1.what is Dysmenorrhea?
Dysmenorrhea refers to the pain experienced by women in and around the lower abdomen or waist during their menstrual period, which can also extend to the lumbosacral area. In severe cases, it may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, cold sweating, cold hands and feet, and even fainting, significantly impacting daily life and work. Currently, dysmenorrhea is commonly classified into two types: primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea occurs without any apparent reproductive organ abnormalities and is often referred to as functional dysmenorrhea. It is more prevalent among adolescent girls who are unmarried or have not given birth yet. This type of dysmenorrhea can usually be relieved or disappear after a normal childbirth. On the other hand, secondary dysmenorrhea is primarily caused by organic diseases affecting the reproductive organs. It is a common gynecological condition with a reported incidence rate of 33.19%.
2. symptoms:
2.1.Primary dysmenorrhea is more commonly experienced during adolescence and typically occurs within 1 to 2 years after the start of menstruation. The main symptom is lower abdominal pain that coincides with a regular menstrual cycle. The symptoms of secondary dysmenorrhea are similar to those of primary dysmenorrhea, but when caused by endometriosis, it often worsens progressively.
2.2. Pain usually begins after menstruation, sometimes as early as 12 hours before, with the most intense pain occurring on the first day of menstruation. This pain can last for 2 to 3 days and then gradually subsides. It is often described as spasmodic and is generally not accompanied by tension in the abdominal muscles or rebound pain.
2.3. Other possible symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, and in severe cases pallor and cold sweats may occur.
2.4. Gynecological examinations do not reveal any abnormal findings.
2.5. Based on the presence of lower abdominal pain during menstruation and negative gynecological examination results, a clinical diagnosis can be made.
According to the severity of dysmenorrhea, it can be classified into three degrees:
*Mild: During or before and after menstruation, there is slight pain in the lower abdomen accompanied by backache. However, one can still carry out daily activities without feeling generally uncomfortable. Sometimes, painkillers may be needed.
*Moderate: Before and after menstruation, there is moderate pain in the lower abdomen along with backache, nausea and vomiting, as well as cold limbs. Taking measures to relieve pain can provide temporary relief from this discomfort.
*Severe: Before and after menstruation, there is severe pain in the lower abdomen that makes it impossible to sit quietly. It significantly affects work, study, and daily life; therefore bed rest becomes necessary. Additionally, symptoms such as paleness, cold sweat***ge may occur. Despite attempts at pain relief measures being taken into account; they do not provide significant alleviation.
3.Physical therapy
A large number of clinical studies have demonstrated the significant effect of TENS in the treatment of dysmenorrhea:
Primary dysmenorrhea is a chronic health condition that affects primarily young women. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has been suggested as an effective pain reduction modality in primary dysmenorrhea. TENS is a noninvasive, inexpensive, portable method with minimal risks and a few contraindications. When necessary, it can be self-administered on a daily basis during everyday activities. Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of TENS in reducing pain, decreasing the use of analgesics, and improving the quality of life in primary dysmenorrhea patients. These studies have some limitations in methodological quality and therapeutic validation. However, the overall positive effects of TENS in primary dysmenorrhea encountered in all prior studies indicated its potential value. This review presents the clinical recommendations for TENS parameters for treating primary dysmenorrhea symptoms based on previously published studies.
How to treat dysmenorrhea with electrotherapy products?
The specific use method is as follows（TENS mode）:
①Determine the right amount of current: Adjust the current strength of the TENS electrotherapy device based on how much pain you feel and what feels comfortable for you. Generally, start with a low intensity and gradually increase it until you feel a pleasant sensation.
②Placement of electrodes: Put the TENS electrode patches on or near the area that hurts. For dysmenorrhea pain, you can place them on the pain area in the lower abdomen . Make sure to secure the electrode pads tightly against your skin.
③Choose the right mode and frequency: TENS electrotherapy devices usually have a bunch of different modes and frequencies to choose from.When it comes to dysmenorrhea,the optimal frequency for pain relief is 100 Hz,you can go for continuous or pulsed stimulation. Just pick a mode and frequency that feels comfortable for you so you can get the best pain relief possible.
④Time and frequency: Depending on what works best for you, each session of TENS electrotherapy should typically last between 15 to 30 minutes, and it’s recommended to use it 1 to 3 times a day. As your body responds, feel free to gradually adjust the frequency and duration of use as needed.
⑤Combining with other treatments: To really maximize dysmenorrhea relief, it might be more effective if you combine TENS therapy with other treatments. For example, try using heat compresses, doing some gentle abdomen stretches or relaxation exercises, or even getting massages – they can all work together in harmony!
Chose TENS mode,then attach the electrodes to the lower abdomen, on either side of the anterior median line, 3 inches below the umbilicus.
Post time: Jan-16-2024
