Device
TENS unit
A TENS unit is a small, battery-powered device with wires and electrode pads that sends mild electrical pulses through the skin to relieve pain, used as your clinician and the device instructions direct.
The NHS describes a TENS machine as a small, portable device with a battery and wires with sticky pads that you put on your skin. This site uses the term TENS unit for the same device. The unit makes the electrical pulses. The lead wires carry them to the electrode pads. The unit has controls that set the current, and the NHS advises turning the dial slowly until you feel a tingling sensation that is not painful. The NHS says you can buy a TENS machine online or in shops, and a prescription device must carry an "Rx only" label under 21 CFR 801.109, so check your model's label. Follow your clinician's and your device's instructions. Read TENS unit safety before you start.
Related terms
Sources
Questions about your unit or a bill?
Call toll free. For customer care, ask for extension 508.