Abstract

AMER-CUENCA, J.J.; GOICOECHEA, C.  and  LISON, J.F.. Which physiological response triggers the application of the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation technique?. Rev. Soc. Esp. Dolor [online]. 2010, vol.17, n.7, pp.333-342. ISSN 1134-8046.

Purpose: To analyze the physiological effects of the application of the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) technique on patients, to provide guidance for successful implementation in clinical practice. TENS technique involves the application of a pulsed electric current, traditionally used for pain control. Different TENS programming parameters should be adjusted, taking into account that the different programming options will activate various physiological mechanisms. Extensive studies in animals and in healthy subjects have been conducted recently, in order to elucidate the physiological effects produced in the body when TENS is applied. Material and methods: We conducted a comprehensive review of published scientific literature on the use of the TENS technique and its physiological effects. Relevant trials were identified through a search of various databases and reference books on the subject, from the Library of the CEU-Cardenal Herrera University of Valencia. Results: We found 97 references that met the inclusion criteria. Conclusions: TENS produces its analgesic effect by activation of afferents of deep tissues by stimulation of primary Aβ large diameter afferent fibers. The physiological mechanisms of action of TENS at low and high frequency are different, although both occur at peripheral, spinal and supraspinal level, and are based primarily on the activation of different opioid receptors. With the proper combination of parameters, TENS reduces pain from the first minute of application. Regarding the duration of analgesic effect after a treatment session, it is known the importance of using higher intensities for greater duration of post-session effect. The daily repeated application of TENS with the same parameters will lead to the development of tolerance. Although there has been speculation about a vascular effect of the application of TENS, it only has an effect on peripheral circulation when applied at intensity sufficient to achieve significant muscle contractions; in any case the effect is reduced in the area of application. The application of TENS can positively influence muscle activity in patients with motor deficits in stroke and other neurological disorders.

Keywords : Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation; Review.

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