A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator, more commonly referred to as a "TENS UNIT". Tens, is an electronic device that produces electrical signals used to stimulate nerves through unbroken skin. The unit is usually connected to the skin using two or more electrodes. A typical battery-operated TENS unit consists of a pulse generator, a small transformer, frequency and intensity controls, and a number of electrodes.
Uses
TENS is considered a method of pain relief, particular for use in obstetric care, particularly in labour. There is little data on its efficacy and some obstetricians maintain that it is ineffective.
In palliative care and pain medicine, TENS units are sometimes used in an attempt to alleviate neuropathic pain (pain due to nerve damage). Although results are modest, some patients benefit from this approach.
A meta-analysis of studies going back many years indicates that TENS is an effective treatment for chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Most people use pre-gelled self-adhering electrodes (single patient use) to transmit the electrical signal through the skin, while most clinicians use carbon-impregnated silicone rubber electrodes with a water based conductive gel so that the pads may be cleaned between applications on different patients.