What should you know about a Pure TENS unit?

TENS means transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Pads placed on the skin send controlled pulses that may change how pain signals are processed and may support comfort during movement or exercises. It does not identify the cause of pain, repair every injury, or replace assessment when symptoms are new, severe, or changing. A physiotherapist can help choose pad positions and intensity for the body area being treated.

Follow the device instructions and the plan given by your clinician. Check the pads and skin before and after use; stop if there is burning, a painful shock, or a persistent rash. Do not place pads over broken or infected skin, the front of the neck, or across the chest unless a qualified clinician specifically directs this. Discuss use first if you have an implanted electrical device, reduced sensation, seizure history, or are pregnant. Keep the unit dry and do not share adhesive pads. See [TENS Unit](/technology/tens-unit/) for more context.

Arrange medical review if pain is worsening, weakness or numbness is developing, or the device no longer helps and the underlying problem is unclear. Seek urgent help for sudden severe weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain, breathing difficulty, or a serious skin reaction. Turn the unit off before removing pads.

What is causing my pain? Where should each pad go? Which intensity and session pattern fit my goal? How will I combine TENS with exercises? Should I avoid it with my medicines or implanted devices? What changes require an appointment?