TENS may be effective with acute or chronic pain. The physical therapist can help you find the correct placement of the electrodes for the best pain relief. Distraction is defined as focusing attention on something other than the pain. This can be done by watching TV or a movie, visiting with family and friends, knitting, gardening etc. Distraction does not make the pain go away, but for a short period of time, your mind is taken off the pain.
Music seems to be one of the most helpful methods, but humor is also a very good distraction.
Relaxation helps to relieve anxiety and muscle tension by quieting or calming of the mind and muscles. A very simple relaxation technique is to clench your fists, breathe in deeply and hold it for a moment. Breathe out slowly and go limp like a rag doll. There are relaxation tapes on audio cassettes available in bookstores. Some of these tapes have nature sounds such as birds, surf and forest noises, which allow you to select a setting that is peaceful and comforting.