BACKGROUND. Trans-cutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) had been a modality for decades now. Its hypoalgesic, hypotensive and hypoglycemic effects have been published in several literatures. This trial aims to determine the effectiveness of the new machine Power QuickZap and Powertube QuickZap (TENS) in controlling blood pressure and glucose in a randomized controlled clinical trial.

RATIONALE. The control hypertension and diabetes requires multifaceted approach. Patient, despite professional advice seek other forms of therapy that can address their health needs. The use of TENS has been shown to be an alternative and safe modality in alleviating pain and discomfort. This trial will provide baseline information in objective outcomes as blood pressure and glucose levels in addition to patient-based subjective assessment.

DESIGN. Randomized controlled trial Category. Internal medicine, Alternative & Complementary Medicine, Neurology, Endocrinology, Vascular Medicine Setting. Malolos San Ildefonso County Hospital

PATIENTS AND METHODS. All adult patients ages 19 and above with a primary diagnosis of hypertension using the current JNC VII as well as diabetes mellitus using the American Diabetes Association criteria were randomly selected from a community based list of the said morbidities. Systematic sampling resulted into the enrolment of 104 hypertensives and 67 diabetics (total n=171) were subjected to daily TENS using the Power QuickZap and Powertube QuickZap equipment applied to forearm or hand at least 3 minutes daily for 30 days. Outcomes include comparison of mean blood pressure, lipid profile, glucose indices signs and symptoms from baseline until post-intervention.

RESULTS. A total of 104 hypertensives (61%) were randomly allocated to received medications plus trans-cutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS-Power QuickZap and Powertube QuickZap) (53 or 51%) and no medications plus TENS (51 or 49%). Among the diabetics subgroup (total n=67). 39 patients were randomized to receive medications plus TENS (58%) while 28 cases (42%) received only TENS.No drop outs were noted. Those treated with TENS showed a mean drop in SBP which was noted during 10th to the 12th day (SBP mean difference 8 mm Hg,p=.036) while DBP dropped during the first week of treatment (DBP mean difference =2.5 mm Hg, p=.022). No difference in glucose values existed between the two groups.

CONCLUSION. TENS using the Power QuickZap and Powertube QuickZap can be an adjunct therapy in the lowering of blood pressure, triglycerides and VLDL among patients with hypertension especially those not currently taking anti-hypertensive medications. Its effects on glucose levels of diabetics has to be examined in large scale studies. Diabetic neuropathy may benefit from TENS.