TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) therapy has proven its versatility as this is also now used post-surgery, specifically in orthopedic cases. The TENS electrodes are not used, however, during surgery but following it so as to repair the tissues that were damaged during the operation and to relieve pain at the same time.

I’ve tried TENS therapy countless times to help soothe my sore tired feet. Though the TENS machine that I bought came with free electrodes, I opted to use DONECO® TENS replacement pads as they really stick well. Nonetheless, it’s my first time to hear that TENS therapy is also being used after orthopedic surgery, particularly on the knee. It made me curious whether or not they’re using the same electrodes that we normally use. I decided to do a little research about it and found out the facts that I’ll be mentioning in the next few paragraphs.

Although the TENS unit pad may also be used during surgery, it is not however required that they are sterile since these electrodes will be placed on the affected areas following the suturing of the wound. The electrodes are attached while the patient is still under anesthesia and unconscious.

The main goals of TENS therapy during and after surgery are to speed up wound healing and to relieve pain at the same time. Electrical stimulation had already been used in the past and this was found to be effective in treating non-healing decubitus ulcers, as well as non-union fractures. Electrotherapy works in improving local blood circulation, so it would really help all kinds of wound to heal.

The most popular surgical use of TENS is during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in the knee. Oftentimes, the TENS electrodes are being placed directly above the knee on both sides. In this case, the current is said to just flow above the injured tissues. To promote healing better and quicker, the TENS electrodes should instead be placed on the calf and the other on the thigh, just 3 to 4 inches above the knee. This placement method is found to be effective as this directs the electrical current towards the surgical site and also controls pain through the stimulation of the afferent nerves.