Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) in Stroke Rehabilitation: An Umbrella Review

 Previous research didn't show much benefit.

TENS (4 posts to November 2017)

Application of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) in Stroke Rehabilitation: An Umbrella Review

Authors

• Sahand Eslami
• Fateme Tamasbi 1. Research Center for Evidence-based Medicine, Iranian EBM Centre: A JBI Centre of Excellence, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
• Sanam Mohammadzadeh
• Sarvin Sanaie
• Salar Ghaderi
• Alireza Rahimi-Mamaghani

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15540/nr.11.3.304

Keywords:

Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation, Stroke, Rehabilitation, TENS, Systematic Review

Abstract

Background. 

Given that stroke is one of the most important causes of long-term disability, it is essential to adopt efficient rehabilitation techniques to maximize functional recovery. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has become a viable treatment option for stroke recovery in recent years. 

Method. 

 A systematic search was conducted in several databases and complemented by manual searches of reference lists. Study selection criteria included systematic reviews, with or without meta-analyses, that assessed the effects of TENS on poststroke rehabilitation. The quality of the studies was assessed using the JBI assessment tool. 

Results. 

 According to 34 systematic reviews, TENS is applied in several settings in poststroke rehabilitation, including motor dysfunction, urinary and fecal dysfunction, spasticity, and pain management, and has shown promising results in these areas. However, the absence of standardized guidelines makes it challenging to determine the optimal TENS parameters for specific poststroke rehabilitation goals. 

Conclusion. 

 The application of TENS in poststroke rehabilitation has shown potential benefits. While these potential benefits are promising, it is important to note that the effectiveness of TENS may vary among individuals, and further research is needed to understand its optimal application and long-term effects.