What is Electrotherapy? Exploring TENS for Pain Relief

Find out if the unique non-Invasive therapy designed to reduce and relieve muscle and joint pain is right for you.

To some, the idea of electrotherapy might conjure up sinister Hollywood images of Dr. Frankenstein’s laboratory, or at the very least, of something painful and uncomfortable. But in reality, electrotherapy, including TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) can provide safe, benign, and convenient non-pharmaceutical pain reduction and relief.

What Is Electrotherapy?

The type of electrotherapy provided through a device called a tens unit is a drug-free, non-invasive therapy designed to reduce and relieve muscle and joint pain, stiffness and numbness in the arms, legs, fee,t and lower back by applying electrical nerve stimulation to the surface of the skin near the site of the pain.  This type of therapy works in several ways: the electrical pulses block pain messages from reaching the brain, the stimulation triggers the body to produce endorphins (a natural pain killer produced by the body) and the therapy improves blood circulation.  While it does not cure the underlying cause of pain, it can provide a temporary decrease in or cessation of pain.

In addition to general pain management, different types of electrotherapy benefit many other conditions as well. Electrotherapy is used in post-surgical treatment to stimulate blood flow and prevent dangerous blood clotting, and to promote bone and tissue growth for healing. It is effective and widely used in rehabilitative therapies for injury, stroke, osteoarthritis and multiple sclerosis for its effectiveness in preventing  muscular atrophy, improving strength, range of motion and controlling spasm. Electrotherapy has even been used in the treatment of incontinence, where the electrical stimulation reduces pelvic pain and strengthens musculature to the point where incontinence can be completely corrected.

Is Electrotherapy Safe?

TENS machines and other electrotherapy modalities are completely safe.  In fact, pacemakers, which have been used by cardiologists for decades, work using similar scientific principles. TENS and other types of electrotherapy equipment units are so gentle that some are available over the counter without a prescription. Any adult who suffers from muscle or joint pain can use this therapy. 

That said, consult your physician before starting any therapy, especially if you are:

• Pregnant

• Have an implanted metallic or electronic device

• Buying for someone under 18

How TENS Units & Electrotherapy Products Work

With TENS electrotherapy units, the focus is on nerve stimulation. TENS is a “pain blocker,” with functionality designed to block the pain signal from the nerve to where it is perceived in the brain as pain, and to aid in the release of endorphins. Both outcomes can return quality of life to individuals whose lives have been disrupted by acute and chronic pain.

While TENS devices are utilized for pain management and elimination, Drive’s Muscle Stimulators stimulate muscle fibers, muscle growth and increase blood flow through the repeated, miniscule contraction and release of targeted or affected muscles.  The type of electrical output differs from a TENS device, and is designed to excite muscle fiber, rather than nerve endings.  This prevents muscular disuse atrophy, relaxes muscle spasm, promotes muscle reeducation, increases range of motion, and improves local blood circulation.

Should I Try Electrotherapy for Pain Relief?

If you're dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking for a non-pharmaceutical option to support your health, electrotherapy could be a powerful addition to your treatment plan. Compact and affordable, many TENS units are specifically designed for convenience and ease of use. 

TENS units can foster recovery, whether from injury or chronic pain conditions, and help restore many people to optimal health and well-being either without, or supplementing pharmaceutical solutions.

Feature Electrotherapy Products

Explore Drive Medical’s top TENS therapy devices, each designed to deliver targeted, effective pain relief in a compact and easy-to-use format.

Dual Channel TENS Unit

Perfect for personalized pain management, the Dual Channel TENS Unit delivers targeted nerve stimulation to two areas of the body at once. With adjustable pulse rate and width, users can fine-tune their electrotherapy sessions for optimal comfort and effectiveness. The compact design and belt clip make it easy to take relief with you, wherever you go.

Key Benefits:

• Two independent channels for flexible treatment

• Adjustable intensity and frequency

• Ideal for back, shoulder, and joint pain

• Compact, portable, and user-friendly

Deluxe Dual Channel TENS – Horizontal Design

Designed for comfort and control, the Deluxe Dual Channel TENS Unit features a horizontal layout for easier operation and a more ergonomic grip. This device is perfect for users who want advanced customization with a sleek, modern form. Whether you're treating chronic pain or recovering from an injury, this TENS unit offers a powerful solution without medications.

Key Benefits:

• Ergonomic horizontal design

• Multiple pulse settings for customized therapy

• Ideal for chronic and acute pain conditions

• Includes carrying case and electrodes for convenience

Economy Dual Channel TENS Unit

Looking for a simple, effective, and budget-friendly TENS therapy option? The Economy Dual Channel TENS Unit offers reliable performance and dual-channel output at a great value. This unit is excellent for users who are new to electrotherapy and want a straightforward path to relief.

Key Benefits:

• Affordable entry point for pain relief

• Dual channels treat multiple areas at once

• Compact and lightweight for easy travel

• Straightforward dials for simple use

Whether you're managing everyday aches or ongoing pain, Drive Medical’s electrotherapy products are built to help you take control and feel better—naturally.