Pad placement depends on the area you want to support, your sensitivity, and the guidance in your device manual. The chart below is educational and should not replace medical advice.
| Area | Common placement idea | Safety note |
|---|---|---|
| Lower back | Place pads on either side of the spine, never directly over it. | Start low and keep the sensation comfortable. |
| Neck and shoulders | Use upper trapezius and shoulder areas, avoiding the front of the neck. | The neck is sensitive, so use lower intensity. |
| Shoulder | Place pads around the deltoid or upper back area near discomfort. | Do not use over swelling, broken skin, or suspected serious injury. |
| Knee | Place pads around the kneecap, leaving space between electrodes. | Ask a clinician for post-surgical use. |
| Sciatica-style routines | Some users place one pair near the lower back and another near the glute or back of thigh. | Avoid numb areas and stop if symptoms worsen. |
General placement rules
- Keep pads at least about 1 inch apart so the current travels between them.
- Use clean, dry skin and avoid lotions before applying pads.
- Start at the lowest intensity and increase gradually.
- Stop if stimulation feels painful, causes skin irritation, or creates unusual symptoms.
For a deeper safety checklist, read TENS unit side effects and safety.