So you've got your hands on a Tap 2.0 TENS machine and unsure about the set up...

Let's troubleshoot together...

"Why doesn't my TENS seem to be working?"

The good news? In many cases, it's just a few small adjustments.

Here are five things to consider when you are setting up your TENS for the first time or getting to know how it works.

1. The Intensity May Be Too Low

Many people start cautiously with TENS, which is understandable. However, TENS works best when the stimulation is strong enough for your nervous system to feel it. Discomfort- NO, a tingling sensation that feels comfortable and effective- YES.

While TENS should never feel painful, many users find they achieve better results when the sensation feels strong, comfortable, and noticeable.

A good rule of thumb is to gradually increase the intensity until you can clearly feel the stimulation without discomfort.

Try this: Press the (+) to increase the intensity 2-3 levels at first, then a couple more if you feel like you want more sensation. If it feels like it's too much, just press the (-) to come back down a notch or two. There are 20 intensity levels. 

2. Placement Matters 

There is rarely one "perfect" place to position a TENS machine unless you are following a specific protocol from a clinician. 

For pelvic pain and period pain, some people respond best to placement across the lower abdomen, while others find greater relief through lower back placement. Some people benefit from using both areas at different times which you can do with our new 100cm cord. 

If you have a curvy tummy you might like to experiment with using our round electrodes on your lower abdomen placed underneath or below your tummy to prevent pad folding. 

Everyone's pain pattern is slightly different, which means a little experimentation is often worthwhile.

Try this: Move your electrodes a few centimetres from their usual position and see whether the sensation feels different or try a different pad type. 

3. Your Sticky Pads May Need Replacing

Over time, sticky pads naturally lose their adhesion and conductivity. Your Tap 2.0 TENS will auto shut-off if it does not have a good adhesion to your skin. 

If your pads are:

-not sticking well

-lifting at the edges

-feeling less intense than usual

they may simply need replacing.

Many users are surprised by how much difference a fresh set of pads can make.

In a pinch you can also squeeze a bit more life out of a pad by rubbing a small amount of water on the sticky surface and allowing it to air dry for a few minutes before replacing the plastic backing. 

Try this: If your pads have been used frequently, consider replacing them and ensuring they're applied to clean, dry skin.

4. Different Modes May Feel Better for Different People

TENS is not a one-size-fits-all experience.

Research has explored a range of frequencies and settings for pain relief, and individual preferences vary considerably. Whilst high frequency (Mode 1 & 2) are the most evidence-based parameters for pelvic pain, some users enjoy the feeling and endorphin release of low frequency TENS (Mode 3 & 4). 

Some people prefer a steady sensation, while others respond better to pulsing or alternating patterns.

This is one of the reasons Tap. 2.0 includes multiple pre-set modes informed by current research and clinical practice. You can read more about our modes here. 

Try this: Spend a few minutes trialling different modes rather than always defaulting to the same setting.

5. Timing Can Make a Difference

Many people only reach for their TENS machine when pain has already become severe.

While TENS can absolutely be used during a pain flare, some users find it most helpful when used a little earlier, before symptoms become overwhelming.

For example, people with period pain may choose to begin using TENS at the first sign of discomfort rather than waiting until pain reaches its peak. It's harder to come back from 10/10 pain than it is to manage pain around the 4/10 mark. 

We've also noticed that naturally, some of you are excited to use your new Tap 2.0 TENS as soon as it arrives but please note if you are not experiencing pain when you first try your TENS it may feel a little overwhelming or like an unnecessary feeling. Our bet is you won't feel that away once you use it for the first time during a pain flare. 

Try this: Experiment with use at the first sign of cramps and see whether it changes your overall experience.

6. Charging your device

Another important thing to consider is if you Tap 2.0 TENS needs to be fully charged. Once you receive your TENS go ahead and charge it for a full to hours. The light will change from red to blue when it is fully charged. If you are not seeing a blue light after a couple hours try charging it with a different wall adaptor or directly in a computer/laptop port. Once you see the blue light, you are good to go!

Never leave your Tap 2.0 on the charge for more than 8 hours as this can wear down battery life over time. 

When to Seek Additional Support

TENS can be a helpful tool for many people, but it is only one part of the picture.

If you're experiencing persistent pelvic pain, severe period pain, bladder symptoms, or pain that is affecting your quality of life, consider speaking with a healthcare professional such as a pelvic health physiotherapist, GP, specialist, or other qualified clinician.

They may be able to help identify contributing factors and suggest additional strategies that work alongside TENS therapy.

Tap. Troubleshooting

A TENS machine isn't always plug-and-play. It takes time to get used to how to use your Tap 2.0 TENS and that will come with practice. 

Small adjustments to intensity, placement, timing, pad condition, and mode selection can sometimes make a significant difference to your experience.

If you're still troubleshooting your Tap. device, our team is always happy to help point you in the right direction, just send us an email and we will get back to you as soon as we can. 

Pain relief should fit real life

xo