Introduction to Physical Agents for Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Practice Test

Safe and effective NMES/TENS electrode placement relies on delivering current to the right neural targets while creating a proper current path and protecting the skin. Placing electrodes over targeted motor points or nerves helps ensure the stimulation activates the intended muscle or sensory fibers rather than spreading unpredictably to adjacent tissues, which improves efficiency and comfort. Keeping an appropriate distance between electrodes shapes the current path so it travels along the desired route and reduces localized irritation or hot spots. Avoiding bony prominences and irritated skin minimizes pressure, shear, and burn risk while enhancing comfort and tolerance during the session. Regular skin inspection before and during treatment allows early detection of redness, irritation, or breakdown and enables timely adjustments. Placing electrodes on the opposite limb does not provide a meaningful advantage for treatment, and using only one electrode fails to complete a proper circuit and compromises effectiveness and safety.