Neuromodulation For Enhanced Athletic Recovery: Non-invasive Stimulation Techniques For Pain Relief
PURPOSE The aim of this research is to assess how well non-invasive neuromodulation methods, particularly transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), might lessen pain and hasten an athlete's recuperation after an injury or workout. The goal of this study is to determine the best practices for these modalities in order to reduce recovery time and optimize therapeutic benefits. METHODS A systematic assessment of recent clinical research and trials investigating the use of TENS and tDCS for pain treatment in athletes was carried out in this study. According to the inclusion criteria, studies had to quantify pain alleviation, recovery time, and functional improvement when using TENS or tDCS. To ascertain the effectiveness of treatment regimens in addressing post-exercise soreness and injury-related pain, factors such as frequency, intensity, and duration were examined. RESULTS The study showed TENS decreased in pain in athletes after intense workouts, especially when used twice a day. For tDCS, using a low setting made it easier for athletes to regain muscle function and move more comfortably, getting them back to their usual activity levels faster. Many athletes reported feeling overall more comfortable and less dependent on pain meds after using these neuromodulation techniques. Conclusion Non-invasive options like TENS and tDCS give athletes practical ways to manage pain and speed up recovery. By including these techniques in sports rehab routines, athletes may avoid some medications, stay on track with training, and recover more quickly from tough workouts and injuries.
Authors
- Manuel Orozco
- Stephanie Lau (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3537-6721)
- Taylor Alfonso
Institutions
- Larkin Community Hospital (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise
- Published
- 2025-09-16
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1249/01.mss.0001159248.78980.19
- Primary Topic
- Pain Management and Treatment
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00