TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. It’s a therapy that uses low-voltage electrical currents to help relieve pain. A small device called a TENS unit sends these currents to nerves through your skin. This can block pain signals or change how your brain feels the pain.
Healthcare providers often use TENS for different types of pain, like arthritis, tendinitis, and fibromyalgia.
How Does TENS Help with Pain?
TENS therapy works well for many people, but not everyone. Experts still aren’t exactly sure why it helps some more than others. They think the electrical pulses might either block pain signals from reaching the brain or help your body release natural painkillers called endorphins.
What’s a TENS Unit?
A TENS unit is a small, battery-powered device that fits in your hand—kind of like a mini remote or phone. It has sticky pads (called electrodes) that go on your skin near sore areas or over nerves. These pads send small electrical pulses to help with pain.
You can get TENS therapy at a clinic or use a unit at home. Some require a prescription, but you can also buy over-the-counter (OTC) versions at many pharmacies. Still, it’s smart to talk to your doctor first to make sure it’s safe and to learn how to use it properly.
Also Read: Which Natural Supplements are Most Effective for Chronic Pain?
What Conditions Can TENS Help Treat?
TENS therapy is used for both short-term and long-term pain, including:
- Back pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Nerve pain from diabetes
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
How Does the TENS Device Actually Work?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- The device connects to sticky pads (electrodes) that go on your skin.
- These pads send tiny electrical pulses to the nerves in the area.
- You can adjust how strong, fast, or long the pulses are—just enough so it feels tingly but not painful.
- For many people, pain starts to ease during the session. Some feel better for hours afterward, while others feel relief only while the unit is on.
How Often Can You Use It?
You can usually use a TENS unit several times a day, for up to an hour each time. But it’s best to check with your doctor to be safe.
Also Read: How do Various Pain Relief Patches Compare in Effectiveness?
Who Should Not Use a TENS Unit?
TENS isn’t for everyone. You shouldn’t use it if you’re pregnant or have:
- A pacemaker or implanted device
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Bleeding problems
- Heart issues
Also, don’t use TENS near or on:
- Open wounds or infected skin
- Varicose veins
- Your eyes, mouth, or front/side of your neck
- Your head or genitals
- Areas with no feeling
- Skin treated with radiation
Always talk to your healthcare provider before using a TENS unit, especially if you have other health conditions.
Pros and Cons of TENS Therapy
Benefits:
- Non-invasive (no needles or surgery)
- Can be used on its own or with medications
- Might reduce the need for pain meds (talk to your doctor first!)
- Portable and easy to use
- Helps many people manage pain effectively
Possible Side Effects:
- Skin irritation or allergic reaction from the sticky pads
- Tingling or prickly feeling that some people find uncomfortable
- Rarely, minor burns from the electrodes
Also Read: Best Massage Device for Muscle Soreness
When Will You Feel Relief?
Most people feel pain relief shortly after starting a session. For some, it lasts for hours. For others, the pain might come back once the device is turned off.
When to Call Your Doctor
TENS is generally safe, but call your doctor if you notice:
- Skin rashes or itching
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Nausea
