Table 1 Parameters of TENS

Frequency

High: from 80 to 150 Hertz (Hz)

Low: from 1 to 20 Hertz (Hz)

Intensity

Low, moderate, high

Pulse width (duration)

50–250 micro seconds (μs)

Treatment time

Time in minutes (one session)

Duration of treatment (days)

Modulation

Traditional TENS: high frequency (80–150 Hz), short pulses and intensity is often described as “Strong but comfortable”.

(Pain gate activation)

Acupunture TENS: lower frequency (1–5 Hz) with longer pulses (200–250 μs), and the intensity be greater than traditional TENS resulting in strong sensation.

(opioid system activation)

Application (interface)

Non-invasive: electrodes

Invasive: needles (electroacupunture)