Trigeminal nerve electrical stimulation (eTNS) is a non-invasive therapy that involves placing electrodes on specific areas of the forehead to deliver continuous, precise, low-frequency electrical pulses to the supraorbital and supratrochlear branches of the ophthalmic (first) division of the trigeminal nerve. Instead of temporarily masking the pain, this therapy interrupts the pain cycle at its source and may help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.
① Reduction of neurogenic inflammation:
Stimulation may influence the release of vasoactive neuropeptides, helping to reduce inflammation and vasodilation.
② Modulation of pain signaling:
Based on the gate control theory of pain, eTNS may regulate activity within the trigeminocervical complex, reducing the transmission of pain signals from the trigeminal system to higher brain centers and thereby decreasing pain perception.
③ Regulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS):
eTNS may influence cholinergic and catecholaminergic pathways within the ANS, which may contribute to changes in vascular tone and cerebral blood flow.