Are You Using TENS Devices The Right Way?

Whenever you’re introduced to a new device or tool that can be used to help get rid of the discomfort of muscle aches, arthritis, and general muscle pains it’s important to ensure that you are using the device properly. This is especially true when you are using a TENS/EMS device. TENS and EMS use electrical pulses to disrupt pain signals so it’s important to make sure that you are using the device correctly to ensure that it is effective, comfortable, and most importantly safe. Use the following tips to help with using TENS devices the right way.

Getting Familiar With Your TENS/EMS Device

Before you ever place an electrode pad on your body, you want to make sure that you are familiar with your TENS device. There are multiple TENS device models on the market to choose from. Be weary of the Cheapo models you can get. The devices we carry are FDA and Health Canada Approved. This gives you the peace of mind knowing you’re getting the best of the best. It also allows you to get some or all of it covered by your extended medical. Given our devices are covered by extended medical, we recommend you get the best! Get the Wireless Pro. Each device comes with a Instruction sheet. 

How To Place Pads

Electrode pad placement is an important part of making sure that your TENS and EMS sessions are effective, comfortable, and safe. We wrote a whole blog post about how to place electrode pads to get the most effective TENS therapy session. There you can learn how to place pads comfortably but it’s important to remember these quick tips about electrode pad placement:

• Never palace the pads directly on the bone, try to place it over muscles.
• Place electrode pads diagonally across from each other
• Use 2 pads per channel (always an even number; 2 or 4 electrode pads) in order for your device to work properly.

How To Find the Right Settings and Modes

Each TENS and EMS device we carry has multiple modes to choose from that each has a different feel to them. Some modes feel like kneading while others feel like acupressure, hot stones, or passive exercise. Along with each mode, there is an intensity slider that allows you to kick things up a notch when you start to get used to the sensations. The best way to find the right settings and modes is to try them all and find which modes feel the best and at what intensity levels. Play around with it, but remember to always start off on LOW and work your way up.

What Else You Should Know About Using a Tens/Ems Device

Using a TENS/EMS device should always be used for either muscle recovery after workouts or to help manage the pain from injuries and arthritis. It’s important to always speak with your doctor or a healthcare professional before using any device. And most importantly, always be sure that you are using TENS devices the right way to prevent any accidental pain or injuries.