By SISSILUX · Updated September 20, 2026
There is no universal three-placement TENS routine that fixes back pain from sitting. Start by understanding the pain and the instructions for your device, rather than copying a diagram intended for a different pad layout.
NICE guidance for low-back pain and sciatica recommends against offering TENS for those conditions. This article therefore does not promise that particular electrode positions will treat your back pain.
Where should pads go if a clinician has advised TENS?
Ask for a placement demonstration using your actual device. A diagram with four separate wired electrodes cannot automatically be reproduced with a compact wireless pad. Check the intended area, spacing and skin contact against your device leaflet before switching it on.
Do not put electrodes on numb, broken or irritated skin, or arrange them across the chest and back. Stimulation should not hurt; stop and remove the pads if skin irritation develops. See NHS instructions and exclusions for additional precautions.
Which intensity and session length should you use?
Use the settings and duration in your device instructions and any individual clinical advice. A preset mode name does not tell you that it matches a study’s frequency or pulse width. Do not raise the intensity simply because a lower setting has not changed your pain.
For context on what temporary relief means, our TENS mechanism and evidence guide separates symptom relief from recovery.
The workday plan matters too
NHS back-pain guidance recommends staying active and avoiding long periods in bed. Build manageable movement into the day and seek help if pain persists or limits normal activities.
Back pain with new bladder or bowel changes, loss of feeling around the genitals or anus, or weakness or numbness in both legs needs emergency assessment. It is not a reason to try another electrode layout.
Checking a cordless device
If you are evaluating equipment for an appropriate use, SissPulse’s product page shows its cordless design, modes and intensity controls. Confirm that your intended use matches its instructions; this link is not a recommendation to treat low-back pain contrary to the guidance above.