects on the unborn baby.
