Factores facilitadores y obstaculizadores del aprendizaje a través de la simulación

Objetivo: Identificar los factores que facilitan y dificultan el aprendizaje a través de la simulación y el ECOE, desde la perspectiva de los estudiantes y los docentes en la carrera Técnico en Enfermería de Nivel Superior. Material y Método: Estudio cualitativo con diseño fenomenológico, donde se aplicó encuesta en línea y se desarrollaron entrevistas semiestructuradas y grupos focales. El muestreo fue no probabilístico por conveniencia y participaron diez estudiantes y diez profesores pertenecientes a la carrera en una universidad privada en la ciudad de Santiago (Chile). Para llevar a cabo el proceso de análisis, codificación y clasificación de los datos, se utilizó el software de análisis NVivo. Se consideraron los principios y responsabilidades de la Declaración de Singapur sobre Integridad en la Investigación. Resultados: Los elementos favorecedores para las habilidades procedimentales son la metodología; la práctica y repetición; los profesores; los insumos y materiales y la motivación. Los elementos obstaculizadores fueron el nerviosismo, la falta de insumos y el tiempo escaso. Las limitaciones se dieron por el contexto sanitario, que implicó recoger información a distancia. Conclusiones: Se identificaron aspectos favorecedores y obstaculizadores para el logro de las habilidades procedimentales en la formación de técnicos en enfermería. Estos resultados pueden ser considerados insumos para realizar propuestas de diseño curricular que aborden aspectos didácticos, metodológicos y humanos.

Objective: To identify the factors that facilitate and hinder learning through simulation and OSCE, from the perspective of students and instructors in the field of licensed practical nurses (known as TENS in Chile). Materials and Methods: Qualitative study with a phenomenological design, in which an online survey was administered, and semi-structured interviews and focus groups were carried out. Non-probabilistic convenience sampling was used and ten students and ten instructors belonging to a TENS training program of a private university in Santiago de Chile participated. NVivo analysis software was used to carry out the data analysis, coding, and classification process. The principles and responsibilities of The Singapore Statement on Research Integrity were considered. Results: Facilitating elements for procedural skills were methodology, practice and repetition, instructors, supplies and materials, as well as motivation. Hindering elements were nervousness, lack of supplies and time scarcity. Limitations were caused by the healthcare setting, which involved having to collect information remotely. Conclusions: Facilitating and hindering aspects for the achievement of procedural skills in the training of TENS nurses were identified. These results may contribute to outline curriculum design proposals that address didactic, methodological, and person-related aspects.

Objetivo: Identificar os fatores que facilitam e dificultam a aprendizagem através da simulação e do ECOE, da perspectiva dos estudantes e professores no âmbito dos técnicos de enfermagem (conhecidos como TENS no Chile). Materiais e Método: Estudo qualitativo com desenho fenomenológico, onde foi aplicado uma pesquisa on-line e foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas e grupos focais. Foi utilizada uma amostragem não- probabilística por conveniência e participaram 10 estudantes e 10 professores pertencentes à um programa de formação de TENS de uma universidade privada em Santiago do Chile. Para realizar o processo de análise, codificação e classificação dos dados, foi utilizado o software de análise NVivo. Foram considerados os princípios e responsabilidades da Declaração de Singapura a Integridade em Pesquisa. Resultados: Os elementos facilitadores das competências processuais foram a metodologia, a prática e repetição, os professores, os materiais e a motivação. Os elementos que dificultam são o nervosismo, a falta de materiais e o tempo escasso. As limitações foram causadas pelo contexto da saúde, o que implicou a recolha de informação à distância. Conclusões: Foram identificados os aspectos favoráveis e obstáculos à obtenção de competências processuais na formação de técnicos de enfermagem. Estes resultados podem ser considerados como contributos para propostas de concepção curricular que abordem aspectos didáticos, metodológicos e humanos.

Comparative Study Of Dry Needling V/S Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation In The Treatment Of Hamstring Strain In Football Players

Background:Myofascial pain syndrome is defined as sensory, motor and autonomic symptoms that are caused trigger points (MTrP). It is defined as a hyperirritable spot in skeletal muscle, which is associated with hypersensitive palpable nodule in a taut band. Objectives: Present study was undertaken to add on to available treatment methods for myofascial Trigger points and to find out the effectiveness of dry needling and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy for treating myofascial trigger point. Material And Methods:In this study, 32 participants were recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Dry Needling and TENS therapy was administered to them for a period of 2 weeks, 6 sessions in 2 weeks. Pre and post assessme nt were taken using following outcome measures-Pain Pressure Threshold, Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Functional Assessment Scale for Acute Hamstring Injuries (FASH)Result:There was significant decrease in Pain due to hamstring injury on NPRS, agility score and increase in Pain Pressure threshold in patients which is suggestive of decrease in pain and improve functional independency. The outcome of Pressure Algometer, Agility score and NPRS were statistically analyzed. It was found to be effective with significant P value<0.000. Conclusion:Statistically both Dry Needling and TENS are competent enough to alleviate pain but clinically TENS having better response in pain depletion and in increase in functional independency compared to Dry Needling.

Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation on ischemic rest pain in inpatients: randomised trial

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of a short-term application of Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation to relieve rest pain in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia. METHODS: In patients ³18 years old, with chronic limb-threatening ischemia and rest pain ³3 in the Visual Analogue Scale, without diabetic neuropathy were randomly assigned to 1) Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation (100 Hz, 200 μs) or 2) sham intervention, both during one or two 20 min treatment sessions. The primary outcome was pain intensity, assessed by the visual analogue scale (0-10 cm) and described by the McGill Pain Questionnaire. We used a t-test for difference of means. RESULTS: A total of 169 patients were assessed, 23 met the study criteria and were randomized. Thirty-four applications were performed in two days: in the 17 Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation and 17 sham. The within-group analysis indicated a pain decrease in both groups (Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation, from 7-3.9 cm, p<0.0001, and sham from 5.8-3.2 cm, p<0.0001). No statistically significant difference was verified between-groups (p=0.5). CONCLUSIONS: Both groups showed a decrease in rest pain of 54 and 55%, respectively. However, there was no difference between short-term high-frequency Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation and sham intervention to relieve ischemic rest pain in chronic limb-threatening ischemia patients.

Outcome of Surgically Managed Diaphyseal Fractures in Children- A Prospective Study.

Childhood injuries have become a global public health concern. It is estimated that 10-25 % of paediatric injuries are fractures. The definitive treatment of paediatric diaphyseal fractures has always remained controversial and determined by surgical experience and local trends of practice. The aim of this study was to study the outcome of surgically managed diaphyseal fractures in children.METHODSA prospective interventional study was done comprising of 42 fractures in 28 children having displaced diaphyseal fractures of major long bones. Flynn’s scoring criteria was used to study the outcome.RESULTSThe observations of this study are based on 42 surgically managed diaphyseal fractures in long bones in 28 children. The mean age of patients was 10.85 years. The commonest mode of injury was fall while playing (from level ground) (18 cases, 4.29%). The commonest bones to get fractured were both radius and ulna together (50%), followed by femur (25%), tibia (21.43%) and ulna singly (3.57%). The commonest location of fracture was middle third shaft (25 fractures, 59.52%). Transverse fractures accounted for major proportion of this series. Among the 42 fractures, 39 fractures were treated with titanium elastic nailing and 2 compound fractures were treated with debridement and external fixator application. One 15 year old girl was treated by femur interlock nailing. Among the 25 children who could be followed up, the average follow up period was 22.08 weeks. The mean period of union was 10.69 weeks. Majority of the fractures had excellent outcome (30 fractures, 76.92%), 7 fractures (17.95%) had satisfactory outcome while only 2 fractures (5.13%) had poor outcome.CONCLUSIONSTitanium elastic nailing (TENS) is found to be an effective method of treating closed displaced diaphyseal fractures in children. It is better than plaster cast immobilization due to shorter period required for union, better fracture reduction and stabilization besides prevention of stiffness of adjacent joints and fracture disease. More use of this method is recommended due to these advantages

Effect Of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Therapy On Pain And Functional Disability Level Among Patients With Rotator Cuff Disease- A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Shoulder pain is one of the leading causes of musculoskeletal pain and disability with rotator cuff disease was a common condition. The study aimed to assess the effect of TENS therapy on pain and functional disability level with rotator cuff disease patients. Methods: A parallel-group randomized controlled with 1:1 allocation, open-label, the trial is done at Orthopaedics and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Out Patient Departments, AIIMS, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria total of 76 patients (42 males,34 females) of rotator cuff disease were selected through total enumerative sampling, and block randomization with a block size of two is used to allocate treatments. The intervention was TENS therapy (high frequency (100Hz) with a pulse duration 120μsand low intensity (30- 40mA) for 20 minutes.) for consecutive five days plus standard treatment for the experimental group and standard treatment (Shoulder ROM, twice a day) as followed at AIIMS, Rishikesh to control group and Followed after completion of the treatment session. (after five days). SPADI scale is used for pain and functional disability level measurement. Results: A total of 70 patients (38 males and 32 females) were analyzed. The experimental and control group were homogenous in terms of total SPADI, disability and pain score (p>0.05). Median post-intervention total SPADI, disability and pain scores of the intervention group were significantly less as compared to the control group (p=0.000). No side- effects of treatment in any group. Conclusion: TENS therapy is an efficient therapy for patients experiencing rotator cuff disease Trial registration- CTRI/2018/09/015659

Effectiveness of kinesiotaping and Acu-TENS on maternal and neonatal outcomes in the first stage of labor among primigravidas

Background: The common reason for rise in elective Caesarean Section (CS) rate among primigravidas is maternal request due to labor pain fear. Many non-pharmacological pain relief strategies are available to help women cope with labor pain, providing a positive and satisfactory birth experience. The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of KT and Acu-TENS on maternal and neonatal outcomes in primigravidas.Methods: 40 full-term primigravidas with an age range of 20-40 years were enrolled into the study by convenience sampling method and divided into 2 groups. Group A received KT and Group B received Acu-TENS. Both groups received breathing exercises. Pain assessment at various cervical dilatation levels were carried out for all participants before and after treatment using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Duration of active phase in first stage labor, mode of delivery and neonatal well-being were measured following delivery.Results: Group A experienced VAS score reduction significantly more than Group B, p=0.004; <0.05. There was no significant change in active phase duration of first stage labor between Group A and Group B, p=0.319; >0.05. CS rate was increased in Group A [35% (7/20)] than in Group B [25% (5/20)], but neonatal outcomes were not different.Conclusions: This study proves that KT produced significantly better pain relief than Acu-TENS in first stage labor among primigravidas. Acu-TENS showed reduction in active phase duration of first stage labor than KT. Both interventions can safely be used non-invasively for labor pain relief.

Comparison Of The Effectiveness Of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Vs. Interferential Therapy (IFT) For Relief Of Pain In Primary Dysmenorrhea

Background: Dysmenorrhea or pain during menstruation is commonly seen in young women and largely impacts their quality of life. Pain medications are largely used to tackle this situation; however, they have side effects with regular use. Safe, effective pain-relieving modalities are crucial to help women cope with this situation. There is extensive literature proving the effectiveness of TENS for relieving the pain in primary dysmenorrhea; however, literature proving the same for IFT is sparse. Thus this research aims to investigate and compare the effectiveness of both the modalities in primary dysmenorrhea. Methods: 30 samples(17-25) were included in this study. Using the Simple Random Sampling method, the subjects were divided into two groups. One group received therapy through TENS(80-120 Hz, 20mins, Intensity as per tolerance) and the other through IFT(4PV,80-150HZ, 20 mins, Intensity as per tolerance). Electrical stimulation was given in the region of maximal pain. The Intensity of pain before and after treatment was recorded using the Numerical Pain Scale. The duration of pain relief and the need for analgesic post the therapy was also noted. Results: TENS and IFT are both extremely effective for the relief of pain in primary dysmenorrhea (P<0.0001). There is no significant difference in their effect on the comparison (P=0.422). And most of the subjects in both groups did not need analgesics after therapy. Conclusion: Both TENS and IFT are equally effective in the relief of pain in primary dysmenorrhea. However, tolerance to IFT currents is better among young women as they are medium frequency currents.

Functional Outcome of Internal Fixation of Fibula by Closed Tens Nailing in Addition to Tibia in Distal Both Bone Leg Fractures

Introduction: Treatment of adult tibiofibular fractures, especially severely comminuted fractures, is technically challenging dueto the lack of reduction markers and difficulty in restoring the alignment. Fixation of the fibula can facilitate the reduction of thetibia fracture and restoration of the lower extremity alignment.Aim: This study aims to study the functional outcome of internal fixation of fibula by closed tens nailing in addition to tibia indistal both bone leg fractures.Materials and Methods: Patients with distal both bone leg fractures for whom fibular fixation was done in addition to tibia nailing inGovernment Rajaji Hospital, Madurai from July 2016 to September 2018 with a minimum 1-year follow-up were included in the study.Results: In this study among 15 patients, 9 patients did not have any angulation, 6 patients had varus angulation with mean varusof 2°, and none of the patients had valgus angulation. The mean range of movements in patients with fibula fixation was 96%. Themean time of union in these patients was 5 months (minimum of 4 months and a maximum of 7 months). Johner and Wruch’s criteria:Among the 15 patients, 12 patients (80%) had excellent results and 3 (20%) had good results. There were no fair and poor results.Conclusion: Treatment of distal third both bone leg fractures by fixation of fibula by closed tens nailing in addition to the tibia isuseful in anatomical reduction of tibia and reduced malalignment of tibia with good ankle functions. Further randomized controlstudies are needed to assess the long-term functional outcome in these patients.

Estimulação nervosa elétrica transcutânea (TENS) no tratamento da vulvodínia localizada provocada: revisão sistemática / Transcutaneous nervous electric stimulation (TENS) in the treatment of localized provoked vulvodynia: systematic review

Objetivo: Verificar a eficácia da TENS no tratamento de mulheres com vulvodínia localizada provocada. Métodos: Buscou-se, nas bases de dados SciELO, PEDro e PubMed, por estudos que utilizaram a TENS como tratamento da vulvodínia localizada provocada. Resultados: Dos 50 artigos recuperados, três foram analisados: dois ECRs e um estudo de coorte longitudinal não controlado. Conclusão: A TENS pode ser eficaz como uma opção de tratamento na melhora da dor vulvar, sendo uma opção de baixo custo, não invasivo e de fácil manejo; assim como outras terapias combinadas, parece ter um efeito positivo e benéfico no tratamento da vulvodínia localizada provocada. (AU)

Objective: To verify the efficacy of TENS in the treatment of women with localized provoked vulvodynia. Methods: Searched the databases SciELO, PEDro, PubMed, for studies that used TENS as a treatment of localized vulvodynia. Results: Of the 50 articles retrieved, 3 articles were analyzed: 2 RCTs, 1 uncontrolled longitudinal cohort study. Conclusion: The TENS can be effective as a treatment option in improving vulvar pain and is a low-cost, non-invasive and easy to use option, as well as other combined therapies, which appears to have a positive and beneficial effect in the treatment of localized provoked vulvodynia.(AU)

Functional outcome of diaphyseal fractures of forearm in adolescents treated with TENS

Background:A retrospective case series study was done onforearm diaphyseal fracture in adolescents treated with TENS (titanium elastic nailing system).Purpose of the study was analysis of functional outcome of TENS in forearm diaphyseal fractures in children between 12-18 year age group. Methods:We retrospectively evaluated 30 patients operated by same senior surgeon during the period from March 2014 to February 2015 with closed diaphyseal forearm fractures in age group 12–18 years treated with TENS in whom closed reduction could not be achieved. Nail diameter taken as 33-40% of narrowest diameter of diaphysys were introduced proximally in ulna and distally in radius under image intensifier in closed manner. Postoperatively, patients encouraged for active shoulder, elbow and finger movements and suture removal done after 2 weeks. Patients were followed up for minimum period of one year.Results:In terms of union and range of motion using Anderson et al criteria 24 patients had excellent results, 4 patients had satisfactory results and one patienthad poor result having non-union of ulna. Two patients had superficial infection at the nail entry site which eventually resolved. One patient lost for follow up.Conclusions:We conclude that TENS in both bone forearm fractures in adolescent age group interms of union and range of motion is a minimally invasive and effective method of fixation.

Tonic Investigation Concept of Cervico-vestibular Muscle Afferents

Abstract Introduction Interdisciplinary research has contributed greatly to an improved understanding of the vestibular system. To date, however, very little research has focused on the vestibular system's somatosensory afferents. To ensure the diagnostic quality of vestibular somatosensory afferent data, especially the extra cranial afferents, stimulation of the vestibular balance system has to be precluded. Objective Sophisticated movements require intra- and extra cranial vestibular receptors. The study's objective is to evaluate an investigation concept for cervico-vestibular afferents with respect to clinical feasibility. Methods A dedicated chair was constructed, permitting three-dimensional trunk excursions, during which the volunteer's head remains fixed. Whether or not a cervicotonic provocation nystagmus (c-PN) can be induced with static trunk excursion is to be evaluated and if this can be influenced by cervical monophasic transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (c-TENS) with a randomized test group. 3D-video-oculography (VOG) was used to record any change in cervico-ocular examination parameters. The occurring nystagmuses were evaluated visually due to the small caliber of nystagmus amplitudes in healthy volunteers. Results The results demonstrate: no influence of placebo-controlled c-TENS on the spontaneous nystagmus; a significant increase of the vertical nystagmus on the 3Dtrunk- excursion chair in static trunk flexion with cervical provocation in all young healthy volunteers (n = 49); and a significant difference between vertical and horizontal nystagmuses during static trunk excursion after placebo-controlled c-TENS, except for the horizontal nystagmus during trunk torsion. Conclusion We hope this cervicotonic investigation concept on the 3D trunk-excursion chair will contribute to new diagnostic and therapeutic perspectives on cervical pathologies in vestibular head-to-trunk alignment.

TENS effects on dysesthesia and quality of life after breast cancer surgery with axilectomy: randomized controlled trial / Efeitos da TENS na disestesia e qualidade de vida após cirurgia de câncer de mama com finfadenectomia axilar: estudo controlado randomizado

Abstract Introduction: After breast cancer surgery, many women may present quality of life (QOL) impairment due to the presence of discomfort as dysesthesia in the anterolateral region of the chest, armpit and/or medial part of the arm caused by intercostobrachial nerve injury (ICBN). Objective: To investigate the effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on dysesthesia intensity at the intercostobrachial nerve (ICBN) dermatome and QOL in women after breast cancer surgery. Methods: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo controlled clinical trial was conducted. Women undergoing axillary lymphadenectomy (AL), with dysesthesia on ICBN dermatome were included. Patients were divided into active and placebo TENS groups. TENS was applied with a frequency of 100 Hz, pulse duration of 100 µs and amplitude at the highest sensory intensity tolerable for 20 minutes during 20 sessions, three times a week, on alternating days. In the placebo TENS group, electrical current was delivered only during the first 45 seconds of application. Skin sensitivity was assessed by esthesiometry. Dysesthesia intensity was assessed with a visual analogue scale (VAS) and QOL with the EORTC QLQ-C30 and the specific EORTC QLQ-BR23 which is the Breast Cancer Module. Results: VAS decreased significantly over the 20 sessions in the active TENS group (p<0.006) and no difference was found between groups. There weren't significant differences in EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-BR23 after 20 sessions or between groups. Conclusion: TENS decreased dysesthesia intensity in the ICBN dermatome after breast cancer surgery, but did not improve quality of life.

Resumo Introdução: Após cirurgia para câncer de mama, muitas mulheres podem apresentar prejuízo na qualidade de vida (QV) pela presença do desconforto como disestesia na região anterolateral do tórax, axila e/ou parte medial do braço, causada pela lesão do nervo intercostobraquial (NICB). Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos da Estimulação Elétrica Nervosa Transcutânea (TENS) na intensidade da disestesia no dermátomo do NICB e na QV após cirurgia de câncer de mama. Métodos: Ensaio clínico, controlado, randomizado, duplo-cego. Mulheres submetidas à linfadenectomia axilar (LA), com disestesia no dermátomo do NICB foram distribuídas em: TENS placebo e TENS ativo (um par de eletrodos autoadesivos) no trajeto do NICB, frequência de 100 Hz, duração de pulso de 100 µs, e amplitude no limiar sensorial máximo tolerado pela paciente, por 20 minutos, durante 20 sessões, três vezes na semana. A sensibilidade da pele foi avaliada através da estesiometria e foi considerada disestesia a partir do terceiro monofilamento (2,48 g). A intensidade da disestesia foi avaliada através da Escala Visual Analógica (EVA) e a QV com o EORTC QLQ-C30 e o EORTC QLQ-BR23. Resultados: A intensidade da disestesia diminuiu significativamente ao longo das 20 sessões no grupo TENS ativa (p<0,006), mas não houve diferença entre os grupos. Não houve diferenças significativas na QV após as 20 sessões entre os grupos. Conclusão: A TENS foi capaz de diminuir a intensidade da disestesia no dermátomo do NICB, mas não melhorou a qualidade de vida.

Efeitos imediatos da técnica de vibração sonorizada de língua associada à estimulação nervosa elétrica transcutânea (TENS) / Immediate effects of tongue trills associated with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar variação da qualidade vocal após realização da técnica de vibração sonorizada de língua associada à estimulação nervosa elétrica transcutânea (TVSL+TENS) sobre a laringe em mulheres com função laríngea normal. Verificar, ainda, a influência do tempo de realização desta técnica na voz. Método Participaram 40 mulheres (média 23,4 anos) sem queixas ou alterações vocais. Foi realizada TVSL associada ou não à TENS por 3 minutos, descanso e realização da técnica por mais 2 minutos (total 5 min). Foram feitas gravações das vozes antes (Pré), após três minutos (Pós 3 min) e após dois minutos adicionais de técnica (Pós 5 min). Utilizou-se a corrente TENS, com dois eletrodos sobre a cartilagem tireóidea. Realizou-se autoavaliação, avaliação acústica e perceptivoauditiva. Resultados Ao comparar TVSL isolada e TVSL+TENS observou-se que a combinação das técnicas resultou em sensação de maior estabilidade na emissão vocal (autoavaliação) e melhor ganho na qualidade vocal (avaliação perceptivoauditiva). Não houve diferença estatística nos achados acústicos entre TVSL e TVSL+TENS. Ao considerar a TVSL+TENS e comparar seu tempo de realização, observou-se, na autoavaliação, sensação de menor tensão muscular (3 min) e maior conforto da emissão (5 min); na análise acústica, elevação de F0 (3 e 5 min) e intensidade (5 min), em relação ao momento Pré; e na avaliação perceptivoauditiva, melhor qualidade vocal (3 min). Conclusão Comparando TVSL isolada e TVSL+TENS, houve mudanças na sensação de conforto e tensão muscular e também, na qualidade vocal. Por outro lado, a TVSL+TENS realizada em 3 ou 5 mintuos resultou em efeitos benéficos na voz, identificados nas avaliações realizadas.

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate vocal quality variability after applying tongue trills associated with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on the larynx of women with normal laryngeal function. Additionally, to verify the effect of this technique over time on voice quality. Methods Participants were 40 women (average 23.4 years) without vocal complaints. The procedure involved tongue trills with or without TENS for 3 minutes, rest and repeating the technique for another 2 minutes. The participants’ voices were recorded before (Pre), after three minutes (Post 3min) and after two additional minutes (Post 5min) applying the technique. TENS with two electrodes was used on the thyroid cartilage. Self-assessment, acoustic and perceptual analysis were performed. Results When comparing tongue trills in isolation and associated with TENS, a greater sense of stability in phonation (self-assessment) and improvement in voice quality (perceptual evaluation) was observed in the combination technique. There was no statistical difference in acoustics findings between tongue trills in isolation and associated with TENS. When comparing the time effect of tongue trills with TENS in self-assessment there was a perception of less muscle tension (3min) and greater comfort during phonation (5 min); in the acoustic analysis, there was an increase of F0 (3 and 5 min) and intensity (5 min) when compared to Pre-moment; in the perceptual evaluation, better voice quality (3min). Conclusion Comparing tongue trills in isolation and associated with TENS, there were changes in the comfort and muscle tension perception, as well as in vocal quality. On the other hand, tongue trills associated with TENS performed in 3 or 5 minutes resulted in beneficial effects on the voice identified in the assessments.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation at Neiguan(PC 6) and Zusanli(ST 36) for clinical symptoms and life quality of gastroesophageal reflux patients / 中国针灸

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation(TENS) for symptoms,life quality and sleep quality in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A total of 46 GERD patients were randomly assigned into an observation group and a control group,23 cases in each one. The conventional medication and nursing were applied in the two groups. TENS was used at Neiguan(PC 6) and Zusanli(ST 36) in the observation group for 4 weeks,20 min a time,twice a day. The indexes were compared between the two groups before and after treatment,including reflux disease questionnaire,the MOS 36-item short-form,Pittsburgh sleep quality index(PSQI).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Except the factor score of gengral health in the control group, the symptoms,life quality and sleep quality were superior to those before treatment in the two group (all<0.01). The symptom and PSQI scores in the observation group were lower than those in the control group(<0.01,<0.05). The scores of general health, life vitality and mental health in the observation group were more apparently improved than those in the control group (all<0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>TENS at Neiguan(PC 6) and Zusanli(ST 36) can improve the clinical symptoms,life quality and sleep quality of GERD based on the conventional treatment.</p>

Immediate and short-term effects of the combination of dry needling and percutaneous TENS on post-needling soreness in patients with chronic myofascial neck pain

ABSTRACT Background Dry needling (DN) and percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) are widely used techniques in the treatment of myofascial pain. Objective To investigate the immediate and short-term effects of the combination of DN and PENS compared to DN alone on the upper trapezius muscle. Method This is a 72-hour follow-up single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Sixty-two volunteer patients with chronic myofascial neck pain with active Myofascial Trigger Points (MTrPs) in the upper trapezius muscle were recruited. Randomization was performed, and 31 patients received DN treatment (DN group) and 31 received DN and PENS (DN+PENS group). The primary outcomes were neck disability index (NDI) and visual analog scale for pain for both post-needling soreness (PNS) and neck pain intensity (NPI). Pressure pain threshold (PPT) and cervical range of motion (CROM) were the secondary outcomes. Results We detected between-group differences in NPI and PNS in favor of the DN+PENS group immediately after treatment. No between-group differences in NDI were observed. Conclusion PENS application after dry needling treatment is more effective than dry needling alone for decreasing soreness in the short term and improving neck pain intensity immediately in patients with myofascial chronic neck pain.

Can transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation improve achilles tendon healing in rats?

BACKGROUND: Tendon injury is one of the most frequent injuries in sports activities. TENS is a physical agent used in the treatment of pain but its influence on the tendon's healing process is unclear. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the influence of TENS on the healing of partial rupture of the Achilles tendon in rats. METHOD: Sixty Wistar rats were submitted to a partial rupture of the Achilles tendon by direct trauma and randomized into six groups (TENS or Sham stimulation) and the time of evaluation (7, 14, and 21 days post-injury). Burst TENS was applied for 30 minutes, 6 days, 100 Hz frequency, 2 Hz burst frequency, 200 µs pulse duration, and 300 ms pulse train duration. Microscopic analyses were performed to quantify the blood vessels and mast cells, birefringence to quantify collagen fiber alignment, and immunohistochemistry to quantify types I and III collagen fibers. RESULTS: A significant interaction was observed for collagen type I (p=0.020) where the TENS group presented lower percentage in 14 days after the lesion (p=0.33). The main group effect showed that the TENS group presented worse collagen fiber alignment (p=0.001) and lower percentage of collagen III (p=0.001) and the main time effect (p=0.001) showed decreased percentage of collagen III at 7 days (p=0.001) and 14 days (p=0.001) after lesion when compared to 21 days. CONCLUSIONS: Burst TENS inhibited collagen I and III production and impaired its alignment during healing of partial rupture of the Achilles tendon in rats.

Comparative study of the effectiveness between balancing exercises and strengthening exercises with common use of TENS to improve functional ability in Osteoarthritis involving knee joint.

Background and purpose: People with knee Osteoarthritis (OA) sometimes report episodes of knee instability that limit their activities of daily living. Proprioception and balance are important aspects of osteoarthritis treatment because of their strong correlation with function in the knee. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of balancing exercises and strengthening exercises to improve functional ability in knee osteoarthritis patients and also it may be helpful to identify the use of best treatment protocol for OA knee. Material and methods: Thirty OA knee patients randomly allocated into two groups and received either balancing exercises (Group A) or strengthening exercises (Group B). Both the groups received TENS and taken treatment for 4 days a week for 4 weeks. The outcome measures were VAS and WOMAC. VAS was used to measure intensity of knee pain and WOMAC was used for assessment of perceived pain, stiffness and functional ability. Results: After 4 weeks of treatment, significant reduction in the WOMAC score and VAS was found in both the Groups. The result showing statistical improvement is more in Group A than Group B. Conclusion: The results of the study shows that balancing exercise is more effective than strengthening exercise to improve the functional ability of OA involving knee joint. The improvement in Group A is more than Group B and having statistically highly significant.

Efficacy of TENS versus Conservative Pain Control Measures in Post Herpetic Neuralgia: A Retrospective Observational Study.

Abstracts: Background & Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in treatment of post herpetic neuralgia (PHN) compared with conservative pain control measures. Methodology: A retrospective institution based observational study was conducted evaluating the records of patients visiting the dermatology OPD during last 6 consecutive months for herpes zoster and PHN. 152 out of 6240 new cases had herpes zoster and 50 of these patients had PHN which was defined as persistence of pain at the involved site one month after subsidence of rash. Pain was quantitatively noted in these patients on a visual analogue scale (VAS) from 0-10.Three treatment groups were compared: only TENS therapy, TENS with analgesics (most commonly NSAIDS) and tab gabapentin along with tab amitriptyline as tricyclic antidepressant. ANOVA test was applied to study the statistical difference in treatment response between the three groups. Results: Mean baseline VAS in the groups was 6.6, 7.06 and 6.78 respectively. At the end of treatment the mean VAS was 2.1, 2.39 and 2.86 respectively. We found that there was 68.1%, 66.1% and 57.8% improvement in VAS in the individual groups respectively. The improvement was found to be statistically significant (p<0.05) in all the three treatment groups. Intergroup analysis, however, did not reveal any statistically significant difference between the groups. Conclusion: TENS is a safe and effective measure for pain control in post herpetic neuralgia patients. However, its efficacy over conventional pain control measures like NSAIDs and tab gabapentin and tricyclic antidepressants could not ascertained. Our study also revealed that initiation of antiviral therapy within 72 hours did not affect the severity of PHN.

The Effect of Different Frequency and Time of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation to Current Perception Threshold / 天津医药

Objective To analysis the consequence of current perception threshold (CPT) by different frequency and time of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Methods CPT of foramen area and arm area was measured to evaluate the effect of TENS. Different frequency and time of TENS was given to 30 healthy volunteers. Stimulating to Hegu, CPT of the foramen area and the arm area on the same side was measured. Results CPT of the foramen area increased with stimulation. Low frequency of TENS inhibited the chronic pain significantly(P＜0.05),high frequency of TENS inhibited both of the chronic pain and the acute pain(P＜0.05). The inhibition of pain is more influenced by the frequency of TENS than the time of it. Conclusion Channel and point of TENS can influence CPT of the specific reaction area. And the choice of appropriate frequency of the treatment is more important than extending the treatment time alone.

Pro. Fang Jianqiao's Experience in Treating Frozen Shoulder / 浙江中医药大学学报

[Objective] To summarize the clinical experience on treating frozen shoulder by using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, TENS. [Method] By col ecting clinical cases and record of Pro. Fang Jianqiao clinical experience to sort and analyze the methodology of Pro. Fang Jianqiao's clinical y used TENS and warm acupuncture to treatment frozen shoulder. [Result] Professor Fang Jianqiao applies the theory of anatomy and muscle along meridians in his diagnosis and treatment on frozen shoulder, which is based on its origin theory of aseptic inflammation. Treatment with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, TENS, combined with local Ashi warm acupuncture to clear the meridians, qi and blood circulation and relieve pain. [conclusion] Professor Fang Jianqiao has great innovation on treatment of frozen shoulder and the combination of Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, TENS on frozen shoulder has noninvasive, economy, safe and significant effect in clinic. This clinical method is worthy promotion to public.