Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the perceived efficacy, stimulation parameters and side-effect profile of TENS when used for chronic non-malignant pain. A prospective continuous sample of 154 patients was recruited from a nurse-led TENS clinic. Ninety-eight completed questionnaires were obtained following a four-week trial. Most patients chose the continuous mode (59%) because this gave the best reduction in their pain. A 50% or greater reduction in pain occurred in 44% of the sample, 20% had no relief and 8% reported an exacerbation of their pain. There was a trend towards greater effect for neuropathic pains (p = 0.17) and for less benefit in the over 60 age group (p = 0.16). On average it took 26 min (s.d. 25.47) for analgesia to develop and continued relief was achieved for a mean of 77 min (s.d. 83.45), once the machine was switched off. Nearly 46% of the patients reported some discomfort which they associated with the use of TENS. Unpleasant sensations at and away from the site of TENS were reported by 30.6%, whilst headaches (8.2%), muscle aches (6.1%), nausea (3.1%), bad temperedness (3.1%) and dizziness (1.0%) were also reported. TENS is an effective treatment for some chronic pain conditions, but a high level of mild and often unusual side effects may limit compliance.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 265-276 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Pain Clinic |
Volume | 13 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2002 |
Keywords
- Chronic pain
- Side effects
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation