Using medicine every other day for getting pain relief will make you an addict sooner or later. It’s time to welcome an efficient pain management system like a Tens Muscle Stimulator Unit.
You may not say goodbye to your pain killer, but at the very least, you can limit their use. Don’t rely too much on pills when efficient electrotherapy can offer instant pain relief and muscle recovery.
The Tens unit’s compact and lightweight design makes it a portable device- so you can travel and move around with your active pain relief system. This non-invasive therapy has become quite popular among people who have arthritis, back pain, muscle pain, Plantar, period pain, etc.
Many Tens units are combined with EMS or PMS therapy only to make treatment more efficient. With its multiple intensity settings and massage modes, you can quickly treat your specific pain point and experience deep nerve stimulation that often leads to recovery.
Every athlete and fitness enthusiast spend their money on a muscle stimulator. They know low-voltage pulses of this compact unit would speed up muscle recovery and help muscle strength training.
Medical professionals have been recommending Tens units for the well-being of their patients for more than three decades. Today, the market has a magnitude of Tens units, and it’s normal to get confused about what to pick or what to skip.
10 Best Tense Unit Reviews
I have made that selection process easier by unlocking the Tens unit buying guide, alongside my honest reviews about the top 10 Best Tens Units available in the market.
- TechCare Tens Unit Muscle Stimulator
- iReliev TENS + EMS Unit Muscle Stimulator
- Massage Therapy TENS Unit for Muscle Pain
- Belifu Dual Channel TENS EMS Unit
- NeuMedics Tens Unit Machine Pulse Massager
- AVON Dual Channel TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator
- iStim Tens Unit Rechargeable Combo Machine
- TENS 7000 2nd Edition Digital TENS Unit
- Easy@Home Professional Rechargeable TENS Unit
- WiTouch Pro TENS Unit for Back Pain Relief
1. TechCare Tens Unit Muscle Stimulator
- TENS plus PMS Therapies
- A-B output- Suitable for Two
- 24-massage Touchscreen controls
- Up to 80 bars Intensity level
When your physician advises you to go with a combination of TENS and PMS therapies, then it’s hard to take your eyes off TECH CARE Massager.
This unit makes a subtle combo of both techniques and offers you a relaxing massage. From pain relief to healing, you can expect a lot more from this portable massager.
A touch screen brings many preset modes such as tapping, deep tissue, cupping, combo, and acupuncture. All you have to do is to pick a method as per your need and start getting electrotherapy.
It would deliver a low-voltage pulse to the skin and stimulate your nerve fiber efficiently.
When it’s hard to control your pain, excellent control comes in handy with the TECH CARE Tens unit because it can effectively block the brain’s pain signal.
Its rechargeable battery can be used for almost 20 hours once charged fully. There is a T-button to adjust your session timing. There is an A-B output to get control of two-person treatment from the same unit.
Inside the pack, you will get eight large electrodes, a user manual, USB, wall charger, 1 Electropad, wire holders, and two electrodes cables.
The best thing about this device its limited lifetime warranty. You can even get a full refund if you feel like the device doesn’t work for you within 30 days.
Pros
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Up to 20 hours battery life
- Adjustable Treatment timer
- Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- You can accidentally switch between modes on the touch screen
2. iReliev TENS + EMS Unit Muscle Stimulator
- TENS Plus EMS Therapy
- 25 Intensity Level
- 14 Pre Programmed modes
- 80mAh battery output
Do you need a device that can offer therapy for your acute or chronic pain? In that case, you should look no further and think of buying an iReliev TENS + EMS Unit Muscle Stimulator. This device offers a unique combination of two therapies in one.
Try 7-preset Tens mode to enjoy instant pain relief or tap on six different EMS modes helpful in strength training and post-operative recovery.
There is a dedicated therapy mode for Arthritis patients to soothe their muscles and joints.
Its strong 80mAh battery allows you to choose from 25 different intensity levels. Selecting a specific level as per your therapy requirement won’t be a hassle anymore.
Once you pick a mode, turn on the lock function, so you don’t accidentally switch between modes.
With its dual-channel Capability 2-in-1, iRelieve makes it simple for you to find relief for your lower back pain or large treatment areas.
When it comes to setting session timing, you can choose between five to sixty minutes.
Pros
- It comes with a free tote bag and belt clip
- Portable
- Lock Function
- Dual-Channel Versatility
Cons
- Pads aren’t long-lasting
3. Massage Therapy TENS Unit for Muscle Pain
- Dual-Channel with Independent settings
- Easy to Use LCD panels
- 12- Programs
- 20 Intensity Settings
Many of us remained worried about our grandparents and parents suffering from muscle or back pain. It’s not possible to stay alongside them 24/7.
So, what’s quite likely is to buy them a portable Tens therapy unit like one from Massage Therapy Concept Store.
This lightweight, battery-powered device is extremely portable. So, when someone is feeling acute or chronic pain, it’s easy to turn on a Tens plus EMS unit and start the treatment by setting a timer up to sixty minutes.
Auto shut-off safety feature ensures that electrotherapy doesn’t continue for a longer time than required.
Couples can make the most of this single unit that is designed with a dual channel. They can treat their different pain areas quickly as the control panel of both channels works independently.
As far as intensity settings are concerned, you can choose one from 20 separate intensity bars from its Large LCD.
Don’t know what intensity would work best?
It’s ok you can select from its 12 different preset therapy sessions. You can’t just use this device for pain relief but also acupressure and Reflexology.
Pros
- 2-in-1 Therapy Session
- Adjustable session timer
- Suitable for Quick muscle recovery
- Auto Shut off Safety feature
Cons
- Its LCD Screen times out fast, making it tricky to use
4. Belifu Dual Channel TENS EMS Unit
- Tens EMS Unit with Smart Technology
- 24 efficient massage modes
- Rechargeable battery up to 20h
- 20 Intensity levels
Do you need a powerful Weapon to deal with chronic pain and muscle spasm? Nothing can work like wonder other than one Tens EMS unit from Belifu.
This portable therapy device from Belifu unlocks 24 different modes. No matter what model you pick, it feels like low-voltage pulses deeply penetrate your tissues and muscle to relieve soreness and pain.
With its 20 intensity level, getting relaxation from body tension and invigorating your shoulder, back, and feet muscles will be a breeze. This unit is suitable for those dealing with arthritis, knee pain, period paid, sports injuries, back/neck pain, etc.
There is a built-in battery that you can charge and enjoy for up to 20 hours.
When it comes to powering up your battery, you can connect it to any USB charger, power bank, or laptop. Its compact design allows you to put it in your pocket and carry it around comfortably.
The best thing is the easy storage system where you put devices, cables, and other stuff inside a dust-proof Drawstring storage bag.
Once you get used to this Display, its smart control technology lets you try various healing modes to get active pain relief.
Also Read: Best Knee Scooters
Pros
- Dust-Proof Drawstring Storage Bag
- A/B Dual Channels
- Easy to Carry and Store
- Free Reusable Pads
- Suitable for muscle strength and recovery
Cons
- Small Display with difficult Navigation button
5. NeuMedics Tens Unit Machine Pulse Massager
- User-Friendly Large LCD Display
- 24 Massage modes
- Dual-Channel
- Battery Life indicator
Many times people complain about a Tens Unit that its controller isn’t user-friendly. Thanks to NueMedics, who listened to all those complaints and designed an easy to unit Tens pulse massager.
Every little mode is fully labeled so that you won’t be confused about anything.
Apart from its user-friendly design, another eye-catching thing about this unit is its compact and pocket-friendly design. The manufacturer offers you a protective cover alongside the unit.
Everything you need to start electrotherapy at home would be included in its package.
Once you start relying on this massage machine, it will bring a positive change in your life.
You would depend more on massage and less on medicine—no need to spend money on pills when you can turn on your natural pain killer at home.
With its A/B output, you can treat two areas simultaneously. There are 24 massage modes- pick one whose intensity can offer muscle or back pain relief.
You won’t have to worry about battery life as a battery life indicator will keep you alert all the time.
Pros
- Up to 20 Hour Battery Life
- Sleek, pocket-friendly design
- Adjustable Timer
Cons
- There is no Lock Feature
6. AVON Dual Channel TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator
- Small and Powerful Pulses
- 20 Modes: Shiatsu, Tapping, Kneading
- Dual Channels with Independent settings
- Multiple Connections
Do you need the most efficient pain-management system? You better look into Muscle Stimulator from Avon. This device isn’t meant for those with chronic pain.
Even when you feel tired or have muscle fatigue issues after a full day of work, then you can put your mind and body at rest through this TENS unit.
Whether you are into deep kneading massage or Shiatsu, this stimulator can unlock 20 different massage preset modes. Getting full-body treatment with this compact massage is entirely possible.
There are dual channels with varied size pads. You can go with a self-adhesive 2 inches pad when you have pain in your knees or elbows after a long day of workout.
Simultaneously, 4 inches pads are suitable to transfer pulses in the lower back for instant pain relief. While all these pads will show excellent performance for up to 45 uses.
The best part is separate intensity control for channels A and B. It’s easy to move from intensity level one to five on Acupuncture mode to relax your stiff muscles.
In comparison, you can turn on tapping mode for the lower back stimulator and choose from 12 different intensity levels.
Pros
- Long Battery Life
- Good for Travel
- One year Warranty
- One Free Storage Pouch
Cons
- You can’t adjust the backlight timer
7. iStim Tens Unit Rechargeable Combo Machine
- EMS plus Tens Unit
- Japanese Electrode Pads
- 5 TENS Mode, 2 EMS Modes
- 24 Preset Programs
People suffering from shoulder and back pain for a long time hate pills and seek drug-free pain treatment.
In that scenario, A Tens unit from iStim seems like an excellent choice.
Unlike other traditional tens units with necessary electrode pads, this one is different as it unpacks Japanese electrode pads.
These pads conduct electric pulses more efficiently than other pads and are quite suitable for use with sensitive skills.
This rechargeable unit is an EMS and TENS unit, so you can use it for getting pain relief or muscle strength training.
Since this device can run on two different channels, you can set EMS modes on one channel or Tens on another.
The iStim Muscle stimulator is designed with 24 preset programs to block pain signals to the patient’s brain effectively.
There are five preset Tens mode and two programs for EMS. Choose whatever you like and whenever the need arises.
Pros
- Portable, Compact design
- Metal Belt Clip
- Backlit LCD Display
- Adjustable pulse rate, intensity, Timer
Cons
- It is not very user-friendly
8. TENS 7000 2nd Edition Digital TENS Unit
- Powerful Electric Pulses
- Easy to Use Multi-Mode
- Multiple Intensity Settings
- Compact Design
Professional physical therapists and chiropractors always prescribe a Tens unit as a drug-free pain relief device for their patients. TENS 7000 is one of the top-rated units available in the market.
People put their faith in this device as its electric pulses are quite powerful, its user can enjoy instant and long-lasting pain relief.
When it comes to intensity setting, the user adjusts intensity bars from 0-100mA with an increment of 10 mA.
As this device is a dual-channel, there are separate knobs to adjust the intensity as per treatment requirements.
Pros
- Suitable for Pain Relief and Muscle relaxation
- 4-Pack Of Multi-Use TENS Unit Pads
- It brings a hand carry case
- Easy to understand Manual
Cons
- Device Doesn’t Last Longer than four months
9. Easy@Home Professional Rechargeable TENS Unit
- 3-in-1: TENS, EMS, HEAT20 Intensity Settings
- 7 Auto Massage Modes
- Easy to use
- Affordable
If you are a person who doesn’t like to take medicine for pain relief, you would like to invest your money in a 3-in-1 pain relief management system.
This compact device is quite powerful as it unlocks three kinds of therapy, EMS, TENS, and Heat.
You can stop pain signals to the brain through TENS therapy; heat therapy will soothe your body and muscles; EMS would stimulate your muscle and speed up recovery.
Through its cute intensity knob, it’s easier to one ideal level out of twenty.
When you are unsure about intensity or Timer, put your mind at ease by tapping on your favorite auto program.
Although heat therapy combined with an electrotherapy device is safe to use with its 510K unit heat and OTC clearance.
From its large screen, you can have a look at the massage going on. Once the timing is done, the machine shuts off automatically.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Large LCD
- Safe device
- Large Adhesive electrode pads
Cons
- Short Battery Life
10. WiTouch Pro TENS Unit for Back Pain Relief
- Lightweight design
- 15 intensity level 0-110mA
- Four electrotherapy programs
- Reusable gel pads
Do you need a smart pain relief system? Go and grab Wi-Touch Pro, a wireless TENS unit that gets connected with your smartphone via Bluetooth and WiTouch Pro application.
You can find instant pain relief from acute and chronic Arthritis, sciatica, shoulder and back pain from this device. The application is free for both android and iOS users.
You can rely on this TENS unit because it has been tested in the USA by SGS Laboratories for safety purposes.
This 4.8 ounces lightweight system can be put inside your pocket or set on your pant through a clip belt. Its compact design makes it work discreetly under clothing.
Once unpacking is done, you should read its manual to get to know the device better. After that, give it a try by turning the power on and setting its reusable gel pads.
This USA-made device is quite powerful in its electrical pulses; thereby, one can enjoy immediate pain relief and expect fast muscle recovery.
It can offer a power output from zero to 110 mA, and this kind of intensity is only available in professional models.
Pros
- Wireless TENS Unit
- Easy to Set up
- Sync with WiTouch Pro App
- Easy to use
Cons
- Replacements pads are expensive
What does a TENS unit do?
TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator. These electrical devices send small and low voltage electrical pulses in specific nerves via electrode pads placed on the skin.
This therapy aims to change how neurons send signals and not let pain signals reach the brain. This therapy releases endorphins, the natural pain killers for your body.
The release of endorphins and other substances can stop pain signals in the brain. Thereby, a person going through electrotherapy gets relief from his pain.
PMS-It stands for Powered Muscle Stimulator. The purpose of this therapy is to stimulate healthy muscles to increase and facilitate muscle performance.
It is the best therapy for muscle conditioning, muscle spasm, and maintaining range of motion. Besides, it is useful as a post-surgical stimulation treatment for calf muscles only to prevent venous thrombosis.
EMS-It stands for Electronic Muscle Stimulation. The purpose of an EMS unit is to offer relief through muscle stimulation.
Usually, this unit is useful in providing therapy for muscle swelling and inflammation.
People with low blood circulation can improve circulation through EMS therapy, and it’s because this treatment can reduce joints and muscle stiffness.
They effectively improve blood circulation in the back and neck areas that often suffer from muscle tensions.
What are the benefits of the TENS Unit?
Here are three benefits of the Tens unit.
- Instant Pain relief: This electrotherapy device sends electrical pulses to affected areas and offers instant pain relief through endorphins release.
- Portable Treatment: Tens units are compact and lightweight. It’s easier to put them in your pocket and access pain relief immediately as and when you need them.
- Reduce Medicine Intake: People suffering from different pain rely heavily on medicine; it’s easier to become addicted and suffer more through drug side effects. However, when they start using a Tens unit, they can reduce pain medication intake. Thereby, they feel better and less dependent on medicines.
What to Look for when buying a Tens Unit?
Physical therapists and chiropractors have been using electrotherapy to offer effective pain relief for over 40 years. Thereby, the market is filled with a wide variety of them. It’s time to know what factors you need to look into while shopping for one for yourself.
Rechargeable or Battery Powered
A battery-powered unit is relatively easy to use, but you need to replace the battery from time to time. It’s indeed a hassle that you can avoid with a rechargeable unit.
The cost of a battery-powered device is lower than rechargeable ones. You might save money at first with the battery version, but you need to start looking for its battery replacement sooner or later. So, go with a rechargeable one.
Intensity Levels
You should consult with a medical professional about intensity levels that can heal your pain. This information helps you decide what intensity would work for you. Always buy a device that offers varied intensity levels so that you can adjust it based on your specific pain requirements.
Session Timing
You can’t use the TENS unit all day; you need some break. Some people opt for multiple sessions in a day based on pain level, while others feel relaxed after one session.
Ensure to pick a device that lets you adjust the timing of every session. Sometimes, you are up for 30-minute treatment, while other times, you feel that 20 minutes are enough. So, buy a device with a range of time settings.
Channel
You can find single and dual-channel TENS units in the market. With a single unit, you can use two electrodes at one time. However, you should look for a dual-channel device as it lets you make four connections.
A dual-channel device makes it easy for you to treat two different pain areas at the same time. Besides, it’s easier to heal a large area like your tummy or back with two channels. In contrast, a single channel is useful for treating small areas like the foot or ankle.
Weight
You should always buy a portable device so carrying it around won’t be an issue. A battery-powered device is always heavier than a rechargeable one. However, people like to go with a battery device as it brings convenience.
If you plan not to treat yourself at home, weight isn’t an issue. But when you plan to take this electrotherapy wherever you go, you better look into the size and weight of a device.
Combination Therapy
There are a variety of options available for a TENS unit user. One option is where you can enjoy both heat and Tens therapy from one single device. Another great option is a combination of TENS and EMS. The purpose is to make treatment more effective and allow the user to alleviate his pain level as much as he can.
People suffering from muscle pain should consider getting a combo of TENS and EMS. Those who feel relaxed with heat therapy should think of paying extra bucks for heat and TENS therapy combo.
FDA-Approved
Your safety should be your first concern. Electrotherapy is quite common these days, but some brands don’t consider the user’s safety while creating a device. Thereby, you better buy an FDA-Approved TENS machine at home; it’s better to be safe than sorry.
User-Friendly
Try to buy a device that is easy to use with simple buttons and functions. If a device is too geeky, older, or non-tech, people will find it hard to operate.
What’s the point of getting a therapy machine when no one understands it clearly? So, get one with a simple display and easy-to-use buttons.
Mobile apps
Everyone is out in the market for smart devices. A therapy becomes convenient when you can sync it with a mobile application. However, it’s an optional feature to look for and only meant for an avid smartphone user. This kind of unit often doesn’t have a remote control as you can turn your mobile into one.
Wireless/Wearable
The manufacturers of TENS Units are trying to make your life easier. Thereby, you can find some wearable TENS devices, which win customers’ hearts through their wireless capability. It’s another optional feature to consider while shopping for a TENS therapy device.
Final Thoughts
A Tens unit is an excellent muscle stimulating device for anyone who wants to eliminate his chronic or acute pain. This portable device fits perfectly in one pocket; carrying your ultimate pain therapy with you all the time is not a thing of the past anymore.
From deep kneading massage to Shiatsu techniques, one can explore a wide variety of relaxing massage. Whether you buy a separate Tens unit or a combo one( PMS or EMS therapy integrated into a device), it lets you embark on a muscle recovery journey and reduces daily medicine use. Always buy one with a free storage bag or pouch and user-friendly controls for your ultimate convenience.
FAQ’s about TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator
What are the best TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator?
Here is a list of the top rated tens units for muscle stimulator as per our rating in 2021;
- TechCare Tens Unit Muscle Stimulator
- iReliev TENS + EMS Unit Muscle Stimulator
- Massage Therapy TENS Unit for Muscle Pain
- Belifu Dual Channel TENS EMS Unit
- NeuMedics Tens Unit Machine Pulse Massager
- AVON Dual Channel TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator
- iStim Tens Unit Rechargeable Combo Machine
- TENS 7000 2nd Edition Digital TENS Unit
- Easy@Home Professional Rechargeable TENS Unit
- WiTouch Pro TENS Unit for Back Pain Relief
Does a TENS unit promote healing?
Yes, it does. This unit is designed to offer immediate relief from pain through electrical pulses. Many athletes rely on muscle stimulators to speed up their muscle recovery after injury or treat chronic pain in their bodies.
Who should not use a TENS unit?
A pregnant lady or person using a pacemaker should stay away from this Tens unit. It is not suitable for a cancer patient or a patient with undiagnosed pain. You should beware that impulses could cause seizures, so never apply electrodes to your neck, shoulders, or head.
Where should Tens pads not be placed?
Never use electrodes close to the eyes, mouth, neck, shoulder, head. If you are taking a bath or shower, don’t use this machine. You can’t place electrodes on damaged or broken skin. If you have lost or reduced sensation in some specific place, don’t set pads on those areas.
Are wireless tens machines any good?
Yes, Wireless tens machines are quite useful in offering instant pain relief.
How many times can you reuse tens pads?
If you are using pads every day, they can be reused for up to 150 uses or five months. It’s suggested to take good care of your pads and clean them as per the manual’s instructions. Always remove the protective film from the pad when you are going to replace them.
How often should a TENS unit be used?
You can use the Tens unit for 30-60 minutes every day, and it’s safe to use them four times a day, with an interval of 20 minutes. It would help if you took at least 20-30 minute breaks between your therapy sessions. This unit can provide pain relief for 4-5 hours.
Can a TENS unit be used on feet?
If you need effective and drug-free feet pain relief, it’s good to go with a tens unit.
Will a TENS unit help with arthritis pain?
People dealing with Arthritis pain usually look for a treatment that helps them limit the use of medication. In that scenario, the Tens unit comes to rescue them. You can reduce pain in specific body parts quickly through them.
Is a TENS Unit Scientifically Proven to be Effective?
Many studies and researches are conducted on the use of Tens units for pain relief. They have proved that this therapy can block pain messages to the brain and increase the release of endorphins while improving blood circulation to the treatment area.
Who can benefit from a Tens unit?
Anyone suffering from muscle or nerve pain can seek refuge with this electrotherapy device. It effectively offers relief for painful arthritis, low back pain, painful periods, peripheral neuropathy, sports injuries, carpal tunnel, post-operative pain, migraine, Plantar Fasciitis, gout pain, pulled muscles, bursitis, chronic back pain, tennis elbow, etc.
No matter what causes you discomfort in joints or muscles, you can skip medicine use and rely on a TENS unit for instant recovery and relief.
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