Many people look for a drug-free method to control pain caused by arthritis, knee pain, or period cramps. One solution is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy. But what is a TENS machine exactly?

Below is everything you need to know about this device, its uses, benefits, and more.

Table of Contents

What is a TENS Machine?

The TENS unit is a small battery-operated device that transmits small electrical currents to targeted body parts. It has wires attached to sticky pads that you can directly place on your skin.

Once switched on, the machine transmits little electric shocks to the targeted area, easing the pain.

What Does a TENS Machine Do?

TENS machines help reduce and relieve certain types of pains and muscle spasms, such as pelvic pain, period pain, arthritis, knee pain, sports injuries, etc. The electrical currents from the TENS machine can minimise the pain signals to the brain and spinal cord, which helps relax muscles and relieve pain.

It can also increase the production of endorphins or chemicals your body releases when it feels stress or pain. It is also sometimes used by doctors for pain relief during labour.

Are TENS Machines Effective?

Many healthcare professionals attest to the efficacy of TENS machines for pain relief despite the limited number of quality scientific evidence.

However, they also agree that using a TENS machine is not a guaranteed cure. It can only provide short-term relief for certain types of pain.

Nonetheless, TENS machines are generally safe to use. Many people use them, especially those who do not want to rely on painkillers.

How Do TENS Machines Provide Short-Term Pain Relief?

Once you turn on the TENS machine, it will start transporting electrical currents to the affected area of your body. These electrical impulses signal certain parts of the brain stem to inhibit incoming pain signals.

The impulses prompt the production of endorphins, which are like morphine or painkiller substances that occur in the body naturally.

What are the Benefits of Using a TENS Machine?

Using a TENS machine for pain relief provides the following benefits.

1. Non-Invasive Pain Relief

The TENS machine is a great pain relief option for people who are afraid of surgery or taking high doses of painkillers.

It is a non-invasive method of relieving pain that you can use at home. You can also use it while on prescriptions. The electrical stimulation does not harm any body part.

Once switched on, the TENS machine delivers electrical currents to the affected area of your body. These impulses signal the spinal cord and brain to reduce pain and relax the muscles.

2. Portable

The TENS machine is portable and very easy to use. This machine is perfect for home use.

All that’s needed is to place the pads on the affected area and let the machine do the work. It is also easy to set up and adjust based on your pain condition.

3. Muscle Relaxation

The TENS machine is an effective way of easing pain and reducing tightness in overworked muscles. Overworked muscles can become knots caused by repetitive motion.

Most athletes experience this problem after training hard for a long time. A muscle knot can also occur when you sit or stand in an uncomfortable position for too long.

This machine is one of the best options for treating muscle spasms and knots. One study also revealed that combining stretching therapy and TENS therapy is very effective in minimising muscle hardness and improving range of motion.

4. Effective Massager

TENS machines are also great if you want a relaxing massage. Some businesses even offer these machines as pain relievers or massagers.

You can choose the intensity level that suits your muscles’ needs. These machines are also easy to use, even at home when you need a quick massage.

5. Fatigue and Stress Reduction

Fatigue is due to workplace problems, stress, unhealthy lifestyle, or medical conditions. The TENS machine is a great way to stimulate muscles and nerves and minimise fatigue levels significantly.

6. Nerve Retraining

When your nerves are damaged, they cannot send or receive signals. People with damaged nerves suffer from severe pain and difficulty in moving. Some even lose their ability to move because of the excruciating pain.

TENS machines can stimulate endorphins, helping significantly in pain reduction. With TENS treatment, the impulses can also help retrain nerve and brain patterns.

7. Affordable Therapy

The price of buying a lifetime supply of painkillers for pain management may be very costly compared with using TENS machines. TENS machines used to be only in therapy clinics. But now, you can purchase one for home use at a more reasonable price.

8. Enhanced Quality of Life

Having to deal with pain medications can indeed affect one’s quality of life. Start living the life you deserve without being dependent on these drugs.

Using TENS is a more practical way to relieve chronic pain. Knowing that you can manage pain without taking tons of meds can help you keep up with your family or work better. It saves money, too.

9. Customisable Treatment

One good thing about using a TENS machine is that you have control of your treatment. With pain medications, you cannot adjust your dosage without a doctor’s approval. On the other hand, TENS has various modes or settings to suit individual therapy needs.

10. Versatile Device

Research has shown that TENS therapy is a powerful method for several conditions. It can help alleviate arthritis or joint pain, neuropathic pain, muscle pain, back and neck pain, fibromyalgia, etc.

It can also help people suffering from urinary incontinence or those with mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.

Caution When Using a TENS Machine

Always read the manual before using any TENS machine. Here are other warnings and precautions you need to know.

  • Always keep the device out of children’s reach.
  • Never place the electrode pads on irritated or damaged skin.
  • Do not place the electrodes internally or over the mouth, eyes, front of the throat, or side of the neck.
  • Never use the device while driving or operating any machinery.
  • Do not use the TENS machine while sleeping.
  • Do not use this machine when taking a shower or near any water.
  • Do not put the electrode pads over the carotid nerve.
  • Do not use the device in areas of decreased sensation.
  • Discontinue use if the TENS machine becomes unpleasant or ineffective.

Who Should Not Use a TENS Machine?

TENS machine should not be used by:

  • Pregnant women. TENS can address labour pain. However, do not use it on the abdomen, pelvic area or acupuncture points at the ankle, hands, and knees of a pregnant woman.
  • Cancer patients. Never place electrode pads in the areas of the body where there is known cancer. It also should not be used for people with a cancer history in the last five years.
  • People with heart disease. Do not use TENS therapy on the chest if you have a heart disorder, arrhythmia, or heart failure.
  • People who have deep vein thrombosis. A TENS machine may increase blood circulation, triggering the risk of dislodging blood clots.

Other conditions to not use TENS machines include people who have epilepsy, non-compliant patients, and people with dementia.

How to Use a TENS Machine

There are different brands of TENS machines, and you should follow the manual supplied with the device.

You can buy some TENS machines without a prescription. Still, if used for pain relief, it is always better to consult a health professional first.

Here are some general reminders when using a TENS machine.

  • Before putting the pads on the skin, ensure the TENS machine is off.
  • Test the device by holding the electrode pads between your fingers, then gently switch it on. You will feel a tingling sensation once the device is on.
  • Place the electrode pads on either side of the affected area at least 2.5cm apart. Ensure the skin area is dry and clean before placing the pads.
  • Fix it with tape to keep it in place.
  • Set the pulse rate at about 100 Hz, which is generally the most effective mode. Alternatively, select the required setting given by your health practitioner.
  • Turn on the machine slowly until you feel a sensation. The sensation should not be uncomfortable but must be strong enough. After using it for a few minutes, the device will start to reduce sensation, which is called accommodation. Just turn the device up slightly and leave it working. Avoid setting it very high because it can lead to overstimulation, which will worsen the pain.
  • Always turn off the device after the session and disconnect the electrodes from the machine. Keep the pads on if you plan to use the machine again. Just make sure that the wires are out of your way.

Tips for Using a TENS Machine

  • You can change the sensation flow if you change the distance between the direction of the pads and electrode pads.
  • You can place your pads in three directions (horizontal, vertical, or angulated).
  • Do not place the electrode pads over joints such as your ankles, elbows, and knees.
  • Clean your skin before placing the pads. Make sure that it is free from lotion or oil.
  • Don’t use alcohol when cleaning your skin because it can dry out your skin and might give you skin irritation from the electrode pads.
  • Have extra packs of TENS lead wires, batteries, and patches.
  • Drink plenty of fluids before and after using the TENS machine. Staying hydrated can help maintain a good level of endorphins.
  • See a doctor or a therapist before using the TENS machine to know how you can benefit from it.

Cleaning and Storage

Clean your electrode pads after each use. You can clean them by using a moist cloth. If you notice that your pads are not that sticky anymore, this may be because of dirt and oil. So, be sure to stick them on clean and dry skin only.

Do not use tissue or toilet paper when cleaning your electrode pads to avoid leaving any residue. Cleaning them with water can bring back their stickiness, but don’t oversoak them.

Keep the electrode pads in their packaging to avoid drying them out. Remember not to put the control unit on the same plastic as the electrode pads. Store the control unit and electrode pads in a cool and dry place, and avoid storing them in areas with high temperatures.

Proper cleaning and storage will make your TENS machine work more efficiently.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance is the key if you want your TENS machine to last longer. The durability of the pads will depend on how you prepare your skin before using them and how you clean and store them.

The battery life will depend on the frequency of use and level of intensity. Generally, a fully charged battery can last up to 20 hours of continuous use, depending on the model. TENS units may not last a lifetime, but proper maintenance can make them last longer.

Things to Look for Before Buying a TENS Machine

Portable TENS machines are popular nowadays because of their efficacy. With so many brands available, you might wonder what factors to know or look for before buying one.

Here are some things to consider.

Talk With Your Doctors First

Consult your doctor or health practitioner first before buying a TENS machine. TENS machines are readily available in the market, and though they are safe for most people, there are contraindications. Your doctor should initially assess your pain issue and give instructions on proper machine use.

Power Level

The power potential of a TENS machine is a crucial factor to consider before buying. Generally, TENS machines within the low-price range have lower power potential than expensive ones.

Be sure to buy according to your needs. If your budget allows it, buy one with a wide range of power choices because different body areas require specific treatment.

Battery Life

Many TENS units run on a 9-volt battery. But if you want longer battery life, choose a unit with a lithium-ion battery. This unit may be more expensive, but a high-quality lithium-ion battery can last several weeks or even a month without recharging the device.

It is also very convenient because you do not need to charge your battery often compared with buying something that runs on a 9-volt battery.

Adjustable Modes

Choose a TENS machine that has different types of electronic modes. The cheaper options usually have fewer electronic levels, with only one or two options. With more levels available, it’s easy to find the perfect mode for your specific needs.

High-Quality Electrode Pads

Many brands sell low-quality replacement bands for a low price. Make sure that you buy high-quality electrode pads that can last longer. These may be more expensive, but they will be worth the investment. High-quality electrode pads should last you for months when maintained and stored well.

Good Customer Service

There will be many salespeople who will offer you their brands, but one of the things that you should ask about is their customer service hotline. A good product must have a good company that can provide customer service when people need to ask questions about the products.

A reputable company can give you a good warranty and would not hesitate to answer if the customer has complaints. A TENS machine is a health investment, and you have all the right to complain or raise concerns if the product does not meet your expectations.

Check With Your Health Insurance Company

With proper documentation by your doctor, your insurance company can cover your TENS machine. However, some insurance companies will require you to rent first a machine for one month before you can buy one.

Other companies do not also cover TENS machines used for certain types of pain, such as chronic lower back pain. Always check with your insurance company if they can cover your machine before buying one.

Features to Look for When Buying a TENS Machine

You may also want to consider buying a TENS machine that will provide you with the following features:

  • Portability
  • FDA clearance for safety and effectiveness
  • Multiple body pain treatment ability
  • Ease of use
  • Mobile app compatibility
  • Bluetooth technology
  • Dual-channel feature for treating two areas simultaneously

Click here to see our shortlisted picks of combined EMS TENS devices.

Conclusion

A TENS machine is a non-invasive device that may help you with short-term pain relief. Remember that this machine will not cure the pain but will help relieve muscle pain by stimulating the nerves near the pain.

TENS machines are generally safe to use. Unlike taking pain relief medications, only a few people reported side effects. Though these devices are readily available without a prescription, it is better to consult your doctor before buying one.

1. Does TENS hurt?

Using a TENS machine should not hurt. Ensure that you set the device at a potent yet comfortable level. However, the electrical currents that a TENS machine produces may cause a tingling or prickling sensation, which may be uncomfortable for some people.

Do not use this machine on wet skin because this may cause an unpleasant electric shock. Also, do not place the electrode pads on damaged or open wounds, which may result in further irritation. Lower down the setting if you feel muscle pain in high-intensity settings.

2. How does EMS compare to TENS?

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) machines stimulate nerves for pain relief. On the contrary, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) machines stimulate muscles to strengthen them. Both machines involve the transmission of electrical impulses through electrode pads placed on your skin.

3. What type of pain is a TENS unit used for?

TENS units are for people with arthritis or joint pain, neuropathic pain, muscle pain, back and neck pain, fibromyalgia, period pain, pelvic pain, etc. They are also for pain relief during labour.

4. Can a TENS machine help with weight loss?

Using a TENS machine alone cannot help with weight loss. TENS focuses on nerves and the sensory side of our bodies, like when reducing labour pain. Nonetheless, if your TENS machine has an EMS function, it can work with weight loss as long as you do it with exercise and healthy eating.

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