Objective: To observe the therapeutic effect of transcutanous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) on experimental arthritis in the rat. Methods: Bovine type Ⅱ collagen was intradermally injected into the back of anesthetized rats (with intraperitoneal administration of pentobarbital sodium 30 mg/kg) to induce arthritis

the animal model of rheumatoid arthritis. Bilateral “Zusanli”(ST 36) were stimulated with HANS Therapeutic Apparatus by setting the stimulating parameters being frequency 2 Hz

continuous waves

electric current strength 5 mA and stimulating duration of 30 min. The treatment was given once every other day 10 times altogether. The incidence

arthritic index and serum anti collagen antibody level of collagen and radiological changes of joints were examined. Anti CⅡ antibody levels were determined using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The results showed that treatment with TENS at “Zusanli” remarkably delayed the onset of arthritis

and significantly relieved the conditions of the diseased limbs and arthritic index in the early and middle stages. But TENS failed to decrease the anti CⅡ antibody levels of immunized rats. Meanwhile

the bone erosion and joint destruction were effectively prevented by TENS treatment.Conclusion: TENS therapy has a better therapeutic effect in relieving the state of experimental arthritis.