Publication:

Effect of acupuncture TENS versus conventional TENS on post cesarean section incision pain

Background There is evidence regarding beneficial use of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on post Lower Segment Caesarean Section (LSCS) incision pain. However, efficacy of different types of TENS following C section pain has not yet been explored adequately.

Methods 96 women who had recently undergone LSCS were included for the study. The subjects were in the age group of 20 to 40 years (25.84±3.96); having pain intensity 4 or more on Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). They were divided into three groups by random allocation method; namely Group A: Acupuncture (Low/Motor) TENS, Group B: Conventional (High/Sensory) TENS and Group C: Control group. Group A and B received specific type of TENS twice a day for 15 minutes. Control group C did not receive any TENS intervention. All subjects received standard post-operative medications and physiotherapy. Pain intensity was recorded on NPRS pre and post intervention.

Results Both Acupuncture TENS and Conventional TENS significantly decreased post-operative pain intensity as compared to control group (p value <0.0001).

Conclusions Both, acupuncture and conventional TENS are equally effective in reducing post LSCS incision pain at a strong and non-painful intensity.