Abstract

Trans-cutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a treatment against pain that uses the application of an electric current. Some studies suggest that TENS would reduce the pain associated with certain types of cancer and this treatment is regularly used in therapy in contexts of interdisciplinary practice specializing in palliative oncology. However, the use of TENS in cancer cases is a matter of controversy, and its application is contraindicated by Canadian standards governing the practice of physiotherapy. This article aims to present, through a case study, some principles to guide decision making regarding the choice of this therapy in cases of cancer. Scientific evidence, standards of practice and ethical principles that should guide the choice of therapy are discussed. The use of TENS therapy in palliative care is a paradigmatic example of a common situation: the weighing by health care professionals of the benefits and potential costs, such as potential adverse effects of treatment. In the case of TENS, the benefits are associated with the reduction of pain, while a potential adverse effect would increase tumour proliferation. This difficult calculation has implications for the various stakeholders such as patients and health professionals.