Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) as a potential option to bring relief from Fibromyalgia symptoms

A recent American study by Zulbaran-Rojas et al (2024) found that Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) provided relief for Fibromyalgia–like symptoms including pain and fatigue in patients with Long COVID. The article “Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for fibromyalgia-like syndrome in patients with Long-COVID: a pilot randomized clinical trial” discusses these findings:

Study Design:

· Pilot Randomised Clinical Trial: The study enrolled Long COVID patients with symptoms similar to Fibromyalgia.

· Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: one receiving TENS therapy and the other receiving a placebo treatment.

TENS involves applying low-voltage electrical currents through electrodes on the skin to stimulate nerves, which can help reduce pain and improve muscle function.

Main Findings:

1. Pain Reduction: Patients in the TENS group reported significant reductions in pain compared to the placebo group. This was measured through standardised pain scales, demonstrating TENS’ potential as a pain management tool for Long COVID-related Fibromyalgia-like symptoms.

2. Improvement in Physical Function: The TENS group also showed improved physical function, including better mobility and less fatigue. This indicates that TENS might help restore some of the physical capabilities impacted by Long COVID symptoms.

3. Quality of Life: Quality of life was enhanced in patients who received TENS treatment, with improvements in overall well-being and a reduction in disability.

Safety and Tolerability: TENS was generally well-tolerated with minimal adverse effects, making it a feasible option for managing pain and improving function in Long COVID patients.

Conclusion:

· The study found that TENS was effective in reducing pain, improving physical function, and enhancing the quality of life for Long COVID patients suffering from Fibromyalgia-like symptoms.

· Given its non-invasive nature and low risk profile, TENS could be a promising treatment option for managing symptoms in this population.

The study emphasises the need for further large-scale trials to confirm the findings and refine treatment protocols.

This pilot study supports the potential role of TENS as a therapeutic modality for pain and functional limitations in patients with Long COVID and/or Fibromyalgia. Further research is being conducted in this area.

Reference:

Zulbaran-Rojas, A., Bara, R., Lee, M. et al. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for fibromyalgia-like syndrome in patients with Long-COVID: a pilot randomized clinical trial. Sci Rep 14, 27224 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-78651-5