Is it safe to use TENS if I have a metal implant?

Hi, Is it safe to use TENS on shoulder muscles if i have a titanium c5 c6 disc implant ?

I had brain surgery years ago and have a metal plate on my skull can I use this on my back or will it cause issues?

Thank you!

Hi Beverly,
There is no reference in medical literature to the effects of TENS on implants, other than pacemakers.
The signal from TENS only penetrates about 1cm below the skin’s surface and contains only a tiny amount of energy (just enough to persuade a nerve to send a signal), therefore there should be no side effects.
However, if you are uncertain of using a TENS machine on an area in which you have a metal implant, please seek advice from your medical practitioner.
Many thanks,
Tenscare

Hi Georgie,
There is no reference in medical literature to the effects of TENS on implants, other than pacemakers.

The signal from TENS only penetrates about 1cm below the skin’s surface and contains only a tiny amount of energy (just enough to persuade a nerve to send a signal), therefore there should be no side effects.
However, if you are uncertain of using a TENS machine on an area in which you have a metal implant, please seek advice from your medical practitioner.
Many thanks
Tenscare

Is it ok to use tens unit if have gold weight implanted in eye lid

My son had two metal stents put in his femoral artery last week. He has a lot of leg pain and wants to know if he can safely use a tens unit.

Thank you,
Beverly

Hi Pavithra,
I can confirm that TENS can be used on intact skin overlying implants containing metal.

Is it safe to use legs when TKR done 6 years back?

Hi Annie,

There is no reference in medical literature to the effects of TENS on implants, other than pacemakers.

The signal from TENS only penetrates about 1cm below the skin’s surface and contains only a tiny amount of energy (just enough to persuade a nerve to send a signal), therefore there should be no side effects.

However, if you are uncertain of using a TENS machine on an area in which you have a metal implant, please seek advice from your medical practitioner.

Thanks

Hello! Back in February of 23’ I shattered my elbow in four places, since then I have had two surgeries and metal plates and pins throughout my elbow. I have constant joint pain and limited function of my arm. I am hoping TENS will work on my elbow without any negative repercussions.

Hi Mandy,

The general consensus according to the physiotherapy Canada, is that there are no issue with simple metal implants.

We advise that tens isn’t until 6 weeks after surgery. So as long as the tissue has relatively healed you should be fine to use.

TensCare

Is it safe to use the TensCare itouch Sure – Pelvic Floor Exerciser if you have a metal Rod and screws in your hip please.

Dear Sue Martinez,

I can confirm that TENS is safe to use and will not have any affect on metal pins.

Is it safe to use if you have a metal pin in the toe

Hi! I have pain due to my right rotator cuff tear and wanted to use TENS but I have a Metal ( titanium) Biopsy Marker /clip on my right breast.! Your advice please. Thank you.

Hi Prajjwal,
I have sent a response to your question via email.
Many thanks

Is IFT is safe to use in metal implant patient.