Best Electrode Placement for Back, Neck, and Knee Pain

Best Electrode Placement for Back, Neck, and Knee Pain

Best Electrode Placement for Back, Neck, and Knee Pain

A TENS machine can be a powerful tool for pain relief—but only if you use it correctly. The placement of electrode pads determines how effective the therapy will be. If pads are placed in the wrong spot, you may not feel relief or could even experience discomfort. In this guide, we’ll cover the best electrode placement techniques for back, neck, and knee pain so you can get the most out of your TENS device.

 

🔹 Why Electrode Placement Matters

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) works by sending small electrical impulses through electrode pads into the nerves under your skin. These impulses:

  • Block pain signals from reaching the brain
  • Stimulate endorphin release for natural pain relief
  • Improve blood flow and reduce inflammation

Correct placement ensures that these benefits target the right area of your body

 

🔹 Electrode Placement for Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common uses for TENS therapy.

✔ Lower back pain

  • Place two pads on either side of the painful area, just above the hip line.
  • Avoid putting pads directly on the spine.

✔ Upper back pain

  • Position pads just below the shoulder blades, on either side of the spine.

For widespread tension, use four pads to cover both upper sides.

🔹 Electrode Placement for Neck Pain

Neck pain often comes from tension, poor posture, or stress.

✔ Place pads on either side of the neck, about 2–3 cm away from the spine.
✔ For tension headaches, position pads on the upper shoulders or trapezius muscles.

⚠️ Important: Never place electrode pads on the front of the throat.

🔹 Electrode Placement for Knee Pain

Whether from arthritis, injury, or overuse, TENS can ease knee discomfort.

✔ Place one pad above the kneecap and one pad below the kneecap.
✔ Alternatively, place pads on the inner and outer sides of the knee joint.

⚠️ Avoid placing pads directly on the kneecap itself.

 

🔹 Safety Tips for Electrode Pads

  • Always apply pads to clean, dry skin
  • Replace worn-out pads for consistent conductivity
  • Never use pads on broken, irritated, or infected skin
  • Follow recommended session times (20–45 minutes)

✅ Maximize Your Relief with Niva Medical

Correct placement is the key to unlocking the full benefits of TENS therapy. At Niva Medical Oy, we provide durable, skin-friendly electrode pads and reliable TENS machines trusted by physiotherapists and home users alike.

👉 Shop our electrode pads and TENS devices to experience effective, drug-free pain relief today.

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