It’s helping with the fatigue and pain.
A new study suggests that Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), a device previously used to treat conditions like arthritis and back pain, might also be effective in alleviating symptoms of long COVID, such as pain and fatigue. TENS works by delivering low-wattage electrical currents to nerves, providing a painless way to manage discomfort. According to Bijan Najafi, the research director at UCLA Health’s Center for Advanced Surgical & Interventional Technology, the TENS system offers immediate relief, which makes it convenient for daily use.
The study, published in Nature Scientific Reports, involved 25 participants with chronic pain, fatigue, and gait issues linked to long COVID. These individuals were randomly assigned to use either a high-dose TENS device or a placebo device that emitted very low electrical currents. The devices were worn for three to five hours daily over the course of a month.
Results showed that participants using the active TENS device experienced a 26% reduction in pain on average, compared to those using the placebo. Additionally, they saw an 8% improvement in their ability to walk. About 71% of those using the TENS device reported noticing health benefits, versus 61% of those using the placebo. The simplicity and ease of use of the device contributed to high compliance among participants.
While the study was small, Najafi emphasized that more research is needed to confirm these findings. He also suggested that TENS devices could potentially be useful for patients with other conditions that cause chronic pain and fatigue, such as fibromyalgia, respiratory diseases, or post-ICU weakness. Further studies are necessary to explore these possibilities and determine the broader applications of TENS technology in managing chronic symptoms.
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