What should you know about TENS muscle therapy?

TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. A small device sends controlled pulses to adhesive pads placed on intact skin near the painful area. The sensation may feel like tingling, tapping, or a light buzzing. It should not feel sharply painful. TENS is aimed at changing pain signalling and can make activity or exercise more manageable; it does not repair every cause of muscle or joint pain.

A clinician may consider it for problems such as lower back pain, muscle soreness, or pain during rehabilitation. Response differs between people, and relief may last only while the device is being used or for a period afterward.

Ask a physiotherapist or doctor where to place the pads, which setting suits your goal, and how long to use the device. Put pads on clean, dry skin and check the skin after treatment. Begin with a comfortable intensity and increase it only within the instructions. Keep the electrodes away from broken or irritated skin, the front or side of the neck, and areas with reduced sensation unless a clinician specifically directs otherwise. Do not use a TENS unit while driving, bathing, sleeping, or operating machinery. Combine it with the movement, strengthening, or pacing plan recommended for the underlying problem.

Stop the session and remove the pads if you develop burning, a rash, marked discomfort, dizziness, palpitations, or worsening pain. Seek urgent medical care for new weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, or severe back pain after a significant injury. Arrange a clinical assessment when pain persists, repeatedly returns, limits sleep or walking, or has not been explained. TENS can ease a symptom without identifying its cause.

Ask: Is TENS suitable for the cause of my pain? Where should the pads go? Which symptoms mean I should stop? Can I use it with my medicines, implanted device, pregnancy, or reduced skin sensation? What exercise or rehabilitation should accompany it?