ELECTROTHERAPY

What is Electrotherapy? 

Electrotherapy is an evidence-based physiotherapy treatment that uses electrical energy to stimulate nerves and muscles. It is commonly employed to reduce pain, promote healing, improve circulation, and enhance muscle function. Electrotherapy is a non-invasive and effective method often integrated into rehabilitation programs for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. 

How Does Electrotherapy Help with Pain? 

Electrotherapy works by targeting the nervous system to interrupt pain signals and encourage the body’s natural healing processes. By stimulating nerves and muscles, it can reduce inflammation, relax tight muscles, and improve blood flow to injured areas. This helps alleviate both acute and chronic pain, supporting faster recovery and improved function. 

Common Types of Electrotherapy Used in Physiotherapy 

Ultrasound (US) 

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to penetrate deep into tissues, generating gentle heat and promoting cellular repair. It helps reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and improve tissue extensibility, making it useful for treating soft tissue injuries and joint pain. 

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) 

TENS delivers mild electrical impulses through the skin to stimulate sensory nerves, which helps block pain signals from reaching the brain. It is widely used to manage both acute and chronic pain conditions, providing quick, drug-free pain relief. 

Interferential Current Therapy (IFC) 

IFC uses two medium-frequency electrical currents that intersect to produce a low-frequency stimulation deep within the tissues. This technique effectively reduces pain and swelling, improves circulation, and enhances muscle relaxation, making it ideal for managing more persistent or deep-seated pain.