transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

a method of non-invasive pain control using pads placed either side of the spine to apply a mild electric current from a battery-operated device, which can be controlled by the patient for pain relief. Used for the control of both acute and chronic pain. Suggested to work through either blocking 'pain' nerves by stimulating other nerve channels or by endorphin release. Useful in sports injuries as an adjunct to other treatments, especially if drug treatment options are limited by doping regulations.