transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
noun
variants:
also transcutaneous nerve stimulation
Medical Definition of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
: electrical stimulation of the skin to relieve pain by interfering with the neural transmission of signals from underlying pain receptors
… a physical therapist can show you exercises to maintain strength and movement in the affected area and may also use transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, in which a small device transmits electrical impulses that stimulate nerve endings and relieve pain.— Andrew Weil, Self Healing, September 2004
— called also TENS