We use our knees more than most other joints in our body. Whether we are walking around the house, getting in and out of a car, or running a marathon, our knees are working hard.
When something goes wrong with our knees due to excess use, injury, or trauma, getting pain relief and healing becomes a top priority, because knee pain negatively impacts mobility and overall, well-being.
A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit is one tool in the human battle against body pain. A TENS unit is a small, battery-operated, portable device that sends electrical signals to the sight of the pain to help to control it.
Can you use a TENS Unit for Knee Pain?
TENS therapy has consistently proven effective for knee pain relief in clinical studies. There are many causes for knee pain, from injury or surgery to arthritis, but many of them can benefit from electrical impulses.
The electrical impulses delivered through the adhesive pads when place properly in the front, back or sides of the knee, stimulate blood flow. which can reduce swelling. The impulses also provide a flood of stimulation to the nervous system which reduces its ability to transmit pain signals to the brain.
Benefits of using a TENS Unit
The electrical currents produced by a TENS unit cause muscles in the knees to contract and expand which increases circulation. Better blood flow helps with both muscle performance and injury recovery.
It can reduce swelling, which can be a problem after knee replacement surgery. If you feel less pain, you can proceed with physical therapy, too.
An advantage of TENS Units over other pain relievers is being medication free. We already take a lot of medication, which can be hard on organs. If using a TENS unit reduces the amount of pain killers you take, that also reduces the chance of dependency on strong pain meds.
Where to place TENS Unit Pads for Knee Pain
For a TENS unit to provide the maximum possible knee pain relief, the device must be placed precisely. Start by determining exactly where the pain is in the knee. Pads should be placed where the pain is, whether that’s the side, front, or back of the knee. the back of the knee.
Pain in the front of the knee might be from arthritis or muscle strain. Place the pads above or below the knee cap. Rather than on it because the bone will block the electrical signal.
You can also place TENS pads at the sides of your knees to target muscles and tendons.
Place the TENS pads vertically to promote cellular healing. For pain behind the knee, clean and dry the area thoroughly and place the pads along muscle. Avoid directing the pulses directly into bone.
1.) TENS 7000 2nd Edition Digital TENS Unit – a powerful unit that provides maximum pain relief recommended by physical therapists, chiropractors, and other health professionals.
Features & Pros:
● Dual channel controlled by easy-to-use knob control.
● Professional power intensity at home. Just like at a PT office.
● Sturdy, hard sided carrying/storage case makes it great to take with you.
● You can program 20 different levels of intensity.
● One channel can be TENS for pain relief and the other EMS for muscle development.
● Can take either a replaceable 9-volt battery or a rechargeable one (sold separately)
● The timer for up to 60 minutes massage types, each with 20 levels of intensity.
● The superior power provides more nerve stimulation for the maximum pain relief.
Cons:
● The EMS side might give your muscles more stimulation than they can handle, so increase incrementally.
What Buyers Loved
● After having a complete knee replacement on both legs, this was my go to instead of opiates. I was very happy with this unit and would definitely recommend.
What Buyers Wished for
● Wished it came with more pads, suggest ordering extras for $9.
TENS 7000 Review
"This is a powerful unit. It comes with a battery and 2 separate channels and 4 pads (2 for each channel). It really does a great job of stimulation for the muscles! Both channels are adjustable separately. This unit does go through a lot of 9-volt batteries. I bought a set of rechargeable 9-volt rechargeable batteries and they're really going to save money overall! I also recommended spending the 9 dollars and ordering a Set of extra pads. I've probably used the original ones 15ish times and they seem to be wearing out (feeling more a bee sting than doing the muscle stim"
2.) Tens Unit Muscle Stimulator Machine - Dual Channel Electronic Pulse Massager
Features & Pros:
● Professional level TENS Massager with 22 Modes.
● 40 different levels of intensity
● A/B Channels so you can have two different intensities for two body areas.
● USB Cable for easy recharge
● Charge level indicator lets you know when it will need a recharge.
● Includes: 1 x TENS Machine, 10 x Square Electrode Pads (2"x 2"), 2 x Lead Wires (1/2 Wire), 1 x Machine Holder, 1 x USB Cable, 1 x Professional User Manual
● Lifetime Warranty
Cons:
● It doesn’t come with outlet adaptor for the USB Cable.
● All the options can be confusing.
What Buyers Loved
● This TENS EMS MASSAGE device is similar to what my Physical Therapist applies on my knee after twice weekly treatment. I get to continue this muscle relief procedure at home after every home muscle strengthening and stretching session for my knee injury.
What Buyers Wished for
● Wished the battery lasted longer. It only lasts four hours and it’s supposed to last for ten.
Nicwell TENS 7000 Review
"This is the second TENS unit I’ve gotten and so far (after 1 day) I love it. It's easy to use, does what I want and is light so I can use it on the go (my pain comes when I walk or stand at work). The modes are clearly explained in the manual and the power levels are many and varied. My pain is already down and I am a happier camper.”
3.) iReliev Wireless TENS + EMS Therapeutic Wearable System with a rechargeable battery that lasts between five and ten hours allows you to move freely while getting therapy.
Features & Pros:
● Combines nerve stimulation for pain relief with EMS or electrical neuromuscular stimulation which helps activate the muscles to increase strength and endurance, and to speed up recovery.
● The unit is completely wireless so you can move around the room with it on, or even go outside, walk around the block or use it at the gym.
● Rechargeable lithium-ion battery last 5-10 hours
● 14 different programs include 7 for pain relief, 1 for arthritis treatment and 6 for muscle conditioning
● USB and AC adapter
● Easy to program to your needs and specifications.
Cons:
● Some people found the pods were too heavy for them.
● Wished for more instructions about how to use the unit.
What Buyers Loved
● My dad loves this TENS unit! He says it helps him greatly with his right knee pain. He can walk farther and be more active with the grandchildren.
What Buyers Wished for
● Wished the connection to the pads was a bit more reliable. Occasionally loses connection.
iReliev Review:
"Fantastic system. It accelerated my recovery. Going wireless just helped me use it more consistently!"
4.) The superior quality pads that come with the AUVON Dual Channel TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator Machine mean you can use the pads for up to 45 sessions.
Features & Pros:
● The simple to use video screen shows picture icons of the various massage choices
● Instruction manual with step-by-step instructions.
● Two channels that operate independently. For example, Channel A can be in tapping mode on intensity 12 while Channel B can be stimulating on intensity 5.
● 2 large sizes of pad, 2“x 2” and 2” x 4” that can be used up to 45 times
● Comes with a carrying pouch
● Rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a USB charger
● 20 preset massage modes
● Best available adhesive on the pads and top industry connecting wires and pins
● 24-month warranty
Cons:
● Some find the picture ICONs confusing. They are meant to make things easier but don’t always do that.
What Buyers Loved
● I don’t know what I would do without this little machine. It helps my back and knee so much.
What Buyers Wished for
● Wished it came with a clip to attach to clothing.
AUVON Review
"I was impressed not only with the AUVON unit's power, but by the depth of the technical information included. Most all other Tens/EMS leave you in the dark about how to use the unit ... the AUVON gives specific Pulse Width and electrial data. GREAT!!!!"
5.) iReliev TENS + EMS Pain Relief & Recovery System (Wired)
Features & Pros:
● Includes both TENS and EMS devices, plus 3 AAA batteries, belt clip, tote bag, four 2” x 2” pads and two 3.5” x 5” electrode pads.
● Dual channel – each works independently so you can get two different treatments.
● Lower priced alternative to their wireless system.
● Very portable unit.
● Features 25 levels of intensity to treat slight to intense pain.
● 14 different programs for everything from exercise warm up to after surgery therapy.
● 2-year warranty.
Cons:
● The pads will lose their stickiness over time, so it would be nice to have more pads.
What Buyers Loved
● Used tens to relieve pain in my knees. It has proven effective especially to reduce knee pain at night
What Buyers Wished for
● Wished it came with rechargeable batteries.
iReliev Review:
"Who knew something like this could bring such relief. Thank you for this great product.”
FAQ
How Often Should You Use a Tens Unit?
Recommendations vary somewhat but most recommend 10-20-minute TENS sessions with 4 or 5 hours between sessions. Using TENS for longer than 20 minutes in the same spot can cause damage. EMS can be used for longer periods.
Can a Tens Unit be Harmful or Safe to Use?
TENS units are safe for most people but if you have any kind of acute or infectious disease, cancer, high blood pressure or heart disease, talk to your doctor. Also don’t use a TENS unit if you have a high fever, recently had surgery or if you lack skin sensation for any reason.
Can You Overuse a Tens Unit?
Make sure to let your muscles rest for at least 4 or 5 hours between sessions and never turn the level up high enough to be painful. You should feel the pulses but they should never cause discomfort. Don’t use a unit on the same spot for longer than 20 minutes, because it can cause damage.
Can You Use a Tens Unit While Pregnant?
A TENS unit can be helpful during labor to decrease the pain but, doctors do not recommend that women use it during a pregnancy, especially in their abdominal or pelvic area.