Dose-specific Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on Experimental Pain

Abstract

The level of hypoalgesic efficacy of TENS is clearly dependent on TENS parameter combination selection (defined in terms of intensity, frequency, and stimulation site) and experimental pain model. Future clinical RCTs may consider these TENS dose responses.

Brain mechanisms of pain relief by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation: A functional magnetic resonance imaging study

“…TENS efficacy has been shown in pressure pain, intense experimental pain and thermal pain models (Claydon et al, 2011). TENS efficacy has been shown in pressure pain, intense experimental pain and thermal pain models (Claydon et al, 2011).…”

High-Frequency Transcutaneous Peripheral Nerve Stimulation Induces a Higher Increase of Heat Pain Threshold in the Cutaneous Area of the Stimulated Nerve When Confronted to the Neighbouring Areas

“…Controlled clinical trials have clearly demonstrated that TENS has a specific antalgic effect [1–4], but the intrinsic mechanism remains largely unknown [5]. For this reason, on the clinical ground, TENS is largely used by trial and error, and the optimal setting of stimulation parameters is still a matter of debate.…”

Efficacy and Effectiveness of Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation in the Treatment of Pelvic Organ Disorders: A Systematic Review

“…In contrast to the increase in blood flow in the pelvis after PTNS, a decrease in blood flow in the uterine arteries occurred at stimulation with higher frequency at the site treated with PTNS (43). TENS research has shown better results on pain at higher frequencies and intensities (44).…”