Can a TENS unit relieve pain?

TENS means transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Adhesive pads sit on the skin near the painful area and deliver controlled pulses that feel like tingling. Some people find this changes how pain signals are experienced while the device is running; others notice little benefit. It is a comfort measure, not a diagnosis, and should sit alongside assessment of the problem causing pain. Read about the [TENS Unit](/technology/tens-unit/).

Follow the device instructions and begin with a gentle setting. Place pads on intact skin, not over wounds, irritated areas, the front of the neck, or across the chest. Stop if you feel burning, marked discomfort, dizziness, or worsening symptoms. Do not use it while driving, bathing, sleeping, or operating machinery. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use if you have an implanted electrical device, reduced sensation, or a condition that makes skin injury harder to notice.

Get medical advice for new severe pain, weakness, spreading numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever with pain, or an injury that changes the shape or function of a body part. Arrange review if pain keeps returning, limits normal activity, or is not improving with the plan you were given. TENS should not delay assessment of a new or unexplained symptom.

Is TENS suitable for the cause of my pain? Where should the pads go? What setting and session length should I try? What symptoms mean I should stop, and what treatment should address the underlying problem?