Effects of adding Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) during a walking program for individuals with chronic low back pain: blinded randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Due to the multifactorial cause of chronic low back pain, the treatment resources used in the rehabilitation of these individuals are varied. Many of these treatments are exercise-based as it is a low-cost and effective treatment. Walking is an activity that is easy to perform, low risk of injury, accessible and is related to a basic human activity. However, one of the barriers that hinder adherence and limit exercise performance in individuals with low back pain is the pain evoked by movement, thus, TENS can be an interesting tool for better adherence to an exercise program, as it promotes analgesia and contributes , thus, for pain reduction. Objective: To evaluate the clinical effects of adding high-frequency TENS during a walking program in individuals with chronic low back pain. Method: This is a randomized clinical trial blinded by the examiner and the participants as to the groups. The study will consist of 2 groups: walking + TENS and walking + TENS placebo, aged between 18 and 60 years. The following instruments will be used to assess the volunteers: Numerical Pain Scale (END), Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (QIRM), Catastrophic Thoughts About Pain Scale (EPCD), Kinesiophobia Cap Scale (ETC), Global Perceived Effect Scale , Start Back Screening Tool (SBST), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), 6-minute Step Test (TD6) and skin impedance. Data analysis will be conducted based on intention-to-treat analysis. Histograms will be used to verify data distribution, and clinical differences will be tested using linear mixed models and Cohen d. (AU)