OUR BLOG
- July 31, 2025
- 10:05 pm
They come in all shapes and sizes,
like dating apps but for pain relief.
Got aches, pains, or muscles that feel like they’ve been personally offended? A TENS unit might just be your new best friend. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation—yes, it’s a mouthful) is a non-invasive, drug-free way to send tiny zaps of relief right to where it hurts. Whether you're nursing an injury, battling arthritis, or recovering from a “what-was-I-thinking” workout, here’s how to use a TENS unit without turning into Frankenstein.
What is a TENS Unit?
Think of a TENS unit as a tiny pain-fighting robot. It’s a small, battery-powered device that delivers low-voltage electrical pulses through sticky pads (electrodes) on your skin. These pulses confuse your nerves, block pain signals, and even convince your body to release endorphins—your natural happy chemicals. Science!
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a TENS Unit
1. Choose the Right TENS Unit
They come in all shapes and sizes, like dating apps but for pain relief. Some are basic, others are packed with more features than your TV remote. Pick one that doesn’t require an engineering degree to operate.
2. Clean and Prepare Your Skin
Clean the area where you’ll apply the pads—soap and water, not hand sanitizer (ouch). Make sure your skin is dry and free of lotions, oils, or glitter (no judgment).
3. Place the Electrodes Correctly
- Stick the pads around the pain zone, not directly on bony areas or your funny bone.
- For muscle pain: one pad on each side of the muscle.
- For nerve pain: follow the nerve’s path like a GPS.
- If your unit came with a diagram, follow it. If not, Google is your friend.
4. Adjust the Settings
- Turn the unit on—don’t worry, it won’t electrocute you.
- Start low. Like, whisper-level electricity.
- Slowly increase the intensity until you feel a buzzing that says "ahhh" not "AHH!"
- Try different modes—pulse, burst, or “space alien communication”—whatever helps.
5. Use for the Recommended Time
Most sessions last 15–30 minutes. That’s about one podcast episode or half an episode if you’re binging true crime. You can use it multiple times a day, just don’t go overboard or your nerves might start ghosting you.
6. Remove the Electrodes and Clean Up
Turn the unit off first (seriously). Gently peel off the pads—don’t rip them off like a band-aid in a movie. Clean your skin and stick the pads back on their plastic sheet like a civilized human.
Tips for Best Results
- If you have a pacemaker, are pregnant, or planning to use it on your face—just don’t (unless your doctor says otherwise).
- Never put the pads on your throat, chest, or head. That’s not where the magic happens.
- Pair TENS with stretches, strength work, or whatever your physical therapist told you that you’ve maybe been ignoring.
When to See a Professional
TENS is great, but it’s not a miracle device. If your pain sticks around like a bad ex, it’s time to call in the pros. A physical therapist can help you get to the root of the problem.
Final Thoughts
Using a TENS unit is kind of like having a tiny electrician give your muscles a pep talk. It’s safe, simple, and surprisingly effective when used the right way. If this doesn't take the edge off of the pain - your local trigger point physical therapist should be your next call!
Take the first step towards a pain-free life.