Electrotherapy is very useful in conditions where medications are not effective. It can vary as per the patient’s condition and needs. The common forms of electrotherapy that physiotherapists use are as follows:
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation):In TENS electrotherapy, a small electrical device is used to deliver electrical impulses through the skin. Common conditions that can be treated through this are lower back pain, labour pain, and arthritis.
Interferential Therapy:Also known as IFT, this is a deeper form of TENS electrotherapy and uses two high frequency currents. It is effective in pain relief, muscle stimulation, and blood circulation.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS):In this type of electrotherapy, the physiotherapist focuses on the muscle tissues instead of nerves. EMS is a specialized form where your motor neurons are stimulated to contract the muscles. This therapy is used to treat muscle atrophy.
Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS): PENS involves the application of electrical stimulation through small needles that penetrate the skin. It can also be used at home and is more beneficial than TENS.
Therapeutic Ultrasound:This form of electrotherapy in physiotherapy uses a transducer instead of electrode pads. The benefits of therapeutic ultrasound include the healing of muscles and ligaments and the healing process.