What does TENS stand for in pain management?

TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, which is a widely used technique in pain management. It involves the application of low-voltage electrical currents to the skin through electrodes placed at or near the site of pain. The electrical stimulation can help to relieve pain by interfering with the transmission of pain signals to the brain and by promoting the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. This method is popular because it is non-invasive, can be self-administered, and has been found effective for various types of acute and chronic pain. Understanding what TENS stands for and its application is crucial for health care professionals who wish to incorporate it into their pain management strategies.