Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (TTNS) uses a physiological process called neuromodulation where stimulating the activity in one neural pathway (the nerves on the inside of your lower leg), using a TENS machine, influences the pre-existing activity in another neural pathway (the bladder).
Why use TTNS?
If used correctly, TTNS can help to reduce the activity of the muscle that surrounds the bladder (detrusor muscle) which can:
- Reduce urgency & frequency of the bladder and/ or bowel
Contraindications
TTNS is not be suitable if you are pregnant, have epilepsy or wear a pacemaker. You should not apply a TENS machine to broken, inflamed or irritated skin.
How To Use (adjustable TENS machine required)
Place the pads (ideally small pads 5cm x 5cm) on the inside of both lower legs
- One lead into bottom electrode(directly behind the bony part of the inside ankle)
- One lead into top electrode(2-3 fingers above bottom electrode towards knee)
Set TENS machine to following settings:
- Mode: Continuous
- Pulsewave: 200microseconds
- Frequency: 10Hz
Increase intensity (should not be painful) ideally just below level that causes your big toe to twitch
Recommended Treatment
- 30 minute sessions every 1-2 days– Can increase to 20Hz if no change
- Minimum x12 weeks use- Top up sessions may be required
DO NOT USE when sleeping, driving or operating machinery