[Study on the effect of transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation on obesity]

To evaluate the effect of transcutaneous electrical stimulation produced by Han's acupiont nerve stimulator (HANS) in treating obesity.

Sixteen volunteers with primary obesity were recruited, without any instructions or attempts to control their dietary. The trial started in November 2001 and ended in June 2002. Each obese volunteer received transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) at 8 acupoints. The electrical parameters were: frequency at 2 Hz, with pulses width of 0.6 ms; intensity varied depending on individual's sensitivity to electrical stimulation to maintain a comfortable level. The treatment was administered 3 times per week. Body weight was recorded before each TENS treatment.

The main value of body weight decreased gradually during the trial, with a net decrease of (2.06 +/- 0.31) kg at the end of 12 weeks' treatment (the first phase), corresponding to a decrease of (2.78 +/- 0.40)% as compared with the initial body weight (P < 0.01). In the interim period of 4 weeks (during the Chinese Spring Festival), a partial recurrence of the body weight occurred. During the second phase of treatment lasting for 15 weeks, there was again a reduction of body weight for (2.81 +/- 0.68) kg, corresponding to a decrease of (3.90 +/- 0.40)% (P < 0.001) as compared with the pretreatment level.

An open trial of HANS treatment revealed a moderate, but significant effectiveness on weight reduction in a group of people with primary obesity. The therapy remains effective for the second phase of treatment. It is anticipated that a better effect can be achieved if the treatment is accompanied with diet control and appropriate exercise.