Which modality uses electrical stimulation to alleviate pain?

• A. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
• B. Tachometer
• C. Vise Grips
• D. Torx Screwdriver

Answer: (A)

Electrical stimulation to relieve pain is provided by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. This non-invasive approach uses small electrodes placed on the skin to deliver electrical pulses that modulate how pain signals are transmitted and perceived. By stimulating sensory nerves, it can interfere with pain pathways (often explained via the gate control concept) and can also promote the body’s own pain-relief mechanisms, offering relief without medication. It’s versatile for various acute or chronic pain conditions and can be tuned by adjusting pulse frequency, width, and intensity. The other options aren’t related to pain relief using electrical stimulation—they’re a speed-measuring instrument, a locking tool, and a hand screwdriver, respectively.