How good you know electrical stimulation therapy?

Electrotherapy or electrical stimulation therapy is a known and well established therapeutic resource in Mississauga in several areas such as physiotherapy in rehabilitation. Electrotherapy has been studied and constantly improved for years.

Electrotherapy is based on different resources that use electrical current for certain purposes: muscle contraction, muscle hypertrophy, muscle relaxation, pain relief, nerve stimulation, healing, rejuvenation, increased cellular metabolism, stretch marks, etc.

Electrical stimulation therapy in Mississauga can be used for paralysis, after stroke, urinary and fecal incontinence, muscle contracture or aesthetic conditions with the aim of reducing cellulite, improving body contour through the stimulus of muscle contraction, post-operative recovery, etc.

Find out more about electrical stimulation therapy

The human body is a good conductor of electricity because of the free electrical charges we have in the body. There are three general types of current: direct current alternating current, and pulsed current. Some general effects of electrical stimulation therapy are –

-        Increased blood circulation,

-        Increased cellular oxygenation,

-        Physiological and biochemical reactions that promote the release of some pain relieving hormones.

How many sessions of Electrical stimulation therapy are needed?

It will depend on which current is used and what the therapeutic objective is, but it is also worth remembering that, for pain treatment, the ideal is to consult an electrical stimulation therapy specialist who can make an adequate assessment to diagnose the reason for the pain.  It is also important to know that some treatments depend on the patient's collaboration.

Risk factors of electrical stimulation therapy

To apply electrotherapy it is necessary to be a qualified professional since some frequencies can bring adverse reactions & complications if used improperly. This modality of course has its risks, dangers and contraindications, some of them partial and others absolute.

A professional goes through your medical history, assesses your recent medical condition, sees whether you’ve an underlying case, and clarifies whether you’re eligible to take electrical stimulation therapy. At Pacific Physio, we have developed safety protocols that many professionals around the world are carrying out with excellent results.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

This well known electrical stimulation therapy involves the application of low-voltage electrical currents through electrodes placed on the skin to help relieve pain.

Why it is preferred?

·         TENS therapy is preferred for pain management due to its non-invasive nature.

·         It provides drug-free pain relief without the potential side effects associated with medications.

·         TENS is versatile and can be used for various types of pain, including acute and chronic conditions.

·         It allows for self-administration, empowering individuals to manage their pain at home.

·         TENS therapy is generally safe, well-tolerated, and widely-available

·         It can be used in conjunction with other treatment modalities.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)

It is commonly employed in rehabilitation settings to improve muscle strength, prevent muscle atrophy, enhance motor control, and facilitate muscle re-education.

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

FES electrical stimulation therapy involves the application of electrical stimulation to activate specific muscles or muscle groups to assist with functional movements.

Interferential Current Therapy (IFT)

IFT (utilizes two medium-frequency electrical currents) is employed for pain relief, muscle stimulation, circulation, and reducing inflammation in various musculoskeletal conditions.

Galvanic stimulation

Galvanic electrical stimulation therapy is a technique that utilizes direct current to stimulate nerves and muscles. It is used for pain management, muscle re-education, improving circulation, etc.

Russian Stimulation

This stimulation therapy uses a burst-modulated, medium-frequency current to promote and enhance muscle strengthening, increase blood flow, and enhance neuromuscular coordination.

Direct Current Stimulation

Direct current electrical stimulation therapy involves the application of a constant electrical current. It works on pain management, depression treatment, and neurological rehabilitation.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy

Pulsed electromagnetic therapy employs electromagnetic fields to promote tissue healing, reduce pain and inflammation, improve bone health, and enhance overall well-being.

High and low frequency stimulation

High-Frequency electrical stimulation therapy involves the use of electrical currents to target sensory nerves, providing pain relief. Low-Frequency stimulation utilizes electrical currents at a lower frequency, aiding in muscle stimulation, and improving muscle strength.

Always be guided by a professional

Please note that these are just the names of different electrical stimulation therapy techniques, and each type may have specific applications and parameters depending on the condition being treated. Electro stimulation is generally considered safe when used correctly and under proper supervision.

However, it may carry some risks for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as pacemakers, epilepsy, or pregnant women. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before initiating electro stimulation therapy.

Get in touch with Pacific Physio to know what electricalstimulation therapy in Mississauga has to offer.