Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses low-voltage electrical currents to relieve pain. A TENS unit is a small device that delivers the current at or near your nerves to block or change your perception of pain. Learn TENS machine (TENS unit) basics: what it does, side effects, safety tips, and advice to help you understand when movement-based rehab is needed.

Understanding the Context

TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. TENS is a type of pain-relief therapy that uses low-voltage electrical current. Medical Xpress on MSN: TENS plus physical therapy eases fibromyalgia pain and fatigue, study finds Adding TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) to outpatient physical therapy reduced movement-based pain and fatigue in patients with fibromyalgia, and the effects lasted for at least six ... Is TENS the secret to managing Fibromyalgia?

Key Insights

New real-world research shows that electrical nerve stimulation reduces movement-evoked pain and fatigue. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may help provide pain relief for people with diabetic neuropathy. However, more research is necessary. Some research suggests that high and low ... Find portable TENS machines designed for pain relief therapy.

Final Thoughts

Explore rechargeable options with electrode pads for convenient, on-the-go muscle stimulation. A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit works by delivering small electrical impulses through electrodes with adhesive pads to attach them to a person’s skin.