EFFECTIVENESS OF TRANS-CUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION VERSUS ELECTRICAL MUSCLE STIMULATION ON HEMODYNAMICS PARAMETERS OF HYPERTENSION

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a common cardiovascular illness associated with decreased functional capacity, muscle weariness, and a lower quality of life. Non-pharmacological therapies, such as TENS and EMS, have been recommended to improve both hemodynamic parameters and functional outcomes.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of TENS and EMS on hemodynamic parameters, pain perception, and functional status in people with hypertension.

Methods: A randomized clinical trial included 42 patients aged 25-54 years with primary hypertension and a BMI of > 30. Participants were randomly allocated to one of two groups: TENS (n = 21) or EMS (n = 21). Interventions were delivered five times a week for four weeks. Hemodynamic parameters (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate), pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale, NPRS), and functional status were measured before and after the intervention. In IBM SPSS Statistics 27, data were analyzed with paired t-tests, ANOVA, and descriptive statistics.

Results: TENS and EMS significantly lowered systolic blood pressure (TENS: 147.1 ± 5.46 to 144.04 ± 5.29 mmHg, p < 0.001; EMS: 145.2 ± 4.6 to 141.9 ± 4.2 mmHg, p = 0.002) while improving functional outcomes. TENS was more successful at reducing pain and perceived fatigue, whereas EMS improved active mobility, muscle strength, and sleep quality. Pain levels varied significantly between functional status groups (F = 20.45, p < 0.001). Both therapies were well tolerated, with few side effects.

Conclusion: TENS and EMS are safe and effective complimentary therapies for hypertension management. TENS mostly relieves pain and exhaustion, while EMS improves functional performance and mobility. Integrating these electrotherapeutic techniques into regular hypertension management may increase functional capacity and quality of life.