The purpose of this study was to know what changes in serum beta-endorphin level indirectly as low frequency TENS was applied to the meridian and non-meridian points.

The results were as follows:

1) On applying TENS to the meridian and non-meridian point, the mean changed values of the ACTH were 9.17±3.78, 11.41±7.31, 5.28±4.87 pg/ml and 7.57±2.37, -3.18±2.16, -7.22±3.57 pg/ml respectively at 15, 30, 60 minute after the TENS was applied.

2) The mean changed values of the ACTH were not statistically signficant(p>0.05) at 15, 30 minute, but statistically significant(0.05) at 60 minute after the TENS was applied.

3) on applying TENS to the meridian and non-meridian points the mean changed values of the Cortisol were 8.07±1.93, 7.13±1.20, 4.32±1,37 ㎍/100ml and 4.96㎍1.41, 2.97±1.25, -0.84±1.16 ㎍/100ml respectively at 15, 30, 60 minute after the TENS was applied.

4) The mean changed values of the Cortisol were not statistically significant(p>0.05) at 15 minute but statistically significant(p<0.05) at 30, 60 minute after the TENS was applied.

We concluded that the analgesic effect by the stimulation is related to nervous system and humoral factor such as the neurotransmitter and the hormone.

Keywords :Beta endorphin, ACTH, Cortisol, TENS