How to Use a TENS Unit for Pain Relief - Ask Doctor Jo

A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit is used to help reduce pain and increase circulation. Basically the vibration of the TENS follows the same pathway as the pain does to the brain and helps cancel it out. Purchase a CUH TENS Unit: www.askdoctorjo.com/tens-unit-...
Related Video:
TENS Unit for Pain Management & EMS for Muscle Rehab:
• TENS Unit for Pain Man...
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How to Use a TENS Unit for Pain Relief:
• How to Use a TENS Unit...
DISCLAIMER: This content (the video, description, links, and comments) is not medical advice or a treatment plan and is intended for general education and demonstration purposes only. This content should not be used to self-diagnose or self-treat any health, medical, or physical condition. Don’t use this content to avoid going to your own healthcare professional or to replace the advice they give you. Consult with your healthcare professional before doing anything contained in this content. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Ask Doctor Jo, LLC and its officers for any and all losses, injuries, or damages resulting from any and all claims that arise from your use or misuse of this content. Ask Doctor Jo, LLC makes no representations about the accuracy or suitability of this content. Use of this content is at your sole risk.
PRODUCT PLACEMENT DISCLAIMER: This video contains paid product placement. Thank you to CUH for sponsoring this video and providing Doctor Jo with a free TENS Unit to use.

[@AskDoctorJo]

Purchase a TENS/EMS Unit here (Note: This is not the one featured in the video, it is no longer available): amzn.to/2LYI5rL (affiliate link) Don't forget to hit the 🔴 *SUBSCRIBE* 🔴 button above! *Find all of my videos at **kzbin.info*

[@2mycup]

Hi Dr. I had physical therapy last year in South Korea. I have knee tendonitis and a baker's cyst. I had heat and tens therapy. The pads were a bit different, they were more like suction cups instead of the peel off that you show on the video. Anyway I'm back in the States and my knee is hurting again. Do you recommend this machine or an ultrasound one? Thanks

[@AskDoctorJo]

If you are looking more for pain relief, a TENS would probably be better.

[@lesliepresinal4803]

Heyy Dr. Jo I have a a pain pump in my abdomen and metal in my lower back will this be safe? I want to use it on my lower back

[@fromfjord]

When ending the treatment does the tens unit intensity have to be turned down gradually or can you just hit off button if not using timer?

[@msb9582]

Hi Doctor! Can we use this device to help swallowing ?

[@BeReal918]

I use the TENS 7000 for pain relief because I do EXTREMELY well with pain meds, which turns into addiction REAL QUICK! Be very careful with opiate pain meds because they can make ANYONE dependent upon them and then eventually addicted to them so when you stop taking, you get very sick and makes anxiety levels go through the roof. Took me over 7 years to get clean from an addiction that started from an injury. Be safe and God Bless!

[@jacket5456]

Same, I'm an addict. I was worried, with my new found back pain, I would have to start taking Kratom again. This is helping massively and I've only been using it for 5 minutes.

[@chroniceverything]

Thank you! My Pain Management Dr recommend a TENS unit to me. I got mine a couple days ago and it’s been “ok-good”. I read the instruction booklet. Nowhere did it mention the cross-cross placement. I’m treating chronic low back pain, and when my husband crisscrossed them on my back for me today it made SUCH a difference! It is now a solid good+ for helping me manage my pain.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@mamallamaandthelittles]

What happened? :) Do you still use it? Did it 'fix' the pain long term? Thanks! ❤

[@Lucy_Lou126]

Hi! I don’t know if you’ll see this, but I have complex chronic lower back pain from an injury. I am a teenage girl and am abt to see a pain management dr if my pain persists- I have had surgery. TENS may be an option. Do you still use it and does it relieve your pain? Is it comfortable? Good luck xx

[@tedfinkenauer42]

You should be included in the box. Very well explained

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks :-)

[@amirulsafwan4619]

hahaha

[@believerwalkthewalk7280]

LOL

[@Ariautoace]

Hahaha best comment of 2022 I've seen.

[@OfficialDMPBaby]

😂😂👍🏼

[@Julie-hy8ty]

Just purchased one from ALDI. It has 39 TENS programs for pain relief. 19 EMS muscle stimulation. 10 massage program for relaxing. For $29.99 I'm very happy. You were super helpful with explaining how to properly use it. :-)

[@hamnarao3534]

Which country? Australia?

[@7saany]

aldi what store? In US?

[@Julie-hy8ty]

In the USA , here in Florida 😃

[@floofyfloof616]

Ah! Just got mine tonight, my period cramps are being really bad these past few months and someone recommend a TENs unit, I finally decided to get one and it works so well!

[@lizbettbermudez3287]

@@7saany wtf!!??!! Aldi’s has one? Amazing store

[@ivyb4351]

I got mine on Amazon for $25 had it for 3 days I can't imagine going without it now or how I ever did

[@ninacis99]

Which did you get?

[@I-speak-U-shut-it]

@@ninacis99 Zero response from her. Guess you'll never know lol

[@thurm101]

Just start using my wife’s unit that she had in a drawer. This is awesome. It relaxes me. First night I used it on my back I woke up feeling great. I usually only use it for 15 minuets sessions. But it’s great. Didn’t know it shouldn’t contradict the muscle, but to only lightly vibrate it.

[@AskDoctorJo]

Glad it's helping.

[@victortorres6800]

I think that unit was a vibrator not a tens unit.😂😂😂

[@sshaw4429]

I bought it two years ago….best thing I ever did! Omg….wonderful.

[@daspencer4537]

I just received mine today, different brand but very similar, and your explanation is waaaaaay better than the one that came with it. I was especially happy to learn about crossing them to get the current in the proper place...I never would've known that without you. I'm learning so much from your videos. Thank you so much!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@bukonla]

A year later how have you found the device? Do you recommend?

[@jeffbell7309]

@@AskDoctorJohow do you turn it on

[@sabbatarian_muslim]

A coworker bought me a TENS/EMS unit last week. Never used one before. Thank you for these videos. Can't wait to give it a try and see if it helps with my back spasms.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@gmw0507]

I enjoy my TENS unit. I've had it for about 3 years and use it on my neck and lower back when I have minor aches. I like your shirt too.

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks.

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks

[@lakhdartn]

Which mode do u use plz for neck and lower back

[@FestusBro]

I really have enjoyed getting the TENS treatment at my chiropractor’s. Now I can do it anytime! I watched this as preparation for my first at-home use.

[@franklacasella1664]

Dr. Jo does an excellent demonstration the use & function of the tens unit.

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks!

[@vedder10]

I've had several TENS machines and never knew the difference between EMS machines or how to properly place the pads. So glad I came across this video. Thank you for such a wonderful public service.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@jafo3814]

Hi Dr. Jo... Thanks for the informative video on how to use a TENS unit. It helped me make up my mind about TENS, and I had purchased a TENS unit through your linked webpage. Your tip on how to place the pads sealed the deal for me!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. I hope it helps!

[@Mark-xb7ro]

Slay

[@wightmoves]

Many thanks. Just bought this exact product but the instructions were useless, this helped explain things very well

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. Good luck.

[@GrandpaD78]

As always, a great instructional video! Thank you!

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome!

[@CaraBree]

Thank you greatly for this video. I am new to using one and had no clue where to begin with it! This video was very helpful. I have learned how to use it and I love it! Thank you again!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@tegomarartsandillustration2564]

Great explanation, I have been using the pen for a long time for injuries n pain and it’s great plus icing . 👍

[@mishelmk]

Using for my shoulder pain due to mouse usage for 10 hours at work. Life saver

[@ernstgenzs7456]

Thanks doc! Really appreciate your tips on using the tens. I have golfers elbow and will give it a shot for the first time.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@limitlesspotential9599]

Thank you so much for making this video.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@mikeystheone]

I have perferal neuropathy and went to a doctor for a similar treatment and I ended up with it but not as much, so I put it on the part of my foot below my toes for 30 minutes and It relieves a lot of my numbness and I even feel my toes when I wiggle them, this is the first time and on my worst foot....to be continued

[@AskDoctorJo]

I hope it continues to help.

[@abbykolo2303]

So can you use this for sore muscles? I'm looking into one for my boyfriend. He's a factory working and his neck and back are forever sore.

[@Amm1ttai]

Thank you, this was very informative. I just purchased a new updated TENS/EMS, to replace one that was discontinued, and neither one gave clear instructions on how to place the electrodes. The TENS is amazing for my fibromyalgia.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks.

[@RavenStar16]

I pick mine up tomorrow!! Never used this before but I have used a muscle stimulator. I've had moderate to severe DAILY lower back pain from multiple issues including bulging discs, spasms, and especially OsteoFacet Arthritis/Osteoarthritis for 14 YEARS!! I'm on really high doses of Opiods and they really do help, however due to the current climate regarding Opiods, I'm being punished for other people's addictions, overdoses, and other issues. Nice, huh? Anyways, I'm gonna try PT again and this time I'm trying this, too. Wish me luck!!!

[@AskDoctorJo]

I hope it helps! Good luck!!

[@KevinHernandez-qz8sb]

Update?

[@jamestinecook3544]

I have pain in the inner side of my ankle left and and my shoulders what do you suggest in setting with Tens and placement

[@STEAMBOLTANNIE]

USING OPIODS MASKS THE PAIN AND YOU REALLY CANT TELL IF THE TENS MACHINE OR ESPECIALLY YOUR EXERCISES ARE HELPING YOU OR NOT. I ENDED UP HAVING BACK SURGERY BUT A YEAR BEFORE THAT HAPPENED I WAS ABLE TO STOP 90% OF THE PAIN WITH REGULAR BACK EXERCISES. IT TAKES TIME BUT THEY WORK. 16 YEARS AFTER MY BACK SURGERY I HAVE NOT HAD ANY BACK PROBLEMS AT ALL. I ADMIT I HAVE TO WATCH WHAT I AM DOING AND STRENGTHENING MY BACK AND CORE WAS PARAMOUNT. AND I REALIZE THAT SOMETIMES PAIN MEDS ARE NECESSARY BUT TRY TO NOT RELY ON THEM. GOOD LUCK TO ALL

[@hooktonfonix]

Raven Star he hasnt respond, RIP

[@donnagibson3084]

I just purchased an XPDS 18. I have Patello Femoral Syndrome and I was wondering which setting and trigger points you would recommend for that. Also, I broke my clavicle and had surgery to put it back together with plates. The plates are now removed but because my clavicle is now a bit shorter, I had a lot of stiffness in the area particularly in the fascia surrounding it. Would you be able to recommend the setting and trigger points to help that area? Any help would be much appreciated.

[@webmaster4ZLCB]

Very good video. Thanks for the info!

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome!

[@gr8miller]

Hello Dr, I would like to know if I should use it before or after icing my knee. Thank you

[@lisascott2841]

Can you be included in the box with my tens unit 🤣 Awesome review Dr. Jo! I have wide spread body pain from my shunt malfunction and I'm starting physiotherapy soon, being hooked up to the tens unit. I'm praying it works cause I've tried several pain meds for pain, and nothing works. My pain is a ten 24/7 🤞🏻

[@AskDoctorJo]

I'm not sure I would fit. 😂 But seriously, I hope it helps give you some relief.

[@lisascott2841]

@@AskDoctorJo 😂 Awww thanks Dr. Jo 🙏🏼🤞🏻 I'll let you know how it is as soon as I start on it with my physical therapist soon.

[@karliehatcher]

I just got one for my birthday, I am so excited to use this. Thanks for this video.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. Good luck, and Happy Birthday!

[@lindsayhengehold5341]

My tens unit really helps with my lower back pain and is a godsend!

[@mamallamaandthelittles]

Mine too, first day using it :) Do you have to continue using it?

[@tonycody38]

You really gave some good pointers on how to use the tens thank you 💪🏆

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@nicoleendres3976]

Best explanation, thank you.

[@lizbettbermudez3287]

Freakin finally a video that explains what I typed in the search. Seriously best video for this Tens Unit. Totally subcribing!!! I know what's in the box. 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks! 😎

[@popoymotmot]

Hi Doc Jo I just want to ask if the tens unit would help to lessen the pain of someone who underwent a hip fracture surgery? Does it help to speed up the healing process to walk again or it has no effect at all?

[@Bonzman]

I injured my knee a couple of years ago and had an a uncomfortable pain still, I bought a tens machine a week ago and use it first thing in the morning and just before bedtime and the pain is now a dull ache and I have better mobility and only use a walking stick now and then. It's the best £17.50 I've ever spent.

[@ruqayyahkhan8290]

Hi which tens machine did you buy?

[@alleynanci]

Hi how’s your knee now?

[@annek.h4999]

Hey Dr Jo, is a TENS unit good for someone with arthritis?

[@pault477]

Got mine today. See question below

[@arishbellam7804]

Hi, thanks for the explicit explanation. Does it work for trigeminal nerve pain relief ?

[@pedroghirotti]

This is a great video Jo! Thank you!

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome!

[@sweetnothings12]

This is very informative I just ordered myself one for the first time. I have a pinched nerve in my lower back and inflammation.

[@AskDoctorJo]

I hope it helps.

[@relaxlove.3678]

How did it work. I'm having that problem right now!

[@deloresayers4677]

I agree with the commentator that said the directions with the device are useless. THEY ARE!! I would NEVER have known how to use it if not for you.

[@hellfire3307]

Thanks

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@maxpowers3732]

Thanks so much for the video. I have the JQ-5C and used it for the first time today. Will it help get rid of tennis elbow or does it only mask the pain? Also, where exactly should I place it relative to where hurts?

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. It does help with the healing as long as you are doing proper stretches and exercises as well. This might help with the placement: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXbJmn2CYq-GlZY

[@palomahealing5073]

I just bought one and I think this will probably really help me, cos I have a lot nerve damage from so many falls on each knee!🥴 Thanx

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@edwinlopezjr]

Great video. Thanks

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome.

[@danielho2452]

can i ask, does it means, when my muscles contract, i place on the "wrong" place? and i should change the location?

[@ellobo761]

Thank you for clarification!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@gl4d10]

thank you, i learned a lot from this video

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@lbburgett]

So glad to be watching this BEFORE I buy a TENS unit! Thank you.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@cesarcolli1042]

Me too

[@propickleballgear8718]

Should it be used before or after you exercise?

[@indierockguitar6875]

Just got a unit. Very thorough tutorial.

[@AskDoctorJo]

I hope it helps. Good luck.

[@johnnyhall4856]

This is very helpful!!Thank You So much!!Love your vids!💖💖

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome!

[@got2go4word]

Thanks Doc Jo!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@jamesohara3545]

Now I get it, thanks Doctor Jo!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@joyceelorm4824]

How do you interpret the movement of the hands?

[@georgeplagianos6487]

Thanks for your help phone tips I'm still free to use that I bought mine at Walgreens a week ago and still nervous about using it I don't know why I just feel apprehensive them going to mess it up thanks again I hope I get the feel comfortable and started using this as my shoulder pain as arthritis and bursitis probably thanks to my dad and it's starting to get pretty bad where I can't not sleep even with ibuprofen . I'm 67 years old it's just been bothering me for the past 6 months thanks again all the best bye

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. I hope it helps.

[@AldrinHartunian]

Thanks for this video

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@mylastduchess9998]

THANK YOU. So very much. This was so helpful.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@SkeeterSLC]

Not sure if you're still replying to comments but you're awesome for replying to as many as you did! Just bought one for some trapezius pain and tension in my upper left side. Do you think I need to be concerned with proximity to my heart? Using it on my back of course and have no history of heart disease. Thank you for your video!

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome! As long as you are cleared by your doctor, that area should be fine. I do have a few other videos on TENS for the upper back/shoulder area if you want to take a look. You can find all my videos on my channel: kzbin.info

[@chrisdaly7802]

Very helpful!

[@leifonthewind7232]

Just got one I’m picking it up later on today. I’m hopeful this helps with my chronic leg pain. The other day the cramping was so bad I was writhing in bed. I’m really hoping this will be a good solution; nothing else I’ve tried has worked so far, had this issue over a decade now and no diagnosis

[@AskDoctorJo]

I hope it helps.

[@Iandelgado22]

would you recommend this device for a partial torn pectoral. Im nervous the sensation might actually do more harm than good.

[@anomalia3629]

Thanks for the explanation, it helped me a lot! I noticed that my device has two electrodes on the same side that do not generate stimulation, are they defective? I read that positive poles have a lower charge and it could be that but I don't feel anything when I test them alone. Are they supposed to be like this? And can I continue using it anyway?

[@amyrobinluest5019]

When using the TENS unit on arm for tennis elbow, can wearing a watch cause an electrical burn on the skin under the watch?

[@marcus7717]

u r an angel thank u sooo much doc ..

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@j9fire]

Thank you so much for this information. I ordered a unit and it came with NO instructions. Your video is super helpful.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks. Good luck!

[@bannerhulk4607]

Very informative!

[@samanthanicoleluis763]

Thank you

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@anglojojo]

Thanks for sharing, heh my doc just gave me the device without these precise explanation in regards to the currents and placements. I will try it out thanks.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@brucehoskings3449]

Hi Dr Jo love your work, I have had a TKR 18 months ago and still have great pain trying to cycle will this help. Thanks Bruce

[@AskDoctorJo]

Unfortunately, I don't know if it will help since I can't evaluate you. It really depends on what is making the pain continue. They are pretty inexpensive, so as long as you don't have any precautions to use it, it might be worth trying.

[@sirena0772]

Awe went to the amazon link and it said that they were unavailable bummer

[@elaineberg7985]

how long do you use it for?

[@nicoleashley409]

Thank you for explaining this🥰

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@sambam4141]

Hi Doctor Jo, I wanted to know if I could use this for Costochondritis and breast cyst pain. Thank you.

[@AskDoctorJo]

As long as you don't have any heart issues, that should be fine.

[@christophedaniel4286]

And don’t put it near your heart

[@Jaecinth]

Thanks!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thank you for your support!

[@solotravellerfoodcritic]

Is this any good for sciatica? I put it on 'bust' on level 5 and it made me jump!!!!

[@floyd4311]

HAHAHAHAHA, I know this is an informative video, but I had to laugh about the Tea Rex shirt. Love it! Thanks for the video Doc.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks 😎

[@AlexRides808]

I like to use mine just before a heavy lift day to stimulate the muscles.

[@pault477]

Which one will give me the greatest relief after a TKR? Thanks.

[@KenDiaries]

Great instructions! Thank you 🤘

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome!

[@wheelsturn]

should your settings for pain be what you can tolerate? I have mine set at width 190 and Rate at rate at 140 hz at about level 3 and set at modulation. This is for lower back pain. Thanks

[@AskDoctorJo]

It should be strong, but comfortable. This is to help relax the muscles, so if you are feeling any pain from the settings, it's probably too much.

[@joeygelling9199]

Does it actually FIX your pain? Where it heals you/brings down the tightness and inflammation?

[@ikmor]

Very good question

[@maureenbachmann1858]

Yes. It increases circulation and reduces inflammation. Blood flow is critical to healing.

[@mythic6117]

@@maureenbachmann1858 ice does the same thing

[@amunkhufu]

Awesome help, Thanks! Can you show us hot to use TENS for femoral nerve (meralgia paresthetica)?

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks. Over the thigh area where you feel the pain might help.

[@mnaz650]

Omg we might be related😂

[@TCJAZZ-MUSIC]

Great video - Thank you for taking the time to post this - very helpful. I'm currently dealing with a nerve problem in my lower back. Hope this helps ... Thanks again and all the best to you...!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. I hope it helps too.

[@kipdon]

I'd like to know if it helps you out or not? TIA

[@mariposa0621]

Dr. Jo, thanks so much for explaining about crossing the electrodes -- you were right, the unit I got did not adequately explain that. Thanks again!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome! Good luck.

[@rodrigoroa17]

Hello doctor, could you recommend me where I can locate the points? I have pain in the pelvic floor and it extends to the bladder and the urethra and the pain increases if I cent in the diagram it shows that point 70. but it does not say where to put the electrodes

[@marilynbenamer7648]

Thank you Dr.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@Paintbug]

Thank you. Very helpful.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@amstrongsamuel3201]

Does cervical traction impact neck pain associated with disc herniation?

[@conniebrown7542]

Hi Dr Jo...I have subscribed, and even purchased your exercises for my legs. My question is can you show me some placements for the pads for my feet/legs for neuropathy? Thank you!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks for subscribing! It really just depends on where you are feeling the most pain/numbness since it's different for everyone. This one shows placements at the ankle which might help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z2OZgZdnaZx3bq8

[@ranaayman1952]

What if I have just two channel? Should I put it in opposite direction ?

[@joytitusc3727]

Is this the best for chronic osteoarthritic & nerve neck & back pain?

[@sergiomartin2007]

Hi Dr.Jo, thank you for your video. I just purchased a unit that has 4 ports. 2 can be configured for TENS and 2 for EMS simultaneously. So I have lots of options for simultaneous muscle groups. My main purpose TENS is pain relief for an L3 extricated hernia and EMS for legs, abs and arms during my long inactivity process. My question is, what combination TENS - EMS muscle groups would you recommend simultaneosly. And more importantly how long should I use for each function on a daily basis. I have options from 10 to 90 minute sessions. Many thanks in advance for your shared experience.

[@Deleted11100]

Hello! I apologise as this is a little irrelevant to the TENS device, however I have this fairly cheap electro magnetic pulse stimulator, as you mention at the start of this video my muscles contract and twitch as the shocks intensify, I just wanted to know is this totally safe? I do not have any resisting heart conditions to worry about, but something about my muscles contracting with each shock seems unnatural and unhealthy, is there really some benefit to this? Thankyou! X

[@tpose5637]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@ivanav2843]

Hi thank you for your video. Is this device good for sciatica nerve pain for my dad who is 81 years old?

[@user-dz5hd9sf6l]

Thank u dr. Jo

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@jameswalsh2427]

Excellent. Greetings from Limerick city Ireland

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks!