Choosing the Right Tens Machines For YOU

What Is A TENS Machine?.

A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) machine is a small, battery-operated device that is used as a method of pain relief, and often as an alternative to painkillers. These machines have sticky pads (electrodes) connected to the machine, which are then attached directly to your skin. Once the machine is switched on, a small electrical current is delivered to the affected areas of your body - you'll likely feel a tingling sensation during this process, but using a TENS machine is pain-free.

This electrical nerve stimulation reduces the pain signals that travel from the spinal cord to the brain, which helps to alleviate many types of pain and relax the muscles. As well as this, transcutaneous nerve stimulation encourages the production of endorphins, which are known as the body's natural painkiller.

At Med-Fit, you can access a wide range of TENS products that have different programmes and purposes depending on your needs. Whilst this guide is designed to help you get informed about what's on offer and what might be best for you, we understand that it can be hard to know which product would offer the most effective pain relief for your issue.

That’s why our team are always happy to discuss your requirements and recommend products based on your needs. Better still, once you’ve purchased the product, we’ll always be on-hand to offer advice whenever you need it, including instructions on how to set your device up. Please call 0161 429 7330 or email us at [email protected] for more information and support.

Top Tens Machines Recommended for:


Who can use a TENS machine?

Tens Machines tend to be used to help reduce pain in nerves, joints, muscles and much more. Unlike medication, there are virtually not side effects when using Tens Machines, which is a bonus for those wanting to stay away from medication.

Tens Machines are used to treat the following symptoms:

They have also been known to alleviate pain for the following conditions:

Anyone suffering from a painful condition can make use of a TENS machine after consulting their healthcare professional. TENS is completely safe to use as each device comes with a comprehensive manual and guidelines. Following these precautions will make sure that the device does no harm and is used with complete safety.

Some people may be allergic to the electrode patches of the device, the gel or the tape. We have a selection of sensitive skin electrodes that should help you avoid any rashes or allergic reactions. 

  • People who have a pacemaker should use the device under controlled conditions.
  • TENS can be used at any time in the day except when driving or while using other electronic equipment.
  • If your doctors advise you against using TENS because of specified health reasons, it is best to comply.
  • The electrodes should never be placed on the eyelids.

How Does A TENS Machine Work?

The Endorphin Release Theory suggests that the battery-powered device works by delivering electrical stimulation to the sensory nerve endings that control pain. With the help of these currents passing to the brain, endorphins are released, thus reducing the discomfort felt by the patient. They act exactly like prescription drugs but without the side effects.

According to the Gate Control Theory, a neural mechanism located in our spines acts as a gate that closes and opens when it receives signals from the brain. The electric signals produced by the TENS interfere with the pain signals in the body. As a result, the 'gate' reacts to the signals produced by the TENS machine as opposed to the signals produced by the body. This means that even if you would usually feel pain, your brain would struggle to interpret the related signals.

The Advantages Of Using This Method Of Pain Relief:

  • Reduces the need for painkillers or analgesics.
  • It is an affordable option to relieve pain, without using any kind of medication.
  • Unlike pain medication, TENS can be used without fear of any severe side effects, and most users will bounce back to normality pretty quickly. TENS has no adverse effects on the body. It works in a way that makes the body respond naturally and efficiently.
  • It is portable and easy to use.
  • Since it stimulates the nerve and muscles, it also works to reduce fatigue and exhaustion caused by our sedentary and fast-paced lifestyles. TENS can improve your general wellbeing as opposed to just aches and pains - it has even been found to improve sleep cycles and patterns.
  • With the right kind of electric stimulation, TENS can reduce inflammation located deep inside the muscle fibres, and also relieve pain from pinched nerves and sciatica.
  • The device also acts as a natural massager, which in turn facilitates motion within the body and improves motor function. It aids in blood circulation and reduces muscle spasms.

How To Use A Tens machine?

Since TENS machines are medical devices, you should always check with your doctor that it is safe to use. As well as this, you should read the manual and follow the instructions to reduce the risk of injury whilst using the device. While every device will have its own specific set of rules and instructions, the most basic ones are listed below:

  • Gently place the sticky pads or the electrodes on the affected area.
  • Start the TENS unit at its lowest setting and then gradually increase the setting until you are comfortable.
  • Never place the pads on your face, directly on the heart, on swollen or inflamed areas, or on broken skin. If you do have sensitive skin, there are pads available to prevent skin irritation.
  • Ensure that the unit is adequately charged before use. If it is battery operated then make sure to change the batteries often.
  • To increase the lifespan of the device's pads, avoid touching the gel on them. Pour a few drops of water on the pad before attaching it to clean skin. Always put the protective films on the pads before putting them back in the box.
  • Store the unit in a cool and dry place.
  • Remove the lead wires after using the TENS unit and place them in the box when they’re not in use.

Do Tens Machines Work?

There's evidence from a range of healthcare, physiotherapists and sports professionals to suggest that TENS machines help those suffering from different types of pain. However, it's important to note that the performance and the effectiveness of the TENS machine will depend on the individual, how it’s used, and the condition being treated.

Are There Any Side-Effects?

For the majority of people, TENS is a very safe treatment and a preferred, drug-free alternative for pain management, with minimal side effects providing that the machine is used correctly. However, if the current is too high, you might experience skin irritation. This is why following the instructions for the device is essential.

TENS is not safe for everyone to use, please seek medical advice before use if:

  • You have epilepsy or a heart problem.
  • You have a pacemaker or any other implanted electrical device.

Are TENS Machines Good For Labour?

TENS is known to be an effective method of pain management during the early stages of labour, when most women begin experiencing lower back pains. You should check with a medical professional before using a TENS machine during pregnancy but if it is safe to use during labour, you should begin using the machine when you start to feel regular and general contractions or backaches.

However, some may want to continue using into the second stages of pregnancy – this could be to reduce pain in certain areas, especially for women that are experiencing chronic low-back pain.

How Long Does Pain Relief Last?

The duration of pain relief after using a TENS unit can vary depending on your injury or condition - some people report that their pain returns as soon as they switch off the device, whereas others state that their pain doesn't return for at least 24 hours.

There are a number of studies to suggest that the duration of pain relief does increase after repeated use of TENS machines. However, please use the device wisely and consult with a medical professional before use, as repeated use can potentially increase the likelihood of a user building up a tolerance to the TENS treatment.

Yes, Tens Machines can help with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and Arthritis.

Yes, this device has clinically approved programs for muscle toning and muscle re-education.

Yes, you can use the socks, and we supply spare pads and cables independently too.

Yes, it is a TENS and EMS machine. And yes, it includes both functions.

Yes, our Tens Machines are exceptionally good for those who suffer from Sciatica – find out above on our list to understand which ones would suit you best.

You can start to use the Tens Machines around 3-4 times a day, however the tens devices can be used more or less often – it’s really depending on the user’s preference. After every use, do remember to turn the unit off and carefully remove the electrodes from your skin.

Yes, when applied correctly, our Tens devices can be used on your abdominal region to reduce pain that could be caused by strained muscles, cramping from PMS or IBS, abdominal surgery and many more pains.

Tens Machine devices are the ideal treatment for painful menstruation, especially if you would rather pass on the pain killers. The way the machines work is by sending a soothing pulse / electrical current via the pads through the skin and along the nerve fibres. The Tens Device begins to supress the pain signals, and the body begins to produce higher levels of its very own natural pain killing chemical – endorphins and enkephalins. The soothing pulses help with Period cramp relief and period pain relief.

Above Questions Didn’t Help You?

Any Questions and advice just call 0161 429 7330

We very proud of our commitment and after-sales service our TENS and muscle stimulators have been purchased by virtually every NHS hospital and pain clinic in the NHS and supplied to countless professionals institutions and research programmes.

Please remember
Choosing the right stimulator for yourself is our goal. It’s pointless purchasing a stimulator that has many features that you will never use. Also a device may be more expensive than an alternative model which will benefit you just as well.
Need more advice?
Remember just call today on 0161 429 7330 for any advice on any of our TENS Machines and Muscle Stimulation Machines