What to know about a BodyMed TENS unit

It does not correct the underlying cause of pain. Comfort and response vary, so use the controls and electrode pads exactly as described in the instructions supplied with your model.

TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Adhesive electrodes connect to a small controller, which sends pulses across the skin near the painful area. The sensation should feel like a comfortable tingling rather than burning, stinging or a painful muscle contraction.

Pain relief may occur only while the unit is running or for a period afterward. A changing or unexplained pain problem still needs assessment even when stimulation makes it feel better.

Start with clean, dry, intact skin and switch the device off before attaching, moving or removing pads. Keep electrodes away from the front or sides of the neck, the head, broken or numb skin, and positions that send current across the chest. Do not use it in water, while driving or while operating machinery.

Begin at a low setting and increase only to a strong but comfortable tingle. Check the skin after use and rotate pad positions within the recommended treatment area. Seek individual advice before use if you have an implanted electrical device, a heart-rhythm condition, epilepsy, are pregnant or have reduced sensation.

Turn the unit off and remove the pads if stimulation causes pain, dizziness, breathing difficulty, marked skin irritation or symptoms that spread beyond the treatment area. Urgent assessment is appropriate for pain accompanied by chest pressure, sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, major trauma or a hot, swollen limb.

Arrange a clinical review when pain is worsening, repeatedly wakes you, comes with fever or unexplained swelling, or persists despite sensible self-care. These features matter because electrical stimulation can change pain perception without identifying its cause.

Ask which diagnosis the unit is intended to help, where the pads should sit for your body area, which settings are suitable, and how skin sensitivity should be monitored. Also clarify whether your medicines, implanted devices, pregnancy or altered sensation make TENS unsuitable for you.