How TENS Therapy Can Help Dogs with Arthritis
As our loyal companions age, many dogs face the stiff, painful reality of osteoarthritis. While medications are a standard approach, 2026 has seen a continued shift toward multi-modal care, where non-invasive technologies like TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) play a vital role in keeping animals mobile and comfortable.
What is TENS Therapy?
TENS is a drug-free, non-invasive treatment that uses a mobile device to deliver mild electrical currents through electrodes placed on the body utilising gel for conductivity. For dogs this usually feels like a gentle tingling or buzzing sensation.
How It Fights Arthritis Pain
TENS works through two primary biological mechanisms to manage chronic joint pain:
- The “Pain Gate” Theory: At higher frequencies, TENS stimulates sensory nerves that “close the gate” on pain signals before they reach the brain. This provides immediate, localised relief for stiff joints like the knee or hock.
- Endorphin Release: At lower frequencies, the pulses trigger the body’s natural pharmacy, stimulating the release of endorphins—the body’s own natural painkillers—into the spinal cord for longer-lasting comfort.
- Improved Circulation: The electrical pulses promote vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which increases blood flow to arthritic areas. This helps deliver essential nutrients and remove metabolic waste that contributes to inflammation.
Specific Benefits for Dogs
- TENS is highly effective for managing joint pain in the hips, back, and knees. Recent studies have shown that even 10 days of daily TENS therapy can significantly decrease pain during activity and rest for dogs with spinal arthritis.
By integrating TENS into a routine of proper nutrition and exercise, you can help your four-legged friends enjoy a more active, pain-free life well into their senior years.