TENS for Limb Function in Stroke: Design and Rationale for a Randomized Trial

Participants receive transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) at a frequency of 2Hz. The stimulation is delivered using surface electrodes placed on the affected upper limb. Each session lasts 30 minutes and is conducted three times per week for a total of 8 weeks. Intensity is gradually increased from 1 mA to 3 mA during each session.

Participants receive TENS at a frequency of 100Hz using the same electrode placement and schedule as the 2Hz group. Sessions last 30 minutes, three times weekly for 8 weeks, with intensity increasing from 1 mA to 3 mA across the session. This group represents high-frequency stimulation.

Participants use a TENS device identical in appearance to the active treatment units. The power light is on, but no electrical stimulation is delivered due to internal circuit disconnection. Sessions follow the same schedule and duration as the active groups.