David Baxter PhD
Late Founder
TENS therapy: An option for fibromyalgia treatment?
By Mayo Clinic Staff
Oct. 22, 2008
Q. Would a TENS unit help improve fibromyalgia pain?
A. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a therapy sometimes used to treat localized or regional pain. During TENS therapy, electrodes deliver electrical impulses to nearby nerve pathways ? which can help control or relieve some types of pain.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in the muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as fatigue and multiple tender points ? places on the body where slight pressure causes pain. Since the pain of fibromyalgia isn't limited to a specific area, TENS therapy isn't likely to be an effective fibromyalgia treatment.
Fibromyalgia is often treated with various medications to relieve pain and improve sleep. Options may include pain relievers, antidepressants and muscle relaxants. Self-care ? such as reducing stress, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and eating healthy foods ? is important as well. In some cases, mental health therapy also is recommended.
If you have fibromyalgia and your treatment plan isn't relieving your pain, consult your doctor. He or she may adjust your medications or offer additional treatment options.
By Mayo Clinic Staff
Oct. 22, 2008
Q. Would a TENS unit help improve fibromyalgia pain?
A. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a therapy sometimes used to treat localized or regional pain. During TENS therapy, electrodes deliver electrical impulses to nearby nerve pathways ? which can help control or relieve some types of pain.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in the muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as fatigue and multiple tender points ? places on the body where slight pressure causes pain. Since the pain of fibromyalgia isn't limited to a specific area, TENS therapy isn't likely to be an effective fibromyalgia treatment.
Fibromyalgia is often treated with various medications to relieve pain and improve sleep. Options may include pain relievers, antidepressants and muscle relaxants. Self-care ? such as reducing stress, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and eating healthy foods ? is important as well. In some cases, mental health therapy also is recommended.
If you have fibromyalgia and your treatment plan isn't relieving your pain, consult your doctor. He or she may adjust your medications or offer additional treatment options.
