Member-only story
Using a TENS Machine to Relieve Lower Back Pain
While experts may not fully agree on whether transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) really helps with lower back pain, they generally think it’s safe and doesn’t cause many problems. You can find out the best spots to put the TENS pads to help with this kind of pain.
A TENS unit is a small device that sends gentle electrical pulses through pads placed on your body to help ease pain. These pulses stop pain signals from reaching your brain and spinal cord.
The idea of using electricity for pain relief goes way back to Roman times, about 2,000 years ago. A Roman doctor named Scribonius Largus thought that electric fish from the sea could help with pain.
Today, TENS units are approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for various types of pain relief:
- Chronic pain
- Pain after surgery or injury
- Temporary pain from sore muscles due to exercise, work, or daily activities
- Arthritis
To find out more about using a TENS unit to potentially manage back pain, keep reading.
Placement of TENS Pads for Lower Back Pain
TENS units have small pads that stick to your skin. These pads help relieve pain. You can place the pads where you feel pain.
- If your unit has two pads, put one on each side of the painful area, keeping them at least 1 inch apart. For back pain on both sides, place one pad on each side of your spine. If you have pain on one side, place both pads close together on that side of your spine.
- If your unit has four pads, use one set above and another below the painful area to help ease the pain.
Is it safe to apply a TENS unit directly to my spine?
It’s best not to place TENS pads directly on your spine. Also, avoid placing TENS pads in these areas:
- The front or sides of your neck
- The sides of your head
- Near your eyes or mouth
- Areas that feel numb
- Over varicose veins
- Skin that’s infected or…
