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TENS vs EMS: Which Works Better for Pain? University of Texas (Pain and Therapy (2023)

TENS vs EMS: Which Works Better for Pain? University of Texas (Pain and Therapy (2023)

Welcome to another post of our ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST.

Every week, we uncover one more real study — not marketing noise.

We translate complex science into plain stories that everyone understands.

Because truth should never hide behind paywalls or medical jargon.

Our mission: make honest science reachable for all people.

At the end, you’ll find the real study link.

Let’s begin this week’s story.


The Story

In Texas, four scientists started with one simple question.

Can electricity — gentle, rhythmic, and controlled — help people in pain?

They came from the University of the Incarnate Word School of Medicine - Texas.

Their study was later published in Pain and Therapy, a global journal.

They didn’t test one device. They tested thirteen different ones.

From basic TENS electrical therapy to advanced Electrical Muscle Stimulation systems. 

Each device promised to reduce pain and improve movement.

But promises don’t always match the truth.

So, they dug into 23 years of medical research data.

They read everything — hospital trials, patient recoveries, even failed studies.

And the results surprised almost everyone.


What Worked — And What Didn’t

Some electrical systems truly changed lives. Others barely made a difference.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation - a niche of EMS stood out first.

It helped stroke survivors move again.
It helped spinal cord patients rebuild weak muscles.
It worked best with physiotherapy.

Functional Electrical Stimulation - another niche of EMS was another quiet hero.

It made walking possible for people with damaged nerves.
It restored simple actions — like standing up or climbing stairs.
But it didn’t remove pain. It restored movement.

EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) was the bridge between both worlds.

It activated deep muscle fibers without heavy strain.
It improved blood flow.
It trained muscles gently, even for people who couldn’t exercise much.

Then came classic TENS electrical therapy  — the most famous of all.

It’s in drugstores, clinics, and TV ads.
But here’s the truth: it helped the least.
Most TENS trials showed only short comfort — nothing lasting.

The scientists were honest about it.
They said: “TENS is safe, but its real benefit is small.”


Why It Matters

Behind every study are real people.

Some wake up with pain every morning.
Some can’t lift a cup.
Some can’t walk far without rest.

For them, this research means hope — not hype.

It means that good electrical stimulation can reawaken sleeping muscles.
It means blood can flow better, joints can move freer.
It means energy returns — quietly, safely, steadily.

For athletes, it means faster recovery on lazy days.
For busy workers, it means gentle relief after long hours.
For older adults, it means keeping independence one step longer.


Simple Summary

Question Answer
Who did the study? University of the Incarnate Word & University of Texas Health.
What did they test? 13 forms of electrical stimulation for pain and movement.
What worked best? NMES and FES for recovery; Yes! EMS showed strong potential.
Did pain improve? Yes, mainly with NMES and advanced muscle stimulation forms.
Did TENS help? Only short comfort; no long-term improvement found.
What’s the takeaway? Quality EMS systems can support recovery and better function.

Research Reference

Allen, C. B., Williamson, T. K., Norwood, S. M., & Gupta, A. (2023). Do Electrical Stimulation Devices Reduce Pain and Improve Function?—A Comparative Review. Pain and Therapy, 12, 1339–1354.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40122-023-00554-6

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ORIEMS FIT Mission Reminder

ORIEMS FIT is a 100% Australian Award-Winning Brand, chosen YEAR’S BEST by ProductReview.com.au in both 2024 and 2025.

Out of over 68,000 nominees, Australians voted for us — not ads.

Because we believe in honesty, usefulness, and results people can feel.

Our EMS devices are wide-range targeted muscle stimulators.
They help everyday people recover, relax, and stay strong.

And we’ll keep sharing real research — simplified, verified, and accessible.


Disclaimer

This post is for learning and curiosity, not medical advice.
ORIEMS FIT does not diagnose or treat.
Results from research may not apply to everyone.
Always ask a healthcare professional before trying new methods or devices.
Full details available at the ORIEMS Disclaimer page.



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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