Vance Carol G T, Dailey Dana L, Rakel Barbara A, Sluka Kathleen A
The University of Iowa Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science Department, IA, USA.
Pain Manag. 2014 May;4(3):197-209. doi: 10.2217/pmt.14.13.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a nonpharmacological intervention that activates a complex neuronal network to reduce pain by activating descending inhibitory systems in the central nervous system to reduce hyperalgesia. The evidence for TENS efficacy is conflicting and requires not only description but also critique. Population-specific systemic reviews and meta-analyses are emerging, indicating both HF and LF TENS being shown to provide analgesia, specifically when applied at a strong, nonpainful intensity. The purpose of this article is to provide a critical review of the latest basic science and clinical evidence for TENS. Additional research is necessary to determine if TENS has effects specific to mechanical stimuli and/or beyond reduction of pain and will improve activity levels, function and quality of life.
经皮电刺激神经疗法（TENS）是一种非药物干预措施，它通过激活复杂的神经网络，激活中枢神经系统中的下行抑制系统以减轻痛觉过敏，从而减轻疼痛。TENS疗效的证据相互矛盾，不仅需要描述，还需要批判性分析。针对特定人群的系统评价和荟萃分析不断涌现，表明高频和低频TENS均显示出能提供镇痛效果，尤其是在以强烈的、无疼痛的强度应用时。本文的目的是对TENS的最新基础科学和临床证据进行批判性综述。还需要进一步的研究来确定TENS是否对机械刺激具有特定作用和/或是否超出减轻疼痛的范畴，并将改善活动水平、功能和生活质量。
