Muscle Stimulator and TENS Unit Pads Positioning Guide

Muscle stimulators work best if the pads are placed correctly. Correct stim pad placement is important to optimize treatment.

Below we list some tips for correct stimulator pad placement.

Step by step guide: How to place muscle stimulator pads?

1. Select the muscle group

Identifying the right muscle group is the first step to proper electrode placement. This can include large muscle groups, such as quadriceps, or smaller muscle groups, such as biceps.

2. Prepare the skin

Skin preparation ensures good conductivity and minimizes the risk of irritation:

1. Clean the skin with soap and water to remove oils and dirt;
2. Dry the skin thoroughly before applying pads.

3. Position the pads

The correct placement of electrodes promotes effective treatment.

Here are the general tips when applying pads:

• Pads should be applied firmly to the surface of the skin;
• Place the electrodes parallel to the muscle fibers
• Avoid placing electrodes on bony prominences to avoid discomfort

How to place TENS unit pads?

TENS muscle stimulatoion relieves pain by stimulating nerves to block the pain signal to the brain. Key points to consider for pads placement in TENS include:

• Target area: place the pads around or near the area where there is pain;
• Distance: maintain some distance between the electrodes to prevent the currents from overlapping

How to place EMS unit pads?

The goal of EMS is to stimulate muscle contraction to improve muscle strength and tone.

The main things to keep in mind when placing EMS unit pads:

• Muscle belly: Electrodes should be placed on the belly of the muscle, which is the thickest part;
• Muscle fibers: Place the electrodes in the direction of the muscle fibers to achieve proper stimulation;
• Motor points: Place the electrodes on the motor points, where the nerves enter the muscles, to maximize contraction;
• Spacing: Apply adequate spacing to avoid discomfort or poor stimulation.

How to ensure effective muscle stimulator pad placement?

Follow these additional tips for an effective electrostimulation treatment:

• Make sure there is good contact between the electrodes and the skin;
• Make gradual increments to avoid discomfort;
• Check the skin for any irritation or redness at points of device use;
• Change the pads regularly.