What should you know about electrodes for a TENS unit?

Lead wires connect the TENS unit to electrode pads. The adhesive, conductive surface spreads stimulation over the skin. You should notice a manageable tingling or pulsing feeling, not a sharp shock. The electrodes affect delivery but do not determine the cause of pain.

A clinician may position electrodes around a painful area to support movement or activity. The correct arrangement differs by body region, symptoms, and device instructions.

Apply electrodes to clean, dry, intact skin and keep them away from the front of the neck, eyes, broken skin, and areas where sensation is reduced. Turn the unit off before attaching, removing, or moving them. Do not use TENS during bathing, swimming, driving, or sleep.

Protect the adhesive surface after each session and store the electrodes as instructed. Replace them when adhesion fails, the surface is damaged, or they cause skin discomfort. Do not improvise connections or share used pads.

Stop if the skin burns, blisters, swells, or develops a persistent rash. Get urgent medical help for new weakness, bladder or bowel changes, groin numbness, fever, or severe pain after trauma. For pain that persists or worsens, arrange an assessment rather than relying on stimulation alone.

Ask which electrode position, programme, intensity, and session pattern are suitable. Tell your clinician about implanted electronic devices, pregnancy, epilepsy, reduced sensation, or skin disease, and ask for an alternative plan if electrodes are uncomfortable.