TENS Unit: What to Know

TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. The device connects to adhesive electrodes placed on intact skin near, but not directly over, the painful area. Its pulses may change how pain signals are processed and can make movement or exercise more comfortable for some people. The sensation should be a noticeable tingling rather than sharp pain. Relief varies, and the device is usually one part of an assessment-led care plan.

Follow the device instructions and the settings recommended by a clinician. Place pads on clean, dry skin and turn the unit off before moving an electrode. Start at a comfortable intensity and stop if the skin becomes irritated, painful, or unusually numb. Do not place electrodes over broken skin, the front of the neck, the head, or across the chest. Keep the unit away from water and remove it before driving unless specifically advised otherwise.

Stop using TENS and seek advice if it causes a burn, persistent rash, severe pain, dizziness, palpitations, or new weakness. Ask a clinician before use if you have an implanted electrical device, reduced sensation, a seizure disorder, are pregnant, or cannot reliably feel and inspect the skin. New unexplained or rapidly worsening pain needs medical assessment rather than repeated device use.

Ask where the pads should go for your pain, which programme and intensity are suitable, and how TENS fits with medication, exercise, or physiotherapy. Confirm whether your medical devices or skin conditions affect whether you should use it.