Which TENS Device Shall I Buy?

If you have never tried any Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation device (also known as TENS), or you would like to try a new one, you have now to choose between several different units with various options. All TENS devices use mild electrical current pulses to stimulate certain nerves and pain receptors. Those impulses, entering from the outside of the skin, have an effect on the normal pain information that is sent from the nerves to the brain. As a consequence, pain relief is achieved.
TENS devices are connected with wires to electrodes, which are then applied on the skin. The device itself is used to adjust parameters such as the pulse frequency, which is the number of electric pulses sent per second, and the pulse length, which is the duration of the pulse, for example, 70, 150, 200 microseconds (μs). The intensity of the current is so low that it is measured in milliamperes / h (mAh). Max. 80 mAh are actually used.
First thing you need to do when choosing the proper TENS unit, is to decide between an analog or digital device. With analog TENS devices, such as the 1000s TENS Promed, you can set the intensity, pulse frequency and pulse length. With digital devices you can often choose from additional modes and programs.

Usually, digital TENS devices provide different operation modes. These options are useful because they give you the chance to choose between a fast pain relief, or a slower and longer-lasting pain relief.
If you already know the frequency you want to use, which pulse length you prefer and if you want to use preset programs with pushing just one button, you could compare the devices based on these criteria. There are no significant price differences between the devices. One of the low-cost digital units is for example the Medisana TDP. Many TENS devices offer combinations, which also include electrostimulation, such as the Promed EMT-4 and the EMT-6, or a combination of TENS and acupuncture, like the Beurer EA34. Another important aspect to consider would be if the device has a timer, which will allow you to easily preset the desired total time of the treatment. Not all devices offer this option, but you can find it in the Beurer EM80 or the Dr. Ho's Pain Therapy medical TENS device. The latter are devices that not only feature many massage options for various parts of the body, but also different programs and the possibility of reflexology. If you are looking for a TENS device that comes with all these features, including electrodes and the right gel, you can find that the TENS Professional Package 9V from Promed meets all the requirements. However, this TENS device is a bit more expensive.