Anyone taken a TENS unit through security?

[Shugardrawers]

Has anyone taken their TENS unit through airport security? What was your experience? I don't want to check it in my baggage for fear of losing it. I don't have a written RX and we leave too soon to get one. Does TSA know what it is or am I in for a HUGE hassle?

 

[uva185]

I don't really know what a TENS unit is but just by Googling it doesn't seem like a "prohibited item" so I don't think you would need a perscription for it. Just leave it in its bag/case and go through the checkpoint as normal.

 

[cjb1879]

OP- I work for TSA. I hadn't heard of these before, but thought I'd do seom research and get you an official answer. TENS units are allowed through the checkpoints. As a matter of fact, they are referenced on TSA's webpage regarding assistive devices and mobility aids (http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/editorial_1370.shtm) under the heading of "Orthopedic Shoes, Support Appliances and Other Exterior Aids". Take a look at the page.

That said, these aren't everyday, run-of-the-mill items at the checkpoint, so I would recommend anticipating some extra time spent during the process while the device is screened appropriately, especially considering the wires which protrude from the device. I would also recommend that you let the officer who screens your items know that you have this in your carry-on ASAP so unecessary time isn't spent trying to figure out what the device is.

Nevertheless, you will be fine transporting the item through security. Just let the staff know what and where it is. Hope this helps and enjoy your trip!

 

[Shugardrawers]

I want to thank the TSA employee for their insight.

A TENS unit is an electrical muscular stimulant device that helps with pain control. I *could* be perceived as a suspicious item by TSA due to it's looks and I understand that. That's why I asked in the 1st place.

I took the unit out of my luggage, told TSA what it was and placed it, opened up, in it's own screening tray. They DID take it out and use the wand and little cloths for detecting explosives but DID NOT ask for any Rx on it. Seems alerting security to possibly troublesome items and cooperating made things go pretty smoothly. Thanks for the help.

 

[Aunt Stepody]

Thanks for asking this question OP. My Dh just had back surgery in May. We are planning on taking his TENS as well. He may even need it while in flight. I didn't even think about getting a RX from his surgeon. Maybe we will do that before we go.

 

[Diane L]

I have taken a TENS unit, both wired and wireless, through TSA many times. I place it in my carry on bag and have never been questioned about it. I have been doing this for about 20 years. One time I had applied it to my back before going through security and had to undergo the hands under my clothes inspection. Never did that again.

 

[joviroxx]

I travel with mine as well, never had an issue, never questioned,

 

[FCDub]

OP probably figured it out 10 years ago.