How to Avoid Skin Problems During TENS Therapy

How To Avoid Skin Problems during TENS Therapy

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy delivers pain-relieving stimulation through electrodes placed on the skin. Although skin problems during TENS therapy are rare, undesirable skin reactions can hinder a successful TENS program. For that reason, proper skin care is especially important during TENS therapy.

SKIN PROBLEMS

Skin problems associated with TENS fall into three categories: allergic, chemical, and mechanical.

Allergic Reactions

True allergic reactions today are relatively rare. The development of gentle (hypoallergenic) adhesives has largely eliminated allergic reactions.

A few people are allergic to certain types of gels or adhesives used with TENS. If an allergic reaction occurs, switching to another gel or electrode may eliminate the problem.

Chemical Reactions

Chemical reactions are usually caused by materials trapped beneath the electrodes, such as soap, alcohol solutions, or cosmetics. Certain tape backings can also worsen these conditions. In some cases, gel solutions can get into the pores of the skin, which increases the potential for chemical reactions.

Chemical reactions can often be prevented by thoroughly washing and rinsing the skin before placing the electrodes.

Mechanical Reactions

Mechanical reactions are skin problems caused by forceful or improper electrode application and removal. They are the most common skin problems associated with electrodes.

To avoid mechanical reactions, take the following precautions:

When placing electrodes on the skin, apply pressure from the center outward. Take care not to stretch the skin or the electrodes during application.

Place electrodes so the body can move and flex normally. For example, electrodes applied to the lower back should be perpendicular, not parallel, to the spine.

Avoid repeated applications over the same area. Each time the electrode is replaced, change the application site slightly, if possible.

ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES FOR AVOIDING SKIN REACTIONS

Proper electrode selection and good skin care practices can help make TENS pain therapy trouble-free. These simple skin care procedures will help you avoid skin reactions during TENS therapy:

Electrode sites should be clean and dry. The exception is for electrodes with water-activated adhesives. In those instances, the skin should be left moist.

Excess body hair should be clipped, not shaved, from the skin.

Do not place electrodes over cut or irritated skin.

Do not stretch electrodes over the skin.

Try to position the electrode so that the load wire is perpendicular to the direction of body movement.

When possible, alternate electrode placement or alter placement slightly when changing electrodes.

When removing an electrode, peel the edges back in the direction of hair

growth. Application sites should be checked periodically for signs of skin irritation. If you have a severe skin reaction, discontinue TENS therapy and consult your physician.

REMEMBER

Report any of the following signs or skin irritation to your physician or nurse:

 redness

burning sensation

 blisters

 rash

 swelling

weeping or drainage

 itching

Go to for more information.