Complete Guide To The Best TENS Machine: TENS Unit Reviews
Contents
- Top 10 Best TENS Machine Reviewed
- What Is a TENS Machine?
- What Are the Benefits of a TENS Machine?
- Why Do I Need One?
- How Do TENS Machines Relieve Pain?
- Hows Does It Work?
- A Few TENS Unit Placement Dont’s
- TENS Unit Placement Guidelines
- Two Main Types Of TENS Unit
- The TENS 3000 Model
- The TENS 7000 Model
- Things to Look for When Picking a Unit
- Power Levels
- Modes
- The Supplier
- The Best TENS Machines on the Market
- 1. HealthmateForever Electronic Pulse Massager
- Pros
- 2. truMedic TENS Unit
- 3. United Surgical TENS Machine
- Pros & Cons
- Pros
- Cons
- 4. Smart Electro Pain Relief Machine
- 5. Pure Enrichment PurePulse Pro TENS Unit
- 6. TEC.BEAN Rechargeable Tens EMS Unit
- 7. MeasuPro Portable Tens Unit
- 8. iReliev TOP-BEST TENS Massager Unit
- 9. Ohuhu FDA 6 Pair TENS Unit
- 10. Balego Tens Machine
- 11. Perfect MamaTENS
- Pros & Cons
- How to Select the Best TENS Unit for Your Needs
- What do you need it to do?
- What’s your budget?
- Draw up a shortlist
- Narrow it down, and look closer
- Make a Decision
- Using a TENS Unit
- Who Can Use a TENS Machine?
- Who Shouldn’t Use a TENS Machine?
- Other Ideas to Reduce Pain
- Conclusion
- Sources
If you’ve been experiencing pain, you might have been told to pick up a TENS machine to alleviate your symptoms.
Back pain is one of the most common health complaints of all and affects millions of people worldwide. Neck pain isn’t far behind.
A lot of this has to do with our modern lifestyle, sitting at computers and sitting cars but it can be caused from a variety of sources.
The pain ranges from mild, temporary pain to severe and chronic pain that can literally keep you suffering and bed-ridden for weeks, even months.
There are a number of options in dealing such debilitating pain and many people turn to medication and painkillers in order to cope.
Some pain medicines, such as opioids, carry a risk of dependence, and long-term use of others can cause side effects.
A TENS machine is a drug-free option that helps some people, and it has been in use for many years. They’ve been around since the 1960s.
If you want to try one, choosing a good TENS machine matters.
While there are many on the market currently, you want to be careful that you pick only the best.
TENS does not work for everyone, so talk to your doctor first. Then use these TENS unit reviews to compare options. Check current warranty terms on each listing, since they can change.
Top 10 Best TENS Machine Reviewed
What Is a TENS Machine?
A TENS Machine stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. They are used to relieve many kinds of pain, including nerve-related pain.
Simply put, it’ll send a pulse through the surface of your skin to create a massaging and tingling sensation that reduces your perception of pain.
This is a noninvasive, drug-free method of dealing with pain that is generally low risk when used as directed.
It’s a small and portable machine, battery operated that can be easily worn on the body. You then attach the machine to your body through wires and sticky pads.
You’ll feel a tingling or buzzing sensation. It should not be painful, and many people find it relaxing.
They are used for more than just nerve pain. Some people also find relief from muscular pains, illnesses like fibromyalgia, and even for things like tendinitis.
It can be a useful option if you want to reduce how much pain medicine you use. Some painkillers, such as opioids, can be addictive.
What Are the Benefits of a TENS Machine?
TENS is thought to encourage your body to release natural pain-killing chemicals called endorphins. The NHS says it may also stop pain messages from your nerves reaching your brain.
You can control the intensity and location of these impulses and the brain will receive a decrease in pain signals.
Many people find relief after surgeries, during recovery from traumatic injuries, even dental treatments.
Some people use TENS for pain from pinched nerves, sciatica, and disc problems, though it does not fix the underlying cause.
TENS is also used by people with osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, low back pain, neck pain, bursitis, tendinitis and other chronic pain. Research results are mixed, and it does not work for everyone.
Cleveland Clinic lists cancer, epilepsy, heart disease and a pacemaker among the conditions where you shouldn’t use TENS without your provider’s okay.
Others find that it’s a great addition to physical therapy treatments and rehabilitation.
TENS machines can be purchased over the counter with no prescription from a doctor.
You should always consult with a healthcare professional first and sometimes they can even be covered by health insurance.
There are many benefits to a TENS machine. It’s controllable and avoids the side effects of many medications. It can still cause skin irritation from the pad adhesive and, rarely, burns.
When it works, relief often starts during the session, but it is usually temporary.
Good candidates for a TENS machine would generally be those suffering from chronic back pain, joint pain such as the knee, and other musculoskeletal issues.
Some women also use TENS for labor pain, with their midwife’s or doctor’s okay.
Why Do I Need One?
Some who are suffering from sports injuries, migraines, carpal tunnel, and menstrual pains may also benefit from a TENS machine.
However, not all TENS devices are created equal, and you’ll want to make sure you get one that’s suitable for your needs.
It’s always best to assess this before jumping in to buy the most intense version.
These devices are generally low risk when used correctly, but you won’t get good pain relief without the right settings.
When it comes to looking at the TENS 3000 vs TENS 7000, there are a few very obvious differences.
How Do TENS Machines Relieve Pain?
A TENS machine is a compact, portable electrical device that you can carry with you and works by means of sets of electrodes that are positioned around or near the affected area.
It sends electrical pulses to the body through the electrodes. The effect of this is that these pulses disrupt the pain signals from affected area to the brain thereby reducing the pain sensation that you feel.
More research is needed to understand how well it works. Study results are mixed, and customer reviews are not proof that it will work for you.
Hows Does It Work?
Numerous studies have been done. However, there’s still a lot to learn about the functioning of the TENS unit and how it helps relieve pain.
TENS machines are thought to work in two ways:
Electrical pulses produced by the unit, often at higher frequencies, interfere with the transport of pain messages to the brain, thereby blocking it.
That’s putting it very simply, but it effectively blocks the gate mechanism that allows pain messages to get through the central nervous system and brain.
As a result, the user feels less pain due to the messages not getting through.
They’re also believed to stimulate specific non-pain-carrying nerves which also cause the gate to close.
This small machine comes with a number of pads that the user connects to the affected parts of the body.
It’s controlled by the user quite simply by turning it on, up or off. Follow your device instructions or your provider’s advice on how long and how often to use it.
TENS machines are available either through a doctor, physical therapist or from a Jacksonville Beach, FL chiropractor or they can be purchased online or over the counter.
The drawback to the latter option is that many people are somewhat intimidated by them and a bit bewildered as to how they should be used correctly.
While it might be a bit intimidating at first, it’s not that complicated.
If you follow a few basic guidelines, which we will share with you, you’ll be able to use it effectively. You’ll soon start feeling relief from your pain.
Before we get into placement, let’s look at a few words of caution.
A Few TENS Unit Placement Dont’s
Don’t place pads on the following areas:
- Chest over the heart
- Front or sides of the neck
- Head, eyes or mouth
- Open, irritated, infected or numb skin
- Directly on joints
Another few things to bear in mind are to never use pads when they’re wet or when they’re worn or damaged.
You also don’t want pads to touch or be on top of each other. The NHS also advises not using TENS on your chest and back at the same time, or while you sleep.
TENS machines are also not recommended (unless advised by a doctor) during pregnancy or for people with epilepsy, heart conditions, cancer, deep vein thrombosis or bleeding disorders. Do not use one if you have a pacemaker.
Following these rules keeps the risk low. Within them, it might be an idea to experiment with different positions and angles to see what gives you the most pain relief.
TENS Unit Placement Guidelines
There are a number of options with regards to tens electrode placement.
The first step is to establish exactly where the pain is situated, where it starts, and where it ends.
Depending on the TENS system you have, always use 2 or 4 pads.
According to the size and shape of the area in pain, pads can be placed horizontally, vertically or at an angle.
The electrical flow can be altered by changing the distance or angle of the pads.
For a pain that extends a long distance on your body, place one pad at the top of the pain and the other at the bottom of the pain area.
- In a smaller area, position the pads parallel on either side of the pain area.
- For joint pain, place pads parallel on the soft tissue above and below the joint.
- In wider areas, place pads vertically on either side of the affected area.
Two Main Types Of TENS Unit
The TENS 3000 Model
Generally allows you to choose one of three modes: burst, constant, or modulation (similar to what you would have on a massaging chair!).
You can adjust how long the pulses last and at what rate.
You can adjust a session to last 15-30 minutes. The TENS 7000 is also adjustable with pulse width and rate and comes with two additional modes: SD1 and SD2.
Its maximum output is usually listed at 100mA, compared with up to 80mA for the TENS 3000.
The TENS 7000 Model
This can be set up to 60 minutes. It can be set at a continuous rate for that time or adjusted for a certain rate/intensity for the first half and something else for the second.
When it comes to the price with the TENS 3000 vs 7000, check current listings, since prices change often.
TENS 3000 reviews suggest that these machines are still effective, but ideally for those with minor aches and pains that might be persistent or for sensitive areas like for migraines or period pains, rather than a more intense pain.
When it comes to the TENS 3000 vs 7000, the TENS 7000 offers greater flexibility in terms of pain management but is really only needed if you suffer from chronic intense pain.
The TENS 3000 is acceptable for dull aches and pains and handy to have around just in case.
If you want to try a pain relief option that doesn’t involve medication, one of these may be worth discussing with your doctor.
Things to Look for When Picking a Unit
Finding your top TENS unit shouldn’t be difficult, just start by determining your price range. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of batteries and decide if a rechargeable model might be right for you in the long run.
If you experience pain in more than one area of the body, you will need to find a quality, dual-channel model. This will allow you to treat both areas separately.
Different systems offer a variety of modes of operation. You’ll want to pay attention to each option so you can pick the best electronic pulse massager for you. Pay attention to the size of the gel pads.
You’ll want to be sure that they are big enough for where you need them. In addition, you can choose how many pads you would like to be available for your use.
If you pick a machine with four or more pads, that will enable you to work easily in multiple areas.
Power Levels
You want to select a machine that has sufficient power to deal with your pain while still having enough adjustability and modes to effectively provide relief for various types of pain.
Some machines have a very low power output making them suitable only for the mildest pain.
You need a good range of power settings as well as a range of operational modes.
Modes
Different types of pain will require different modes of electrical transfer.
Some types of pain respond to bursts, for example, while others work better with a constant flow.
Ensure the machine you select has a range of modes for maximum flexibility and pain management.
The Supplier
The reputation and history of the company are all important. You want to select a machine made by a company that specializes in medical equipment.
They’ll have the knowledge and expertise to enable them to manufacture one of the best TENS machines for pain relief.
A reputable company also means that you’ll be able to expect good customer service and a fair warranty.
These are both important when buying anything electrical.
In order to come up with our recommendation for the best TENS machine for back pain as well as other muscle pain, we looked at the top selling machines on the market.
We looked at the features and benefits to ensure it’s of a high quality and capable of doing an effective job of relieving your pain.
We also studied the feedback from customers that have purchased and used the machines.
These user comments give an honest and unbiased idea of the quality and effectiveness of the TENS machine.
Based on our research we’ve come up with our choice for the best TENS machine for pain relief.
The Best TENS Machines on the Market
1. HealthmateForever Electronic Pulse Massager
It’s easy to see that the best TENS unit for home use is this model from HealthmateForever.
This unit was advertised with a lifetime warranty and as FDA-cleared. Check the current listing for both.
The handheld operations are simple and easy to use with buttons being clearly labeled for each part of the body.
The large, LCD display is great for people who have trouble seeing and you can easily choose what type of massage you’re in need of.
There’s no prescription needed to buy this machine and you get options for 15 different modes and 20 adjustable intensity levels for amazing customization. With 4 outputs, you can easily target multiple areas at the same time.
When you’re dealing with pain, this machine could do the trick.
This top TENS unit features a large LCD display and buttons that are labeled for each body part.
There are a whopping 20 levels of intensity with 15 modes and 4 outputs.
This makes it easy to treat multiple areas at once with different levels of intensity and frequency.
This unit is completely portable and can be taken with you on the go for relief anywhere. Simply use the belt clip and you’ll forget that you even have it on.
The default time is set to 80 minutes and it will automatically power down when the time is up, but, you can adjust the time to your liking.
My pick for the best personal TENS unit uses 3 AAA batteries and goes into a power-saving mode when not in use.
If you’re looking for a TENS machine for home use, this is a solid option to consider.
Pros
- Sold as an FDA-cleared device for at-home pain relief.
- A large LCD screen is great for baby boomers or anyone else that has trouble seeing.
- This machine provides drug-free pain relief that isn’t habit forming.
- Offering up 15 different modes and 20 adjustable intensity levels, you can customize it to be whatever you need.
- Use this TENS unit on multiple parts of the body at the same time.
2. truMedic TENS Unit
This unit is made by a trusted name in the healthcare industry, truMedic.
Designed to reduce stress, muscle soreness, stiffness and even chronic pain, this unit is lightweight at just 5.3 ounces.
It even comes complete with the batteries. The buttons are labeled for easy use.
There are five auto-stimulation programs available.
It offers a fully adjustable speed and intensity as well as 3 selectable massage settings.
This unit also features the capability to be used on more than one person at the same time.
Some people use it for pain after injuries or for nerve pain.
3. United Surgical TENS Machine
The Tens Unit by United Surgical has been a popular choice with buyers looking for pain relief.
It’s ideal for pain management as well as rehabilitation.
The kit comprises of the TENS unit, a full set of four electrodes, lead wires and a 9-volt battery.
This all comes in a handy carry case and you’ll also receive a comprehensive instruction guide.
The professional unit is compact and portable with a number of flexible options.
It offers a choice of 5 operational modes:Normal, Modulation, Burst, Strength Duration 1 and Strength Duration 2.
This gives you variety and flexibility depending on the area and extent of the pain. It also records your sessions and saves the time and duration of your usage.
With 4 individual electrodes, you can use this machine to work on multiple areas at once.
There are 5 modes of operation; burst, normal, modulation, strength duration 1 and strength-duration 2.
Used for pain management and rehabilitation, this unit can automatically time and record your sessions for up to 900 hours.
It’s completely portable, flexible and adjustable to your needs and comes complete with a carrying case. Use while at work, relaxing at home and more.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact and portable
- Wide choice of modes
- Good strength for pain relief
Cons
- Works on a 9-volt battery (you can use rechargeable batteries)
- Slightly old-fashioned design
4. Smart Electro Pain Relief Machine
With this unit, you’ll have access to 6 pads that can be applied to 2 different target areas at the same time.
Use the 8 pre-programmed massage-like modes, named Tuina, Acupuncture, Foot, Tapping, Leg, Cupping, Back and Combination.
There’s an adjustable 10-60 minute timer and the rechargeable internal lithium battery can be used up to 10 hours continuously.
With 20 levels of intensity to choose from, you’re sure to find what you need at the click of a button.
Take this TENS unit on the go with you easily with its lightweight and portable design. The maker advertised a lifetime warranty.
5. Pure Enrichment PurePulse Pro TENS Unit
My TENS unit reviews wouldn’t be complete without telling you about this great machine.
Advertised with a 2-year warranty and as FDA-cleared, this machine can be customized to fit your pain management needs.
There are detailed exercises to target the pain in your neck, shoulders, back, arms, hamstrings, buttocks, knees and even more.
With the easy to read LCD display and 8 preset therapy programs, it is simple to set up.
You can easily adjust the timer from 5-60 minutes and use it while relaxing at home.
There are even 25 different therapeutic intensity levels from gentle pulsations to aggressive pulsations.
Everything you need to get started comes with this unit including the batteries and storage bag. In addition, the company will also give you access to an instructional video series hosted by a physical therapist so you can learn how to use it properly.
Learning hands on makes it easy to achieve pain relief faster.
6. TEC.BEAN Rechargeable Tens EMS Unit
This system features 16 preprogrammed massage modes with 20 levels of strength.
It’s fully adjustable and suited to people using TENS for back pain, arthritis, joint pain, shoulder pain and more.
There’s a built-in timer for up to 60 minutes and it will automatically shut off when your time is up.
You can apply 6 pads for up to 2 different targeted areas at the same time and it even includes an extra 2 large pads.
You can charge this unit with a wall plug or computer USB port for up to 10 hours of continuous use.
7. MeasuPro Portable Tens Unit
Use this system to ease pain quickly with its 3 pulse stimulation modes and 4 electrodes.
It was advertised with a 2-year warranty and provides for 10 easily adjustable levels.
This TENS unit also provides a quiet muscle stimulator so you can use it anywhere when you need a little extra relief.
8. iReliev TOP-BEST TENS Massager Unit
If you’re looking for a bundle package, this set comes with an extra 20 electrodes.
Sold as FDA-cleared, this unit has 8 pre-programmed therapy modes and 25 levels of intensity.
This is a great option for anyone looking for one of the best TENS units on the market.
9. Ohuhu FDA 6 Pair TENS Unit
This machine is advertised as FDA-cleared and CE and RoHS compliant.
Claims that TENS boosts immunity or improves sleep are not backed by good evidence.
You can choose times between 10 and 60 minutes along with 20 levels of intensity.
It’s easy to use with the 16 pre-programmed modes all at the touch of a button.
10. Balego Tens Machine
The maker advertises a stronger, 100mA output.
Use the metal belt clip to take it with you wherever you need relief.
This machine features dual channel, 5 modes and a timer for easy use. The silver finish gives this unit a luxurious look.
11. Perfect MamaTENS
The Perfect MamaTENS is a TENS machine designed for labor.
This handheld device may help you cope with early labor pain and may reduce how much pain medicine you need.
The maker says it was developed with midwives. Use it only with your midwife’s or doctor’s okay.
The device requires two AA batteries that are included. Once powered on, you can adjust the setting up to 60 levels.
There are no complicated buttons, just easy-to-use controls to turn off and on and to adjust levels and lock them in place.
The pads are placed on the lower back where they can provide the best support.
Once on, the device will send small electric pulses to the lower back area.
It is thought to help by encouraging the body to release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and also by blocking pain signals to the brain.
The feeling is almost like a tingling, or vibration, in the muscle. TENS is generally considered low risk in labor, but never use it in a birthing pool or bath.
You can control the intensity with the slimline device.
Pros & Cons
A huge benefit of using a TENS machine is that it’s controllable pain relief, unlike medication.
However, during labor, you may not feel like having to focus on controlling a TENS machine! Thankfully, the Perfect MamaTENS has three pre-set programs to turn on and then not worry about it.
There’s also a neck cord and belt clip to help keep it handy. It’s also claimed that the Perfect MamaTENS machine will help women stay upright during childbirth, which can help the delivery.
The batteries also are long-lasting and should see you through labour.
There’s a handy storage bag so you can grab and go when baby decides he or she wants to make their appearance.
One disadvantage to a TENS machine though would be that the pads are placed on the lower back where women may find hard to put on by themselves, so help might be required.
Also, lying back on the pads and wires may be a bit uncomfortable.
Some women also use it for post-natal pain. After a cesarean, ask your doctor first and never place pads over the incision.
How to Select the Best TENS Unit for Your Needs
Buying a TENS unit can be a bit of a challenge if you don’t know what you’re looking for.
We’ve broken it down into a few easy steps for you to take to help you make your decision.
1
What do you need it to do?
Of course, you need your TENS machine for pain relief, but you need to think about more than just that! Get an idea of the specific features you want before starting to look.
You might want a machine that can treat lots of areas simultaneously. That would mean you need one with long wires and plenty of pads that can be connected.
Another thing to think about is whether a battery powered or rechargeable device would suit you best.
Make a note of these things to refer to later.
2
What’s your budget?
As you should do before you start any search, decide on your budget first, so you don’t waste any time looking as products you can’t afford.
3
Draw up a shortlist
Steps 1 and 2 complete, you can start looking at your options. Make a list of up to five machines that you like the look of and fit your criteria and come under your price range!
4
Narrow it down, and look closer
From the five on your short list, narrow it down to the two that you think would suit you best.
Think about their features and value for money, and always go for the ones with the best customer reviews and ratings.
Once you’ve got your two, go even deeper. Some good questions to ask are:
- Are there any bad reviews? What do they say and are they consistent?
- Has anyone mentioned using the TENS machine for the same purpose as you? Did it work?
- Does the product come with a warranty/guarantee?
5
Make a Decision
After all that, your choice should become clear! If there’s nothing else separating them, then better value for money might be what swings it in favour of a particular product.
Using a TENS Unit
Using the best electrotherapy machine is easy and can be done by most anyone as I discussed above, but there are some general things you should know.
- You can easily take your machine on the go as they’re designed to work even while you’re moving. You may want to use some medical tape to hold the pads in place if you plan on being active. You’ll also want to avoid placing the pad directly on a joint as it can come off more easily with movement.
- Don’t place the pads on your skin while the machine is on; always being sure the power is off and then you can apply to your troubled areas. You’ll also want to clean the skin before placing the pads on. Obviously, you don’t want to put the pads on over a cut or skin irritation.
- If your pain covers a large area such as between your shoulders, you’ll want to place your pads to the left and right of the area in a vertical direction.
- Your pads should be applied on either side of your pain for maximum benefit and at least 2 to 3 cm apart. Always start your machine on a low setting and move up gradually as you need it. It’s very likely that you’ll need to increase intensity during your therapy as your body gets used to the sensations. That’s normal and shouldn’t cause alarm.
- If you’re planning to use your machine again later the same day, you can leave the pads on. Simply unhook the wires and reattach them when you’re ready again.
- When you’ve finished using your unit, simply remove the pads and clean your skin with soap and water.
Who Can Use a TENS Machine?
TENS therapy is an option for many people because it doesn’t rely on drugs to reduce pain. Several groups of people shouldn’t use it without first speaking with a physician.
If you’re pregnant, you’ll need to avoid using a TENS unit unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.
Some women use them during labor, but only with guidance from a midwife or doctor.
In addition, if you suffer from epilepsy, heart conditions or have pain coming from an unknown source, your best bet is to talk with the doctor before use.
Make sure you also follow all recommendations given in the owner’s manual to keep yourself safe and pain-free.
Who Shouldn’t Use a TENS Machine?
TENS machines are a great alternative to normal pain killing drugs and offer relief to many for their joints, nerves, and muscles.
They’re generally considered safe as long as they’re used according to the operating instructions that come with your unit.
While it’s great for most people, there are, however, people who are not a good fit for TENS therapy.
If you have pain with no diagnosis, see a doctor first. If you’re pregnant, use TENS only if your doctor or midwife says it is okay.
There have been studies of people using them for relief during labor, but this isn’t something you would want to do without guidance from a professional.
In addition, people with a pacemaker or epilepsy should not use TENS unless a doctor says it is safe. The same goes for heart disease, deep vein thrombosis, bleeding disorders or cancer.
Other Ideas to Reduce Pain
Pain can be tough to deal with, especially when it seems to be never-ending.
Here are some things you can incorporate into your best TENS unit for home use to receive the maximum amount of pain relief.
- Relaxation is key to reducing pain. Find ways to relax like getting massages, using essential oils and practising meditation.
- Soak in some warm water, but not with the unit on your body. This is especially helpful with joint conditions or arthritis.
- Try to use a heat pack on the affected area.
- Laugh more. Laughter can help you relax, and it’s fun to do.
Conclusion
A TENS machine can be a useful, drug-free tool for some kinds of pain.
Whatever your pains might be, the TENS unit reviews I’ve provided should shed light into some of the best TENS machines for your needs.
Once you pick the proper machine for you, find quick relief with a variety of modes that will be available to you.
It may help you rely less on pain medication, but don’t stop prescribed medicines without talking to your doctor.
Try a TENS machine for back, neck, joint, and muscular pain if your doctor agrees it is right for you.
