It's one of law enforcement's most shocking tools, but a new study says Tasers actually reduce injuries.

It's only been used one time, but two months after Aiken Public Safety put Tasers on the street, the department's Taser instructor says it's already prevented injuries.

"Any time we feel like we want to reach out and grab them, this is a way we can do that hands off," said Sgt. Aaron Dowdy.

The Aiken County Sheriff's Office has had Tasers longer, and uses them more often.

"We use Tasers almost daily," said Capt. Troy Elwell.

A University of South Carolina study says Tasers substantially reduce injuries to officers and suspects when police use force.

In one case in Orlando, the adoption of Tasers cut injuries to suspects in half, and injuries to officers by 60 percent.

"Even though the suspects may not appreciate being tased, it can save their lives. It's something we can use instead of deadly force," said Elwell.

"We can all look back on a call and say 'if I only had a taser,'" said Dowdy.

Both departments say they've never caused any lasting injuries from using Tasers.

They, and the study emphasize Tasers are a good thing, but they have to be used correctly and only when warranted.