TENS vs. Dolphin Neurostim ​

Which Modality is Best for PAIN Relief?

The Science Behind Electrical Stimulation for Pain Relief​

The use of electrical stimulation for pain relief dates back to ancient Rome, where Hippocrates was said to have utilized electric fish to relieve pain. Centuries later, Benjamin Franklin proposed that electrical stimulation could force pain out of the body. While his theory was not entirely correct, it set the foundation for the development of modern electrical therapy devices that influence the nervous system to reduce pain.

Today, two primary electrotherapy modalities are widely used for pain management:
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Microcurrent Point Stimulation (MPS)

therapy with Dolphin Neurostim.

How does TENS Reduces Pain? (Gate Control Theory)​

The primary mechanism of TENS is blocking pain impulses from reaching the brain, which based on the Gate Control Theory of pain
a) TENS devices apply strong (300-900 volts) Alternating Current (AC)
b) TENS applies high frequencies (15-100 Hz) through electrode pads applied to the skin.
c) TENS is applied for prolonged time periods
The gate control theory of pain describes how TENS can override and reduce painful sensations by using neurological competitive inhibition. It works by understanding that pain impulses travel to the brain via transmission cells, and “over-riding” these pain impulses decreases activity of transmission cells and reduces how we perceive chronic pain.


Open gate: Pain signals pass through, reaching the brain and resulting in pain perception.
Closed gate: Pain signals are blocked at the spinal cord, reducing the sensation of pain.
TENS electrical stimulation is designed to activate sensory nerves that help close the pain gate, reducing pain and discomfort. This is scientific basis of TENS, which differs considerable from Dolphin Neurostim.

How Effective is TENS in Relieving Pain?

In a published literature review, EBM science TENS produces around 50% (+/-10%)
(Pak J Med Sci) with moderate pain-relief outcomes (BMJ). Other limitations to TENS are:

  • Works only while the device is active—once removed, pain often quickly returns.
  • Clinical efficacy is limited—only 40-55% effective in managing pain.
  • Provides temporary pain relief with pain relief diminishing over time.

How does MPS Reduces Pain? (Stress-Reduction)

Unlike TENS, MPS therapy with Dolphin Neurostim does not just block pain; it works by regulating the autonomic nervous system (reducing stress), which and reduces pain at its source. Key differences between MPS therapy and TENS:

  • MPS applies weak (5v) Direct Current (DC), at low frequency (2 HZ)
  • MPS targets nerves, trigger points, and acupuncture points for deeper pain relief.
  • Focuses on sympathetic STRESS reduction, not just blocking pain signals.

MPS Low frequency (2Hz) reduces stress by activating the Vagus nerve, considered the “brakes” of the body and our counter to stress-activation. The relationship between Stress-activation and chronic pain is well established in science (Neurosci Biobehav Rev), so de-activating stress is treating the source of chronic pain.

How Effective is MPS in Relieving Pain?

MPS Therapy (Dolphin applied to our protocols) have published research on the information presented/instructed to Shepherd Center this past seminar. MPS therapy has been published for the treatment of Back pain (JACIM -75%), Neck Pain (JCAM -80%), and Peripheral Neuropathy Pain (JDMS -100%).

MPS Therapy is also proven in science to help Massage Therapists improve their patient pain outcomes
(JYP +81%) and help improve Physical Therapy patient pain outcomes (Rehab Report + 74%).

Summary

TENS is proven to produce 50% (+/- 10%) pain relief but has a much longer application period and pain-relief outcomes diminish over time.

Dolphin Neurostim is published to produces 64% more pain relief than TENS, with a shorter application time and cumulative pain-relieving benefits.

By addressing pain at the source, MPS therapy helps restore function and improve quality of life, making it an essential tool for chronic pain sufferers and healthcare professionals.

Choose smarter pain relief. Choose MPS therapy.

MPS Patient Case Studies:

Many individuals who have struggled with chronic pain have only found relief using Dolphin Neurostim.

View Patient pain relief videos here:

Osteopath with severe sciatica

30 years of bent over gone

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zl_UX2JmrEM&t=160s – Osteopath with severe sciatica

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLj9hqbkjC4 – 30 years of bent over gone

Watch more Patient Case videos on our YouTube channel – https://www.youtube.com/@DolphinNeurostim/videos