Nerve Stimulation Therapy Can Ease Fibromyalgia Pain and Fatigue

In the initial “real-world” trial, the nerve stimulation treatment known as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) appeared to lessen the tiredness and pain of fibromyalgia. 

A recent study at the University of Iowa shows that this new TENS treatment provides additional benefits beyond relief from other available treatment options. All the study participants were using pain-relieving medications and receiving physical therapy to treat their symptoms. Yet, TENS provided additional relief, as reported in the study. TENS is a long-established outpatient therapy that uses adhesive electrodes to deliver a mild electrical current through the skin to either reduce or stop pain. 

In another study, published on March 27 in the National Library of Medicine, TENS was found to equal or exceed other U.S. government-approved treatments for fibromyalgia. The treatment precisely targets movement-evoked pain and fatigue. These are major barriers to participation in daily routine. Although there were prior studies examining how TENS works in relieving pain and reducing fatigue, experts suggest more research, as the previous studies were rigorously controlled clinical trials.

The University of Iowa study, which involved 384 patients from 28 outpatient clinics across the United States of America, was the therapy’s initial test. Patients either received TENS combined with physical therapy or physical therapy only. In the TENS group, patients received treatment for 2 hours per day for at least 6 months. The therapy proved effective in alleviating the symptoms throughout the session.

TENS electrodes were then attached to the patients’ upper and lower back regions, with their intensity set to a level the patients could tolerate reasonably well. 

By day 60, those who had undergone TENS treatment were already experiencing a decrease in pain levels, according to the study authors, including pain when resting and during motion. 

No decrease in pain with movement was observed in the physical therapy-only group. Over 80% of patients who used TENS found it effective. Besides pain reduction, the treatment helped reduce fatigue. The bottom line is that when TENS is used under a controlled clinical trial, the results are outstanding. Doctors suggest that if pain persists, patients can take painkillers to ease the pain.

For more interesting news and updates on pain reduction treatments and how the latest treatment procedures help treat acute pain, follow Medipedia. We also provide all the news and information on various painkillers for treating pain. We help you stay up to date on the latest news and developments in health, medication, and treatment practices.

Disclaimer:

This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication or treatment.