What should you know about a handheld TENS unit?

TENS means transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Pads placed around, rather than directly over, a painful area deliver a controlled tingling sensation. This can influence how pain signals are processed and may support movement or exercise, but it does not repair a fracture, infection or torn tissue.

Response varies between people and conditions. It should be one part of a plan that may include activity changes, physiotherapy, strength work or treatment of the underlying cause. Stop if the skin becomes painful, blistered or unusually irritated.

Follow the device instructions and a clinician's electrode-placement advice. Apply pads to clean, intact skin and start at a low setting that feels strong but comfortable. Do not place electrodes across the front of the neck, over the eyes or on broken skin, and do not use the unit while driving, bathing or sleeping. Keep the device away from water and check the skin after use.

Ask a clinician before use if you have a pacemaker or other implanted electrical device, reduced sensation, epilepsy, pregnancy-related concerns or an unexplained pain problem. Seek urgent care for new weakness, severe swelling, a cold or discoloured limb, chest symptoms, or pain after a serious injury. TENS should not delay assessment of these signs.

Is TENS suitable for the cause of my pain? Where should the pads go, and which settings should I try? What improvement should make me stop or seek review?