Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) in the therapy of chronic facial pain. Preliminary report.

Abstract

Chronic facial pain remains a therapeutic problem. We report on 29 patients (37 nerves involved), who were treated with transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS). Pain reduction was achieved in 27 patients (93%) while in 5 patients it was possible to stop the treatment because they were constantly free from pain. Two patients did not respond to TENS therapy. It was possible to reduce or discontinue the use of analgesics in 79% of the cases. There were no severe side effects. Therefore, TENS should be seen as a simple, safe and effective method of treatment for many forms of chronic facial pain, as opposed to other invasive surgical procedures.

• Authors: A Bremerich, W Wiegel, T Thein, T Dietze
• Journal: Journal of cranio-maxillo-facial surgery : official publication of the European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery (J Craniomaxillofac Surg) Vol. 16 Issue 8 Pg. 379-81 (Nov 1988) ISSN: 1010-5182 [Print] Scotland
• PMID: 3264557 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Chronic Disease
• Electric Stimulation Therapy
• Facial Pain (therapy)
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation