Avazzia BESTTM is not just another TENS
Avazzia BESTTM devices stimulate the nervous system, just as TENS devices do, but that’s where the similarity ends. Avazzia technology works differently compared to most TENS devices, first by using microcurrent and second by targeting the C-fibers of the nervous system (most TENS devices work on the A- and B-fibers). C-fibers stimulate the production of neuropeptides and other regulatory peptides, which the body uses to heal itself.1
Because Avazzia BESTTM features an interactive response, the microcurrent signal is constantly being adjusted to changes in tissue characteristics. Thus, the body doesn’t “habituate” or “accommodate” the microcurrent signal. The device applies an analog microcurrent signal to the tissue. As the electrical properties of the tissue change, the microcurrent output characteristics change. A microcomputer within the product measures the changes, analyses the signal and reports Reaction values to the user of the technology. In surveys, users report that using Avazzia BESTTM treatment lessens pain, improves sleep and dramatically increases users’ ability to return to daily activities.
TENS was developed for the control of chronic and post-operative pain by saturating subcutaneous nerve receptors with low-intensity electrical stimulation. TENS deliver constant voltage with fluctuating current and resistance/impedance. BESTTM delivers a driving signal based upon the change in microcurrent and impedance over the active pulse interval. Avazzia’s proprietary software and microchips mean a better engineered, more effective treatment method than a traditional TENS.
Conventional TENS work on the pain gate theory by applying a saturating electrical charge to the A and B fibers of the nervous system, thereby blocking the pain message to the brain. Once the stimulation is removed, the pain often returns a short time later.
Oscilloscope reading of a conventional TENS signal
TENS units use a variety of power sources — some are plugged into the wall, use 9V batteries or other batteries. TENS also use a range of methods to conduct current through the skin including onboard electrodes or lead wires connected to adhesive pads, masks, wraps and other fabric-like options.
Avazzia BESTTM (Bio-Electric Stimulation Technology) devices generate electrical impulses that are similar to neurological impulses in the C nerve fibers. These fibers are embedded in tissues and make up 85 percent of all nerves found in the body and to “fast” pain blocking A fibers.
Oscilloscope reading of an Avazzia BESTTM signal
Avazzia BESTTM devices use two AA batteries and all of these methods to conduct microcurrent to the patient — onboard electrodes, lead wires with pads or accessories such as Y-electrode and pencil electrode, and fabric-like options including wraps, gloves and socks.
Comparison of Avazzia BESTTM to traditional TENS
Avazzia BESTTM | Traditional TENS |
|---|---|
Avazzia BESTTM devices are USFDA-cleared for
| Check clearances and federal approvals. |
| Effectiveness lasts for several hours after treatment and has been shown in some cases to permanently resolve pain. | Effectiveness often ends when treatment stops. |
| Engineered and manufactured in the U.S., at a federally inspected facility in North Texas. | Often difficult to determine where product is manufactured; engineering origins often unknown. |
| Unique feedback feature of BESTTM units is designed to prevent habituation and accommodation for more effective pain management. | User’s body often “gets used” to TENS stimuli. The result is the TENS unit works well for awhile and then effectiveness is either severely limited or eliminated. |
| Product has patented software and design. Superior technical support and service available at company headquarters in Dallas. | Purchaser should check product support and service. Some products offer no technical support and cannot be returned for any reason. |
| Accessories may be purchased, as needed, to improve treatment. | Many TENS units sold as kits, with no option to add needed items or delete unnecessary items. |
Technical Comparison
Avazzia BESTTM | Traditional TENS |
|---|---|
| Patented microchip technology designed by the Texas Instrument engineer who created the “logic” chips used in Apollo moon missions and F-14 and F-15 fighter jets. | Technology is basically the same as when units came into common use in 1970s. Technology can be easily replicated. |
| Output signals vary with changes in tissue impedance to reduce accommodation. | Output signals typically in the same, continuous pattern, often resulting in accommodation. |
| Avazzia BESTTM devices measure and reports back to the user Reaction data as the treatment progresses. | No feedback |
| Avazzia BESTTM devices have high intensity, burst pulses and very low microcurrent for increased stimulation of neuropeptides. | Low intensity, long duration pulses, higher current. |
| Voltage range: 20-650 volts. | Voltage range: 0-40 volts. |
| Amperage range: Microamps (10–6 amps) | Amperage range: Milliamps (10–3 amps) |
| Signals, frequency range: 1 Hz to 1500 Hz | Signals, frequency range: 1 Hz to 100 Hz |
| High-voltage, pulsed current, damped, asymmetrical, biphasic, sinusoidal waveform. | Square waveform, monophasic or biphasic; symmetrical or asymmetrical. |
| Uses two AA batteries. | Typically uses 9V battery |
| In addition to Owner’s Manual, online videos (accessible with membership fee) explain advanced techniques for pain management. | Owner’s Manual included with purchase. |
| Service and technical support staff are located in Dallas, Texas. | Check vendor to determine service and technical support. |
Citations
- JD Levine, HL Fields and AI Basbaum Peptides and the primary afferent nociceptor Journal of Neuroscience, Vol. 13, 2273-2286, 1993.