Senocare India: Electrotherapy In Physiotherapy
Content is medically reviewed by:
Dr. Shakti Singh
Electrotherapy, is an age old well-established technique in the realm of physiotherapy which involves the use of electrical currents to treat a variety of physical conditions. This approach utilises controlled low frequency intermittent electrical impulses which help in stimulation of nerves along with the supplied muscles, and promote the natural healing process of the body. Improved blood circulation achieved through Electrotherapy also helps was away excessive fluid and pain causing metabolites thus reducing inflammation.Electrotherapy utilizes electrodes placed on the skin to deliver these currents, making it a versatile tool in the physiotherapist’s arsenal.
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Benefits Of Electrotherapy In Physiotherapy
Electrotherapy offers a myriad of benefits as detailed below:
Pain Relief
One of the most remarkable benefits of electrotherapy is its ability to provide pain relief. Through a process called Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) (1)and through Interferential Current therapy (IFT) (2), electrical impulses block pain signals from reaching the brain.This is highly effective in alleviating pain in chronic conditions involving degenerative changes such as arthritis, spondylosis in lower back.
Muscle Strengthening and Rehabilitation
Electrotherapy doesn’t just mask the pain; it actively engages the muscles. Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) (3) is a technique that uses faradic and galvanic currents to contract muscles, making it a valuable tool for improving muscle strength. This aspect is particularly important for patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or strokes as it helps redevelop muscle tone and function.
Enhanced Circulation
Proper blood circulation is vital for healing. Electrotherapy methods including ultrasound therapy (4), laser therapy (5), Diathermy,(6) can boost blood flow to the affected area. This increased circulation helps deliver nutrients and oxygen to damaged tissues, promoting the body’s natural healing processes.
Reduced Inflammation
Inflammatory conditions can be painful and challenging to manage. Some forms of electrotherapy, such as ultrasound therapy (7), can reduce inflammation by promoting a gentle warming effect on the affected area. These sonic waves improve micro circulation and improved tissue healing.
Non-Invasive and Drug-Free
Unlike some medical interventions, electrotherapy is non-invasive and drug-free which leads to minimal risk of side effects and makes is an accessible treatment option for majority
Types Of Electrotherapy In Physiotherapy
There are several types of electrotherapy employed in physiotherapy including
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS is a widely known and used electrotherapy technique.It involves application of two electrodes across the painful area via which low frequency electrical stimulus is applied.TENS works by blocking pain signals sent to brain in accordance with pain gating mechanism.This helps relieve pain immediately.
Interferential Current Therapy (IFC)
IFC is another popular electrotherapy modality. It employs the principles of interference, where two medium-frequency electrical currents intersect within the body. This interaction effectively targets deep tissues, making it valuable for conditions like muscle spasms, inflammation, and pain relief.
Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to create gentle heat within the body’s tissues. This warming effect can alleviate pain and inflammation, stimulate blood flow, and encourage tissue healing. It is commonly employed for soft tissue injuries, including muscle strains and ligament sprains.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)
EMS focuses on muscle contraction and strengthening. By delivering electrical impulses to targeted muscle groups, EMS helps restore muscle function and strength which helps regain motor control, improve muscle strength beneficial in post stroke patients and those recovering from orthopaedic or neurological surgeries.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a dynamic technique that employs high-energy sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. It is most frequently used for conditions like chronic pain, tendinitis, and calcific shoulder conditions. The shockwaves encourage tissue regeneration and breakdown of calcifications.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy utilises focused light to penetrate deep into tissues. This non-invasive approach is beneficial for pain management and accelerating tissue repair. It is often employed for soft tissue injuries, arthritis, and wound healing.
How Does It Work?
The magic of electrotherapy lies in its ability to modulate the body’s electrical signals. TENS, for instance, interferes with pain signal transmission, helping patients experience less discomfort. EMS, on the other hand, induces muscle contractions, thus increasing strength. These controlled impulses provoke physiological responses that support the body’s natural healing processes.
When Do You Need Electrotherapy?
Electrotherapy is typically recommended when patients have conditions such as chronic pain, muscle weakness, or require rehabilitation post-injury. It is especially beneficial when traditional physiotherapy alone may not yield the desired results.Common ailments benefitted from Electrotherapy include:
Neck pain
Low back pain
Tennis elbow
Sciatica
PIVD
Post stroke
rehabilitation
Nerve injury/palsy
Coccyx pain
Plantar fasciitis
Heel pain
Osteoarthritis
How Senocare can help?
Electrotherapy is a dynamic and effective approach that holds the potential to alleviate pain, enhance strength, and expedite the healing journey.We at Senocare administer this under professional guidance, it can be a game-changer in the world of physical therapy, offering patients a well-rounded path to recovery.We help you choose the most affective modality keeping in mind your condition condition and the desired therapeutic outcome. FAQ
Is electrotherapy good for muscle pain?
Yes, electrotherapy, particularly TENS, can be effective in reducing muscle pain by blocking pain signals and promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.(1)
Who should not use electrotherapy?
People with certain medical conditions, like pacemakers, should avoid electrotherapy as it could interfere with the functioning of such devices. Pregnant individuals and those with open wounds or skin infections should also exercise caution.
How long does electrotherapy last?
The duration of electrotherapy sessions varies depending on the condition being treated and the specific treatment modality. Sessions can last from 15 minutes to an hour, typically.
Does electrotherapy work for back pain?
Electrotherapy can be effective in managing back pain, especially for conditions like muscle spasms or chronic back pain. TENS IFT units are commonly used for this purpose.(8)
Does electrotherapy help tight muscles?
Yes, electrotherapy, particularly EMS, can help alleviate tight muscles by promoting muscle relaxation and improved blood flow. This along with massage therapy can lead to reduced muscle tension and improved flexibility.(9)
Bibliography
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2. Rampazo ÉP, Liebano RE. Analgesic Effects of Interferential Current Therapy: A Narrative Review. Medicina (Kaunas). 2022 Jan 17;58(1):141. doi: 10.3390/medicina58010141. PMID: 35056448; PMCID: PMC8779694.
3. Nussbaum EL, Houghton P, Anthony J, Rennie S, Shay BL, Hoens AM. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for Treatment of Muscle Impairment: Critical Review and Recommendations for Clinical Practice. Physiother Can. 2017;69(5):1-76. doi: 10.3138/ptc.2015-88. PMID: 29162949; PMCID: PMC5683854.
4. Morishita K, Karasuno H, Yokoi Y, Morozumi K, Ogihara H, Ito T, Fujiwara T, Fujimoto T, Abe K. Effects of therapeutic ultrasound on intramuscular blood circulation and oxygen dynamics. J Jpn Phys Ther Assoc. 2014;17(1):1-7. doi: 10.1298/jjpta.Vol17_001. PMID: 25792902; PMCID: PMC4316550.
5. Larkin KA, Martin JS, Zeanah EH, True JM, Braith RW, Borsa PA. Limb blood flow after class 4 laser therapy. J Athl Train. 2012 Mar-Apr;47(2):178-83. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-47.2.178. PMID: 22488283; PMCID: PMC3418129.
6. Sousa NTA, Guirro ECO, Calió JG, Queluz MC, Guirro RRJ. Application of shortwave diathermy to lower limb increases arterial blood flow velocity and skin temperature in women: a randomized controlled trial. Braz J Phys Ther. 2017 Mar-Apr;21(2):127-137. doi: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2017.03.008. Epub 2017 Mar 21. PMID: 28460711; PMCID: PMC5537464.
7. Yang Q, Nanayakkara GK, Drummer C, Sun Y, Johnson C, Cueto R, Fu H, Shao Y, Wang L, Yang WY, Tang P, Liu LW, Ge S, Zhou XD, Khan M, Wang H, Yang X. Low-Intensity Ultrasound-Induced Anti-inflammatory Effects Are Mediated by Several New Mechanisms Including Gene Induction, Immunosuppressor Cell Promotion, and Enhancement of Exosome Biogenesis and Docking. Front Physiol. 2017 Oct 23;8:818. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00818. PMID: 29109687; PMCID: PMC5660123.
8. Rajfur J, Pasternok M, Rajfur K, Walewicz K, Fras B, Bolach B, Dymarek R, Rosinczuk J, Halski T, Taradaj J. Efficacy of Selected Electrical Therapies on Chronic Low Back Pain: A Comparative Clinical Pilot Study. Med Sci Monit. 2017 Jan 7;23:85-100. doi: 10.12659/msm.899461. PMID: 28062862; PMCID: PMC5240899.
9. Wang JS. Therapeutic effects of massage and electrotherapy on muscle tone, stiffness and muscle contraction following gastrocnemius muscle fatigue. J Phys Ther Sci. 2017 Jan;29(1):144-147. doi:
10.1589/jpts.29.144. Epub 2017 Jan 30. PMID: 28210061; PMCID: PMC5300827.