Effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation versus aerobic exercise on iron deficiency anemic females

Background: Diminished counts of circulating red blood cells (RBC) and hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations are common in iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Both transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS-A) at acupoints and aerobic exercise are effective in managing IDA. Purpose: comparing the effect of aerobic exercise (performed as treadmill walking exercise) and TENS-A in IDA women. Methods:Women (n = 60) with IDA were randomly allocated to the TENS-A group (n = 30) and the group of aerobic exercise (GAE, n = 30). In the TENS-A group, electrodes were applied over bilateral GB39 and SP6 acupoints. In the GAE, women with IDA received mildly intense aerobic exercise (treadmill walking exercise). To be noted, for 12 weeks, the session of exercise, or TENS-A, was 30 minutes and applied three times weekly. Outcomes: IDA women's concentration of Hb, count of RBC, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were recorded in both groups. Results: Between-group analysis of women with IDA revealed that the TENS-A group's Hb concentration and RBC count were significantly higher than the other group, GAE (p > 0.01). Following both treatments, TENS-A or aerobic exercise, there was no discernible change in MCV between the TENS-A and GAE groups (p > 0.05).Conclusion: TENS-A and aerobic exercise have a substantial positive impact on women's IDA; however, the effects of TENS-A were greater in Hb concentration and RBC count than those of aerobic exercise. suggesting its potential as a valuable treatment option alongside conventional therapies.