A very good friend our ours used to say “It’s just a moment in time!” You will look back at these times and it will be a faded memory, a “do you remember when?” You will be hiking up the hills with your fur babies enjoying your life. You’ll sit on a rock and think “Gosh look how tough I was” Enjoy your recuperation because soon you will be flying around the house, work etc and it will all have been “A moment in time.”
I have used the Tens unit many times in the past. Tens units stimulate the nerves with a mild voltage in pulses to tighten and relax the muscles. If you have nerve damage it may not help and possibly even abuse you more pain. It’s great for muscle pain. Check out the different options of pulsing , cycling, and voltage strength
A month isn’t all that long since surgery. It’s bound to still be tender. Thinking it’s a twofold matter of complete healing along with getting your stump accustomed to a prosthetic (breaking it in). Swelling and pain are bound to happen as it’s not as easy as putting on a pair of shoes where you can land running. Easy does it and pay attention to your body. Patience! Now! That tens unit might be helpful for headaches too (and muscle pain in neck and shoulders).
I know it sucks but it's totally normal... just take it slow it will get better as more time goes on... took months for me! I couldn't wear a leg for 3 months after surgery and it still hurt for a month or 2 after that... use a cane or something for support and keep up with the tens unit on a lower setting! Best of luck!!! ❤
I have bad knees and have needed physical therapy in the past and they used a similar setup as part of my therapy and it worked great . It helped a lot with the pain after therapy and was my favorite part of the sessions
I have chronic back pain and have used tens machines extensively. I really like them and they help my pain levels a lot. Crossing my fingers you have the same experience!
My best description of the tens unit is that it feels like what the static on the TV looks like, it usually fades in feeling after four or so minutes, but it is still working.
Edit: Thanks for the love. Feel better. I love my tens machine (chronic neck and back pain). If you have problems getting the pads to keep sticking use some medical adhesive tape ( the stuff you find in the first aid section at stores) to get the electrodes to stay.
I’m so sorry Jo...this is my life...I so empathize with you and I’m so sorry your going through this. Be easy on yourself. Your allowed to feel frustrated and sad and just so done. But we will pick ourselves up even when it’s the last thing we want to do. We will go to that next appointment, the next doctor if we have to . I don’t know why it is that some people breeze through life with little pain and some of us have to struggle and suffer through EVERYTHING, especially when it comes to our health. Just know you aren’t alone and I feel your sadness and frustration so acutely. Sending so much love !❤️❤️❤️
Jo, I understand how you're feeling more than you know... Please give yourself permission to not always be ok... Be kind to yourself and give yourself time to heal... It is frustrating, but you will get through this like you have everything else life has thrown at you...
I travelled to POA florida for making a new prosthetic leg. it was a life changer, it is worth for you to give a try. I from Singapore. They can make 3 years old kids running , hope this sharing would help you.
After my ACL and meniscus repair surgery, the TENS unit they gave me did more to erase pain than pain pills ever did. It also helped me get my mobility back. It was easily the best part of my physical therapy and rehabilitation. I had serious doubts that I'd ever recover fully until they gave me that unit. Hope it helps you like it did me..
I have endometriosis and my TENS unit (the same one you have) makes it so I can even leave the house during the week leading up to my period (week of is a lost cause and I accept that). That thing is life changing, I use it almost every night.
I have worn a tens unit many times for back pain. It has been so helpful to me and has helped me recover from a bulged disc and sciatica pain. I hope it helps you as well and that you are able to find answers to what is causing your pain. Thank you for sharing your experiences!
Ugh, Jo!! Was so hoping this prosthetic would be the road to your walking pain free. Now I'm hoping the doctor calls soon and has some answers!!! Take care.
Hi Jo.... it has been 8 weeks since my hip replacement. My incision healed very well, but is still tender if something presses on it. I really think it is too soon in the healing process. Pls try to not be discouraged. Incisions are tender for months. I can’t imagine the pressure you must feel bearing your weight on the new incision. I have had a tens unit for years for chronic back pain. If you turn it up too high or use for more than 30 min it can really irritate it. Pls make sure you don’t overdo it and make things worse. I know your patience is running thin and you want to get to the next chapter.... I think more realistic is 3 mo. My surgeon at Georgetown just told me full recovery would take a year. I still get tired and sore if I am up and about too much. Patience my friend. It will get better.... sending you lots of hugs, Gena
I used a TENS machine during PT for my broken shoulder. If you do it correctly, I had a PT set me up, it feels Heavenly! I know a couple of people who had lower leg amputations and they always had some pain associated with their prosthesis. I hope your pain goes away soon.
I've just started using a TENS unit! I work in a physical therapy office, so I have seen it used many, many times each day. And then I went to a new chiropractor who does stim (the TENS unit). I get stim both at the office when I visit as well as at home from a small unit like yours that they gave me. I definitely prefer the one in the office to the home unit. I feel like the home unit is a lot more intense and "pinchy" for lack of a better word, which makes it a bit more uncomfortable. But I definitely think it helps with the pain to some degree. Doesn't get rid of it, but lessens it.
I have used one on my back for years for chronic back pain due to a car accident. I don't think I could walk at school if I didn't have it to use when I got home. It's been a life saver for me.
In my 1st month or two after surgery it helped to massage the distal end of my stump often with my hand, as much pressure as possible without being overly painful. Some amputee's have said they used other objects too but my hand worked best for me.
I have used something similar to a TENS unit when I was going to physical therapy for my wrist since I have tendinitis in my wrist and it helped make the pain bearable to live with. I highly recommend using one if needed it helps a lot!
I have a implanted spinal cord stimulator. It’s like an internal TENS unit. It’s Bluetooth controlled and the battery lasts 5 years. Amazing! You can turn it up/down and vary the frequency. It’s not perfect, but really close. Also less meds.
Hi Jo! One and a half out as a amputee, thanks for doing this! I’m on gabapentin for pain. CBD oil on my stump works very good. Phantom pains keep me awake! I’m going to try this tens unit. God BLESS YOU JO! Your an awesome and beautiful girl!
sometimes it just takes time, when I checked my metatarsal amputation's expected results, they ranged from a normal recovery of a month too anywhere up to 4 months. I got unlucky and mine took just over 3 months to heal and stop hurting. So bit more time just elevate a lot, which is what helped mine.
Hoping you get some relief soon. It really doesn't sound right that you are in pain, so I hope your doctor has a good answer and you can keep moving forward in your most awesome way x
I have a spinal cord stimulator and it does help quite a bit. It really doesn't take the pain away like you said, but it's distracting. As long as it helps!
Ive been using TENS units in physical therapy for months and to me, it helps in the moment, but not long term. I highly HIGHLY suggest asking your pain management doc, or psychologist, about an Alpha Stim machine. It uses the same electric current idea as a TENS, but it is slightly different. You put the electrodes on your earlobes and turn it up until it feels, as my doctor explained, “like youve had a couple adult beverages”. My Alpha Stim has been the 2nd most helpful thing for me (aside from acupuncture) during my limb salvage and now during my post amputation life. Its used for pain, sleep, anxiety, and depression. I am, by no means, a sponsor for Alpha Stim, but it is a super helpful part of my recovery! Otherwise, keep up the videos. I love opening my youtube to see your videos. You are a couple steps ahead of me (literally) and give me hope and inspiration more than you understand.
Annika the Amputee I will ABSOLUTELY check out the alpha stim!! I’ve never heard of that before, that sounds super interesting though...I’m so glad that it has been so helpful to you! Also thanks so much for your kind words about me and my videos. That honestly means a lot to me and if I can help your days at all, that means the world to me! Your comment made my night brighter. 😊💜
Yes! I love my buzzies! I have overactive shoulder muscles that are constantly tense. The electrodes really helps to relax them. Because I'm so tense, I have to crank it up high and I get muscle spasms but it works. I place them in a square around the area that is tense and that helps much more then on the area that is tense. Play around with it and see what works best for you
Yes I've used one. I've got a defect in my knees that makes nothing in them sit properly and because nothing sits properly my knee caps pop out easier than someone with normal knees. One of things they do to counteract my defective knees is physical therapy to build up the muscles on one side of my knee so everything is more evenly balanced with the hope of keeping my knee cap more stable(it works short term but it's not a permanent solution). When I've done physical therapy one of the things they've used afterwards is a Tens Unit. My mom has one as well and I've used it in the past. I like them. As you said it's not a cure for the pain but it's nice tool to deal with it.
Girl been 4 months since my TKR and it still is excruciating pain. I asked the doctor he says it's normal up to a year 😪😪😪 I totally feel ya. I hope you find the answers to these issues. Much love 💜💜
Suzanne Brewer I am SO sorry it is still so painful!!! That makes my heart so sad to hear for you. My fingers are crossed that it eases for you quickly! 🙏🏼💜
I've been using my Tens unit since my knee surgery 11 years ago, and I still love it! I use it on any body part that hurts, most commonly my back. I have costochondritis as a secondary condition to EDS, so that pain plus normal pain from joints constantly cracking means my back hurts 24/7. I've found that after ~15 minutes or so with the Tens on my back, my pain goes away! So I def love a Tens unit :)
Hi jo, one thing I was told about using a tens is that you should alternate the frequency so that you’re brain doesn’t learn to tune it out over a couple of days. I can imagine how concerned you are about how much you lil leg still hurts, maybe it’s because it’s still only 4 wks so your leg is still healing. I remember having to slowly build up wearing the liner and then just sitting with the leg on so your body gets re accustomed to how it feels again and fingers crossed that may calm the hurt. Have you been doing desensitisation techniques - tapping , massage etc? I really hope that the docs can help give you some answers. Try not to get frustrated, slow and steady wins the race and all that 😁 sending lots of positivity and healing vibes your way 🤗🥰🤗
I had the go to Physical therapy for my knee last year and at the end of every session they would put an electro thing similar to that and ice it and it felt wonderful. Now I kinda want to get one for home. I hope your leg/stump starts to feel better soon so you can start to walk. It’s coming Jo! Patience is key. Lots of love❤️❤️
abby smith patience IS key, I’m working on that. Slowly. 😉 thanks so much for your kind encouragement! You can get a TENS unit for home for $20 or so - this one was $23 and works great!
I went to college for chemistry, and yet whenever I first open the instructions to build an Ikea product, I almost immediately want to give up lol. Like, oh oops this is the French instructions... Ah, here's English... mmmm, nope still doesn't help
I found that I couldn't have it on very high initially but over time i could increase the intensity :) I've got a really small unit that I can put in my pocket and wear out and about if I need to. Definitely recommend trying the different settings and seeing what helps most even if it doesn't say it's for that specific area or type of pain. Hope it helps you and you get to start using your prosthetic more xx
I used a Tens machine for years to help with painful periods and it worked amazingly although for me the only negative is that you aren’t meant to sleep with it on. I found it a great alternative to taking tablets continually especially as most pain pills only allow you to take a maximum of 6-8 tablets in 24 hours.
Sorry you're not feeling too hot Jo ☹ sometimes all we can do is keep pressing forward. I have a chronic illness so I completely understand setbacks and disappointments. Hang in there girl! You got this!
I can’t even tell you how many times in my anxiety and depression I’ve said “I just want to be NORMAL” and then, after years of realization, I tell myself “Normal isn’t real. Nobody is normal. You’ll be okay.” It makes me feel not so guilty when I’m struggling. Your videos especially help me remember that ❤️❤️
Pitty parties are fun! Feelings are valid, ignoring them just makes it worse. Tomorrow I get my MRI results for my wrist. It's in so much pain today and I'm so scared I'm going to need surgery. I've never had surgery...
I used a tens in Physical therapy after all five of my knee surgeries. They also say that it helps with muscle development and soreness. I know it’s hard to do but please have patience it will work itself out.
Marilyn Scull thank you so much, dear and kind Marilyn. 😊💜 I will absolutely have patience...though I do lose it some days. 😉 It sounds like the TENS helped you? I didn’t know that it helped with muscle development, that’s really interesting! Im keeping up with it and continuing to use it twice or three times a day!
Hi. I know this isn't exactly your same situation, but last year November I fell and I didn't break my leg or anything, but I split the skin open extremely bad. It is all healed up now, but everyone that I have asked about this says that the sharp pain that you (and I) feel when you put anything against your leg (or wherever it is where the "obstruction" was) is because of the nerves that are growing back together (something like that). Hope this helps. It should feel better in a few months. Mine is a completely different scenario, but it is also nerves that have been severed and are growing back together or something. I wish you the best. Hopefully this helps. Xx.
I fell on a tar road. To put things into perspective I was also running at a considerable speed and then I tripped over the sidewalk because I had to stop abruptly since some random guy came speeding up to the stop street and then speeded away at the same speed before I could even cross the road. I luckily wasn't hit. The only long term effects that I have experienced have been anxiety, nerve pain (if that is what you could call it?) and a very nasty looking scar on my right knee which isn't all that great considering people immediately ask what happened (since it still looks gashed from afar) and that sometimes triggers my anxiety, but I seem to be doing OK now.
Hi Jo, I have a tens unit and I have had interesting time with it. I am not an amputee but I had a "spinal stroke" (damage due to blood vessel damage) I find that it definitely helps, my unit is simple with just two pads, I found that it needs to be quite high to have a lasting effect which can border on the painful. It's good fun if used NOT as instructed, for example muscles can be stimulated and produce all kinds of effects from a workout to something on a higher plane all together. I MUST EMPATHISE IT CAN BE HARMFUL IF COMMONSENSE IS NOT USED. One thing I have found through using as directed is that it can cause unpleasant sensation over an old fracture site,(I broke my leg and had a pin put in it from knee to ankle and it still hurts and aches) maybe the titanium pin causes it , if you have heard anything like that please let me know. Anyway have fun and I hope you find it dulls your pain xx Love hugs and best wishes to you and your husband. 👍❤ D
I'm kind of concerned about your prothetist. From some of the things you are saying, it doesn't sound like he's all that good. I'd send you to mine, but she is in Portland, Oregon. Personally, I think she's worth the drive from Denver, but that is just me. In any case, your leg should *NOT* be painful to wear.
@@idadho Every place I've ever worked employs amputees. It's not all that extraordinary. I also do not believe you have to be an amputee to know how to make a good prosthesis. One of the worst prosthetic I've ever had the misfortune of working with was himself an amputee. It's like saying if you want to have a good movie about an event in African-American history the writers and directors have to be black. Utter nonsense.. If a writer can put together a compelling, accurate story, and a director can produce that story in a compelling way, what difference does his or her skin color make?
@@idadho I'm afraid you read that harsh tone into my comment yourself. I was in no way harsh or even slightly hostile. I just wanted to point out that being an amputee does not automatically make you a better prothetist. I hate when people use something like that to make a judgment of someone. Skin color, or gender, or social circle....
@@idadho Well, if you think I was bring race, gender, or any of that other bullshit into this discussion, you are unable to even understand reason. My point about making a movie about an important event or person in AA history does not require the writer or director to be African-American. All I said was that it is not required for a prothetist to be an amputee to be good at their job. The worst prothetist I have ever encountered was an amputee. And the best is not. Oh, and she is also a woman. It is annoying as fuck when people you are arguing with make "mistakes" like you did, confusing an example for party of the argument. I wonder if you are really that stupid, or if you are doing it on deliberately,, because you know you aren't right, so you have to attack my argument dishonestly.
@@idadho You've already messed up her channel with your stupidity. I've gotten *SEVERAL* hearts from Jo for my comments *INCLUDING* this one. You're the one who thinks amputees make better prothetists. And you aren't even an amputee. I guess being married to an amputee makes you more of an expert than someone who has actually been an amputee for 47 years. I point out that the worst prothetist I've ever encountered was an amputee and the best is not. But that can't be right in your little world, because according to you, you have to be one to make a good fake leg. What do you do for a living, by the way?
My youngest daughter has a partial labral tear in her hip and she has been having luck with the tens unit for her pain. I on the other hand have nerve disease crps/rsd, and it stimulates my nerves more, which we don't want. Lol They used it in physical therapy when I went though and it was helpful for my muscles right after surgery.
I'm actually super surprised that you haven't tried TENS before. You had a video a while back about what not to say to people with chronic pain or health issues and one of them was like, "OMG! Have you tried [whatever]?" because the answer is always yes. I did even comment on there about TENS, but asking for a before and after amputation comparison, since I was sure you'd tried it before. Anyway, glad you're trying it now and I hope it helps you as much as it does me! I friggin hate that model though and would recommend the TENS 7000 instead. Only a few bucks more on Amazon, but three times better in my opinion. Regardless, my recommendations are to use it for at least a half hour at a time, use a pulse setting, and place the electrodes preferably on relevant major nerves if possible or directly on the painful area. Criss cross is fine so long as it's on the painful spots and not around. Best of luck!
I've got both legs, but I've got a TENS and I like it. It's not a silver bullet, but it does help with muscular pain. Start off on low and increase as needed. I wouldn't suggest turning it all the way up. I have noticed that the more you use it the higher you might have to turn it up before you feel it. Just don't think about High School biology class. Makes me feel like a frog at times. Have fun with it, and hope it helps!
I use my TENS machine for chronic back pain, I hated it at first then I found a setting that worked and now I love it, the only problem is I’m allergic to the pads so I always have to take antihistamines when I use it
I use one when I need it. It works very well... BUT with that said, if you use it on your neck/upper shoulders, watch the power level. I mistakenly upped it a lot and darn near choked myself out when the spasms hit. *LOL* It does work very well.
As soon as the receptionist (at the prostetic place) answers the phone when I call, I immedialtely say "Foot Parts". She says "Yep, let me transfer you". A few seconds later, she disguises her voice in a deeper tone and says "Foot Parts---do you have your part numbers ready"...? No, I don't have a loose screw, the neck surgeon took them both out.
3:35 reminded me of a family joke of ours: whenever someone was struggling to open a package of anything, e.g. pickled cucumber, my dad would say “pickled cucumber makes you strong!“... oh haha!
I have that exact TENS unit and i love it but be careful with the buttons because one of mine, on my favorite setting no less, has gotten mashed in a bit so its hard to select.
For what it is worth here is my input. I have a stimulator fitted to the base of my back producing a mild tens machine like stimulation that runs up & down my leg 24/7. The current is very mild & with CBT as adjunctive therapy, it does work. Yes, I still have a leg so as such I don't get phantom pain as such but be assured, the pain I do get around my ankle & foot is severe to say the least. The stim acts as a distraction to the brain but it does not take away the pain. Check out "dorsal column stimulator" in Google. Hope this helps Jo.
Michael Green I will absolutely check that out! I’ve heard positive things from some people about that! It is implanted in you, from what I’ve read, is that right? I’m so sorry you have such horrible pain....no one should have to live in pain. I’m glad it provided some distraction and relief. 💜
Wow it is strange to see you with two legs! It sounds painful... It's normal to worry and feeling pain makes that worry more... I think having a rest is a good idea until you've spoken to your doctor x brandishing weapons again 😂 did you film this around the same time as your live? "Not useful not useful.... What are you" you made me laugh! Thanks for uploading! I love watching your videos ❤️ x
I'm not sure if this is just a canadian thing but we have Dr. Ho and he is like the major at home shock therapy brand, I don't like... follow up idea for the iwalk, you said it was hard to store, the idea is to make it collapsible in the bottom part(like the button things on normal crutches) and foldable in the part where you put your leg on so that it becomes more compact and easier to fit in say the trunk of a car.
I use my Tens unit for my migraine pain. I go from the center back of the neck to the jaw right under my ear. I keep it low and (maybe a little less than half the times) the headache is gone in about 4 minutes. But don't turn it up too high, that was bad... I think... If I could remember it..;)
I used Tens for back pain and it's help when it's on, but it's just a distraction from the pain so 5min after turning it off, the pain was the same as before
You probably are sick of advice, so forgive me... You have not only had surgery, but have been using muscles differently with crutches and iwalk. Our bodies are like marionettes. So sometimes the thing that hurts isn’t the problem. For example, when my knees hurt, it is often due to my abs getting too tight. So...you are so focused on your leg. But what’s the rest of you feeling like? Need a massage? Trigger point release therapy? I have EDS & Fibro. Tens machines can help, but are not as useful as dry needling and trigger point release type therapies. Also, KT tape is awesome. If your thighs and abs are yanking on your legs, where the hamstring ran, that’s going to make your lower leg hurt. And you saying the crunches made it worse. Your abs pull on bits that run past your knee. Again, proper application of KT tape and an abdominal massage (possibly in reverse order) might help. Learning to walk again isn’t just the strain on the stump. Your stabilizers are adjusting, tight...as my physio says, “It’s all interconnect.” Sometimes the pain is actually from parts of you that don’t hurt at all. Sadly, I learned this AFTER my right wrist was permanently damaged...b/c my already damaged shoulder was where the pain was from. Knock on effect is a thing. So it isn’t just about your leg. It’s about all of you. Good luck. It’s always a process, and I, too, am always learning and reevaluating how to manage the jalopy that is me.
WOW HOW STRANGE THAT THIS VIDEO JUST POPPED UP IN MY RECOMMENDATIONS. I THINK ABOUT DOING THAT ALL THE TIME. I HAD MY LOWER R LEG, ANKLE, AND FOOT CRUSHED AND MANGLED IN A MOTORCYCLE WRECK AND ITS NOTHING BUT IN PAIN 24/7. I KNOW THIS MAY SOUND STRANGE BUT I THINK ABOUT KEEPING MY FOOT AND ANKLE IN A GIANT PICKLE JAR LOL IS THAT WRONG ??? I SWEAR I WORKED AND AGONIZED SO HARD JUST TO BE ABLE TO KEEP IT, WHEN THEY WANTED TO AMPUTATE IT. I GUESS THEY KNEW HOW IT WOULD ALL TURN OUT, AND NOW I WALK LIKE THE HUNCHBACK WITH A CANE LOL
I used a tens unit for my chronic shin splints, I have flat wide feet and my whole life have played Soccer but around 12 my calves hurt every time I ran (tired calves put the stress of running onto the tibia causing multiple stress fractures) and by highschool my shins would become extremely painful while in play in physical therapy they would use a tens unit and soaking my legs in cold water to basically numb my legs and muscles. It worked a bit tbh but nothing cures shin splints except prolonged rest.
Hi Jo, I hope you're good! Just wanted to say that I've been really overwhelmed with my problems lately, going through a really rough time that never seems to end. I haven't been keeping up with your vids, nor am I motivated to leave comments. I just don't have the energy, you know what it's like to be depressed. I guess my depression is low-functioning, compared to your high-functioning. So anyway, I'll watch and comment if/when I'm inspired to. But if you don't see my comments anymore, that's why. Wish you well, hope you had a good bday! 🌸
Not sure why you hurt maybe something else going on in your stump that needs to get figured out that’s the only thing I can think of you’ll have maybe you should do see either a PM & R doctor or maybe a doctor that deals with amputation I’ve got a PM&R doctor and he got things figured out for me
The TENS unit we have is much smaller than what you are showing. The problem we have is that it goes through batteries like crazy. Even when shut off it drains the batteries. I guess we have to just take the batteries out but what a nuisance. Virginia Clearbrook MN
I'm 3 weeks post bka, and I have very severe phantom pain during all times of the day. I got a tens unit, and I try to use it for 30 minutes most days. So far, I don't find it helpful. Sometimes it works as a distraction because I feel the tens instead of the sharp tingles in my ghost foot. But also, sometimes it has made my phantom pain worse. So I'm not all that crazy about it.
HeyJo. Is a TENS unit similar to E-stim that is used in physical therapy? I had that a lot after my knee replacements, and found that it did help me quite a bit. I hope your leg feels better soon.
I haven't been following closely the last few weeks as I've been dealing with my own major surgery and recovery (had part of my stomach removed, a lot like weight loss surgery, but actually not). I'm honestly shocked that one month after surgery there is any expectation of things being pain free, let alone that you're trying to use a prosthetic. Even a skin incision with no actual surgery done takes that long to be be pain free, or at least it does for me. Remember this is your second surgery, it might seem less major because the amputation has already been done, but there will have been scar tissue, heck they even took a huge screw out. To me it seems like your doctors have set you up for disappointment and also that you may need input from a pain specialist - though I don't know much about liners, I guess they are tighter and a less comfortable fabric than socks - as whilst a lot of what you are saying doesn't surprise me, that just putting a liner on hurts does make me wonder "is this normal" and "is this within the scope of practice of my current doctors". Wishing you lots of of luck and crossing my fingers that you just need a bit more time.
Dear people who have experience using a Tens... do you think it would help with internal pain as well? I have lots of post-surgery adhesions in my abdomen which cause chronic pain. I'd compare it to period cramps. So they're pretty deeply situated. Should I try the Tens or would it be a waste of money?
My physio told me to get one for my back and it does help but I get most my pain at work and although I can use it at work I find I go through the electrodes too quick because of how sweaty it gets under my uniform. (sorry for the grossness) so I stopped using it
A very good friend our ours used to say “It’s just a moment in time!” You will look back at these times and it will be a faded memory, a “do you remember when?” You will be hiking up the hills with your fur babies enjoying your life. You’ll sit on a rock and think “Gosh look how tough I was” Enjoy your recuperation because soon you will be flying around the house, work etc and it will all have been “A moment in time.”
I have used the Tens unit many times in the past. Tens units stimulate the nerves with a mild voltage in pulses to tighten and relax the muscles. If you have nerve damage it may not help and possibly even abuse you more pain. It’s great for muscle pain. Check out the different options of pulsing , cycling, and voltage strength
A month isn’t all that long since surgery. It’s bound to still be tender. Thinking it’s a twofold matter of complete healing along with getting your stump accustomed to a prosthetic (breaking it in). Swelling and pain are bound to happen as it’s not as easy as putting on a pair of shoes where you can land running. Easy does it and pay attention to your body. Patience! Now! That tens unit might be helpful for headaches too (and muscle pain in neck and shoulders).
I know it sucks but it's totally normal... just take it slow it will get better as more time goes on... took months for me! I couldn't wear a leg for 3 months after surgery and it still hurt for a month or 2 after that... use a cane or something for support and keep up with the tens unit on a lower setting! Best of luck!!! ❤
I have bad knees and have needed physical therapy in the past and they used a similar setup as part of my therapy and it worked great . It helped a lot with the pain after therapy and was my favorite part of the sessions
Blake Brodeur I’m so glad you had great results from it!!
I have chronic back pain and have used tens machines extensively. I really like them and they help my pain levels a lot. Crossing my fingers you have the same experience!
My best description of the tens unit is that it feels like what the static on the TV looks like, it usually fades in feeling after four or so minutes, but it is still working.
Edit: Thanks for the love. Feel better.
I love my tens machine (chronic neck and back pain). If you have problems getting the pads to keep sticking use some medical adhesive tape ( the stuff you find in the first aid section at stores) to get the electrodes to stay.
Kasugai Fox that’s an awesome tip, I’ll remember that!
I’m so sorry Jo...this is my life...I so empathize with you and I’m so sorry your going through this. Be easy on yourself. Your allowed to feel frustrated and sad and just so done. But we will pick ourselves up even when it’s the last thing we want to do. We will go to that next appointment, the next doctor if we have to . I don’t know why it is that some people breeze through life with little pain and some of us have to struggle and suffer through EVERYTHING, especially when it comes to our health. Just know you aren’t alone and I feel your sadness and frustration so acutely. Sending so much love !❤️❤️❤️
Jo, I understand how you're feeling more than you know... Please give yourself permission to not always be ok... Be kind to yourself and give yourself time to heal... It is frustrating, but you will get through this like you have everything else life has thrown at you...
I travelled to POA florida for making a new prosthetic leg. it was a life changer, it is worth for you to give a try. I from Singapore. They can make 3 years old kids running , hope this sharing would help you.
After my ACL and meniscus repair surgery, the TENS unit they gave me did more to erase pain than pain pills ever did. It also helped me get my mobility back. It was easily the best part of my physical therapy and rehabilitation. I had serious doubts that I'd ever recover fully until they gave me that unit. Hope it helps you like it did me..
I have endometriosis and my TENS unit (the same one you have) makes it so I can even leave the house during the week leading up to my period (week of is a lost cause and I accept that). That thing is life changing, I use it almost every night.
I have worn a tens unit many times for back pain. It has been so helpful to me and has helped me recover from a bulged disc and sciatica pain. I hope it helps you as well and that you are able to find answers to what is causing your pain. Thank you for sharing your experiences!
I really hope that your pain with your prosthetic leg will improve. Stay strong Jo!
Sg Kingly aw thank you so much! I truly appreciate that!!
Ugh, Jo!! Was so hoping this prosthetic would be the road to your walking pain free. Now I'm hoping the doctor calls soon and has some answers!!! Take care.
I have CRPS on right foot & tens worked so well I had a Spinal Cord Implant fitted & it changed my life.
Hi Jo.... it has been 8 weeks since my hip replacement. My incision healed very well, but is still tender if something presses on it. I really think it is too soon in the healing process. Pls try to not be discouraged. Incisions are tender for months. I can’t imagine the pressure you must feel bearing your weight on the new incision. I have had a tens unit for years for chronic back pain. If you turn it up too high or use for more than 30 min it can really irritate it. Pls make sure you don’t overdo it and make things worse. I know your patience is running thin and you want to get to the next chapter.... I think more realistic is 3 mo. My surgeon at Georgetown just told me full recovery would take a year. I still get tired and sore if I am up and about too much. Patience my friend. It will get better.... sending you lots of hugs, Gena
I used a TENS machine during PT for my broken shoulder. If you do it correctly, I had a PT set me up, it feels Heavenly! I know a couple of people who had lower leg amputations and they always had some pain associated with their prosthesis. I hope your pain goes away soon.
I've just started using a TENS unit! I work in a physical therapy office, so I have seen it used many, many times each day. And then I went to a new chiropractor who does stim (the TENS unit). I get stim both at the office when I visit as well as at home from a small unit like yours that they gave me. I definitely prefer the one in the office to the home unit. I feel like the home unit is a lot more intense and "pinchy" for lack of a better word, which makes it a bit more uncomfortable. But I definitely think it helps with the pain to some degree. Doesn't get rid of it, but lessens it.
I have used one on my back for years for chronic back pain due to a car accident. I don't think I could walk at school if I didn't have it to use when I got home. It's been a life saver for me.
In my 1st month or two after surgery it helped to massage the distal end of my stump often with my hand, as much pressure as possible without being overly painful. Some amputee's have said they used other objects too but my hand worked best for me.
I definitely like my tens unit and it has helped a lot with my chronic pain.
It was a life saver after my surgery on my knee. It really helped mitigate a lot of my pain and healing. CBD oil helped too, that stuff os magic!
I have used something similar to a TENS unit when I was going to physical therapy for my wrist since I have tendinitis in my wrist and it helped make the pain bearable to live with. I highly recommend using one if needed it helps a lot!
I have a implanted spinal cord stimulator. It’s like an internal TENS unit. It’s Bluetooth controlled and the battery lasts 5 years.
Amazing! You can turn it up/down and vary the frequency. It’s not perfect, but really close. Also less meds.
Hi Jo! One and a half out as a amputee, thanks for doing this! I’m on gabapentin for pain. CBD oil on my stump works very good. Phantom pains keep me awake! I’m going to try this tens unit. God BLESS YOU JO! Your an awesome and beautiful girl!
sometimes it just takes time, when I checked my metatarsal amputation's expected results, they ranged from a normal recovery of a month too anywhere up to 4 months. I got unlucky and mine took just over 3 months to heal and stop hurting. So bit more time just elevate a lot, which is what helped mine.
Hoping you get some relief soon. It really doesn't sound right that you are in pain, so I hope your doctor has a good answer and you can keep moving forward in your most awesome way x
I have a spinal cord stimulator and it does help quite a bit. It really doesn't take the pain away like you said, but it's distracting. As long as it helps!
Ive been using TENS units in physical therapy for months and to me, it helps in the moment, but not long term.
I highly HIGHLY suggest asking your pain management doc, or psychologist, about an Alpha Stim machine. It uses the same electric current idea as a TENS, but it is slightly different. You put the electrodes on your earlobes and turn it up until it feels, as my doctor explained, “like youve had a couple adult beverages”.
My Alpha Stim has been the 2nd most helpful thing for me (aside from acupuncture) during my limb salvage and now during my post amputation life. Its used for pain, sleep, anxiety, and depression. I am, by no means, a sponsor for Alpha Stim, but it is a super helpful part of my recovery!
Otherwise, keep up the videos. I love opening my youtube to see your videos. You are a couple steps ahead of me (literally) and give me hope and inspiration more than you understand.
Annika the Amputee I will ABSOLUTELY check out the alpha stim!! I’ve never heard of that before, that sounds super interesting though...I’m so glad that it has been so helpful to you! Also thanks so much for your kind words about me and my videos. That honestly means a lot to me and if I can help your days at all, that means the world to me! Your comment made my night brighter. 😊💜
Yes! I love my buzzies! I have overactive shoulder muscles that are constantly tense. The electrodes really helps to relax them. Because I'm so tense, I have to crank it up high and I get muscle spasms but it works. I place them in a square around the area that is tense and that helps much more then on the area that is tense. Play around with it and see what works best for you
I love tens units! I use them when I get muscle spasms all the time
Sarah Chapman I’m so glad it is helpful for you!!
Yes I've used one. I've got a defect in my knees that makes nothing in them sit properly and because nothing sits properly my knee caps pop out easier than someone with normal knees. One of things they do to counteract my defective knees is physical therapy to build up the muscles on one side of my knee so everything is more evenly balanced with the hope of keeping my knee cap more stable(it works short term but it's not a permanent solution). When I've done physical therapy one of the things they've used afterwards is a Tens Unit. My mom has one as well and I've used it in the past. I like them. As you said it's not a cure for the pain but it's nice tool to deal with it.
Girl been 4 months since my TKR and it still is excruciating pain. I asked the doctor he says it's normal up to a year 😪😪😪 I totally feel ya. I hope you find the answers to these issues. Much love 💜💜
Suzanne Brewer I am SO sorry it is still so painful!!! That makes my heart so sad to hear for you. My fingers are crossed that it eases for you quickly! 🙏🏼💜
I've been using my Tens unit since my knee surgery 11 years ago, and I still love it! I use it on any body part that hurts, most commonly my back. I have costochondritis as a secondary condition to EDS, so that pain plus normal pain from joints constantly cracking means my back hurts 24/7. I've found that after ~15 minutes or so with the Tens on my back, my pain goes away! So I def love a Tens unit :)
Hi jo, one thing I was told about using a tens is that you should alternate the frequency so that you’re brain doesn’t learn to tune it out over a couple of days. I can imagine how concerned you are about how much you lil leg still hurts, maybe it’s because it’s still only 4 wks so your leg is still healing. I remember having to slowly build up wearing the liner and then just sitting with the leg on so your body gets re accustomed to how it feels again and fingers crossed that may calm the hurt. Have you been doing desensitisation techniques - tapping , massage etc? I really hope that the docs can help give you some answers. Try not to get frustrated, slow and steady wins the race and all that 😁 sending lots of positivity and healing vibes your way 🤗🥰🤗
I had the go to Physical therapy for my knee last year and at the end of every session they would put an electro thing similar to that and ice it and it felt wonderful. Now I kinda want to get one for home. I hope your leg/stump starts to feel better soon so you can start to walk. It’s coming Jo! Patience is key. Lots of love❤️❤️
abby smith patience IS key, I’m working on that. Slowly. 😉 thanks so much for your kind encouragement! You can get a TENS unit for home for $20 or so - this one was $23 and works great!
Thanks for responding I’m gonna look into one
I use my tens unit under a hot pack for my shoulders and neck. Prayers for you
3:41 feels like me when I'm starting with building furniture from IKEA
I went to college for chemistry, and yet whenever I first open the instructions to build an Ikea product, I almost immediately want to give up lol. Like, oh oops this is the French instructions... Ah, here's English... mmmm, nope still doesn't help
I found that I couldn't have it on very high initially but over time i could increase the intensity :) I've got a really small unit that I can put in my pocket and wear out and about if I need to. Definitely recommend trying the different settings and seeing what helps most even if it doesn't say it's for that specific area or type of pain. Hope it helps you and you get to start using your prosthetic more xx
Use TENS unit frequently for my back, very beneficial.
Lori Z I’m so glad it helps you!!
I used a Tens machine for years to help with painful periods and it worked amazingly although for me the only negative is that you aren’t meant to sleep with it on. I found it a great alternative to taking tablets continually especially as most pain pills only allow you to take a maximum of 6-8 tablets in 24 hours.
Sorry you're not feeling too hot Jo ☹ sometimes all we can do is keep pressing forward. I have a chronic illness so I completely understand setbacks and disappointments. Hang in there girl! You got this!
Ashley Mickelsen you are so sweet! Thanks so much for your encouragement!! 💜
I can’t even tell you how many times in my anxiety and depression I’ve said “I just want to be NORMAL” and then, after years of realization, I tell myself “Normal isn’t real. Nobody is normal. You’ll be okay.” It makes me feel not so guilty when I’m struggling. Your videos especially help me remember that ❤️❤️
It will be fine.. don't worry 😊
Btw U look beautiful 😊
I use a body clock tens unit on my back when it gets bad. Really works well. Plus after its much looser.
If you’re careful you can reuse those pads many times. Hope it helps. At physical therapy place they use tens under ice packs.
Pitty parties are fun! Feelings are valid, ignoring them just makes it worse. Tomorrow I get my MRI results for my wrist. It's in so much pain today and I'm so scared I'm going to need surgery. I've never had surgery...
I have a TENS for my endometriosis and use it all the time. Couldn't live without it at this point.
I used a tens in Physical therapy after all five of my knee surgeries. They also say that it helps with muscle development and soreness. I know it’s hard to do but please have patience it will work itself out.
Marilyn Scull thank you so much, dear and kind Marilyn. 😊💜 I will absolutely have patience...though I do lose it some days. 😉 It sounds like the TENS helped you? I didn’t know that it helped with muscle development, that’s really interesting! Im keeping up with it and continuing to use it twice or three times a day!
I just watched the first minute and I am like "God please, just let go Jo painless FINALLY"
Hi. I know this isn't exactly your same situation, but last year November I fell and I didn't break my leg or anything, but I split the skin open extremely bad. It is all healed up now, but everyone that I have asked about this says that the sharp pain that you (and I) feel when you put anything against your leg (or wherever it is where the "obstruction" was) is because of the nerves that are growing back together (something like that). Hope this helps. It should feel better in a few months. Mine is a completely different scenario, but it is also nerves that have been severed and are growing back together or something. I wish you the best. Hopefully this helps. Xx.
I fell on a tar road. To put things into perspective I was also running at a considerable speed and then I tripped over the sidewalk because I had to stop abruptly since some random guy came speeding up to the stop street and then speeded away at the same speed before I could even cross the road. I luckily wasn't hit. The only long term effects that I have experienced have been anxiety, nerve pain (if that is what you could call it?) and a very nasty looking scar on my right knee which isn't all that great considering people immediately ask what happened (since it still looks gashed from afar) and that sometimes triggers my anxiety, but I seem to be doing OK now.
Btw congrats on getting a new leg! Yay!
Hi Jo, I have a tens unit and I have had interesting time with it. I am not an amputee but I had a "spinal stroke" (damage due to blood vessel damage) I find that it definitely helps, my unit is simple with just two pads, I found that it needs to be quite high to have a lasting effect which can border on the painful. It's good fun if used NOT as instructed, for example muscles can be stimulated and produce all kinds of effects from a workout to something on a higher plane all together. I MUST EMPATHISE IT CAN BE HARMFUL IF COMMONSENSE IS NOT USED. One thing I have found through using as directed is that it can cause unpleasant sensation over an old fracture site,(I broke my leg and had a pin put in it from knee to ankle and it still hurts and aches) maybe the titanium pin causes it , if you have heard anything like that please let me know.
Anyway have fun and I hope you find it dulls your pain xx Love hugs and best wishes to you and your husband. 👍❤
D
I'm kind of concerned about your prothetist. From some of the things you are saying, it doesn't sound like he's all that good. I'd send you to mine, but she is in Portland, Oregon. Personally, I think she's worth the drive from Denver, but that is just me.
In any case, your leg should *NOT* be painful to wear.
@@idadho Every place I've ever worked employs amputees. It's not all that extraordinary. I also do not believe you have to be an amputee to know how to make a good prosthesis. One of the worst prosthetic I've ever had the misfortune of working with was himself an amputee.
It's like saying if you want to have a good movie about an event in African-American history the writers and directors have to be black. Utter nonsense.. If a writer can put together a compelling, accurate story, and a director can produce that story in a compelling way, what difference does his or her skin color make?
@@idadho I'm afraid you read that harsh tone into my comment yourself. I was in no way harsh or even slightly hostile. I just wanted to point out that being an amputee does not automatically make you a better prothetist.
I hate when people use something like that to make a judgment of someone. Skin color, or gender, or social circle....
@@idadho Well, if you think I was bring race, gender, or any of that other bullshit into this discussion, you are unable to even understand reason.
My point about making a movie about an important event or person in AA history does not require the writer or director to be African-American.
All I said was that it is not required for a prothetist to be an amputee to be good at their job.
The worst prothetist I have ever encountered was an amputee. And the best is not. Oh, and she is also a woman.
It is annoying as fuck when people you are arguing with make "mistakes" like you did, confusing an example for party of the argument. I wonder if you are really that stupid, or if you are doing it on deliberately,, because you know you aren't right, so you have to attack my argument dishonestly.
I'm not going to spoil Jo's channel with answers to your BS and vulgarity. Go find your safe space and grow up. Par for Portland.
@@idadho You've already messed up her channel with your stupidity.
I've gotten *SEVERAL* hearts from Jo for my comments *INCLUDING* this one. You're the one who thinks amputees make better prothetists. And you aren't even an amputee. I guess being married to an amputee makes you more of an expert than someone who has actually been an amputee for 47 years.
I point out that the worst prothetist I've ever encountered was an amputee and the best is not. But that can't be right in your little world, because according to you, you have to be one to make a good fake leg.
What do you do for a living, by the way?
My youngest daughter has a partial labral tear in her hip and she has been having luck with the tens unit for her pain. I on the other hand have nerve disease crps/rsd, and it stimulates my nerves more, which we don't want. Lol They used it in physical therapy when I went though and it was helpful for my muscles right after surgery.
If even clothing hurts look into Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome... praying for you xxx
Shell Cshells the sensitivity sounds sooo similar 😬
I'm actually super surprised that you haven't tried TENS before. You had a video a while back about what not to say to people with chronic pain or health issues and one of them was like, "OMG! Have you tried [whatever]?" because the answer is always yes. I did even comment on there about TENS, but asking for a before and after amputation comparison, since I was sure you'd tried it before.
Anyway, glad you're trying it now and I hope it helps you as much as it does me! I friggin hate that model though and would recommend the TENS 7000 instead. Only a few bucks more on Amazon, but three times better in my opinion. Regardless, my recommendations are to use it for at least a half hour at a time, use a pulse setting, and place the electrodes preferably on relevant major nerves if possible or directly on the painful area. Criss cross is fine so long as it's on the painful spots and not around.
Best of luck!
I've got both legs, but I've got a TENS and I like it. It's not a silver bullet, but it does help with muscular pain. Start off on low and increase as needed. I wouldn't suggest turning it all the way up. I have noticed that the more you use it the higher you might have to turn it up before you feel it. Just don't think about High School biology class. Makes me feel like a frog at times. Have fun with it, and hope it helps!
I love the tens i broke my back a few years back the tens unit has been my freind
I love my tens machine it help wonderfully
I'm sorry your leg is painful. I pray the TENS unit will help you. I've been using a TENS unit for 12 year to help me sleep. God bless.
,
My physical therapist would wrap my tens in ice. It's like magic. Apply tens, put a towel over it, add ice, wrap in ace bandage.
I use my TENS machine for chronic back pain, I hated it at first then I found a setting that worked and now I love it, the only problem is I’m allergic to the pads so I always have to take antihistamines when I use it
Just got two!
I use a tens unit and it’s very helpful. Keep your chin up.🙂
I use one when I need it. It works very well... BUT with that said, if you use it on your neck/upper shoulders, watch the power level. I mistakenly upped it a lot and darn near choked myself out when the spasms hit. *LOL* It does work very well.
As soon as the receptionist (at the prostetic place) answers the phone when I call, I immedialtely say "Foot Parts". She says "Yep, let me transfer you". A few seconds later, she disguises her voice in a deeper tone and says "Foot Parts---do you have your part numbers ready"...? No, I don't have a loose screw, the neck surgeon took them both out.
3:35 reminded me of a family joke of ours: whenever someone was struggling to open a package of anything, e.g. pickled cucumber, my dad would say “pickled cucumber makes you strong!“... oh haha!
I have that exact TENS unit and i love it but be careful with the buttons because one of mine, on my favorite setting no less, has gotten mashed in a bit so its hard to select.
For what it is worth here is my input. I have a stimulator fitted to the base of my back producing a mild tens machine like stimulation that runs up & down my leg 24/7. The current is very mild & with CBT as adjunctive therapy, it does work. Yes, I still have a leg so as such I don't get phantom pain as such but be assured, the pain I do get around my ankle & foot is severe to say the least. The stim acts as a distraction to the brain but it does not take away the pain. Check out "dorsal column stimulator" in Google. Hope this helps Jo.
Michael Green I will absolutely check that out! I’ve heard positive things from some people about that! It is implanted in you, from what I’ve read, is that right? I’m so sorry you have such horrible pain....no one should have to live in pain. I’m glad it provided some distraction and relief. 💜
I have use tens unit on my shoulders and neck. It helps :D
I have an implanted spinal cord stimulator for my chronic pain from the waist down.. really helps!!!!
Wow it is strange to see you with two legs! It sounds painful... It's normal to worry and feeling pain makes that worry more... I think having a rest is a good idea until you've spoken to your doctor x brandishing weapons again 😂 did you film this around the same time as your live?
"Not useful not useful.... What are you" you made me laugh!
Thanks for uploading! I love watching your videos ❤️ x
I'm not sure if this is just a canadian thing but we have Dr. Ho and he is like the major at home shock therapy brand, I don't like... follow up idea for the iwalk, you said it was hard to store, the idea is to make it collapsible in the bottom part(like the button things on normal crutches) and foldable in the part where you put your leg on so that it becomes more compact and easier to fit in say the trunk of a car.
I use my Tens unit for my migraine pain. I go from the center back of the neck to the jaw right under my ear. I keep it low and (maybe a little less than half the times) the headache is gone in about 4 minutes. But don't turn it up too high, that was bad... I think... If I could remember it..;)
I used Tens for back pain and it's help when it's on, but it's just a distraction from the pain so 5min after turning it off, the pain was the same as before
Hey Jo. If you need someone to talk to I'm always here for you
You probably are sick of advice, so forgive me...
You have not only had surgery, but have been using muscles differently with crutches and iwalk. Our bodies are like marionettes. So sometimes the thing that hurts isn’t the problem.
For example, when my knees hurt, it is often due to my abs getting too tight.
So...you are so focused on your leg. But what’s the rest of you feeling like? Need a massage? Trigger point release therapy?
I have EDS & Fibro. Tens machines can help, but are not as useful as dry needling and trigger point release type therapies. Also, KT tape is awesome. If your thighs and abs are yanking on your legs, where the hamstring ran, that’s going to make your lower leg hurt.
And you saying the crunches made it worse. Your abs pull on bits that run past your knee. Again, proper application of KT tape and an abdominal massage (possibly in reverse order) might help.
Learning to walk again isn’t just the strain on the stump. Your stabilizers are adjusting, tight...as my physio says, “It’s all interconnect.”
Sometimes the pain is actually from parts of you that don’t hurt at all. Sadly, I learned this AFTER my right wrist was permanently damaged...b/c my already damaged shoulder was where the pain was from. Knock on effect is a thing. So it isn’t just about your leg. It’s about all of you.
Good luck. It’s always a process, and I, too, am always learning and reevaluating how to manage the jalopy that is me.
WOW HOW STRANGE THAT THIS VIDEO JUST POPPED UP IN MY RECOMMENDATIONS. I THINK ABOUT DOING THAT ALL THE TIME. I HAD MY LOWER R LEG, ANKLE, AND FOOT CRUSHED AND MANGLED IN A MOTORCYCLE WRECK AND ITS NOTHING BUT IN PAIN 24/7. I KNOW THIS MAY SOUND STRANGE BUT I THINK ABOUT KEEPING MY FOOT AND ANKLE IN A GIANT PICKLE JAR LOL IS THAT WRONG ??? I SWEAR I WORKED AND AGONIZED SO HARD JUST TO BE ABLE TO KEEP IT, WHEN THEY WANTED TO AMPUTATE IT. I GUESS THEY KNEW HOW IT WOULD ALL TURN OUT, AND NOW I WALK LIKE THE HUNCHBACK WITH A CANE LOL
@Lisa Moody Hahahaha
If I could, I would pick up all those damn roadblocks on your way! You’ve had enough. 💗
Awww this is so sweet....seriously, thank you SO much.
Ask around about TENS acupuncture. A PT we know has had success with it.
I used a tens unit for my chronic shin splints, I have flat wide feet and my whole life have played Soccer but around 12 my calves hurt every time I ran (tired calves put the stress of running onto the tibia causing multiple stress fractures) and by highschool my shins would become extremely painful while in play in physical therapy they would use a tens unit and soaking my legs in cold water to basically numb my legs and muscles. It worked a bit tbh but nothing cures shin splints except prolonged rest.
I hope you feel better soon! Both with your leg and sickness. Poor Jordan! 😂
Hi Jo, I hope you're good! Just wanted to say that I've been really overwhelmed with my problems lately, going through a really rough time that never seems to end. I haven't been keeping up with your vids, nor am I motivated to leave comments. I just don't have the energy, you know what it's like to be depressed. I guess my depression is low-functioning, compared to your high-functioning. So anyway, I'll watch and comment if/when I'm inspired to. But if you don't see my comments anymore, that's why. Wish you well, hope you had a good bday! 🌸
Not sure why you hurt maybe something else going on in your stump that needs to get figured out that’s the only thing I can think of you’ll have maybe you should do see either a PM & R doctor or maybe a doctor that deals with amputation I’ve got a PM&R doctor and he got things figured out for me
IF YOU CAN AFFORD IT THERE IS AN ELECTRIC STIM UNIT CALLED H-WAVE, AND THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO COMPARISON. THE TENS UNIT IS LIKE A TOY COMPARED TO IT.
Possible fungi in sleeve? Maybe try some hydrocortisone cream, it might help if it's an allergy
My tens unit really helps on the bad days.
Sorry your legs not very comfortable! I hope things get easier for you soon >.
The TENS unit we have is much smaller than what you are showing. The problem we have is that it goes through batteries like crazy. Even when shut off it drains the batteries. I guess we have to just take the batteries out but what a nuisance.
Virginia
Clearbrook MN
I've used tens units for a number of pain issues.
I'm 3 weeks post bka, and I have very severe phantom pain during all times of the day. I got a tens unit, and I try to use it for 30 minutes most days. So far, I don't find it helpful. Sometimes it works as a distraction because I feel the tens instead of the sharp tingles in my ghost foot. But also, sometimes it has made my phantom pain worse. So I'm not all that crazy about it.
Poor poor Jordan
Have you looked into winters gel?
HeyJo. Is a TENS unit similar to E-stim that is used in physical therapy? I had that a lot after my knee replacements, and found that it did help me quite a bit. I hope your leg feels better soon.
I've heard of women using a baby tens unit for period pain. The remote is small and "cute".... And it's discreet enough for public use.
I haven't been following closely the last few weeks as I've been dealing with my own major surgery and recovery (had part of my stomach removed, a lot like weight loss surgery, but actually not). I'm honestly shocked that one month after surgery there is any expectation of things being pain free, let alone that you're trying to use a prosthetic. Even a skin incision with no actual surgery done takes that long to be be pain free, or at least it does for me. Remember this is your second surgery, it might seem less major because the amputation has already been done, but there will have been scar tissue, heck they even took a huge screw out. To me it seems like your doctors have set you up for disappointment and also that you may need input from a pain specialist - though I don't know much about liners, I guess they are tighter and a less comfortable fabric than socks - as whilst a lot of what you are saying doesn't surprise me, that just putting a liner on hurts does make me wonder "is this normal" and "is this within the scope of practice of my current doctors". Wishing you lots of of luck and crossing my fingers that you just need a bit more time.
Dear people who have experience using a Tens... do you think it would help with internal pain as well? I have lots of post-surgery adhesions in my abdomen which cause chronic pain. I'd compare it to period cramps. So they're pretty deeply situated. Should I try the Tens or would it be a waste of money?
Is it possible that you have complex regional pain syndrome (crps) it causes pain from stimuli that isn’t painful. It might be something to look into!
My physio told me to get one for my back and it does help but I get most my pain at work and although I can use it at work I find I go through the electrodes too quick because of how sweaty it gets under my uniform. (sorry for the grossness) so I stopped using it