physiotherapy treatments using interferential therapy

Interferential therapy is a form of physical therapy that uses electrical impulses to stimulate the body’s muscles, tissues, and nerves. It’s usually used to treat pain, muscle spasms, and stiffness. Like other electrotherapy treatments, it has many other health benefits.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• Interferential therapy and how it’s used in your physiotherapy treatment.

• Other electrotherapy treatment types and explain their differences.

• how can you access interferential therapy

What is IFT, and how is it used as a physiotherapy treatment?

Interferential therapy is a form of electrical stimulation that uses alternating currents at different frequencies to stimulate muscles and nerves.

It is often used as a physiotherapy treatment for chronic muscle pain, acute injuries, and neuropathies.

How does interferential therapy work?

Interferential therapy sends electric currents through the skin at varying frequencies and intensities.

Electrodes are placed on the skin near the site of pain or injury. Where varied medium-voltage, electrical current is sent through the pads to create an interference current.

The interference current frequency range for this type of stimulation ranges from 1-100Hz.

How is it used as a physiotherapy treatment?

After an assessment, your physiotherapist will decide whether to include this as part of your physiotherapy treatment.

Interferential therapy sessions usually last 10-15 minutes. As you get used to it, you may experience a tingling sensation.

Interferential therapy can be used for many types of treatments, such as:

• Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain

• Osteoarthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Osteoporosis

• Bruising and Swelling

• Postoperative Pain

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Constipation/ incontinence

• Fibromyalgia

• Joint Injuries

• Overuse Injuries and Surgical Procedures

• Edema and Inflammation

• Tennis Elbow

• Sports Injuries

• Bursitis

• Tendonitis

Source: What is IFT, and how does it work? || TensCare

What are the benefits of interferential therapy?

As with other electrotherapy treatment types, interferential therapy is drug-free and noninvasive. It also has many other health benefits.

When used as part of your physiotherapy treatment, you may experience

• Increased blood circulation

• Increased muscle stimulation and strength

• Reduced muscle spasms

• Reduction of swelling

• Relief of pain

• Decreased blood pressure

• Stimulation of healing hormones

• Improved range of motion

Source : IFT: Indication, Contra-indication, Therapeutic Effect & Dangers » How To Relief

Interferential therapy improves muscle blood flow, helping your body heal faster.

Reduced swelling and inflammation ease pain, allowing for decreased joint stiffness and improved mobility, range of motion, and functionality.

Are there any risks with interferential therapy?

Overall, interferential therapy is gentle on the muscles and nerves and is found to have few risks. Side effects reports show patients experienced.

• Muscle fatigue/ soreness

• Skin irritation

• Shock

These side effects are mainly reported by those using home machines. They can be remedied by seeing a certified physiotherapist and following precise instructions for physiotherapy treatment. Electrode positioning also plays a crucial role in avoiding side effects. It should ensure adequate coverage of the area for stimulation.

To ensure muscle fatigue or spasm is minimal, a current crossover effect needs to be achieved.

If electrodes are incorrectly placed, this will not produce a crossover or frequency sweep, resulting in the area receiving a constant signal.

Another disadvantage of interferential therapy is that, for some, it can be uncomfortable, and it takes a while before you start feeling any relief.

Is interferential therapy effective?

There are five main clinical applications in which interferential therapy is used.

• Pain relief

• Muscle stimulation

• Increased local blood flow

• Reduction of oedema

• Healing and repair

Source: Interferential Therapy (electrotherapy.org)

Interferential therapy works by stimulating the peripheral nervous system through the electrodes on the skin.

This prompts the body's natural pain-relieving substances and reduces inflammation in the treated area.

Interferential therapy is believed to be an effective method for treating chronic pain because it has been shown to alter the way that the brain processes pain signals.

Difference between other electrotherapy treatment types

Like all electrotherapy treatment types, interferential therapy is a classic model in the fact it electrically stimulates nerves for therapeutic treatment.

However, similarly paired to the TENS machine, which also helps to eliminate pain. Interferential therapy stimulation has deeper penetration than its counterpart and subsequently has greater physiological effects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Interferential Therapy

Does insurance cover interferential therapy?

Many insurance plans cover interferential therapy when prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. At CK Physio, we recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage. Our team can assist you in verifying your benefits for this physiotherapy treatment.

How long does it take to see results from interferential therapy?

The timeframe for seeing results can vary depending on your condition and treatment plan. Some patients report immediate pain relief, while others may require several sessions to experience significant improvements. Our experienced physiotherapists at CK Physio will assess your progress regularly and adjust your treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal results.

Can interferential therapy be combined with other physiotherapy treatments?

Yes, interferential therapy often complements other physiotherapy treatments. At CK Physio, our experts may recommend combining IFT with manual therapy, exercise programs, or other electrotherapy modalities for a comprehensive approach to your rehabilitation. This integrated strategy can enhance overall treatment effectiveness.

Are there any conditions where interferential therapy should not be used?

While interferential therapy is generally safe, it's not recommended for everyone. Contraindications include pregnancy, pacemakers, certain types of cancer, and areas with metal implants. Our qualified physiotherapists at CK Physio will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if IFT is appropriate for your specific condition.

How does interferential therapy differ from TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)?

While both interferential therapy and TENS use electrical stimulation, IFT penetrates deeper into the tissues and can cover a larger treatment area. IFT also uses a different frequency range, which can provide more varied therapeutic effects. Our physiotherapy experts at CK Physio can explain which treatment is best suited for your specific needs.

Can I perform interferential therapy at home?

While home IFT devices are available, we strongly recommend starting with professional treatment at a clinic like CK Physio. Our experienced physiotherapists can ensure proper electrode placement and appropriate settings and monitor your progress. If home treatment is appropriate, we can provide guidance on the safe and effective use of home devices as part of your ongoing care plan.

How many interferential therapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions required varies depending on your condition, its severity, and how you respond to treatment. At CK Physio, we typically start with a series of 6-12 sessions, assessing your progress along the way. Our goal is to provide you with an effective, personalized treatment plan that achieves optimal results in the shortest time possible.

Is interferential therapy right for you?

This treatment is a non-invasive, drug-free, and painless solution for pain.

It is also a great way to prevent or decrease the risk of injury.

Interferential therapy stimulates your muscles and tendons, helping them to contract more strongly and more quickly.

The stronger contraction increases blood flow to the area, which provides oxygen and nutrients to help heal the tissue faster.

So, if you are experiencing any kind of muscle or joint pain, it's worth giving interferential therapy a try!

What does CK Physio offer?

CK Physio is your leading physiotherapy clinic in Ealing, providing excellent physiotherapy treatment for various health conditions.

We offer a wide variety of services and treatments, plus multiple electrotherapy treatment types.

• Interferential therapy
• Ultrasound
• Shockwave therapy

CK Physio has a team of highly qualified and experienced physiotherapists, with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to you.

With have excellent facilities, equipped with the latest equipment needed for these treatments.

Let’s get talking

Our CK Physio website is designed to provide an interactive experience for you.

Providing all the information you need about our services in an easy-to-navigate way.

We also operate an online booking system. So that you can book appointments in your own time, without having to waste time ringing.

A virtual consultation is a convenient and non-invasive way to find out if you’re eligible for interferential therapy and if it’s the right physiotherapy treatment for you.