What should you know about a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation machine?

A TENS unit connects to adhesive pads placed on or around a painful area. The sensation may be tingling or pulsing, and it should remain comfortable rather than painful. TENS is used as a symptom-management tool; it does not repair a fracture, remove a cause of pain, or replace assessment. People may use it for problems such as lower back pain alongside movement advice, exercise, or other treatment.

Follow the device instructions and the plan given by a clinician or physiotherapist. Place pads only on intact skin, check the skin before and after use, and stop if there is burning, rash, worsening pain, dizziness, or an unpleasant shock. Do not place pads across the front of the neck, over the eyes, or across the chest. Keep the machine off while applying or removing pads. Ask for individual advice if you have an implanted electrical device, reduced sensation, a seizure disorder, or are pregnant.

TENS should not delay care for new weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, severe injury, fever, chest pain, or rapidly worsening symptoms. For ongoing pain, arrange an assessment so the underlying cause and a broader treatment plan can be considered. Stop using the unit and seek advice if skin irritation does not settle.

Is TENS suitable for my diagnosis? Where should the pads go? What setting and session length should I use? Could my medicines or an implanted device affect safety?