COMPARISON OF HIGH VERSUS LOW TRANSCUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT AFTER CAESAREAN SECTION: A CLINICAL TRIAL

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of high and low transcutaneous electrical nerve(TENS) in controlling pain after Caesarean (C) Section to measure the time period of pain relief through high and low TENS.

Methodology: A total of 60 females who delivered via C Section were selected. 10 refused to participate in study and 50 were randomly divided into control and treatment group comprising 25 in each group. Pain level was measured by Numeric Rating Pain Scale (NRS) and analgesic need was measured by noting the time period of pain alleviation after TENS application. Postpartum exercises were performed for three days under supervision and then guided as home plan.

Results: Control group (Low TENS group) and treatment group (High TENS group) both showed statistically lower NRS score after TENS application. On comparison, treatment group was found to be more effective (p < 0.05) as it resulted in lower NRS ratings and less requirement of analgesic.

Conclusion: In terms of controlling postoperative C Section pain, the high TENS is relatively effective tool compared to the low TENS as it has better pain management and less analgesic requirement.