If you're someone who suffers from cramps, there's nothing more dreaded than the 3-7 day long period (no pun intended) of what can be mostly pain, nausea, and overall discomfort. While there are many so-called "fixes'' for period pain, not many of them are drug-free while also strong enough for the most severe cramps. While a warm compress may help very mild cases, it won't be enough for the majority of people suffering from severe menstrual cramps.
TENS Technology
The newest innovation in tech includes the use of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on the lower abdomen as a non-invasive option for menstrual cramps. This technology "was demonstrated to be effective in reducing menstrual pain" in a 2002 review by the Physical Therapy Department and Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences at the University of Haifa.
How does it work?
Dysmenorrhea, meaning painful menstruation or period pain, is caused by a substance in the body called prostaglandin. This substance is made by the cells in the inner lining of the uterus. Prostaglandin is responsible for making the uterine muscles contract to help shed the lining built up during the menstrual cycle- resulting on what we know as the period. Too much of this substance causes period pain, and even more of it can result in nausea, vomiting and headaches.
TENS technology works by sending soothing pulses through the skin and to the nerve fibers, blocking the pain signals caused by the prostaglandin. Not only this, but these subtle electrical impulses also aid the body in producing more natural pain-killing endorphins.
Where can I find one?
We always advise to opt for a wireless unit with multiple intensities, so that you are always able to just the strength of the pulses based on the severity of your cramps that month. For these reasons, we highly recommend the VPod.
The VPod has 24 different settings, a timer, and adjustable intensities- so you can fully customize your session to your immediate needs that week. No cramps this month? Use the VPod for muscle recovery after a tough workout! Just select the corresponding feature, place on the area of soreness and lay back while the VPod does the work! Visit VPod.Life to learn more.
Happy Healing!