How do I learn how to use a TENS unit?

I saw a cheap tens unit online and I might buy it. But I dont know how to use it. It was used during physical therapy an dthats it. where do I learn how to use it?

thanks
melissa

Melissa,

I have a TENS that I got from one of my PT's along the way, for the most part with me it was a process of experimentation. If you've used one before, this is review, and I'm not sure what kind you're looking at so perhaps its a little different. Mine is Empi brand, and is very nice. It has different settings for knees, shoulders, lower back/hips, hand/wrist or back. Mine has two different channels that have two pads each. I stick them where it hurts, then turn it on. The nice thing is that once you've set it, it locks so you can't accidentally ramp up the tingling. Depending on the day, and where specifically I'm placing it, the number I set it too ranges pretty widely. The one thing my PT warned me of was to never set it on continous mode, always make sure its modulating or changing the pattern. I know this probably isn't anything new, but hopefully that helps! Oh, also, if the pads start to get unsticky, you can unplug them and run a little bit of water over them to make them last a bit longer. That reminds me though, I need to order more! Hope this helps!

Jenna