What should you know about a TENS unit?

TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Small adhesive pads deliver a controlled current across the skin, creating a tingling sensation. The stimulation may reduce how strongly pain signals are experienced and may encourage the body’s own pain-modulating responses. It does not diagnose the source of pain or replace assessment of a new injury.

People respond differently. Relief may occur during use, after use, or not at all. Skin irritation, uncomfortable intensity, or muscle twitching can occur if the settings or pad placement are unsuitable.

Follow the device instructions or a clinician’s plan for pad placement, intensity, and session length. Apply pads to clean, intact skin and check the skin afterward. Stop if there is burning, a rash, worsening pain, dizziness, or an unusual sensation. Keep electrodes away from the front of the neck, head, eyes, broken skin, and areas with reduced sensation unless a qualified clinician gives specific instructions.

Ask for advice before use if you have an implanted electrical device, a seizure disorder, pregnancy-related concerns, or significant heart rhythm problems. Do not use TENS while driving, bathing, sleeping, or operating machinery.

Seek prompt assessment for pain with new weakness, numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, major swelling, chest symptoms, or a serious injury. Do not use electrical stimulation to postpone evaluation of these warning signs. If pain persists despite appropriate use, arrange a review to reassess the cause and broader treatment plan.

Ask whether TENS fits your pain condition, where pads should go, and which settings are appropriate. Discuss how it fits with exercise, physiotherapy, or medication, how long to trial it, and which skin or nerve symptoms mean you should stop.