Electrical Stimulation For Chronic Pain – Is It Effective?

Chronic Pain Treatment

Electrical stimulation is a popular chronic pain treatment. Currently, there is not substantial scientific research which supports its effectiveness in chronic pain treatment. Spinal-cord stimulation is most often used to treat chronic back pain and leg pain. The process involves implanting a small wire in the back to carry current to targeted areas in the spinal cord. When the current is activated a patient will feel a tingling sensation instead of the pain. The patient uses a remote control device to control the current. The effects can linger for hours. Though some doctors say it is “the fastest-growing and most-promising treatment available for certain types of pain” research is still inconclusive about the treatment’s benefits.

TENS or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is another electrical stimulation technique. Though a recent scientific review of numerous studies has shown limited benefits, some people still use it for lower back, muscle, arthritis, and post-surgical pain. The TENS process works by using a device that produces electrical currents. When the device is placed on the skin via a patch, the currents stimulate nerves, mostly superficial ones, and the patient experiences some reduction in pain. Again, the individual control the frequency and intensity of the current using a remote control device.

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