Chronic pain affects millions of Australians and can make daily routines challenging. Conditions like lower back pain, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis often require ongoing management strategies that go beyond medication. Increasingly, people are turning to bio-electrical therapies such as TENS machines and EMS machines for chronic pain relief devices that provide non-invasive options to manage discomfort. These technologies have evolved to become portable, user-friendly, and adaptable for home use, making long-term pain management more accessible.

Combining TENS and EMS for chronic pain management allows individuals to target both nerves and muscles. Understanding how these devices function and how they can fit into a routine is key for anyone exploring opioid-free alternatives or looking to complement traditional rehabilitation technology.

Understanding the Surge in Bio-Electrical Therapy

Technology advancements in portable devices

Over the last decade, portable TENS and EMS devices have become significantly more advanced. Modern units feature programmable intensity levels, multiple stimulation modes, and rechargeable batteries that last for multiple sessions. Studies have shown that TENS therapy can reduce perceived pain intensity in chronic conditions by up to 40 per cent in some users, while EMS machines support muscle engagement and circulation, contributing to enhanced joint mobility and prevention of muscle atrophy during periods of reduced activity (Kesar & Binder-Macleod, 2006; Maffiuletti, 2010).

These technological improvements allow devices to fit seamlessly into daily routines. Wearable pads can be discreetly placed on the lower back, shoulders, or legs, and controlled via a small unit or smartphone app. The convenience of these units encourages consistent use, which is often linked to better outcomes in long-term pain management.

Growing awareness of opioid-free alternatives

The rising awareness of the risks associated with long-term opioid use has motivated patients and clinicians alike to explore alternative therapies. Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare indicates that over 20 per cent of adults experience chronic pain, and a significant portion seek non-pharmacological options (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2022). TENS and EMS machines offer a dual approach to analgesia and muscle support, reducing the reliance on medication and empowering individuals to take control of their pain management at home (Kesar & Binder-Macleod, 2006; Maffiuletti, 2010).

TENS vs. EMS: A Dual Approach to Chronic Pain

How TENS targets the nerves (Sensory)

TENS machines work by delivering gentle, low-frequency electrical pulses aimed at the nerves, engaging the pain gate mechanism in the spinal cord. This process can modulate how pain signals are transmitted to the brain, promoting an analgesic effect and sometimes triggering endorphin release. The stimulation, a form of neuromuscular electrical stimulation, is designed not to cause noticeable muscle contractions unless applied over muscles with increased intensity. Users often describe a mild tapping or buzzing sensation, which can be adjusted according to personal preference.

This sensory focus makes TENS particularly effective for neuropathic pain or nerve-related discomfort. Research suggests that consistent use for 20 to 30 minutes per session can significantly reduce perceived pain intensity in conditions such as sciatica or peripheral neuropathy (Gibson et al., 2019).

How EMS targets the muscles (Motor)

EMS machines, on the other hand, primarily target the motor nerves that stimulate muscle fibres. This controlled contraction and relaxation cycle promotes blood flow enhancement, reduces muscle guarding, and helps maintain synovial fluid movement in the joints. By engaging muscles that may otherwise remain underused due to chronic pain, EMS therapy supports muscle atrophy prevention and encourages active recovery.

For example, individuals with lower back stiffness or post-injury weakness can benefit from EMS to maintain circulation and flexibility without placing undue stress on painful joints. Studies indicate that electrical muscle stimulation can improve range of motion by approximately 10 to 15 per cent over several weeks when integrated into a consistent routine.

Why the combination offers superior relief

Combining TENS and EMS therapy addresses both the sensory and motor components of chronic pain. While TENS reduces the perception of pain through the nervous system, EMS strengthens and mobilises muscles around affected areas. This combination supports holistic management, particularly for conditions that involve both nerve irritation and muscular tension, such as fibromyalgia or degenerative joint conditions.

Common Conditions Treated with TENS and EMS

Lower back pain and sciatica

Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints among adults, often stemming from a combination of muscular weakness, sedentary habits, and nerve irritation. TENS machines can provide targeted relief by modulating pain signals, while EMS supports the surrounding muscles, reducing stiffness and improving postural support. Integrating these therapies is increasingly recognised as an effective approach among back pain solutions, with clinical studies reporting measurable improvements in functional mobility over several weeks.

Fibromyalgia and widespread chronic pain

Fibromyalgia involves widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by fatigue and sleep disturbances. The analgesic effect of TENS, combined with the muscle stimulation from EMS, may help reduce the intensity of daily discomfort. Users frequently report an improved sense of control over their symptoms, especially when devices are used in multiple sessions throughout the day.

Osteoarthritis and degenerative conditions

Arthritis and other degenerative joint conditions can result in chronic stiffness and limited mobility. EMS machines encourage muscle engagement around affected joints, supporting circulation and potentially enhancing joint mobility. TENS can complement this by targeting nerve pathways associated with joint pain. While these devices do not reverse degenerative changes, they provide a drug-free approach to managing day-to-day discomfort and maintaining activity levels. Treatment of these conditions should always be managed under the supervision of a health professional.

Arthritis and other degenerative joint conditions often lead to ongoing stiffness and reduced mobility. EMS machines can support muscle activation around affected joints, helping to improve circulation and support functional movement. TENS therapy may complement this approach by targeting nerve pathways associated with joint pain. While these technologies do not reverse degenerative changes, they offer a drug-free option for managing day-to-day discomfort and supporting continued activity. Management of these conditions should always be undertaken with guidance from a qualified health professional.

Integrating Therapy into Daily Life

Wearable options for work and travel

Modern TENS and EMS units are portable, lightweight, and discreet, making it easier to use them while at work, commuting, or travelling. Small wearable pads can be positioned under clothing, allowing users to receive consistent stimulation without interrupting daily routines. For many people, the convenience of these devices increases adherence and supports long-term pain management.

Creating a sustainable pain management routine

Developing a routine with TENS and EMS therapy involves choosing appropriate intensity levels, duration, and frequency of sessions. Research indicates that multiple shorter sessions may be more effective than a single extended session, particularly for managing chronic stiffness and muscle tension. Integrating therapy with stretching, light exercise, and posture awareness can amplify the benefits and support rehabilitation technology goals for maintaining functional independence.

Consistency is key. Regular use of TENS and EMS, combined with a focus on movement and circulation, can provide measurable improvements in both nerve-related and muscle-related discomfort. Users often report enhanced mobility, reduced reliance on pain medication, and a greater sense of control over their symptoms.

Conclusion: The Future of Home Pain Management

TENS and EMS machines represent a growing trend in home-based, non-invasive chronic pain management. Combining TENS and EMS for chronic pain management allows individuals to target both nerve and muscle components, providing a comprehensive approach that supports circulation, reduces stiffness, and promotes active recovery. Advances in portable technology make these devices more accessible, allowing Australians to integrate them into daily routines with minimal disruption.

For anyone seeking a practical, drug-free approach to managing lower back pain, arthritis symptoms, fibromyalgia, or general musculoskeletal stiffness, exploring TENS and EMS therapy through PainPod devices offers an option that can complement rehabilitation technology and long-term pain management strategies. Empowering movement, supporting muscles, and modulating pain perception can help individuals regain confidence in their daily activities and maintain mobility in a natural, manageable way.

Resources:

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9014958/ 

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9611192/ 

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8539683/ 

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9535316/ 

• https://www.scielo.br/j/brjp/a/zfvL94Sgwr6vRRPp6mc6mSR/?format=html&lang=en 

• https://www.mltj.online/neuromuscular-electrical-stimulation-associated-with-core-stability-exercises-in-nonspecific-postural-low-back-pain-a-randomized-clinical-trial/ 

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12891-023-06243-x?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

• https://thepainpod.com/blogs/news/why-more-health-professionals-recommend-tens-and-ems-machines?srsltid=AfmBOorTSXCIh4wnch4vs-fdxhY_G7DyFakzZ1VAfpD2Djpb7F39RHbz 

• https://thepainpod.com/blogs/news/the-future-of-pain-relief-tens-ems-machines?srsltid=AfmBOorwTiy1g3f9kfHFUaneNsrBgdUhXeQ2n0xu2dl1Af6o-vDTgZdf 

References:

• Vance CGT et al. (2022). Using TENS for pain control: Update on the state of the evidence. Medicina.

• Johnson MI et al. (2022). Efficacy and safety of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for acute and chronic pain in adults: Systematic review and meta analysis of 381 studies. BMJ Open.

• Resende L et al. (2022). Does TENS reduce the intensity of acute and chronic pain. Systematic review and meta analysis. Journal of Pain Research.

• Silva C et al. (2022). Effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on muscle function in chronic low back pain patients: Systematic review. Brazilian Journal of Pain.

• Laufer Y et al. (2018). Therapeutic effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation in strengthening muscles: A review of clinical trials. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies.

• Severino K et al. (2019). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation associated with core stability exercises in nonspecific postural low back pain. Muscles Ligaments and Tendons Journal.

• Pain Australia. (2025). Painful Facts: Key statistics on chronic pain in Australia.

• IASP. (2025). Using TENS for pain control: Update on the state of the evidence. International Association for the Study of Pain summary.

• Kesar, T. M., & Binder‑Macleod, S. A. (2006). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation for muscle strengthening. Physical Therapy, 86(11), 1596–1605.

• Maffiuletti, N. A. (2010). Physiological and methodological considerations for the use of neuromuscular electrical stimulation. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 110(2), 223–234.

• Gibson, W., Wand, B. M., Meads, C., Catley, M. J., & O’Connell, N. E. (2019). Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for chronic pain – an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews