Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) has become a popular option for people seeking relief from pain without relying entirely on medication. TENS uses small electrical pulses delivered through pads placed on the skin. These pulses travel along nerve pathways, helping to interrupt the pain signals your body is sending to the brain. Research also shows that TENS can encourage the release of endorphins, the body’s own natural pain-relieving chemicals.
Unlike pain medication, which works through chemical pathways to reduce inflammation or alter nerve firing patterns, TENS works by directly interfering with the pain signals themselves. This difference is why many people want to understand how these two methods compare.
TENS has been around for decades, but recent studies have refined its effectiveness. A large review of hundreds of clinical trials showed that TENS can significantly reduce pain compared to no treatment or a placebo device. This is crucial because earlier studies often used too low of a stimulation level or poorly placed electrodes, which made TENS seem less effective than it really is. When used properly, many people feel relief during or shortly after their session, although the relief usually fades once the device is turned off. For this reason, TENS is best seen as a tool to help manage symptoms rather than a cure for the underlying condition.
Pain medication, on the other hand, works systemically by spreading throughout the body. Over-the-counter medications can reduce inflammation or alter the way the brain processes pain, offering relief for several hours. Stronger prescription medications can provide even deeper relief, especially for more intense pain. However, medications come with side effects, such as stomach irritation from NSAIDs, liver issues from acetaminophen, or the risk of addiction with opioids.
Interestingly, TENS and medication do not have to compete. In many medical settings, TENS has been used to reduce the amount of pain medication needed. Some people use TENS to manage daily activities that would otherwise be too painful, reducing their reliance on medication. Others use TENS for mild pain and save medication for more persistent discomfort.
One of the main advantages of TENS is its safety profile. When used correctly, the risks are minimal. Most people experience only mild skin redness at the site where the pads are placed, which usually disappears after a short time. Problems typically arise when the intensity is set too high or the pads are incorrectly placed. There are some exceptions: people with pacemakers, epilepsy, or certain heart conditions should consult a doctor before using TENS, as should pregnant individuals.
The decision between TENS and medication ultimately depends on the specific situation. Pain has many causes—arthritis, nerve irritation, muscle strain, and post-surgical discomfort all behave differently. TENS can offer quick relief, helping people move more freely and improve daily function, while medication may provide more lasting relief, particularly when pain is persistent or related to inflammation.
For people considering TENS, the research is promising. While TENS is not a cure for the underlying cause of pain, it can offer real, noticeable relief for many individuals. It provides a non-drug alternative that can help reduce reliance on medication, giving people more control over their pain management. For those who prefer to avoid medication or need to use it less frequently, TENS can be an effective addition to their routine.
In the end, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to pain management. The most important thing is having options. TENS is a safe, practical tool that can complement other pain management strategies, helping individuals stay active, reduce discomfort, and maintain control over their symptoms.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537188/
https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/784
