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Safety & Health

Where Not to Put TENS Pads (Danger Zones + Safer Alternatives)

•7 min read

TENS can be a great drug-free tool for pain relief, but electrode placement matters. This guide covers the most important danger zones (where you should not place pads) and what to do instead.

Quick Answer: TENS Danger Zones

Do not place TENS pads on:
  • Front or sides of the neck
  • Across the chest / near the heart
  • Head, face, or near the eyes
  • Broken/irritated skin (cuts, rashes, burns)
  • Abdomen or low back during pregnancy (unless instructed by a clinician)
  • Over implanted electrical devices (pacemaker/ICD), unless cleared by a doctor

If you're unsure, use our placement chart and safety guide: electrode placement guide and TENS safety guide.

1) Front/Sides of the Neck

Avoid the front and sides of the neck. This region contains sensitive structures (including the carotid sinus) and stimulation may cause unwanted effects.

Safer alternative: For neck/shoulder tension, place pads on the upper trapezius/upper back (behind the neck), not near the throat.

If you want comparison picks for neck tension and desk-work strain, see: Best TENS Units for Neck & Shoulder Pain.

2) Across the Chest / Near the Heart

Don't place electrodes across the chest (e.g., one pad on the left chest and one on the right). Avoid placing pads near the heart area.

Especially important: If you have a pacemaker, implanted defibrillator (ICD), or heart rhythm issues, avoid TENS unless your clinician explicitly approves it.

4) Broken or Irritated Skin

Pads should go on clean, dry, intact skin. Avoid cuts, scrapes, rashes, burns, or any area that is already irritated (including irritation from previous pad use).

Tip: If you get redness from pads, give your skin a break and rotate placement slightly each session.

5) Pregnancy (Abdomen / Low Back)

During pregnancy, avoid TENS on the abdomen and lower back unless a clinician instructs you to use it. TENS is sometimes used during labor under medical supervision.

6) Pacemaker / Implanted Devices

If you have a pacemaker, ICD, or other implanted electrical device, do not use TENS unless your doctor clears it.

Safe Placement Rules (Simple Checklist)

✓ DO

  • Clean and dry skin before applying pads
  • Place pads on muscle tissue around the pain
  • Keep pads at least 1 inch apart
  • Start with low intensity and increase slowly

✗ DON'T

  • Place on the front/sides of the neck
  • Place across the chest
  • Place on broken/irritated skin
  • Use while sleeping or driving

Want to compare devices that are easy to use and travel-friendly? See our best portable TENS units.

FAQs

Can you put TENS pads on the front of your neck?

No. Avoid the front and sides of the neck. This area contains sensitive structures and can affect blood pressure and breathing. If using TENS for neck/shoulder tension, place pads on the upper trapezius/upper back (behind the neck) instead.

Can you place TENS pads across your chest?

No. Do not place electrodes across the chest or near the heart. This can interfere with heart rhythm, especially in people with cardiac conditions or implanted devices.

Can you put TENS pads on your face or head?

It is not recommended. Avoid placing TENS pads on the head/face, near the eyes, or across the temples.

Can you use TENS on broken skin?

No. Do not place pads on broken skin, open wounds, irritated skin, or active rashes. Wait until skin is healed.

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