How does TENS differ from IFT?

IFT uses two crossing medium-frequency currents to target deeper tissues more comfortably. TENS uses a single low-frequency current applied superficially. Both relieve pain via the gate mechanism. IFT is generally preferred for deep joint/muscle pain; TENS is excellent for surface-level and portable pain management.

Can I use TENS at home?

Yes. After the first session and proper instruction from your physiotherapist on electrode placement and intensity settings, TENS can be safely used at home for ongoing pain management between clinic visits.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are minimal. Some patients experience mild skin irritation under the electrodes (use hypoallergenic gel pads). Over-stimulation can cause muscle fatigue. Following intensity guidelines prevents these issues.

Therapeutic Technique

TENS Therapy: Natural pain relief through electrical stimulation

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) uses low-voltage electrical impulses to block pain signals and trigger the body's natural endorphin release - giving you drug-free pain control.

What is TENS?

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a portable, non-invasive pain management modality that delivers low-voltage electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin. It works via two complementary mechanisms - the pain gate theory (fast relief) and endogenous opioid release (sustained relief). It is one of the safest and most researched electrotherapy modalities available.

The Science

How it works

Conventional TENS (pain gate)

High-frequency (~80-120 Hz), low-intensity stimulation activates large-diameter A-beta sensory fibres. These fibres transmit faster than pain-carrying C fibres and effectively 'close the gate' on pain signals at the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. The effect begins within minutes.

Acupuncture-like TENS (endorphin release)

Low-frequency (~2-4 Hz), high-intensity stimulation that produces visible muscle twitches. This triggers the descending pain inhibition system, releasing beta-endorphin and met-enkephalin - your body's own opioid painkillers. The effect takes 20-30 minutes to onset but lasts hours.

Burst-mode TENS

Combines both mechanisms - high-frequency bursts delivered at low-frequency intervals. Popular for stubborn mixed pain states where both immediate relief and lasting endorphin-mediated analgesia are desired.

Key benefits

Immediate pain relief without medication or systemic side effects
Patient-controlled - intensity adjustable in real time
Portable - small devices can be worn during daily activities
No drug interactions - safe alongside oral medications
CEA/IFA approved, supported by decades of clinical evidence

Conditions treated

Chronic low back pain
Osteoarthritis pain (knee, hip, hand)
Labour pain and dysmenorrhea
Post-operative pain
Neuropathic pain and diabetic neuropathy

Scientific references

The techniques we use are supported by published clinical research.

• Sluka KA, Walsh D. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation: basic science mechanisms and clinical effectiveness. J Pain. 2003.
• Johnson MI. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). In: Watson T, ed. Electrotherapy: Evidence-Based Practice. 12th ed. Elsevier; 2008.

Frequently asked questions about this technique

Want to know if this technique is right for you?

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