General Introduction Peripheral Electrical Nerve Stimulation in Ad Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Non-pain Related Cognitive and Behavioral Functioning

An extensive search through 9 electronic bibliographic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, ERIC, PsychINFO, Psyndex, Cinahl, Biological Abstracts, Rehabdata) was performed in order to review the effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on non-pain related cognitive and behavioral functioning. Eight studies were identified on neglect due to stroke, six studies on Alzheimer's disease (AD), one study on aging, and two studies on coma due to traumatic brain injury. The results of the various studies revealed that TENS has a variety of effects. These consist of enhancement in somatosensory functioning, visuospatial abilities, and postural control in neglect, improved memory, affective behavior, and rest-activity rhythm in AD, and acceleration of awakening in coma. Effectiveness of TENS is discussed in relation to various stimulation parameters: duration, frequency, pulse width, and intensity. It is argued that arousal may underlie the beneficial influence of TENS in various conditions. Finally, suggestions are offered for future research. Van Dijk KRA, Scherder EJA, Scheltens P, Sergeant JA. Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on non-pain related cognitive and behavioral functioning. Reviews in the Neurosciences 2002;13(3):257-70.