If you’re shopping for an at-home TENS/EMS unit to help with back pain, three names pop up fast: Compex, IQ Technologies (IQ Massager), and HiDow International. Below is a direct, practical review of each. It includes what they do well, where they fall short, and which one I recommend.

 

How I Judged Them (Quick Criteria)

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• Back-pain features: real EMS programs (for muscle relaxation) and TENS (for pain relief)

• Ease of use: setup, pad placement, wireless options, app/touchscreen

• Modes & intensity: enough programs and levels to dial in comfort

• Ecosystem & support: accessories, warranties, FDA marketing status, availability

• Value: what you actually get for the price

 

HiDow International — Top Pick

www.hidow.com

50% off when purchased at www.body-solutions.net (use code PAIN FREE)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HiDow’s lineup focuses on simple, portable units with both TENS + EMS and plenty of modes. There devices also have microcurrent which encourages healing from a cellular level. Their units are one of the only units on the market that have this feature.

 

They also have an impressive assortment of attachable accessories for the different areas of your body. This is truly what sets them apart. They have everything from neck wraps that stimulates your neck, to knee wraps that stimulate your whole knee.

 

Notable models include the Pro Touch 6-12 (wireless, touchscreen; 12 modes, 20 intensity levels; can sync up to 6 receivers) and the Wireless 4-9 (wireless pads; 9 modes, 20 levels, independent controls). If you prefer wired, the XPD-12 offers 12 modes, dual channels, and 20 levels.

 

HiDow markets its devices as Class II, FDA 510(k) cleared and leans into everyday pain relief and recovery. 

 

Pros

• Strong wireless options with multi-receiver control (great before stretching sessions). 

• 20 intensity levels and multiple modes across models for fine-tuning comfort. 

• Clear positioning for pain relief + muscle relaxation (TENS and EMS). 

• Broad accessory ecosystem.

 

Cons

• Premium pricing on wireless units (e.g., Wireless 4-9 list price). They are very high quality but can get a bit expensive

 

Best for: Users who want a variety of therapy options in a grab-and-go system with ample modes, easy intensity control, and a clear TENS+EMS workflow for back-pain days.

 

Compex — Performance pedigree with robust programs

www.compex.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Compex is well known in sports/rehab circles and bundles EMS with TENS across its series. It is popular amongst athletes.

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It has a variation of modalities that is very well organized, though not simple to figure out.

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They have also recently redesigned their hardware (water-resistant sleeve, improved display) and improved the battery life on their devices.

 

Compex also sells a range of electrodes and accessories which is also a strong feature.

 

Pros

• Well-organized program libraries (strength/recovery/TENS) 

• Hardware refinements (water-resistant sleeve, improved screen) and good battery life

• Multiple price tiers

 

Cons​

• Program depth may feel complex if you just want quick relief 

Best for: Athletically minded users who value structured programs

 

IQ Technologies (IQ Massager) — Simple, bundle-friendly combos

www.iqskyline.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IQ Technologies sells the IQ Massager line with TENS/EMS combos and plenty of consumer bundles. They emphasize convenience with a great offering of bundle packages which include their attachable accessories.

 

They also offer a device that provides heat therapy.

 

IQ also has a very impressive line of massage chairs if you arfe in the market for one of those. I personally love them.

 

Pros

• Bundle options and accessories (belts, pads, slippers) for all-in setups. 

• Straightforward dual-output units with multiple modes 

 

Cons

• Bundles can be a bit pricey

Best for: Shoppers who want a package deal with accessories 

 

Verdict: Why HiDow is the Top Pick

 

For back-pain relief where ease, flexibility, and routine-readiness matter, HiDow edges out the others. Hidow offers strong wireless options with multi-zone control, plenty of modes and intensity, and straightforward user-friendly use.

 

Their devices are the most therapeutic on the market with sensations that mimic massage patterns. This provides the user with a smoothest and most comfortable experience possible.

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To save on Hidow products, visit www.body-solutions.net and use the code PAIN FREE at checkout. It will give you 50% off all Hidow products. They also have financing available on all products.

 

If you are looking for a quality TENS/EMS experience Hidow is the way to go.

 

Safety note: Don’t use TENS/EMS with a pacemaker/implanted device; avoid pad placement on the front of the neck, head, or over broken skin; and if you’re pregnant, don’t use on the abdomen/low back. Follow the device manual and consult a clinician with any concerns.

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Article by Anthony F (TENS/EMS Pain Management Specialist)

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Check out: Taking Control Of Back Pain (Full Guide) for more info on TENS/EMS use