TENS units use electrode pads, backed with a conductive hydrogel, to deliver therapeutic electrical currents through the skin. Secure adhesion is necessary to ensure electrical impulses are distributed safely and uniformly across the treatment area. Over time, the hydrogel naturally loses its tackiness due to the accumulation of skin oils, dust, and lint. When pads fail to stick, current delivery becomes inconsistent or ineffective, making restoration necessary for continued therapy.
Immediate Methods for Restoring Pad Stickiness
A reduction in moisture is often why the hydrogel backing stops adhering, which can be quickly remedied through rehydration. Place one or two drops of clean water onto the gel surface and gently rub it in with a clean fingertip. This helps reactivate the gel’s natural adhesive properties without oversaturating the material. Allow the pads to air-dry for a minute or two until the surface is tacky but not wet.
If rehydration is not enough, the pad surface needs gentle cleaning to remove accumulated debris like skin cells and oils. Use a lint-free cloth or a cotton swab lightly dampened with water to gently wipe the gel surface in a circular motion. For a more thorough clean, add a small amount of mild hand soap to the water, followed by a light rinse to remove any residue. Avoid abrasive scrubbing or using harsh chemicals like alcohol, which can permanently degrade the conductive hydrogel and destroy the pad’s function.
For pads that are clean but severely dry, specialized conductive electrode gels or electrolyte sprays can be applied in a thin, even layer to the sticky side. These products preserve the pad’s moisture and improve electrical conductivity between the electrode and the skin. This application can extend the functional life of older pads. A final technique involves gently brushing the pad in one direction with a soft, clean toothbrush, which can sometimes bring a fresher, stickier layer of the hydrogel to the surface.
Proper Skin Preparation for Optimal Adhesion
Achieving a strong initial bond begins with proper preparation of the application site. Before every session, the skin must be cleaned thoroughly with gentle soap and water to remove natural sebum, sweat, or cosmetic products like lotions and moisturizers. These substances create a barrier that reduces the pad’s ability to stick and compromises current flow. The skin must then be completely dried before the pads are applied, as residual moisture interferes with the hydrogel’s adhesive bond.
For areas with dense or long hair, shaving the application site is recommended to improve adhesion and prevent premature peeling. Hair creates distance between the electrode and the skin, which can lead to uncomfortable, uneven electrical sensations. Ensuring the skin surface is smooth and clean maximizes the contact area, promoting consistent electrical conduction and prolonging the pads’ usable life.
Extending Pad Lifespan Through Maintenance and Storage
The way pads are handled when not in use directly influences how long they maintain their stickiness and conductivity. When removing the pads, always peel them off slowly by lifting the edge, avoiding pulling on the lead wires, which can damage the internal carbon film. To prevent contamination and drying, pads should be placed back onto their original plastic liner or protective film immediately after use.
Proper storage involves keeping the pads in a cool, dry location, ideally sealed within the original resealable bag. Exposing pads to extreme temperatures, such as leaving them in a hot car or near a heater, can cause the hydrogel to dry out or melt, permanently destroying adhesive and conductive properties. Keeping the pads on their liner and sealed from the air minimizes moisture loss. Eventually, the conductive gel will break down, and the pads will need replacement, typically after 20 to 30 uses. Signs that a pad needs replacement include visible cracking of the gel, permanent loss of adhesion despite cleaning, or a stinging sensation during use.