Finally, we look at the contraindications of using TENS. The
previous blogs have looked at the benefits of TENS for cancer patients,
however, not all patients are eligible to be prescribed this treatment.
REFERENCES:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11687055
Despite the amount of controversy surrounding the application of
TENS on cancer patients, the amount of proven contraindications are minimal. Firstly,
when using TENS,
the electrodes are usually placed over the site of pain, however, it is
important to note that electrodes must NEVER be placed directly over tumours or
sites of pathological lesions. This is highly relevant to cancer patients as
they are likely to have these lesions and tumours throughout their body. We
have been unable to find any thorough research articles explaining as to why
electrodes cannot be placed over tumour sites but it seems that many researches
are worried about the electricity promoting cancer cell growth.
As with all electrical stimulation TENS cannot be performed on
any patient who has a pacemaker, with electrode placement away from any
inflamed, irritated or infected skin. Research also shows that TENS should not
be used on any patient who has poor sensation or hypersensitivity. Finally,
patients who are unable to understand or respond to the instructions of the
therapist would be contraindicated.
Along with the contraindications, there has been limited
research based around long-term cancer pain relief and the use of TENS,
therefore few adverse effects have been documented. It is noted however, that
in the case of temporary aggravation of pain as a result of using high frequency
stimulation or excessively strong stimulation, the use of acupuncture points
should be avoided. These specific points have a systematic effect on the
specific site; therefore, changing the electrode placement sites has been shown
to abate this negative effect.
The quality and quantity of the research
literature investigating the effects of TENS on cancer patients is poor.
Evidence documenting the efficacy of TENS in cancer pain relief is sparse and
inconclusive. It is the lack of research that is holding back the spread of the
use of TENS for cancer patients, as its beneficial effects have not yet been
properly proven and documented. Well-designed and controlled studies are much
in need. With the problem of inadequate and very few truly randomized controlled
trials. Finally, most of the research that has been conducted has been over a
short-term and on a very small scale.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11687055
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