The 6 Best TENS Units of 2024, According to Pain Management Experts

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Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) units are small, portable devices intended to provide pain relief for a variety of conditions, such as sciatica and arthritis. As non-invasive, drug-free pain relievers, TENS units are an attractive alternative to pain pills or injections for people dealing with chronic pain or injury. Suitable for home use, TENS units represent a convenient method of pain management therapy that does not require frequent trips to a doctor, physical therapist or pharmacist.

In this article, we introduce the best TENS units for pain relief in 2024. Additionally, we draw on the expertise of several pain management experts to discuss the benefits and limitations of TENS units and the types of pain they work best for.

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

Our Picks for the Best TENS Unit in 2024:

• Best Overall TENS Unit: Oxiline Tens X Pro
• Best Wireless TENS Unit: iReliev Premium TENS + EMS Therapeutic Wearable System
• Best Portable TENS Unit: Playmakar WiTENS Muscle Stimulator with TENS
• Best TENS Unit for Back Pain: TechCare Massager TENS Unit
• Best TENS Unit for Sciatica: NueMedics TENS Unit Machine Plus Massager
• Best Display TENS Unit: Auvon Touchscreen TENS Unit

Best Overall TENS Unit: Oxiline Tens X Pro

Key features & specs

• Claims: Reduces muscle recovery time; increases the production of chemicals in the body that reduce pain; helpful for muscle injury rehabilitation
• Best for: Athletes and regular gym-goers in need of muscle rehab; individuals seeking pain relief from a muscle injury
• Battery: Lithium-Ion built-in rechargeable battery
• Price: $98.45
• Important features: 32 modes, five-inch backlit touchscreen display, micro-USB charger

Oxiline specializes in top-of-the-line medical diagnostic equipment for all ages and lifestyles. In addition to its top rated TENS units, the company sells blood pressure monitors, oximeters, scales, glucometers and thermometers.

The Oxiline TENS X Pro tops our list as the best overall TENS unit because it has a sophisticated design while still providing easy-to-use functionality. The device employs trademarked Nexus Energy technology developed for hyper-accurate nerve targeting. According to the manufacturer, Nexus Energy provides a precise electrical current stream to achieve fast and longer-lasting pain relief.

With 32 therapy variations, the Oxiline TENS X Pro enables users to address a wide range of pain problems. The unit’s various muscle stimulation modes include deep tissue, acupuncture and cupping, among others. What’s more, the device’s built-in lithium-ion battery supports over 12 hours of continuous use per charge. On top of all this, the Oxiline TENS X Pro has FDA 510(K) clearance.

Customer testimonials suggest that the TENS X Pro works really well for pain relief. Its 11,974 reviews have an average of 4.9/5 stars on Oxiline’s official website. Moreover, at the time of writing, there are no one-, two-, or three-star ratings, only fours and fives. One review from verified buyer Diana W. reads, “I was doubtful, but I had no other choice. I have intense pain from endometriosis and PCS in my lower back, hip and thigh. This unit stopped the pain right away. I will always have this device. I strongly suggest it.”

Another review from verified buyer Edwin M. reads, “Before I tried a TENS machine, I didn't think it would help reduce the pain from my knee injury. But when my physical therapist used it on my knee and I was able to stand up without any pain for the first time in weeks, I knew I had to get one for myself. This machine is really good because it has different levels of intensity and it has two jacks so I can use it on both knees at the same time.”

What we like:

• Lifetime warranty
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Uses high-grade carbon and silicone electrode pads

What to consider:

• Pricey compared to other TENS units on our list

Best Wireless TENS Unit: iReliev Premium TENS + EMS Therapeutic Wearable System

Key features & specs

• Claims: Intercepts the pain signal from your brain to help relieve pain; activates the muscles to speed up recovery and assist in increasing strength and endurance
• Best for: Individuals who want to use a TENS unit without the hassle of cluttered wires
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium battery
• Price: $249.95
• Important features: Six preset EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) modes, seven pre-set TENS modes, Arthritis Mode, 25 adjustable levels, locks to prevent injury

The iReliev Premium TENS + EMS Therapeutic Wearable System allows users to experience their pain relief therapy without the hassle of tripping over wires or getting them tangled. Plus, the rechargeable lithium battery provides hours of long-lasting power for multiple uses between charges.

We rank this device among the best wireless TENS units because it uses easy-to-clean, industry-leading adhesive pads that provide excellent self-stick performance, and you can use it anywhere. Additionally, it has 25 levels of intensity, allowing users to comfortably stimulate different areas of the body according to their tolerance level. It also has a lock function that works as a safety feature to prevent injury.

This TENS unit has a 4.8/5-star rating on the brand’s site and 489 reviews at the time of writing. Multiple reviewers mention having success with using it for pain management. Reviewer Donna M. states, “The large pads with the wireless unit are perfect for treating my lumbar sacral plexus nerve damage while the smaller pad with the wired unit works well on my shoulders. Very happy with this system.” Critical reviews mention having difficulties with operating the system and state that the instructions are not detailed. Others mention having problems with the pads working and staying on. iReliev does have a two-year warranty and offers customer service Monday through Friday for questions and concerns.

What we like:

• Wireless
• Comes with a portable storage box
• Offers 60 minutes of treatment time
• Pods can be paired with a custom channel

What to consider:

• Expensive
• Some reviewers reported that the instruction manual was hard to follow

Best Portable TENS Unit: Playmakar WiTENS Muscle Stimulator with TENS

Key features & specs

• Claims: Blocks pain signals and massages muscles to relieve pain
• Best for: Individuals seeking an easy-to-use TENS unit; individuals seeking temporary relief from shoulder pain, back pain or knee pain
• Battery: 3V CR2032 lithium coin cell battery (non-rechargeable)
• Price: $34.95
• Important features: 10 modes, simple to use, portable and great for travel

The Playmakar WiTENS Muscle Stimulator with TENS has 10 levels of adjustable intensity, allowing users to address a certain area of pain. Users simply place the electrode on the area of need and adjust the intensity to their liking. There are two buttons to toggle it on and off and to change the levels, making the device easy to operate for most people, including seniors. At just 2.3 inches, it's also great for travel or use on the go.

At the time of writing, this TENS unit has earned a 4.8/5-star rating on the Playmakar website but only has five reviews. Reviewers seem to like that this device is easy to use, portable and effective for relieving pain. One review reads, “Great portable, small [unit], no tangly wires. I was surprised that being that they were so small I wouldn't get good muscle stimulation, but boy I was wrong you can wear it under your clothes with no problem. I'm very impressed with this product if they can make such a small device so effective.” The WiTENS Muscle Stimulator with TENS has a one-year limited warranty that applies to the main device and necessary parts and labor.

What we like:

• Small and portable
• Budget-friendly
• Reusable electrode pad

What to consider:

• No channels
• Not rechargeable

Best TENS Unit for Back Pain: TechCare Massager TENS Unit

Key features & specs

• Claims: Increases natural endorphins to relieve pain; effectively blocks pain signals to the brain
• Best for: Individuals seeking relief from back pain
• Battery: Rechargeable internal lithium battery
• Price: $44.99
• Extra features: Large touchscreen display, dual channel A-B output to address two different pain locations simultaneously

TechCare is a leading TENS unit distributor with many years of industry experience. The company’s Massager TENS Unit is a combination of a TENS unit and a Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation (PMS) device, delivering both low-voltage electrical pulses and a high-intensity magnetic field to the painful area for maximum relief.

We rank the TechCare TENS unit as the best TENS unit for back pain because it comes with six large electrode pads ideal for use on a large surface area like the back. Plus, the device’s rechargeable lithium battery allows for 20 hours of continuous use, according to the manufacturer.

Using the device’s dual channel A-B output function, users can massage two different body parts at the same time with different intensity settings.

Reviews for this TENS unit are mostly positive but also include some negative feedback. The negative reviews are from consumers who say their device stopped working shortly after they received it. The thousands of positive reviews suggest that this device works well for pain relief. One review reads, “I have used this several times and my lower back pain has been less than it has been in years. It is easy to use and I love the way you can control the intensity on all of the modes. Well worth the money.”

What we like:

• Comes with a hard cover carrying case
• Combines TENS and PMS

What to consider:

• Some users reported that their device malfunctioned after a few uses

Best TENS Unit for Sciatica: NueMedics TENS Unit Machine Plus Massager

Key features & specs

• Claims: Increases natural endorphins (a natural pain reliever); effectively blocks pain signals traveling to the brain
• Best for: Individuals seeking relief from pain due to sciatica
• Battery: Rechargeable internal lithium battery
• Price: $36.99
• Extra features: 24 modes, dual channel, large LCD display

NueMedics is a TENS unit manufacturer committed to designing high-performance TENS devices and providing premium customer service.

The NueMedics TENS Unit Machine Plus Massager is designed for targeted pain relief. It comes with 10 electrode pads of varying sizes, including six medium, two large and two mini pads. It also features 24 massage modes clearly labeled for use on different body parts, such as the neck, shoulder, back, elbow, hip, foot, hands, knee and other joints.

According to the brand, the device’s rechargeable internal lithium battery allows for 20 hours of continuous use. What’s more, this TENS unit has a safety feature that keeps the intensity button locked until all pads have been securely placed on the skin.

With an average 4.6/5-star rating from over 26,000 reviews, this TENS unit seems to be a hit with customers seeking drug-free pain relief. One reviewer writes, “I bought this TENS Unit to deal with recent neck and shoulder discomfort. Within just a few uses, I already felt relief. Very easy to use, and a five-star product.”

What we like:

• Budget-friendly
• Has a safety feature

What to consider:

• Not a touchscreen TENS device

Best Display TENS Unit: Auvon Touchscreen TENS Unit

Key features & specs

• Claims: Activates the natural pain gating system, helping with pain and muscle spasms caused by neck pain, back pain, knee pain, arthritis and sports injury pain
• Best for: Individuals seeking an easy-to-use TENS unit; individuals seeking relief from shoulder pain, back pain and knee pain
• Battery: 300 mAh rechargeable lithium battery
• Price: $35.99
• Extra features: 24 modes, dual channel, large touchscreen

The Auvon Touchscreen TENS Unit comes with 10 electrode pads and dual channel functionality, allowing users to address two different areas of pain at the same time with different intensities. The device’s 24 different modes include massage techniques such as kneading, beating, cupping, scrapping and acupuncture.

We rank the Auvon Touchscreen TENS Unit as the best display TENS unit because it has a large 3.3-inch by 1.8-inch touchscreen. For comparison, this is nearly double the size of the TENS devices offered by Belifu, a competing TENS unit brand. Plus, the display uses large icons that are easy to visualize, making the device easy to operate for most people, including seniors.

According to the manufacturer, the device’s 300 mAh rechargeable lithium battery supports up to 40 hours of usage per full charge. The device also has a memory function, enabling users to quickly select their preferred therapy setting at the beginning of each session.

At the time of writing, this TENS unit has earned a 4.5/5-star rating on Amazon from over 400 reviews. Reviewers seem to like that this device is easy to use, customizable and effective for relieving pain. One review reads, “[I] bought this for my elderly mother who doesn't read or write English. This has large enough icons and symbols that made it very easy for her to learn how to use. She says it works well for her back pain. I love that it comes with a tray to set the pads on after taking them off so that they can be used multiple times.”

What we like:

• Large touchscreen
• Customizable therapy mode presets for additional ease of use
• Reusable electrode pads

What to consider:

• Some reviewers reported that their device malfunctioned shortly after using it

What Is a TENS Unit?

TENS units are small, portable, battery-powered electrical nerve stimulation devices that can be purchased online and through direct-to-consumer sites,” says Karen Wu, PT, DPT, board-certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy. “Larger, stationary units can be found in healthcare provider offices,” she adds.

In addition to nerve stimulation, some TENS units offer additional therapies, such as electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) and peripheral magnetic stimulation (PMS).

“TENS units operate on the principle of stimulating sensory nerves and altering pain perception,” explains Nick Voci PT, DPT, doctor of physical therapy and owner of Manchester Physical Therapy. “By delivering mild electrical impulses through electrode pads placed on the skin near the site of pain, TENS units activate the gate control theory of pain modulation. This theory suggests that the electrical signals generated by TENS units effectively close the ‘gate’ that allows pain signals to pass to the brain. Moreover, TENS therapy may facilitate the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers.”

While the gate control and endorphin release theories are most commonly put forth to explain how TENS units affect pain perception, it is important to note that exactly how TENS units work to relieve pain isn’t fully understood. According to some experts, the placebo effect is the more likely rationale behind their observed pain relieving effects.

“Given our current understanding, TENS units work likely by relying heavily—or entirely—on the placebo effect,” says Andrew Gottschalk, MD, an Orthopedic Sports Medicine physician. “The good news is the placebo effect is a very real phenomenon, and may work between one-third and two-thirds of the time,” he adds.

Whether it is due to nerve gate control, endorphin release or the placebo effect, it’s hard to deny that many sufferers of pain have reported significant pain relief results from TENS treatment.

Benefits of TENS Units

“TENS units can be highly beneficial to those suffering from chronic pain,” says Suzanne Manzi, MD, board-certified physician in pain management. “By delivering low-voltage electrical stimulation to the affected area, these devices can offer short-term relief from pain and inflammation," she says. "Additionally, TENS units can encourage muscle relaxation and increase blood flow, promoting healing and fast recovery. As such, they are an invaluable tool for managing acute and chronic pain.”

“TENS units can be used to treat a wide array of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, joint pain, sciatica, tendinitis and more. They are especially effective for muscle strain, muscle spasms and nerve pain related to conditions like sciatica and carpal tunnel syndrome,” Manzi says.

Additionally, consumers have reported positive results using a TENS unit for fibromyalgia, postoperative pain, arthritis, neuropathic pain, musculoskeletal pain and sports injuries.

“However, it is important to note that TENS units may not be as effective for visceral pain, internal organ pain or pain resulting from deep tissue injuries,” says Voci.

Precautions

“While TENS units generally pose very low risk, certain people should avoid using them,” Manzi says. “Pacemaker users, pregnant women, those with epilepsy and those with undiagnosed pain should not use a TENS unit. Additionally, those with skin irritation or open wounds should not use TENS units. Anyone considering using a TENS unit should consult with their doctor first."

“Moreover, individuals with skin conditions or a heightened sensitivity to electrical stimulation should exercise caution or seek medical advice before using TENS units,” Voci says.

If you fall into one of the above categories, rest assured that there are several other drug-free options for pain relief. “In addition to TENS units, there are a variety of non-invasive and non-pharmacological alternatives for managing pain,” Manzi says. “Acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic manipulation, heat therapy, cold therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy can all be effective in managing pain. Additionally, dietary changes, exercise, relaxation techniques and lifestyle modifications may help to manage and reduce pain.”

In regards to lifestyle modifications, these can be as simple as purchasing a better mattress, wearing more comfortable shoes or incorporating dietary supplements into your daily wellness regimen, such as anti-inflammatory supplements or joint supplements for knee pain.

If you opt for a home TENS unit, understand that there are certain areas of the body where a TENS unit should not be used. “TENS should not be applied to areas where open wounds are present, areas of decreased sensation (numbness), over the eyes or front of the neck or to the chest region, especially if the individual has a pacemaker,” says Dr. Tom Walters, PT, DPT, CSCS, PES, doctor of physical therapy and specialist in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and movement disorders.

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best TENS Unit

For this roundup of the best home TENS unit, we considered several criteria, including brand reputation, customer reviews, price, battery life, special features and the device’s ease of use. We looked for TENS units that were easy to operate, provided flexibility in terms of therapy mode options, had a good price-to-performance ratio and appeared to be effective for pain relief according to customer testimonials.

Best TENS Unit FAQs

How often should I use a TENS unit?

For many users, daily sessions lasting around 30 to 60 minutes seem to be helpful. For best results, start with a lower amount of time (e.g. 15 minutes) and slowly work your way up.

Where shouldn’t you use a TENS unit?

TENS should not be applied to areas where open wounds are present, the face, genitals, areas of decreased sensation (numbness), infected tissue, damaged skin, the eyes, the front of the neck or to the chest region.

Does a TENS unit relax muscles?

Yes and no. The best TENS machines will indirectly promote muscle relaxation—TENS works by delivering low-voltage electrical impulses to the skin through electrodes, which can help to block or modify pain signals sent to the brain. When the nervous system perceives less pain, the result can be less tension in the muscles. However, we must also note that TENS is not a direct muscle relaxant like some medications. Similarly, the question often arises: "Does the TENS unit promote healing?" While TENS primarily focuses on pain relief, the enhanced comfort and diminished pain may support the body's natural healing processes by allowing for increased mobility and reduced discomfort.

How do you use a TENS unit?

To use a TENS unit:

• Place electrodes: Put pads on clean, dry skin where you feel pain.
• Power up: Turn on the TENS unit and adjust settings (intensity and frequency).
• Start slow: Begin with low intensity, gradually increasing until you feel a tingling sensation
• Duration: Use for 15-30 minutes per session, following guidelines

Also, remember that the best setting will depend on the location and type of pain you are dealing with, as well as your tolerance level for prolonged muscle stimulation (in the case of combined TENS EMS units).

Can you overuse a TENS unit?

Yes, you can overuse a TENS unit. While TENS is generally considered safe when used as directed, excessive use may lead to skin irritation or desensitization to the electrical impulses, reducing its effectiveness over time, according to a study published in StatPearls. Follow the recommended guidelines furnished by the device manufacturer and, if applicable, the advice of your healthcare professional. Overusing a TENS unit can also mask underlying issues that delay proper treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting TENS therapy.

Are TENS units safe?

TENS units are considered generally safe for many people to use. However, they should not be used by pacemaker users, pregnant women, those with epilepsy or those with undiagnosed pain.

Takeaway: Is a TENS Unit Worth It?

TENS units appear to be effective for relieving pain related to a wide variety of conditions, including fibromyalgia, sciatica, arthritis and injury. The method by which TENS units work to relieve pain is not yet fully understood, but patients and clinicians have reported successful results from their use. For individuals interested in a non-invasive, drug-free method of pain relief, TENS units represent a solid option. While they are relatively low-risk and generally safe for many people, TENS units are not suitable for everyone. Consult your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional before using a TENS unit for pain management.