A Review Article on Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a popular, non-invasive, and pharmacologically free method of pain management that consists of the application of low-voltage electrical currents into the body to stimulate peripheral nerves. This review discusses the modes of action, modes of application of TENS, clinical trials, and research directions for the therapy. Gate control theory and endogenous release of opioids are the major modes of action giving a physiological foundation to the action of TENS in different painful conditions. We address traditional, acupuncture-like, burst mode, and modulated TENS, and their individual roles in the management of chronic pain, postoperative pain, neuropathic pain, and dysmenorrhea. Safety issues, limitations, and new developments in TENS technology are also touched on. We are also solving for the convenience of use problem by proposing a way of applying the operation of TENS devices wirelessly(using ESP32) in a smaller and user-friendly implementation.