When is TENS therapy not recommended, according to the American Academy of Neurology?

The recommendation from the American Academy of Neurology regarding Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy highlights that it is not advisable for chronic low back pain. This is based on systematic reviews and studies suggesting that TENS may not provide significant relief for individuals suffering from this specific type of pain, which is often multifaceted and may require more comprehensive treatment strategies.

Chronic low back pain can stem from various sources, and the efficacy of TENS in this context has not been firmly established. Many individuals with chronic conditions may require a combination of therapies, including physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, rather than relying solely on TENS.

In contrast, TENS therapy has generally been found to be more effective or has supportive evidence for other types of pain management, such as joint pain, headaches, and migraines, where the therapeutic mechanism may help alleviate symptoms through nerve stimulation and pain modulation.