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Reddy J, Singhal R, Gaikwad AP, Patel D, Patel P, Gandhi SK. Unraveling the Potential of Electroanalgesia: A Literature Review of Current Therapeutics. Cureus 2024; 16:e61122. [PMID: 38919207 PMCID: PMC11198869 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP), arising from dysfunction in the neurological system, poses a significant challenge in pain management due to its intricate origin and unpredictable response to conventional treatments. Electroanalgesia, a collection of techniques such as transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS), peripheral electrical nerve stimulation (PENS), spinal cord stimulation (SCS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), and electroacupuncture (EA), presents a potential alternative or complementary approach. This review brings together evidence from 56 studies to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of electroanalgesia in chronic NP. It discusses the mechanisms underlying NP, the indications for electroanalgesia, and the techniques utilized, emphasizing the diverse applications and potential benefits. However, despite its potential uses, electroanalgesia has its limitations, including variable effectiveness and potential adverse effects. Furthermore, the review recognizes the limitations of the methodology and the need for further research to refine treatment protocols and enhance the understanding of electroanalgesia's role in comprehensive pain management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyothsna Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. (M.G.Ramachandran) Medical University, Chennai, IND
| | - Rohan Singhal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, IND
| | - Anand P Gaikwad
- Department of Internal Medicine, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, IND
| | - Diya Patel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gujarat Medical Education and Research Society, Sola, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Priyansh Patel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical College Baroda, Vadodara, IND
| | - Siddharth Kamal Gandhi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shri M.P. (Meghaji Pethraj) Shah Government Medical College, Jamnagar, IND
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Jang HN, Oh TJ. Pharmacological and Nonpharmacological Treatments for Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. Diabetes Metab J 2023; 47:743-756. [PMID: 37670573 PMCID: PMC10695723 DOI: 10.4093/dmj.2023.0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most prevalent chronic complications of diabetes. The lifetime prevalence of DPN is thought to be >50%, and 15%-25% of patients with diabetes experience neuropathic pain, referred to as "painful DPN." Appropriate treatment of painful DPN is important because this pain contributes to a poor quality of life by causing sleep disturbance, anxiety, and depression. The basic principle for the management of painful DPN is to control hyperglycemia and other modifiable risk factors, but these may be insufficient for preventing or improving DPN. Because there is no promising diseasemodifying medication for DPN, the pain itself needs to be managed when treating painful DPN. Drugs for neuropathic pain, such as gabapentinoids, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, alpha-lipoic acid, sodium channel blockers, and topical capsaicin, are used for the management of painful DPN. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved pregabalin, duloxetine, tapentadol, and the 8% capsaicin patch as drugs for the treatment of painful DPN. Recently, spinal cord stimulation using electrical stimulation is approved by the FDA for the treatment for painful DPN. This review describes the currently available pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments for painful DPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Na Jang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Tae Jung Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Shi Y, Wu W. Multimodal non-invasive non-pharmacological therapies for chronic pain: mechanisms and progress. BMC Med 2023; 21:372. [PMID: 37775758 PMCID: PMC10542257 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03076-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain conditions impose significant burdens worldwide. Pharmacological treatments like opioids have limitations. Non-invasive non-pharmacological therapies (NINPT) encompass diverse interventions including physical, psychological, complementary and alternative approaches, and other innovative techniques that provide analgesic options for chronic pain without medications. MAIN BODY This review elucidates the mechanisms of major NINPT modalities and synthesizes evidence for their clinical potential across chronic pain populations. NINPT leverages peripheral, spinal, and supraspinal mechanisms to restore normal pain processing and limit central sensitization. However, heterogeneity in treatment protocols and individual responses warrants optimization through precision medicine approaches. CONCLUSION Future adoption of NINPT requires addressing limitations in standardization and accessibility as well as synergistic combination with emerging therapies. Overall, this review highlights the promise of NINPT as a valuable complementary option ready for integration into contemporary pain medicine paradigms to improve patient care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shi
- Department of Rehabilitation, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China
| | - Wen Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510282, China.
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Al-Zamil M, Minenko IA, Kulikova NG, Mansur N, Nuvakhova MB, Khripunova OV, Shurygina IP, Topolyanskaya SV, Trefilova VV, Petrova MM, Narodova EA, Soloveva IA, Nasyrova RF, Shnayder NA. Efficiency of Direct Transcutaneous Electroneurostimulation of the Median Nerve in the Regression of Residual Neurological Symptoms after Carpal Tunnel Decompression Surgery. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2396. [PMID: 37760837 PMCID: PMC10525175 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most frequent entrapment neuropathy. CTS therapy includes wrist immobilization, kinesiotherapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, carpal tunnel steroid injection, acupuncture, and physical therapy. Carpal tunnel decompression surgery (CTDS) is recommended after failure of conservative therapy. In many cases, neurological disorders continue despite CTDS. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of direct transcutaneous electroneurostimulation (TENS) of the median nerve in the regression of residual neurological symptoms after CTDS. Material and Methods: 60 patients aged 28-62 years with persisting sensory and motor disorders after CTDS were studied; 15 patients received sham stimulation with a duration 30 min.; 15 patients received high-frequency low-amplitude TENS (HF TENS) with a duration 30 min; 15 patients received low-frequency high-amplitude TENS (LF TENS) with a duration 30 min; and 15 patients received a co-administration of HF TENS (with a duration of15 min) and LF TENS (with a duration of 15 min). Results: Our research showed that TENS significantly decreased the pain syndrome, sensory disorders, and motor deficits in the patients after CTDS. Predominantly, negative and positive sensory symptoms and the pain syndrome improved after the HF TENS course. Motor deficits, reduction of fine motor skill performance, electromyography changes, and affective responses to chronic pain syndrome regressed significantly after the LF TENS course. Co-administration of HF TENS and LF TENS was significantly more effective than use of sham stimulation, HF TENS, or LF TENS in patients with residual neurological symptoms after CTDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Al-Zamil
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Continuing Medical Education, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.G.K.); (N.M.)
- Department of Restorative Medicine and Neurorehabilitation, Medical Dental Institute, 127253 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Inessa A. Minenko
- Department of Restorative Medicine and Neurorehabilitation, Medical Dental Institute, 127253 Moscow, Russia;
- Department of Sports Medicine and Medical Rehabilitation, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Natalia G. Kulikova
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Continuing Medical Education, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.G.K.); (N.M.)
- National Medical Research Center for Rehabilitation and Balneology, 121099 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Numman Mansur
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Continuing Medical Education, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 117198 Moscow, Russia; (N.G.K.); (N.M.)
- Department of Restorative Medicine and Neurorehabilitation, Medical Dental Institute, 127253 Moscow, Russia;
- City Clinical Hospital Named after V. V. Vinogradov, 117292 Moscow, Russia
| | - Margarita B. Nuvakhova
- National Medical Research Center for Rehabilitation and Balneology, 121099 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Olga V. Khripunova
- Department of Sports Medicine and Medical Rehabilitation, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Irina P. Shurygina
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rostov State Medical University, 344022 Rostov, Russia;
| | - Svetlana V. Topolyanskaya
- Department of Hospital Therapy No. 2, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Vera V. Trefilova
- Institute of Personalized Psychiatry and Neurology, V.M. Bekhterev National Medical Research Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology, 192019 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (V.V.T.); (R.F.N.)
| | - Marina M. Petrova
- Shared Core Facilities “Molecular and Cell Technologies”, Professor V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (M.M.P.); (E.A.N.); (I.A.S.)
| | - Ekaterina A. Narodova
- Shared Core Facilities “Molecular and Cell Technologies”, Professor V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (M.M.P.); (E.A.N.); (I.A.S.)
| | - Irina A. Soloveva
- Shared Core Facilities “Molecular and Cell Technologies”, Professor V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (M.M.P.); (E.A.N.); (I.A.S.)
| | - Regina F. Nasyrova
- Institute of Personalized Psychiatry and Neurology, V.M. Bekhterev National Medical Research Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology, 192019 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (V.V.T.); (R.F.N.)
| | - Natalia A. Shnayder
- Institute of Personalized Psychiatry and Neurology, V.M. Bekhterev National Medical Research Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology, 192019 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (V.V.T.); (R.F.N.)
- Shared Core Facilities “Molecular and Cell Technologies”, Professor V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, 660022 Krasnoyarsk, Russia; (M.M.P.); (E.A.N.); (I.A.S.)
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Erkin Y, Hanci V, Ozduran E. Evaluating the readability, quality and reliability of online patient education materials on transcutaneuous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e33529. [PMID: 37083809 PMCID: PMC10118348 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000033529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing digitization also raises concerns regarding the reliability and comprehensibility of online health information. In this study, we aimed to examine the readability, reliability, and quality of internet-based patient education materials on "transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation." On September 15, 2022, we used Google search engine to search the keyword "Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation" and obtained information from 200 websites. The readability of the websites was evaluated using the Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES), Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, Simple Measure of Gobbledygook, and Gunning Fog. The Journal of American Medical Association score and Health on the Net Foundation code of conduct were used to determine the reliability of the websites, whereas the DISCERN score and Global Quality Score were used to evaluate the quality of the websites. In the readability analysis of 102 websites that met the inclusion criteria of this study, we found that the Flesch Reading Ease Score was 47.91 ± 13.79 (difficult), average Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook were 11.20 ± 2.85 and 10.53 ± 2.11 years, respectively, and average Gunning Fog score was 14.04 ± 2.74 (very difficult). Commercial websites constituted the highest proportion of websites (n = 36, 35.5%). Overall, 16.7% of the websites were found to be of high quality according to the Global Quality Score, 16 (15.7%) websites had Health on the Net Foundation code of conduct certification, and 8.8% of the websites were found to be highly reliable according to the Journal of American Medical Association scores. There was a statistically significant difference between website typologies and quality and reliability scores (P < .001). Compared with the sixth-grade level recommended by the American Medical Association and the National Institute of Health, the readability of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation-related internet-based patient education materials was considerably high, but they showed low reliability and moderate-to-poor quality. Thus, the quality, reliability, and readability of websites developed by health professionals play a major role in conveying accurate and easily understandable information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yüksel Erkin
- Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Algology, Dokuz Eylul University, İzmir Turkey
| | - Volkan Hanci
- Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Dokuz Eylul University, İzmir Turkey
| | - Erkan Ozduran
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Algology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
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The dose-dependent effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for pain relief in individuals with fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pain 2023:00006396-990000000-00263. [PMID: 36893318 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a nonpharmacological modality widely used to manage pain; however, its effectiveness for individuals with fibromyalgia (FM) has been questioned. In previous studies and systematic reviews, variables related to dose of TENS application have not been considered. The objectives of this meta-analysis were (1) to determine the effect of TENS on pain in individuals with FM and (2) determine the dose-dependent effect of TENS dose parameters on pain relief in individuals with FM. We searched the PubMed, PEDro, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases for relevant manuscripts. Data were extracted from 11 of the 1575 studies. The quality of the studies was assessed using the PEDro scale and RoB-2 assessment. This meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model that, when not considering the TENS dosage applied, showed that the treatment had no overall effect on pain (d+ = 0.51, P > 0.050, k = 14). However, the moderator analyses, which were performed assuming a mixed-effect model, revealed that 3 of the categorical variables were significantly associated with effect sizes: the number of sessions (P = 0.005), the frequency (P = 0.014), and the intensity (P = 0.047). The electrode placement was not significantly associated with any effect sizes. Thus, there is evidence that TENS can effectively reduce pain in individuals with FM when applied at high or at mixed frequencies, a high intensity, or in long-term interventions involving 10 or more sessions. This review protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42021252113).
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The dose-effect relationship of electroacupuncture analgesia and its stimulus parameters: Progress in the last 3 decades 电针镇痛及其与刺激参数的量效关系研究:近三十年研究新进展. WORLD JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE-MOXIBUSTION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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Eid MM, Hamed NS, Abdelbasset WK, Elkholi SM, Eladl HM, Bahey El-Deen HA. A comparative study between transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy in the management of post-herpetic neuralgia of the sciatic nerve. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e31433. [PMID: 36343068 PMCID: PMC9646515 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000031433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the efficacy of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMFT) versus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in the treatment of post-herpetic neuralgia of the sciatic nerve. METHODS A double-blinded randomized clinical study has included 56 patients (18 males and 38 females). Participants were randomly and equally assigned into 2 groups. Both groups received conventional physical therapy treatment. Moreover, group (A) has an additional TENS, and group (B) had PEMFT. Both modalities were applied once daily, 3 times a week for 20 minutes for 8 successive weeks. Visual analog scale (VAS) and carbamazepine intake (CMI) dose have been assessed before and after interventions. RESULTS There was a significant decrease in VAS and CMI post-treatment in group A and B compared with that pretreatment (P > .001). The percent decrease in VAS and CMI in group A were 72.44% and 69.47% respectively and that for group B was 68.95% and 67.94% respectively. The findings revealed a non-significant difference in VAS and CMI (P > .05) between groups. The Means of VAS and CMI were (2.4 ± 0.78, 204.5 ± 16.76 and 2.67 ± 0.9, 210.57 ± 16.5) in group A and group B respectively. The mean difference for VAS and CMI was (-0.27 and -6.07) between groups post-treatment respectively. CONCLUSION Both TENS and PEMFT were effective and nearly equivalent in improving the post-herpetic neuralgia of the sciatic nerve as measured by in VAS and CMI. Clinical recommendations should be highlighted to instigate the using of TENS and PEMFT in the management of post-herpetic neuralgia of the sciatic nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa M. Eid
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physical Therapy for Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nashwa Sayed Hamed
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physical Therapy for Neuromuscular Disorders & Its Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Walid Kamal Abdelbasset
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physical Therapy, Kasr Al-Aini Hospital, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- * Correspondence: Walid Kamal Abdelbasset, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia (e-mail: )
| | - Safaa Mostafa Elkholi
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hadaya M. Eladl
- Department of Physical Therapy for Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Physical Therapy and Health Rehabilitation, College of Applied Medical Science, Jouf University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Heba A. Bahey El-Deen
- Department of Physical Therapy and Health Rehabilitation, College of Applied Medical Science, Jouf University, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physical Therapy for Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Misr University for Science and Technology, Egypt
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Cardinali A, Celini D, Chaplik M, Grasso E, Nemec EC. Efficacy of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation for Postoperative Pain, Pulmonary Function, and Opioid Consumption Following Cardiothoracic Procedures: A Systematic Review. Neuromodulation 2021; 24:1439-1450. [PMID: 33215794 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a minimally invasive method for treating pain. In the most recent review published in 2012, TENS was associated with increased pain relief following cardiothoracic surgery when compared to standard multimodal analgesia. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine if adding TENS to current pain management practices decreases pain and analgesic use and improves pulmonary function for postcardiothoracic surgery patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS CINAHL, MEDLINE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PubMed, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched using specific keywords. Covidence was used to screen, select studies, and extract data by two independent reviewers. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool assessed risk of bias. Visual analog scale (VAS) and pulmonary function data were exported for meta-analysis using a random effects model. RESULTS The search yielded 38 articles. Eight randomized controlled trials met inclusion criteria for the literature review. Five studies were included in the meta-analysis of pain at 24, 48, and 72 hours postoperatively. Data were analyzed using the standard mean difference (SMD). TENS had a significant impact on VAS at rest (-0.76 SMD [95% confidence interval, CI = -1.06 to -0.49], p < 0.00001) and with coughing (-1.11 SMD [95% CI = -1.64 to -0.56], p < 0.0001). FEV1 improved after 72 hours (1.00 SMD [95% CI = 0.66-1.35], p < 0.00001), as did forced vital capacity (1.16 SMD [95% CI = 0.23-2.10], p = 0.01). CONCLUSION The addition of TENS therapy to multimodal analgesia significantly decreases pain following cardiothoracic surgery, increases the recovery of pulmonary function, and decreases the use of analgesics.
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Paley CA, Wittkopf PG, Jones G, Johnson MI. Does TENS Reduce the Intensity of Acute and Chronic Pain? A Comprehensive Appraisal of the Characteristics and Outcomes of 169 Reviews and 49 Meta-Analyses. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:1060. [PMID: 34684097 PMCID: PMC8539683 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57101060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Uncertainty about the clinical efficacy of transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) to alleviate pain spans half a century. There has been no attempt to synthesise the entire body of systematic review evidence. The aim of this comprehensive review was to critically appraise the characteristics and outcomes of systematic reviews evaluating the clinical efficacy of TENS for any type of acute and chronic pain in adults. Materials and Methods: We searched electronic databases for full reports of systematic reviews of studies, overviews of systematic reviews, and hybrid reviews that evaluated the efficacy of TENS for any type of clinical pain in adults. We screened reports against eligibility criteria and extracted data related to the characteristics and outcomes of the review, including effect size estimates. We conducted a descriptive analysis of extracted data. Results: We included 169 reviews consisting of eight overviews, seven hybrid reviews and 154 systematic reviews with 49 meta-analyses. A tally of authors' conclusions found a tendency toward benefits from TENS in 69/169 reviews, no benefits in 13/169 reviews, and inconclusive evidence in 87/169 reviews. Only three meta-analyses pooled sufficient data to have confidence in the effect size estimate (i.e., pooled analysis of >500 events). Lower pain intensity was found during TENS compared with control for chronic musculoskeletal pain and labour pain, and lower analgesic consumption was found post-surgery during TENS. The appraisal revealed repeated shortcomings in RCTs that have hindered confident judgements about efficacy, resulting in stagnation of evidence. Conclusions: Our appraisal reveals examples of meta-analyses with 'sufficient data' demonstrating benefit. There were no examples of meta-analyses with 'sufficient data' demonstrating no benefit. Therefore, we recommend that TENS should be considered as a treatment option. The considerable quantity of reviews with 'insufficient data' and meaningless findings have clouded the issue of efficacy. We offer solutions to these issues going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole A. Paley
- Centre for Pain Research, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS1 3HE, UK; (C.A.P.); (P.G.W.); (G.J.)
- Research and Development Department, Airedale National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Skipton Road, Steeton, Keighley BD20 6TD, UK
| | - Priscilla G. Wittkopf
- Centre for Pain Research, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS1 3HE, UK; (C.A.P.); (P.G.W.); (G.J.)
| | - Gareth Jones
- Centre for Pain Research, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS1 3HE, UK; (C.A.P.); (P.G.W.); (G.J.)
| | - Mark I. Johnson
- Centre for Pain Research, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS1 3HE, UK; (C.A.P.); (P.G.W.); (G.J.)
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Abstract
Symptomatic neuromas and chronic neuropathic pain are significant problems affecting patients' quality of life and independence that are challenging to treat. These symptoms are due to structural and functional changes that occur peripherally within neuromas, as well as alterations that occur centrally within the brain and spinal cord. A multimodal approach is most effective, with goals to minimize opioid use, to capitalize on the synergistic effects of nonopioid medications and to explore potential benefits of novel adjunctive treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusha Liu
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, 7 CT 70, MS 359796, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Dennis S Kao
- Department of Surgery, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue, 7 CT 70, MS 359796, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.
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Jamison RN, Edwards RR, Curran S, Wan L, Ross EL, Gilligan CJ, Gozani SN. Effects of Wearable Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Fibromyalgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Pain Res 2021; 14:2265-2282. [PMID: 34335055 PMCID: PMC8318714 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s316371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and interference with daily activities. The aim of this study is to assess the benefit of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for persons diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Patients and Methods Adults meeting diagnostic criteria for fibromyalgia were randomized in a double-blind trial to receive either an active (n=62) or sham (n=57) wearable TENS device for 3-months. Subjects were classified as having lower or higher pain sensitivity by Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST). Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC, primary outcome) and secondary efficacy measures including Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR), Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and painDETECT questionnaire (PDQ) were assessed at baseline, 6-weeks and 3-months. Treatment effects were determined by a mixed model for repeated measures (MMRM) analysis of the intention-to-treat (ITT) population (N=119). A pre-specified subgroup analysis of pain sensitivity was conducted using an interaction term in the model. Results No differences were found between active and sham treatment on PGIC scores at 3-months (0.34, 95% CI [−0.37, 1.04], p=0.351) in the ITT population. However, in subjects with higher pain sensitivity (n=60), PGIC was significantly greater for active treatment compared to sham (1.19, 95% CI [0.24, 2.13], p=0.014). FIQR total score (−7.47, 95% CI [−12.46, −2.48], p=0.003), FIQR pain item (−0.62, 95% CI [−1.17, −0.06], p=0.029), BPI Interference (−0.70, 95% CI [−1.30, −0.11], p=0.021) and PDQ (−1.69, 95% CI [−3.20, −0.18], p=0.028) exhibited significant improvements for active treatment compared to sham in the ITT population. Analgesics use was stable and comparable in both groups. Conclusion This study demonstrated modest treatment effects of reduced disease impact, pain and functional impairment from wearable TENS in individuals with fibromyalgia. Subjects with higher pain sensitivity exhibited larger treatment effects than those with lower pain sensitivity. Wearable TENS may be a safe treatment option for people with fibromyalgia. Clinicaltrials.gov Registration NCT03714425.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert N Jamison
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Robert R Edwards
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Samantha Curran
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Limeng Wan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Edgar L Ross
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Christopher J Gilligan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
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13
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Michalowski A, Haines A, Shaparin N, Gritsenko K, Kaye AD, Cornett EM, Lerner MZ. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation as a Treatment for Neuropathic Cough: A Tolerability and Feasibility Study. Neurol Ther 2021; 10:1127-1133. [PMID: 34002358 PMCID: PMC8571432 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-021-00255-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a form of electroanalgesia used for neuropathic pain disorders. Refractory chronic cough, or “neuropathic cough,” may be physiologically similar to other neuropathic pain conditions. This study explored the tolerability and feasibility of using TENS as a treatment for neuropathic cough. Laryngeal TENS was administered to five subjects with neuropathic cough. One electrode was placed over the lateral thyrohyoid membrane, and a second over the cricothyroid space. A frequency of 120 Hz was applied for 30 min. Participants rated symptoms pre-, during, and post-TENS treatment using a Likert scale. Laryngeal TENS was well tolerated by all subjects. Adverse effects included brief neck discomfort when increasing TENS intensity and an event of mild post-treatment hoarseness. The self-reported scores trended toward a reduction in symptom severity during and after treatment. Controlled trials using this method would elucidate the use of TENS for treatment of patients suffering from chronic cough.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam Haines
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Naum Shaparin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Karina Gritsenko
- Department of Anesthesiology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Elyse M Cornett
- Department of Anesthesiology, LSU Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Michael Z Lerner
- Division of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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14
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Johnson MI. Resolving Long-Standing Uncertainty about the Clinical Efficacy of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) to Relieve Pain: A Comprehensive Review of Factors Influencing Outcome. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:378. [PMID: 33919821 PMCID: PMC8070828 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57040378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Pain is managed using a biopsychosocial approach and pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a technique whereby pulsed electrical currents are administered through the intact surface of the skin with the intention of alleviating pain, akin to 'electrically rubbing pain away'. Despite over 50 years of published research, uncertainty about the clinical efficacy of TENS remains. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to critically appraise clinical research on TENS to inform future strategies to resolve the 'efficacy-impasse'. The principles and practices of TENS are described to provide context for readers unfamiliar with TENS treatment. The findings of systematic reviews evaluating TENS are described from a historical perspective to provide context for a critical evaluation of factors influencing the outcomes of randomized controlled trials (RCTs); including sample populations, outcome measures, TENS techniques, and comparator interventions. Three possibilities are offered to resolve the impasse. Firstly, to conduct large multi-centered RCTs using an enriched enrolment with randomized withdrawal design, that incorporates a 'run-in phase' to screen for potential TENS responders and to optimise TENS treatment according to individual need. Secondly, to meta-analyze published RCT data, irrespective of type of pain, to determine whether TENS reduces the intensity of pain during stimulation, and to include a detailed assessment of levels of certainty and precision. Thirdly, to concede that it may be impossible to determine efficacy due to insurmountable methodological, logistical and financial challenges. The consequences to clinicians, policy makers and funders of this third scenario are discussed. I argue that patients will continue to use TENS irrespective of the views of clinicians, policy makers, funders or guideline panel recommendations, because TENS is readily available without prescription; TENS generates a pleasant sensory experience that is similar to easing pain using warming and cooling techniques; and technological developments such as smart wearable TENS devices will improve usability in the future. Thus, research is needed on how best to integrate TENS into existing pain management strategies by analyzing data of TENS usage by expert-patients in real-world settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark I Johnson
- Centre for Pain Research, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS1 3HE, UK
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15
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Mohamed AA, Alawna M. The use of passive cable theory to increase the threshold of nociceptors in people with chronic pain. PHYSICAL THERAPY REVIEWS 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/10833196.2020.1853493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman A. Mohamed
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Gelisim University, Turkey
| | - Motaz Alawna
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Gelisim University, Turkey
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Arab American University, Jenin, Palestin
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Ransom SC, Shahrestani S, Lien BV, Tafreshi AR, Brown NJ, Hanst B, Lehrich BM, Ransom RC, Sahyouni R. Translational Approaches to Electrical Stimulation for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2020; 34:979-985. [PMID: 33043791 DOI: 10.1177/1545968320962508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achieving functional repair after peripheral nerve injury (PNI) remains problematic despite considerable advances in surgical technique. Therein, questions lie regarding the variable capacity of peripheral nerves to regenerate based on environmental influence. In-depth analyses of multiple therapeutic strategies have ensued to overcome these natural obstacles. Of these candidate therapies, electrical stimulation has emerged a frontrunner. Extensive animal studies have reported the ability of brief intraoperative electrical stimulation (BES) to enhance functional regeneration after PNI. Despite these reports, the exact mechanisms by which BES enhances regeneration and its effects on long nerve lesions are largely unknown. Indeed, clinical translation of this seemingly simple therapeutic has not been so simple, but a few studies performed in humans have yielded highly encouraging results. OBJECTIVE We aimed to help bridge this translational gap by presenting the latest clinical trials on electrical stimulation for PNIs in combination with relevant etiologies, treatments and nonclinical findings. METHODS To do so, a systematic search was performed on PubMed, IEEE, and Web of Science databases up to February 2020 using keywords significant to our study. References of each manuscript were screened for additional manuscripts of relevance to our study. RESULTS We found multiple BES clinical studies reporting enhanced functional recovery or increased nerve regeneration. Although improved outcomes were reported, high variability after BES is seen between and within species likely due to injury severity, location and timeline along with other factors. CONCLUSION Further clinical studies and introduction of novel delivery platforms are vital to uncover the true regenerative potential of electrical stimulationtherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth C Ransom
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Shane Shahrestani
- California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.,Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Brian V Lien
- University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Brian Hanst
- University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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Kretzschmar M, Reining M, Schwarz MA. Three-Year Outcomes After Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation in the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain After Peripheral Nerve Injury of Upper and Lower Extremities. Neuromodulation 2020; 24:700-707. [PMID: 32573868 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Traumatic peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) often result in severe neuropathic pain which typically becomes chronic, is recalcitrant to common analgesics, and is associated with sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression. Pharmacological treatments proven to be effective against neuropathic pain are not well tolerated due to side effects. Neuromodulative interventions such as peripheral nerve or spinal cord stimulation have generated mixed results and may be limited by reduced somatotopic specificity. Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation may be more effective in this etiology. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-seven patients were trialed with a DRG neurostimulation system for PNI; trial success (defined as ≥50% pain relief) was 85%, and 23 patients received a permanent stimulator. However, 36-month outcome data was only available for 21 patients. Pain, quality of life, mental and physical function, and opioid usage were assessed at baseline and at 3-, 6-, 12-, 18-, 24-, and 36 months post-permanent implant. Implant-related complications were also documented. RESULTS Compared to baseline, we observed a significant pain relief (p < 0.001) at 3 (58%), 12 (66%), 18 (69%), 24 (71%), and 36 months (73%) in 21 patients (52.5 ± 14.2 years; 12 female), respectively. Mental and physical function showed immediate and sustained improvements. Participants reported improvements in quality of life. Opioid dosage reduced significantly (p < 0.001) at 3 (30%), 12 (93%), 18 (98%), 24 (99%), and 36 months (99%), and 20 of 21 patients were completely opioid-free after 36 months. There were five lead migrations and two electrode fractures (corrected by surgical intervention) and one wound infection (conservatively managed). CONCLUSIONS DRG neuromodulation appears to be a safe, effective, and durable option for treating neuropathic pain caused by PNI. The treatment allows cessation of often ineffective pharmacotherapy (including opioid misuse) and significantly improves quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kretzschmar
- SRH Wald-Klinikum Gera, Department of Pain Medicine and Palliative Care, Gera, Strasse des Friedens 122, D-07548, Germany.,SRH Hochschule für Gesundheit (University of Applied Health Sciences) Campus Gera, Gera, Neue Strasse 30-32, D-07548, Germany
| | - Marco Reining
- SRH Wald-Klinikum Gera, Department of Pain Medicine and Palliative Care, Gera, Strasse des Friedens 122, D-07548, Germany
| | - Marcus A Schwarz
- SRH Hochschule für Gesundheit (University of Applied Health Sciences) Campus Gera, Gera, Neue Strasse 30-32, D-07548, Germany
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Shi X, Yu W, Zhang W, Wang T, Battulga O, Wang L, Guo C. A comparison of the effects of electroacupuncture versus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for pain control in knee osteoarthritis: a Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Acupunct Med 2020; 39:163-174. [PMID: 32567333 DOI: 10.1177/0964528420921193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To compare the effectiveness of electroacupuncture (EA) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain control in knee osteoarthritis (KOA). METHODS Four English (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science) and three Chinese (China Science Journal Citation Report (VIP), Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI)) language databases were searched for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs), comparing four approaches: EA, TENS, medication and sham/placebo controls. The primary outcome was pain intensity, measured by visual analogue scale (VAS), numeric-rating scale (NRS) or Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale. Classic pairwise and Bayesian network meta-analyses were conducted to integrate the treatment efficacy/effectiveness through direct and indirect evidence. RESULTS Thirteen studies were included. In the direct meta-analyses, there was no statistically significant overall effect of EA (mean difference (MD) -4.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) -12.51 to 2.96), while the overall effects of high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (H-TENS) (MD -16.63, 95% CI -24.57 to -8.69) and medication (MD -7.12, 95% CI -12.07 to -2.17) were statistically significant. In the network meta-analyses, the relative effect of the EA and H-TENS groups (MD 5.07, 95% CI -11.33 to 21.93) on pain control did not differ. Meanwhile, H-TENS demonstrated the highest probability of being the first best treatment, and EA had the second highest probability. CONCLUSION The present analysis indicated that both EA and TENS exert significant pain relieving effects in KOA. Among the four treatments, H-TENS was found to be the optimal treatment choice for the management of KOA pain in the short-term, and EA the second best treatment option. Given that the application of TENS is recommended by various international guidelines for the treatment of KOA, EA may also represent a potentially effective non-pharmacologic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Shi
- Department of Massage, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Third Affiliated Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjing Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Third Affiliated Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tong Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Oyunerdene Battulga
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Changqing Guo
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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19
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Scarpelli A, Demofonti A, Terracina F, Ciancio AL, Zollo L. Evoking Apparent Moving Sensation in the Hand via Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:534. [PMID: 32625047 PMCID: PMC7314928 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The restoration of sensory feedback in amputees plays a fundamental role in the prosthesis control and in the communication on the afferent channel between hand and brain. The literature shows that transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can be a promising non-invasive technique to elicit sensory feedback in amputees, especially in the lower limb through the phenomenon of apparent moving sensation (AMS). It consists of delivering a sensation that moves along a specific part of the body. This study proposes to use TENS to elicit tactile sensations and adopt AMS to reproduce moving sensations on the hand, such as those related to an object moving in the hand or slipping upward or downward. To this purpose, the developed experimental protocol consists of two phases: (i) the mapping of the evoked sensations and (ii) the generation of the AMS. In the latter phase, the pulse amplitude variation (PAV), the pulse width variation (PWV), and the interstimulus delay modulation (ISDM) methods were compared. For the comparative analysis, the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test with Bonferroni correction (P < 0.016) was carried out on the success rate and on the ranking of methods expressed by the subjects. Results from the mapping protocol show that the delivered sensations were mostly described by the subjects as almost natural and superficial tingling. Results from the AMS protocol show that, for each movement direction, the success rate of ISDM method is higher than that of PWV and PAV and significantly higher than that of PAV for the ulnar-median direction. It recreates an AMS in the hand that effectively allows discriminating the type of sensation and distinguishing the movement direction. Moreover, ISDM was ranked by the subjects as the favorite method for recreating a well-defined and comfortable moving sensation only in the median-ulnar direction. For the ranking results, there was not a statistically significant difference among the methods. The experiments confirmed the good potential of recreating an AMS in the hand through TENS. This encourages to push forward this study on amputees and integrate it in the closed-loop control of a prosthetic system, in order to enable full control of grasp stability and prevent the objects from slippage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Scarpelli
- Research Unit of Advanced Robotics and Human-Centred Technologies, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
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20
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AminiSaman J, Karimpour HA, Hemmatpour B, Mohammadi S, Darvishi S, Kawyannejad R. Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on the Pain Intensity During Insertion of Needle in Patients Undergoing Spinal Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Study. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2020; 13:83-86. [PMID: 32198095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2020.03.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Needle insertion pain during spinal anesthesia is an unpleasant experience for patients. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on the pain intensity during the insertion of spinal needles in patients undergoing spinal anesthesia. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a double-blind clinical trial, 60 candidates for elective Trans Ureteral Lithotripsy surgery under spinal anesthesia were randomly divided into intervention and control groups. The electrodes of the TENS device were placed in the space between L3-L4 and L5-S1 vertebrae. The intensity of pain during insertion of the spinal needle by Visual Analog Scale and the frequency of attempts were recorded. RESULTS The mean age of the study samples was 34.26 ± 5.07 and 32.8 ± 5.28 in the control and intervention group, respectively. The pain intensity during insertion of spinal needles was less significant in the intervention group compared to the control group (p = 0.001). The number of attempts to insert the spinal needle between the two groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.51). The duration of spinal anesthesia implementation procedure by physician in the intervention group was significantly shorter than that of the control group (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION The use of TENS effectively reduced the pain of spinal needle insertion. Considering these beneficial effects, it is suggested that this procedure be used to relive pain in patients with spinal anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad AminiSaman
- Department of Anesthesia, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Hasan A Karimpour
- Department of Anesthesia, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Behzad Hemmatpour
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Saeed Mohammadi
- Department of Anesthesia, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Saeed Darvishi
- School of Allied Medical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Rasool Kawyannejad
- Department of Anesthesia, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Yilmaz M, Tarakci D, Tarakci E. Comparison of high-intensity laser therapy and combination of ultrasound treatment and transcutaneous nerve stimulation on cervical pain associated with cervical disc herniation: A randomized trial. Complement Ther Med 2020; 49:102295. [PMID: 32147037 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to compare the effect of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) and a combination of transcutaneous nerve stimulation (TENS) and ultrasound (US) treatment on pain, range of motion (ROM) and functional activity on cervical pain associated with cervical disc herniation (CDH). A total of 40 patients (22 women and 18 men) affected by CDH were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. In group 1 (20 subjects), patients received 20 sessions of HILT plus exercise, while in group 2 (20 subjects), a combination of US, TENS and exercise were applied. The outcomes were cervical segment ROM, pain level measured by visual analogue scale (VAS), and functional activity measured by neck pain and disability scale (NPADS) before and after the therapy. The level of statistical significance was set as p < 0.05. There was no difference for cervical ROM, VAS and NPADS values between the groups at the baseline (p> 0.05). After the treatment, cervical ROM, VAS and NPADS values were significantly improved in both groups (p < 0.05). When the groups were compared in terms of post treatment VAS, NPADS and ROM values, no statistical significance was found between the two groups (p> 0.05). Both of therapeutic modalities demonstrated analgesic efficacy and improved the function in patients affected by CDH after 4 weeks of therapy (total 20 treatment sessions in 5 days a week). Both the HILT plus exercise program and the TENS / US plus exercise program were found to be effective in improving cervical range of motion and quality of life by reducing pain. These two treatment programs have similar effects in the treatment of cervical pain associated with CDH and can be used as an alternative to each other in clinical applications. However; It is clear that futher studies are needed to investigate the principles of application of HILT to painful areas or tissues (amount of area applied, dose applied, energy delivered, number of pulses, duration of session, frequency of sessions) and to exclude the effects of exercise treatment on the results of both treatment groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Yilmaz
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Institute of Graduate Studies, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Istanbul, Turkey; Istanbul Medipol University, Health Sciences Institute, Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Program, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Devrim Tarakci
- Istanbul Medipol University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Ergotherapy, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Ela Tarakci
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Istanbul, Turkey.
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Soltanzadeh R, Afsharipour E, Shafai C. Investigation of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation improvements with microneedle array electrodes based on multiphysics simulation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2020; 36:e3318. [PMID: 32017406 DOI: 10.1002/cnm.3318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This paper investigates microneedle array electrodes for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and compares their performance with conventional surface electrodes. A three-dimensional model of tissue was developed for finite element multiphysics simulations. Investigations included current density in different depths of a tissue, space constant under electrodes, specific absorption ratio of tissue, selectivity of stimulation, temperature rise, and blood flow. Results showed that microneedle electrodes have up to 10% higher selectivity than the surface electrodes. Furthermore, it was found that stimulation using microneedle electrodes provides more robust current density at different tissue depths compared to the surface electrode stimulation. Microneedle electrodes showed enhanced stimulation parameters, particularly for targeting a specific nerve in a specific depth of a tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Soltanzadeh
- Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Elnaz Afsharipour
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Cyrus Shafai
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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23
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Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation in Relieving Neuropathic Pain: Basic Mechanisms and Clinical Applications. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2020; 24:14. [DOI: 10.1007/s11916-020-0846-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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24
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Ahmed GM, Maher EA, Elnassag BAEMR, Sayed HM, Kabbash SI. Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation versus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to decrease diabetic neuropathic pain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF THERAPY AND REHABILITATION 2020. [DOI: 10.12968/ijtr.2018.0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Background/Aims Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation have been studied repeatedly to reduce diabetic neuropathic pain. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of aerobic training plus one of the treatment therapies on decreasing pain severity in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Methods A total of 30 patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy were randomly assigned into two equal groups: group A and group B. Both groups received aerobic training exercises. Group A received repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, and Group B received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for 5 consecutive days in 1 week. Outcome measures included pain severity assessment using the Visual Analogue Scale and the serum β-endorphin levels. Results There was a non-significant difference in pre-treatment (P=0.061) and post-treatment (P=0.652) in the Visual Analogue Scale scores between groups. However, β-endorphin levels were significantly different between groups in post- (P=0.015) rather than pre-treatment (P=0.459) levels. A significant moderate correlation between β-endorphin levels and Visual Analogue Scale scores was found in group A (r=−0.6783) at (P=0.008), while it was not significant in group B (r=0.043) at (P=0.883). Conclusions Adding transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation or repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation therapies to aerobic training showed similar effects in reducing pain severity in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gehan Mousa Ahmed
- Department of Physical Therapy for Neuromuscular Disorders and its Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman Ahmed Maher
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt Acknowledgements The authors would like to thank all patients who participated in this study
| | | | - Hayam Mahmoud Sayed
- Department of Physical Therapy for Neuromuscular Disorders and its Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Sara Ibrahim Kabbash
- Department of Physical Therapy for Neuromuscular Disorders and its Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Hokenek NM, Erdogan MO, Hokenek UD, Algin A, Tekyol D, Seyhan AU. Treatment of migraine attacks by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in emergency department: A randomize controlled trial. Am J Emerg Med 2020; 39:80-85. [PMID: 31983598 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2020.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary purpose of this trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy application in the emergency department. METHODS The patients were divided into 2 groups: a sham group, and a verum group. Patients in the verum group include those who use the device for the first time. Both groups were connected to visually indistinguishable devices. Both groups underwent therapy for a total of 20 min. Using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the patients' perceived changes in pain intensity were recorded at the 20th and 120th minutes after initiation therapy. After the 120th minute, patients' individual needs for additional treatment were assessed. Additionally, their self-reported well-being was assessed using a Likert-type verbal scale. RESULTS In total 151 patients that were admitted to the emergency ward were assessed, with the sham and verum group being assigned 39 patients each from this pool. For the verum group the VAS change from 0 to 120 min was -65 ± 25 and for the sham group it was -9 ± 2 (p < 0.001). Verbal scores in the 120th minute were found to be 1.2 for sham group and 4.5 in the verum group (p < 0.001). Thirty patients (76.92%) in the sham group and 1 (2%) in the verum group had additional analgesic requirement after 120 min. CONCLUSION TENS therapy is a fast-acting, effective therapy for the treatment of acute migraine in the emergency department.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihat M Hokenek
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet O Erdogan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Bahcesehir, Goztepe Medical Park Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ummahan Dalkilinc Hokenek
- Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, University of Health Sciences, Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Algin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Davut Tekyol
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Avni U Seyhan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar Training and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
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Gozani SN. Remote Analgesic Effects Of Conventional Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation: A Scientific And Clinical Review With A Focus On Chronic Pain. J Pain Res 2019; 12:3185-3201. [PMID: 31819603 PMCID: PMC6885653 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s226600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a safe, noninvasive treatment for chronic pain that can be self-administered. Conventional TENS involves stimulation of peripheral sensory nerves at a strong, non-painful level. Following the original gate-control theory of pain, stimulation is typically near the target pain. As another option, remote stimulation may also be effective and offers potential advantages. OBJECTIVE This narrative review examines mechanisms underlying the remote analgesic effects of conventional TENS and appraises the clinical evidence. METHODS A literature search for English-language articles was performed on PubMed. Keywords included terms related to the location of TENS . Citations from primary references and textbooks were examined for additional articles. RESULTS Over 30 studies reported remote analgesic effects of conventional TENS. The evidence included studies using animal models of pain, experimental pain in humans, and clinical studies in subjects with chronic pain. Three types of remote analgesia were identified: at the contralateral homologous site, at sites distant from stimulation but innervated by overlapping spinal segments, and at unrelated extrasegmental sites. CONCLUSION There is scientific and clinical evidence that conventional TENS has remote analgesic effects. This may occur through modulation of pain processing at the level of the dorsal horn, in brainstem centers mediating descending inhibition, and within the pain matrix. A broadening of perspectives on how conventional TENS produces analgesia may encourage researchers, clinicians, and medical-device manufacturers to develop novel ways of using this safe, cost-effective neuromodulation technique for chronic pain.
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Johnson MI, Jones G, Paley CA, Wittkopf PG. The clinical efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for acute and chronic pain: a protocol for a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). BMJ Open 2019; 9:e029999. [PMID: 31662366 PMCID: PMC6830670 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for any type of acute and chronic pain in adults. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We intend to search electronic databases (Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, LILACS, PEDRO, Web of Science, AMED and SPORTDiscus) from inception to the present day to identify all randomised controlled trials (RCT) on the use of TENS in adults for any type of pain including acute pain, chronic pain and cancer-related pain. We will screen the RCTs against eligibility criteria for inclusion in our review. Two reviewers will independently undertake RCT selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Primary outcomes will be: (i) participant-reported pain relief of ≥30% expressed as frequency (dichotomous) data; and (ii) participant-reported pain intensity expressed as mean (continuous) data. We will conduct meta-analyses to determine risk ratio for dichotomous data, and mean difference (MD) or standardised MD for continuous data for TENS versus placebo TENS, no treatment or waiting list control, standard of care, and other treatments. Subgroup analyses will include different pain conditions (eg, acute vs chronic), TENS intensity, during versus after TENS, TENS as a sole treatment versus TENS in combination with other treatments and TENS administered as a single dose versus repetitive dose. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This systematic review will not use data from individual participants, and the results will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed publication and presented at a conference. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42019125054.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark I Johnson
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Clinical and Applied Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Gareth Jones
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Clinical and Applied Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Carole A Paley
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Clinical and Applied Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
- Research and Development Department, Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, Keighley, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Priscilla G Wittkopf
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Clinical and Applied Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
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Efficacy of Transcutaneous Electronic Nerve Stimulation in Postoperative Analgesia After Pulmonary Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2019; 99:241-249. [PMID: 31498159 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to identify the analgesic efficacy and safety of transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation in postoperative pain after pulmonary surgery. DESIGN Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CENTRAL) were systematically searched from their inception to June 2019. The continuous variables were pooled as the weighted mean difference with correlated 95% confidence interval. Results were recognized as significant when a P value is less than 0.05. Subgroup analyses, sensitivity analyses, and quality assessment were performed. RESULTS Altogether, 10 studies were included. The pooled results indicated that transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation group conferred lower pain intensity score on the first postoperative day (weighted mean difference = -0.93, 95% confidence interval = -1.56 to -0.30, P = 0.004), postoperative day 2 (weighted mean difference = -1.00, 95% confidence interval = -1.64 to -0.35, P = 0.002), postoperative day 3 (weighted mean difference = -0.92, 95% confidence interval = -1.76 to -0.09, P = 0.03), postoperative day 4 (weighted mean difference = -0.90, 95% confidence interval = -1.24 to -0.56, P < 0.001), and postoperative day 5 (weighted mean difference = -1.39, 95% confidence interval = -2.20 to -0.57, P < 0.001) compared with the placebo transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation group. No publication bias was found. No significant discovery was obtained in sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS Transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation might be an effective supplementary analgesic regimen in multimodal analgesia to decrease pain intensity after pulmonary surgery.
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Sanft T, Denlinger CS, Armenian S, Baker KS, Broderick G, Demark-Wahnefried W, Friedman DL, Goldman M, Hudson M, Khakpour N, Koura D, Lally RM, Langbaum TS, McDonough AL, Melisko M, Mooney K, Moore HCF, Moslehi JJ, O'Connor T, Overholser L, Paskett ED, Peterson L, Pirl W, Rodriguez MA, Ruddy KJ, Smith S, Syrjala KL, Tevaarwerk A, Urba SG, Zee P, McMillian NR, Freedman-Cass DA. NCCN Guidelines Insights: Survivorship, Version 2.2019. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2019; 17:784-794. [PMID: 31319383 PMCID: PMC7094216 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2019.0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The NCCN Guidelines for Survivorship provide screening, evaluation, and treatment recommendations for consequences of cancer and cancer treatment to aid healthcare professionals who work with survivors of adult-onset cancer. Guidance is also provided to help promote physical activity, weight management, and proper immunizations in survivors and to facilitate care coordination to ensure that all needs are addressed. These NCCN Insights summarize some of the topics discussed by the NCCN Survivorship Panel during the 2019 update of the guidelines, including the survivorship population addressed, ways to improve care coordination, and pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Sanft
- Yale Cancer Center/Smilow Cancer Hospital
| | | | | | - K Scott Baker
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
| | | | | | | | - Mindy Goldman
- UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center
| | - Melissa Hudson
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital/The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kathi Mooney
- Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah
| | - Halle C F Moore
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center/University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center and Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute
| | | | | | | | - Electra D Paskett
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute
| | - Lindsay Peterson
- Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine
| | | | | | | | | | - Karen L Syrjala
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
| | | | | | - Phyllis Zee
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University; and
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Gibson W, Wand BM, Meads C, Catley MJ, O'Connell NE. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for chronic pain - an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 4:CD011890. [PMID: 30941745 PMCID: PMC6446021 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011890.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain, considered to be pain lasting more than three months, is a common and often difficult to treat condition that can significantly impact upon function and quality of life. Treatment typically includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is an adjunct non-pharmacological treatment commonly recommended by clinicians and often used by people with pain. OBJECTIVES To provide an overview of evidence from Cochrane Reviews of the effectiveness of TENS to reduce pain in adults with chronic pain (excluding headache or migraine).To provide an overview of evidence from Cochrane Reviews of the safety of TENS when used to reduce pain in adults with chronic pain (excluding headache or migraine).To identify possible sources of inconsistency in the approaches taken to evaluating the evidence related to TENS for chronic pain (excluding headache or migraine) in the Cochrane Library with a view to recommending strategies to improve consistency in methodology and reporting.To highlight areas of remaining uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of TENS for chronic pain (excluding headache or migraine) with a view to recommending strategies to reduce any uncertainty. METHODS Search methodsWe searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), in the Cochrane Library, across all years up to Issue 11 of 12, 2018.Selection of reviewsTwo authors independently screened the results of the electronic search by title and abstract against inclusion/exclusion criteria. We included all Cochrane Reviews of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of TENS in people with chronic pain. We included reviews if they investigated the following: TENS versus sham; TENS versus usual care or no treatment/waiting list control; TENS plus active intervention versus active intervention alone; comparisons between different types of TENS; or TENS delivered using different stimulation parameters.Data extraction and analysisTwo authors independently extracted relevant data, assessed review quality using the AMSTAR checklist and applied GRADE judgements where required to individual reviews. Our primary outcomes included pain intensity and nature/incidence of adverse effects; our secondary outcomes included disability, health-related quality of life, analgesic medication use and participant global impression of change. MAIN RESULTS We included nine reviews investigating TENS use in people with defined chronic pain or in people with chronic conditions associated with ongoing pain. One review investigating TENS for phantom or stump-associated pain in people following amputation did not have any included studies. We therefore extracted data from eight reviews which represented 51 TENS-related RCTs representing 2895 TENS-comparison participants entered into the studies.The included reviews followed consistent methods and achieved overall high scores on the AMSTAR checklist. The evidence reported within each review was consistently rated as very low quality. Using review authors' assessment of risk of bias, there were significant methodological limitations in included studies; and for all reviews, sample sizes were consistently small (the majority of studies included fewer than 50 participants per group).Six of the eight reviews presented a narrative synthesis of included studies. Two reviews reported a pooled analysis.Primary and secondary outcomes One review reported a beneficial effect of TENS versus sham therapy at reducing pain intensity on a 0 to 10 scale (MD -1.58, 95% CI -2.08 to -1.09, P < 0.001, I² = 29%, P = 0.22, 5 studies, 207 participants). However the quality of the evidence was very low due to significant methodological limitations and imprecision. A second review investigating pain intensity performed a pooled analysis by combining studies that compared TENS to sham with studies that compared TENS to no intervention (SMD -0.85, 95% CI -1.36 to -0.34, P = 0.001, I² = 83%, P < 0.001). This pooled analysis was judged as offering very low quality evidence due to significant methodological limitations, large between-trial heterogeneity and imprecision. We considered the approach of combining sham and no intervention data to be problematic since we would predict these different comparisons may be estimating different true effects. All remaining reviews also reported pain intensity as an outcome measure; however the data were presented in narrative review form only.Due to methodological limitation and lack of useable data, we were unable to offer any meaningful report on the remaining primary outcome regarding nature/incidence of adverse effects, nor for the remaining secondary outcomes: disability, health-related quality of life, analgesic medication use and participant global impression of change for any comparisons.We found the included reviews had a number of inconsistencies when evaluating the evidence from TENS studies. Approaches to assessing risk of bias around the participant, personnel and outcome-assessor blinding were perhaps the most obvious area of difference across included reviews. We also found wide variability in terms of primary and secondary outcome measures, and inclusion/exclusion criteria for studies varied with respect to including studies which assessed immediate effects of single interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found the methodological quality of the reviews was good, but quality of the evidence within them was very low. We were therefore unable to conclude with any confidence that, in people with chronic pain, TENS is harmful, or beneficial for pain control, disability, health-related quality of life, use of pain relieving medicines, or global impression of change. We make recommendations with respect to future TENS study designs which may meaningfully reduce the uncertainty relating to the effectiveness of this treatment in people with chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Gibson
- The University of Notre Dame AustraliaSchool of Physiotherapy19 Mouat Street (PO Box 1225)FremantleWestern AustraliaAustralia6959
| | - Benedict M Wand
- The University of Notre Dame AustraliaSchool of Physiotherapy19 Mouat Street (PO Box 1225)FremantleWestern AustraliaAustralia6959
| | - Catherine Meads
- Anglia Ruskin UniversityFaculty of Health, Social Care and EducationEast Road CampusYoung Street SiteCambridgeUKCB1 1PT
| | - Mark J Catley
- University of South AustraliaSchool of Health SciencesGPO Box 2471AdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia5001
| | - Neil E O'Connell
- Brunel University LondonHealth Economics Research Group, Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Department of Clinical SciencesKingston LaneUxbridgeMiddlesexUKUB8 3PH
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Doody O, Bailey ME. Interventions in pain management for persons with an intellectual disability. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES : JOID 2019; 23:132-144. [PMID: 28514882 DOI: 10.1177/1744629517708679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Pain is a multidimensional and subjective experience, and an ideal pain management regime needs to be comprehensive, integrative and involve all relevant persons. Multimodal interventions may include pharmacological, physical, social, psychological and spiritual approaches in order to address pain management at a molecular, functional, behavioural, cognitive and affective levels. Pain management interventions will vary according to pain aetiology, patient characteristics and preferences. In keeping with best practice guidelines for effective pain management, a structured approach incorporating an effective assessment of pain by the healthcare professional, identification of the source and type of pain and accurate documentation is essential. This article focuses on pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management for individuals with intellectual disability.
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Gibson W, Wand BM, Meads C, Catley MJ, O'Connell NE. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for chronic pain - an overview of Cochrane Reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 2:CD011890. [PMID: 30776855 PMCID: PMC6379178 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011890.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain, considered to be pain lasting more than three months, is a common and often difficult to treat condition that can significantly impact upon function and quality of life. Treatment typically includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is an adjunct non-pharmacological treatment commonly recommended by clinicians and often used by people with pain. OBJECTIVES To provide an overview of evidence from Cochrane Reviews of the effectiveness of TENS to reduce pain in adults with chronic pain (excluding headache or migraine).To provide an overview of evidence from Cochrane Reviews of the safety of TENS when used to reduce pain in adults with chronic pain (excluding headache or migraine).To identify possible sources of inconsistency in the approaches taken to evaluating the evidence related to TENS for chronic pain (excluding headache or migraine) in the Cochrane Library with a view to recommending strategies to improve consistency in methodology and reporting.To highlight areas of remaining uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of TENS for chronic pain (excluding headache or migraine) with a view to recommending strategies to reduce any uncertainty. METHODS Search methodsWe searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), in the Cochrane Library, across all years up to Issue 11 of 12, 2018.Selection of reviewsTwo authors independently screened the results of the electronic search by title and abstract against inclusion/exclusion criteria. We included all Cochrane Reviews of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of TENS in people with chronic pain. We included reviews if they investigated the following: TENS versus sham; TENS versus usual care or no treatment/waiting list control; TENS plus active intervention versus active intervention alone; comparisons between different types of TENS; or TENS delivered using different stimulation parameters.Data extraction and analysisTwo authors independently extracted relevant data, assessed review quality using the AMSTAR checklist and applied GRADE judgements where required to individual reviews. Our primary outcomes included pain intensity and nature/incidence of adverse effects; our secondary outcomes included disability, health-related quality of life, analgesic medication use and participant global impression of change. MAIN RESULTS We included nine reviews investigating TENS use in people with defined chronic pain or in people with chronic conditions associated with ongoing pain. One review investigating TENS for phantom or stump-associated pain in people following amputation did not have any included studies. We therefore extracted data from eight reviews which represented 51 TENS-related RCTs representing 2895 TENS-comparison participants entered into the studies.The included reviews followed consistent methods and achieved overall high scores on the AMSTAR checklist. The evidence reported within each review was consistently rated as very low quality. Using review authors' assessment of risk of bias, there were significant methodological limitations in included studies; and for all reviews, sample sizes were consistently small (the majority of studies included fewer than 50 participants per group).Six of the eight reviews presented a narrative synthesis of included studies. Two reviews reported a pooled analysis.Primary and secondary outcomes One review reported a beneficial effect of TENS versus sham therapy at reducing pain intensity on a 0 to 10 scale (MD -1.58, 95% CI -2.08 to -1.09, P < 0.001, I² = 29%, P = 0.22, 5 studies, 207 participants). However the quality of the evidence was very low due to significant methodological limitations and imprecision. A second review investigating pain intensity performed a pooled analysis by combining studies that compared TENS to sham with studies that compared TENS to no intervention (SMD -0.85, 95% CI -1.36 to -0.34, P = 0.001, I² = 83%, P < 0.001). This pooled analysis was judged as offering very low quality evidence due to significant methodological limitations, large between-trial heterogeneity and imprecision. We considered the approach of combining sham and no intervention data to be problematic since we would predict these different comparisons may be estimating different true effects. All remaining reviews also reported pain intensity as an outcome measure; however the data were presented in narrative review form only.Due to methodological limitation and lack of useable data, we were unable to offer any meaningful report on the remaining primary outcome regarding nature/incidence of adverse effects, nor for the remaining secondary outcomes: disability, health-related quality of life, analgesic medication use and participant global impression of change for any comparisons.We found the included reviews had a number of inconsistencies when evaluating the evidence from TENS studies. Approaches to assessing risk of bias around the participant, personnel and outcome-assessor blinding were perhaps the most obvious area of difference across included reviews. We also found wide variability in terms of primary and secondary outcome measures, and inclusion/exclusion criteria for studies varied with respect to including studies which assessed immediate effects of single interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found the methodological quality of the reviews was good, but quality of the evidence within them was very low. We were therefore unable to conclude with any confidence that, in people with chronic pain, TENS is harmful, or beneficial for pain control, disability, health-related quality of life, use of pain relieving medicines, or global impression of change. We make recommendations with respect to future TENS study designs which may meaningfully reduce the uncertainty relating to the effectiveness of this treatment in people with chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Gibson
- The University of Notre Dame AustraliaSchool of Physiotherapy19 Mouat Street (PO Box 1225)FremantleAustralia6959
| | - Benedict M Wand
- The University of Notre Dame AustraliaSchool of Physiotherapy19 Mouat Street (PO Box 1225)FremantleAustralia6959
| | - Catherine Meads
- Anglia Ruskin UniversityFaculty of Health, Social Care and EducationEast Road CampusYoung Street SiteCambridgeUKCB1 1PT
| | - Mark J Catley
- University of South AustraliaSchool of Health SciencesGPO Box 2471AdelaideAustralia5001
| | - Neil E O'Connell
- Brunel University LondonHealth Economics Research Group, Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Department of Clinical SciencesKingston LaneUxbridgeUKUB8 3PH
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Liang Y, Bao G, Gong L, Zhou J, Kong X, Ran R, Shao X, Jiang Y, Zhang W, Liu B, Du J, Fang J, Nie N, Ji C, Fang J. Evaluating the analgesic effect and advantage of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation combined with opioid drugs for moderate to severe cancer-related pain: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2019; 20:40. [PMID: 30635007 PMCID: PMC6329064 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-3145-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS), which is also known as acupuncture-like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), has been widely used in acute or chronic pain. However, previous research has not demonstrated that TEAS is effective for cancer-related pain. Opioid drugs are strongly recommended for treating cancer-related pain, but opioid-induced immunosuppression is still the most intractable drug-induced medical problem. Evaluating the efficacy and potential advantage of TEAS combined with opioid drugs in moderate and severe cancer-related pain in China is important because such studies are lacking. METHODS/DESIGN This trial is a multicenter, prospective randomized controlled clinical trial. In total, 160 patients who were enrolled from two hospitals in the Zhejiang Province (China) will be randomly allocated into two groups: a TEAS group and sham TEAS group without acupoint electrical stimulation. Both groups will receive a 21-day interval of chemotherapy and conventional cancer pain therapy. Fifteen treatment sessions will be performed over a three-week period. The primary outcomes will be measured by changes in the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores and equivalent dosage of morphine at baseline, three weeks of treatment and one two-week follow-up. The secondary outcome measures include cellular immunity function, life quality assessment, opioids side effects assessment, and safety and compliance evaluation. DISCUSSION This trial is expected to clarify whether TEAS is effective for cancer-related pain. These results demonstrate the advantage of TEAS combined with opioid drugs on improving immune function and decreasing opioid induced side effects. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-13003803 . Registered on 27 August 2013.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liang
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China.,The Third Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Guanai Bao
- The Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No. 1 Banshan East Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Liyan Gong
- The Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No. 1 Banshan East Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiangming Kong
- The Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No. 1 Banshan East Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ran Ran
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiaomei Shao
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China.,The Third Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yongliang Jiang
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China.,The Third Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Weiping Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Boyi Liu
- The Third Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Junying Du
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China.,The Third Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Junfan Fang
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China.,The Third Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Na Nie
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Conghua Ji
- The Clinical Research Institute of Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of TCM, No.54 Youdian Road, Xihu District, Hangzhou, 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Department of Acupuncture, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 219 Moganshan Road, XiHu District, Hangzhou, 310005, Zhejiang Province, China. .,The Third Clinical Medical College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No. 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Comparison of high-intensity laser therapy and combination of ultrasound treatment and transcutaneous nerve stimulation in patients with cervical spondylosis: a randomized controlled trial. Lasers Med Sci 2018; 34:947-953. [PMID: 30443883 DOI: 10.1007/s10103-018-2682-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to compare the effect of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) and a combination of ultrasound (US) treatment and transcutaneous nerve stimulation (TENS) on pain, range of motion (ROM), and functional activity in patients with cervical spondylosis (CS). A total of 84 patients with a mean age of 51.54 years (52 women and 32 men) affected by CS were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. In group A (42 subjects), patients received 12 sessions of HILT plus exercise, while in group B (42 subjects), they received a combination of US, TENS, and exercise. The outcomes measured were cervical segment ROM, pain level measured by visual analogue scale (VAS), and functional activity measured by neck disability index (NDI) at the end of the therapy. The level of statistical significance was set as p < 0.05. In the two groups, cervical ROM, VAS, and functional scores showed significant changes. Both HILT plus exercise and US/TENS plus exercise effectively increased cervical ROM and reduced pain (with a significant greater decrease in group A). Statistically significant differences in NDI scores were observed after treatment sessions with better results for participants enrolled in group A (HILT plus exercise) Both therapeutic modalities demonstrated analgesic efficacy and improved function in patients affected by cervical spondylosis 4 weeks after the therapy. HILT plus exercise was more effective than US/TENS plus exercise. HILT can be promoted and used in this pathology with positive outcomes. However, further studies are needed to optimize the dose and duration of HILT therapy.
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Asao A, Shibuya K, Yamada K, Kazama Y. Effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and visuotactile synchrony on the embodiment of an artificial hand. Exp Brain Res 2018; 237:81-89. [PMID: 30306246 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-018-5398-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The rubber hand illusion (RHI) is an experimental paradigm known to produce a bodily illusion. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) combined with the RHI induces a stronger illusion than the RHI alone. Visuotactile stimulus synchrony is an important aspect of the RHI. However, the effect of TENS and visuotactile stimulus synchrony in TENS combined with the RHI remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of TENS and visuotactile stimulus synchrony on the embodiment of an artificial hand when using TENS combined with the RHI. The participants underwent four experimental conditions in random order: TENS/noTENS × Synchronous/Asynchronous. TENS was set at an intensity such that it generated a feeling of electrical paresthesia in the radial nerve area of the hand but did not cause pain, i.e., 100-Hz pulse frequency, 80-µs pulse duration, and a constant pulse pattern. A visuotactile stimulus, either temporally synchronous or asynchronous, was generated using paintbrush strokes. To evaluate the outcome measures, the participants completed a questionnaire report and proprioceptive drift assessments (motor response and perceptual response). There were significant main effects of TENS and visuotactile synchrony, but no interaction between these factors, on the results of the questionnaire and the perceptual response. In contrast, there was no significant effect on the result of the motor response. These findings indicate that TENS and visuotactile synchrony might affect differently the embodiment of an artificial hand when using TENS combined with the RHI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Asao
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan.
| | - Kenichi Shibuya
- Department of Health and Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
| | - Kazuki Yamada
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
| | - Yuina Kazama
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata, Japan
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Robinson SC. No exchange, same pain, no gain: Risk-reward of wearable healthcare disclosure of health personally identifiable information for enhanced pain treatment. Health Informatics J 2018; 25:1675-1691. [PMID: 30204037 DOI: 10.1177/1460458218796634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Wearable technologies have created fascinating opportunities for patients to treat chronic pain in a discreet, mobile fashion. However, many of these health wearables require patients to disclose sensitive information, including health information (e.g., heart rate, glucose levels) and personal information (location, email, name, etc.). Individuals using wearables for treatment of chronic pain may sacrifice social health elements, including their privacy, in exchange for better physical and mental health. Utilizing communication privacy management, a popular disclosure theory, this article explores the policy and ethical ramifications of patients disclosing sensitive health information in exchange for better health treatment and relief of chronic pain. The article identifies scenarios where a user must disclose information, and what factors motivate or dissuade disclosure, and ultimately the use of a health wearable. Practical implications of this conceptual article include an improved understanding of how and why consumers may disclose personal data to health wearables, and potential impacts for public policy and ethics regarding how wearables and their manufacturers entice disclosure of private health information.
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Sayilir S. The short-term effects of TENS plus therapeutic ultrasound combinations in chronic neck pain. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2018; 31:278-281. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2018.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Kong X, Gozani SN. Effectiveness of fixed-site high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in chronic pain: a large-scale, observational study. J Pain Res 2018; 11:703-714. [PMID: 29670397 PMCID: PMC5898590 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s156610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of fixed-site high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (FS-TENS) in a real-world chronic pain sample. Background There is a need for nonpharmacological treatment options for chronic pain. FS-TENS improved multisite chronic pain in a previous interventional study. Large observational studies are needed to further characterize its effectiveness. Methods This retrospective observational cohort study examined changes in chronic pain measures following 60 days of FS-TENS use. The study data were obtained from FS-TENS users who uploaded their device utilization and clinical data to an online database. The primary outcome measures were changes in pain intensity and pain interference with sleep, activity, and mood on an 11-point numerical rating scale. Dose-response associations were evaluated by stratifying subjects into low (≤30 days), intermediate (31-56 days), and high (≥57 days) utilization subgroups. FS-TENS effectiveness was quantified by baseline to follow-up group differences and a responder analysis (≥30% improvement in pain intensity or ≥2-point improvement in pain interference domains). Results Utilization and clinical data were collected from 11,900 people using FS-TENS for chronic pain, with 713 device users meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Study subjects were generally older, overweight adults. Subjects reported multisite pain with a mean of 4.8 (standard deviation [SD] 2.5) pain sites. A total of 97.2% of subjects identified low back and/or lower extremity pain, and 72.9% of subjects reported upper body pain. All pain measures exhibited statistically significant group differences from baseline to 60-day follow-up. The largest changes were pain interference with activity (-0.99±2.69 points) and mood (-1.02±2.78 points). A total of 48.7% of subjects exhibited a clinically meaningful reduction in pain interference with activity or mood. This proportion increased to 57.1% for the high utilization subgroup. Conclusion FS-TENS is a practical option for treating multisite chronic pain. The greatest impact is on pain interference with activity and mood. FS-TENS utilization and effectiveness exhibit a dose-response association, suggesting that daily use maximizes pain relief.
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Sayilir S, Yildizgoren MT. The medium-term effects of diadynamic currents in chronic low back pain; TENS versus diadynamic currents: A randomised, follow-up study. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2017; 29:16-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Johnson MI, Claydon LS, Herbison GP, Jones G, Paley CA. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for fibromyalgia in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 10:CD012172. [PMID: 28990665 PMCID: PMC6485914 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012172.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia is characterised by persistent, widespread pain; sleep problems; and fatigue. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is the delivery of pulsed electrical currents across the intact surface of the skin to stimulate peripheral nerves and is used extensively to manage painful conditions. TENS is inexpensive, safe, and can be self-administered. TENS reduces pain during movement in some people so it may be a useful adjunct to assist participation in exercise and activities of daily living. To date, there has been only one systematic review in 2012 which included TENS, amongst other treatments, for fibromyalgia, and the authors concluded that TENS was not effective. OBJECTIVES To assess the analgesic efficacy and adverse events of TENS alone or added to usual care (including exercise) compared with placebo (sham) TENS; no treatment; exercise alone; or other treatment including medication, electroacupuncture, warmth therapy, or hydrotherapy for fibromyalgia in adults. SEARCH METHODS We searched the following electronic databases up to 18 January 2017: CENTRAL (CRSO); MEDLINE (Ovid); Embase (Ovid); CINAHL (EBSCO); PsycINFO (Ovid); LILACS; PEDRO; Web of Science (ISI); AMED (Ovid); and SPORTDiscus (EBSCO). We also searched three trial registries. There were no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-randomised trials of TENS treatment for pain associated with fibromyalgia in adults. We included cross-over and parallel-group trial designs. We included studies that evaluated TENS administered using non-invasive techniques at intensities that produced perceptible TENS sensations during stimulation at either the site of pain or over nerve bundles proximal (or near) to the site of pain. We included TENS administered as a sole treatment or TENS in combination with other treatments, and TENS given as a single treatment or as a course of treatments. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently determined study eligibility by assessing each record and reaching agreement by discussion. A third review author acted as arbiter. We did not anonymise the records of studies before assessment. Two review authors independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias of included studies before entering information into a 'Characteristics of included studies' table. Primary outcomes were participant-reported pain relief from baseline of 30% or greater or 50% or greater, and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC). We assessed the evidence using GRADE and added 'Summary of findings' tables. MAIN RESULTS We included eight studies (seven RCTs, one quasi-RCT, 315 adults (299 women), aged 18 to 75 years): six used a parallel-group design and two used a cross-over design. Sample sizes of intervention arms were five to 43 participants.Two studies, one of which was a cross-over design, compared TENS with placebo TENS (82 participants), one study compared TENS with no treatment (43 participants), and four studies compared TENS with other treatments (medication (two studies, 74 participants), electroacupuncture (one study, 44 participants), superficial warmth (one cross-over study, 32 participants), and hydrotherapy (one study, 10 participants)). Two studies compared TENS plus exercise with exercise alone (98 participants, 49 per treatment arm). None of the studies measured participant-reported pain relief of 50% or greater or PGIC. Overall, the studies were at unclear or high risk of bias, and in particular all were at high risk of bias for sample size.Only one study (14 participants) measured the primary outcome participant-reported pain relief of 30% or greater. Thirty percent achieved 30% or greater reduction in pain with TENS and exercise compared with 13% with exercise alone. One study found 10/28 participants reported pain relief of 25% or greater with TENS compared with 10/24 participants using superficial warmth (42 °C). We judged that statistical pooling was not possible because there were insufficient data and outcomes were not homogeneous.There were no data for the primary outcomes participant-reported pain relief from baseline of 50% or greater and PGIC.There was a paucity of data for secondary outcomes. One pilot cross-over study of 43 participants found that the mean (95% confidence intervals (CI)) decrease in pain intensity on movement (100-mm visual analogue scale (VAS)) during one 30-minute treatment was 11.1 mm (95% CI 5.9 to 16.3) for TENS and 2.3 mm (95% CI 2.4 to 7.7) for placebo TENS. There were no significant differences between TENS and placebo for pain at rest. One parallel group study of 39 participants found that mean ± standard deviation (SD) pain intensity (100-mm VAS) decreased from 85 ± 20 mm at baseline to 43 ± 20 mm after one week of dual-site TENS; decreased from 85 ± 10 mm at baseline to 60 ± 10 mm after single-site TENS; and decreased from 82 ± 20 mm at baseline to 80 ± 20 mm after one week of placebo TENS. The authors of seven studies concluded that TENS relieved pain but the findings of single small studies are unlikely to be correct.One study found clinically important improvements in Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) subscales for work performance, fatigue, stiffness, anxiety, and depression for TENS with exercise compared with exercise alone. One study found no additional improvements in FIQ scores when TENS was added to the first three weeks of a 12-week supervised exercise programme.No serious adverse events were reported in any of the studies although there were reports of TENS causing minor discomfort in a total of 3 participants.The quality of evidence was very low. We downgraded the GRADE rating mostly due to a lack of data; therefore, we have little confidence in the effect estimates where available. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There was insufficient high-quality evidence to support or refute the use of TENS for fibromyalgia. We found a small number of inadequately powered studies with incomplete reporting of methodologies and treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark I Johnson
- Leeds Beckett UniversityFaculty of Health and Social SciencesCity CampusCalverley StreetLeedsUKLS1 3HE
| | - Leica S Claydon
- Postgraduate Medical InstituteAnglia Ruskin UniversityBishops Hall LaneChelmsfordUKCM1 1SQ
| | - G Peter Herbison
- Dunedin School of Medicine, University of OtagoDepartment of Preventive & Social MedicinePO Box 913DunedinNew Zealand9054
| | - Gareth Jones
- Leeds Beckett UniversityFaculty of Health and Social SciencesCity CampusCalverley StreetLeedsUKLS1 3HE
| | - Carole A Paley
- Airedale NHS Foundation TrustResearch & Development DepartmentAiredale General HospitalSteetonKeighleyWest YorkshireUKBD20 6TD
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Gibson W, Wand BM, O'Connell NE. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for neuropathic pain in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 9:CD011976. [PMID: 28905362 PMCID: PMC6426434 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011976.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain, which is due to nerve disease or damage, represents a significant burden on people and society. It can be particularly unpleasant and achieving adequate symptom control can be difficult. Non-pharmacological methods of treatment are often employed by people with neuropathic pain and may include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). This review supersedes one Cochrane Review 'Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for chronic pain' (Nnoaham 2014) and one withdrawn protocol 'Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for neuropathic pain in adults' (Claydon 2014). This review replaces the original protocol for neuropathic pain that was withdrawn. OBJECTIVES To determine the analgesic effectiveness of TENS versus placebo (sham) TENS, TENS versus usual care, TENS versus no treatment and TENS in addition to usual care versus usual care alone in the management of neuropathic pain in adults. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, AMED, CINAHL, Web of Science, PEDro, LILACS (up to September 2016) and various clinical trials registries. We also searched bibliographies of included studies for further relevant studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials where TENS was evaluated in the treatment of central or peripheral neuropathic pain. We included studies if they investigated the following: TENS versus placebo (sham) TENS, TENS versus usual care, TENS versus no treatment and TENS in addition to usual care versus usual care alone in the management of neuropathic pain in adults. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened all database search results and identified papers requiring full-text assessment. Subsequently, two review authors independently applied inclusion/exclusion criteria to these studies. The same review authors then independently extracted data, assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane standard tool and rated the quality of evidence using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS We included 15 studies with 724 participants. We found a range of treatment protocols in terms of duration of care, TENS application times and intensity of application. Briefly, duration of care ranged from four days through to three months. Similarly, we found variation of TENS application times; from 15 minutes up to hourly sessions applied four times daily. We typically found intensity of TENS set to comfortable perceptible tingling with very few studies titrating the dose to maintain this perception. Of the comparisons, we had planned to explore, we were only able to undertake a quantitative synthesis for TENS versus sham TENS. Insufficient data and large diversity in the control conditions prevented us from undertaking a quantitative synthesis for the remaining comparisons.For TENS compared to sham TENS, five studies were suitable for pooled analysis. We described the remainder of the studies in narrative form. Overall, we judged 11 studies at high risk of bias, and four at unclear risk. Due to the small number of eligible studies, the high levels of risk of bias across the studies and small sample sizes, we rated the quality of the evidence as very low for the pooled analysis and very low individual GRADE rating of outcomes from single studies. For the individual studies discussed in narrative form, the methodological limitations, quality of reporting and heterogeneous nature of interventions compared did not allow for reliable overall estimates of the effect of TENS.Five studies (across various neuropathic conditions) were suitable for pooled analysis of TENS versus sham TENS investigating change in pain intensity using a visual analogue scale. We found a mean postintervention difference in effect size favouring TENS of -1.58 (95% confidence interval (CI) -2.08 to -1.09, P < 0.00001, n = 207, six comparisons from five studies) (very low quality evidence). There was no significant heterogeneity in this analysis. While this exceeded our prespecified minimally important difference for pain outcomes, we assessed the quality of evidence as very low meaning we have very little confidence in this effect estimate and the true effect is likely to be substantially different from that reported in this review. Only one study of these five investigated health related quality of life as an outcome meaning we were unable to report on this outcome in this comparison. Similarly, we were unable to report on global impression of change or changes in analgesic use in this pooled analysis.Ten small studies compared TENS to some form of usual care. However, there was great diversity in what constituted usual care, precluding pooling of data. Most of these studies found either no difference in pain outcomes between TENS versus other active treatments or favoured the comparator intervention (very low quality evidence). We were unable to report on other primary and secondary outcomes in these single trials (health-related quality of life, global impression of change and changes in analgesic use).Of the 15 included studies, three reported adverse events which were minor and limited to 'skin irritation' at or around the site of electrode placement (very low quality evidence). Three studies reported no adverse events while the remainder did not report any detail with regard adverse events. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS In this review, we reported on the comparison between TENS and sham TENS. The quality of the evidence was very low meaning we were unable to confidently state whether TENS is effective for pain control in people with neuropathic pain. The very low quality of evidence means we have very limited confidence in the effect estimate reported; the true effect is likely to be substantially different. We make recommendations with respect to future TENS study designs which may meaningfully reduce the uncertainty relating to the effectiveness of this treatment modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Gibson
- School of Physiotherapy, The University of Notre Dame Australia, 19 Mouat Street (PO Box 1225), Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia, 6959
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Johnson MI. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) as an adjunct for pain management in perioperative settings: a critical review. Expert Rev Neurother 2017; 17:1013-1027. [DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2017.1364158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark I. Johnson
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Clinical and Applied Sciences, Leeds Beckett University City Campus, Leeds, UK
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Do the psychological effects of vagus nerve stimulation partially mediate vagal pain modulation? NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN 2017; 1:37-45. [PMID: 29057372 PMCID: PMC5648334 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
There is preclinical and clinical evidence that vagus nerve stimulation modulates both pain and mood state. Mechanistic studies show brainstem circuitry involved in pain modulation by vagus nerve stimulation, but little is known about possible indirect descending effects of altered mood state on pain perception. This possibility is important, since previous studies have shown that mood state affects pain, particularly the affective dimension (pain unpleasantness). To date, human studies investigating the effects of vagus nerve stimulation on pain perception have not reliably measured psychological factors to determine their role in altered pain perception elicited by vagus nerve stimulation. Thus, it remains unclear how much of a role psychological factors play in vagal pain modulation. Here, we present a rationale for including psychological measures in future vagus nerve stimulation studies on pain.
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Johnson MI, Jones G. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation: current status of evidence. Pain Manag 2017; 7:1-4. [DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2016-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark I Johnson
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Clinical & Applied Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, City Campus, Leeds, LS1 3HE, UK
| | - Gareth Jones
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Clinical & Applied Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, City Campus, Leeds, LS1 3HE, UK
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Mendonça ACR, Rett MT, Garcez PDA, Aquino MJDV, Lima LV, DeSantana JM. TENS effects on dysesthesia and quality of life after breast cancer surgery with axilectomy: randomized controlled trial. FISIOTERAPIA EM MOVIMENTO 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/1980-5918.030.s01.ao28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Introduction: After breast cancer surgery, many women may present quality of life (QOL) impairment due to the presence of discomfort as dysesthesia in the anterolateral region of the chest, armpit and/or medial part of the arm caused by intercostobrachial nerve injury (ICBN). Objective: To investigate the effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on dysesthesia intensity at the intercostobrachial nerve (ICBN) dermatome and QOL in women after breast cancer surgery. Methods: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo controlled clinical trial was conducted. Women undergoing axillary lymphadenectomy (AL), with dysesthesia on ICBN dermatome were included. Patients were divided into active and placebo TENS groups. TENS was applied with a frequency of 100 Hz, pulse duration of 100 µs and amplitude at the highest sensory intensity tolerable for 20 minutes during 20 sessions, three times a week, on alternating days. In the placebo TENS group, electrical current was delivered only during the first 45 seconds of application. Skin sensitivity was assessed by esthesiometry. Dysesthesia intensity was assessed with a visual analogue scale (VAS) and QOL with the EORTC QLQ-C30 and the specific EORTC QLQ-BR23 which is the Breast Cancer Module. Results: VAS decreased significantly over the 20 sessions in the active TENS group (p<0.006) and no difference was found between groups. There weren’t significant differences in EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-BR23 after 20 sessions or between groups. Conclusion: TENS decreased dysesthesia intensity in the ICBN dermatome after breast cancer surgery, but did not improve quality of life.
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Ryan CG, King R, Robinson V, Punt TD, Dinse HR, Grunenberg C, Johnson MI, Martin DJ. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation using an LTP-like repetitive stimulation protocol for patients with upper limb complex regional pain syndrome: A feasibility study. HAND THERAPY 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/1758998316678588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction This feasibility study aimed to (i) develop a clinical protocol using a long-term potentiation-like repetitive stimulation protocol for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in patients with upper limb complex regional pain syndrome and (ii) develop a research protocol for a single-blind randomised controlled trial investigating the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for complex regional pain syndrome. Methods This small-scale single-blind feasibility randomised-controlled trial planned to randomise 30 patients with upper limb complex regional pain syndrome to either a variant of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation or placebo transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for three weeks. Stimulation comprised 20 pulses over 1 s with a non-stimulation interval of 5 s, a so-called repetitive electrical stimulation protocol following the timing of long-term potentiation. Pain, function and body image were measured at baseline, post-treatment and at three months follow-up. At three months, participants were invited to one-to-one interviews, which were analysed thematically. Results A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation protocol with electrodes applied proximal to the area of allodynia in the region of the upper arm was developed. Participant concordance with the protocol was high. Recruitment was below target (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (n = 6), placebo (n = 2)). Mean (SD) pain intensity for the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation group on a 0 to 10 scale was 7.2 (2.4), 6.6 (2.8) and 7.8 (1.9), at baseline, post-treatment and at three-month follow-up, respectively. Qualitative data suggested that some patients found transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation beneficial, easy to use and were still using it at three months. Conclusion Patients tolerated transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation well, and important methodological information to facilitate the design of a large-scale trial was obtained (ISRCTN48768534).
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Affiliation(s)
- CG Ryan
- Institute of Health and Social Care, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - R King
- Pain Clinic, James Cook University Hospital, South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesborough, UK
| | - V Robinson
- Pain Clinic, James Cook University Hospital, South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesborough, UK
| | - TD Punt
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, Birmingham University, UK
| | - HR Dinse
- Neural Plasticity Lab, Institute Neuroinformatik, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany: Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Bochum, Germany
| | - C Grunenberg
- Hochschule für Gesundheit Bochum, Universitätsstrasse, Bochum, Germany
| | - MI Johnson
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - DJ Martin
- Institute of Health and Social Care, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
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Scuteri A, Cavaletti G. How can neuroplasticity be utilized to improve neuropathy symptoms? Expert Rev Neurother 2016; 16:1235-1236. [DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2016.1221344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Scuteri
- Experimental Neurology Unit, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Guido Cavaletti
- Experimental Neurology Unit, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
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Gozani SN. Fixed-site high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for treatment of chronic low back and lower extremity pain. J Pain Res 2016; 9:469-79. [PMID: 27418854 PMCID: PMC4935001 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s111035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study was to determine if fixed-site high-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (FS-TENS) is effective in treating chronic low back and lower extremity pain. Background Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is widely used for treatment of chronic pain. General-purpose transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation devices are designed for stimulation anywhere on the body and often cannot be used while the user is active or sleeping. FS-TENS devices are designed for placement at a pre-determined location, which enables development of a wearable device for use over extended time periods. Methods Study participants with chronic low back and/or lower extremity pain self-administered an FS-TENS device for 60 days. Baseline, 30-, and 60-day follow-up data were obtained through an online questionnaire. The primary outcome measure was the patient global impression of change. Pain intensity and interference were assessed using the Brief Pain Inventory. Changes in use of concomitant pain medications were evaluated with a single-item global self-rating. Results One hundred and thirty participants were enrolled, with 88 completing the 60-day follow-up questionnaire. Most participants (73.9%) were 50 years of age or older. At baseline, low back pain was identified by 85.3%, lower extremity pain by 71.6%, and upper extremity pain by 62.5%. Participants reported widespread pain, at baseline, with a mean of 3.4 (standard deviation 1.1) pain sites. At the 60-day follow-up, 80.7% of participants reported that their chronic pain had improved and they were classified as responders. Baseline characteristics did not differentiate non-responders from responders. There were numerical trends toward reduced pain interference with walking ability and sleep, and greater pain relief in responders. There was a large difference in use of concomitant pain medications, with 80.3% of responders reporting a reduction compared to 11.8% of non-responders. Conclusion FS-TENS is a safe and effective option for treating chronic low back and lower extremity pain. These results motivate the use of FS-TENS in development of wearable analgesic devices.
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Liem L, Mekhail N. Management of Postherniorrhaphy Chronic Neuropathic Groin Pain: A Role for Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation. Pain Pract 2016; 16:915-23. [PMID: 26914499 DOI: 10.1111/papr.12424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chronic neuropathic groin pain is a sequela of hernia surgery that occurs at unacceptably high rates, causing widespread impacts on quality of life. Although the medical community is beginning to recognize the role of surgical technique in the initiation and maintenance of postherniorrhaphy neuropathic pain, little information exists regarding pain management strategies for this condition. This review presents a summary of the pain condition state, its treatment options, and treatment recommendations. Both literature review and clinical experience were used to develop a proposed a treatment algorithm for the treatment of postherniorrhaphy pain. The development of chronic pain may be prevented via a number of perioperative measures. For pain that is already established, some surgical approaches including inguinal neurectomy can be effective, in addition to standard pharmacological treatments and local infiltrations. An unmet need may still exist with these options, however, leaving a role for neuromodulation for the treatment of intractable cases. A pain management algorithm for iterative interventions including stimulation of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is described. It is expected that cross-disciplinary awareness of surgeons for nonsurgical pain management options in the treatment of chronic neuropathic postherniorrhaphy pain will contribute to better clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liong Liem
- Sint Antonius Ziekenhuis, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands
| | - Nagy Mekhail
- Evidence-Based Pain Management Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A
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Sierakowski A, Jing S, Poel J, Elliot D. Transcutaneous Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain in the Upper Limb. J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol 2016; 21:37-43. [DOI: 10.1142/s2424835516500041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: A small number of patients develop intractable peripheral nerve pain following injury or surgery to the upper limb that is refractory to pharmacological treatment. This study reports our results of using transcutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation (TPNS), a non-invasive form of neuromodulation, to treat this difficult problem. Methods: Seventy-two patients were treated for intractable pain in the upper limb using this technique. Electrical current was delivered transcutaneously through a handheld probe, placed on the skin overlying the affected peripheral nerve proximal to the site of pain. Pain severity was determined before and immediately after treatment by subjective patient self-assessment using a visual analogue pain scale. Pre-post treatment changes in pain severity were analysed by Student's test for paired data. Outcome in respect of overall effectiveness of this treatment, was graded according to the maximum duration of pain relief achieved. Results: Overall, TPNS reduced pain intensity from 8.4 (SD 1.6) before treatment to 4.2 (SD 3.5) immediately after treatment, a highly significant effect ([Formula: see text]). The treatment achieved cure in 8/72 (11%) of our patients and a useful therapeutic outcome (pain relief ≥ 1 day) in 27/72 (38%). The treatment failed in 37/72 (51%). Conclusions: TPNS warrants consideration as a therapy for neuropathic pain in the upper limb after drug treatment has failed and before offering surgery or spinal root stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Sierakowski
- Department of Hand Surgery, St Andrew's Centre For Plastic Surgery, Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Essex, UK
| | - S.S. Jing
- Department of Hand Surgery, St Andrew's Centre For Plastic Surgery, Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Essex, UK
| | - J. Poel
- Department of Hand Surgery, St Andrew's Centre For Plastic Surgery, Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Essex, UK
| | - D. Elliot
- Department of Hand Surgery, St Andrew's Centre For Plastic Surgery, Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Essex, UK
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