TENS: How It Works and What It Feels Like

TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. It's a small, battery-powered device that sends mild electrical pulses through the skin, using sticky pads placed near the painful area. It's used for pain relief in clinics and at home.

How it works

TENS is thought to relieve pain in two main ways:

1. The pain gate: the tingling sensation competes with pain signals travelling to the brain, reducing how much pain gets through.
2. Natural painkillers: some settings may encourage the body to release endorphins, its own pain-relieving chemicals.

What it feels like

Most people describe a tingling, buzzing or pins-and-needles sensation. It shouldn't be painful. The intensity is adjusted until it's strong but comfortable.

What it may help with

TENS is used for many types of pain, including:

• Back and neck pain
• Arthritis pain
• Muscle and joint pain
• Some types of nerve pain
• Labour pain (with specific devices and guidance)

The research shows mixed results. Some people find it helpful, others less so. It tends to help most while it's switched on, with effects that may last a short time afterwards.

TENS is a support, not a cure

TENS doesn't treat the underlying cause of pain. It works best as short-term pain relief that helps you move and exercise more comfortably.

Who should not use TENS (or should check with a doctor first)

• People with a pacemaker or other implanted electrical device
• People with epilepsy (avoid using near the head or neck)
• During pregnancy (except under guidance for labour; avoid over the abdomen)
• Over the front of the neck, eyes, or broken or numb skin
• People with heart problems, without medical advice

How to use it safely

• Place pads on clean, dry, unbroken skin
• Start at a low intensity and increase slowly
• Don't use it while driving, operating machinery, or in water
• Don't sleep with it on
• Stop if you get skin irritation

How we use it

We may use TENS in clinic to ease pain so you can move and exercise more comfortably, and advise on whether a home unit might help you.