TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a non-invasive pain management modality that uses gentle electrical pulses delivered through adhesive pads placed on the skin. In physiotherapy, TENS may be used to help reduce pain sensitivity and improve comfort so you can move more confidently and participate in your rehabilitation plan.

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we may use electrical stimulation modalities in-clinic and we can also discuss small portable TENS devices that some clients use at home as part of their self-management strategies.

How TENS may help

TENS is commonly used to support:

• short-term pain relief

• reduced muscle guarding related to pain

• improved tolerance to movement and exercise

• flare-up management strategies at home

TENS is typically used as an adjunct—it supports comfort, but it doesn’t replace assessment, exercise rehabilitation, education, and long-term management.

TENS vs IFT (Interferential Therapy): what’s the difference?

Both TENS and IFT use electrical stimulation, but they’re commonly applied in different ways:

TENS (often home-based)

• Usually delivered through a small portable unit

• Designed for pain modulation (helping reduce pain signals)

• Often used for self-management at home between appointments

• Parameters can be adjusted based on comfort and symptom response

IFT (in-clinic interferential therapy)

• Typically delivered through a clinic device with more flexible settings

• Uses intersecting currents with the aim of reaching deeper tissues more comfortably for some people

• Often used in-clinic to support pain relief and muscle relaxation, particularly when symptoms are limiting rehab progress

Your clinician will recommend the most suitable option based on your presentation, goals, and what you’re trying to achieve.

Portable home TENS devices

For some clients, a portable TENS unit can be a helpful tool for managing symptoms at home—especially during flare-ups or when pain is interfering with sleep, activity, or exercise participation.

If you’re interested, we can:

• discuss whether a home TENS unit is appropriate for you

• show you correct pad placement and safe settings

• provide guidance on how to use it as part of your broader management plan
  
  

Safety and suitability

TENS is not suitable for everyone. Your clinician will screen for precautions, including (but not limited to) implanted electronic devices (e.g., pacemakers), certain cardiac conditions, pregnancy (depending on the area treated), and skin sensitivity or reduced sensation.

Always follow clinician advice and the device instructions.

Book an appointment or ask us about TENS

If you’d like to discuss whether TENS or IFT is suitable for your pain management plan, book a physiotherapy appointment and we’ll guide you through your options.