what is electrotherapy treatment and how does it work

When you hear the term “electrotherapy,” it may, at worst, bring to mind images of people with a mental health condition undergoing traumatic electroshock treatments to the brain or Frankenstein’s monster being brought to life. 

However, far from these Hollywood-induced nightmares, electrotherapy is a gentle and harmless treatment method used by physiotherapists to help repair soft body tissues and alleviate pain.

The essence of electrotherapy is directing small currents of electricity through a patient’s skin. This either encourages muscles to heal or blocks the electrical neural signals that tell the brain to experience pain. 

Various forms of electrotherapy can be used very effectively to treat acute or chronic pain or to stimulate nerves and muscles to function healthier. These include:

• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
• Therapeutic Ultrasound
• Interferential
• Electroacupuncture

• Shockwave Therapy

• Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)

In these different forms, electrotherapy has a wide range of benefits besides reducing pain and healing injuries. For instance, it’s noninvasive and drug-free, mostly painless, and produces minimal side effects. It can also be highly effective. 

For these reasons, electrotherapy treatment is one of the most common methods physiotherapists use in daily practice. 

How Does Electrotherapy Work? 

Electrotherapy can be used to treat several complaints and conditions. These fall into the two main categories of tissue repair and pain relief. 

Tissue repair conditions 

Inducing electric currents in soft tissues can help increase local blood flow and stimulate muscles. After all, muscles move due to electronic signals from the brain and nervous system, so an external current can induce similar effects.

Health conditions of this kind that can be treated with electrotherapy include:

• Oedema (a watery fluid that collects in tissue)
• Muscle wastage or atrophy
• Limited range of motion
• Limited blood circulation

Musculoskeletal injuries such as: 

• Tennis elbow
• Jumpers knee
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the foot)
• Shoulder injuries

Pain relief 

Applying electrical signals can block or slow down the “Pain Gate” neural transmissions to the brain from affected body areas. Electrotherapy has also been found to encourage the release of endorphins, the body’s painkilling hormones, which increases the overall effect. Examples of pain conditions physiotherapists can treat with electrotherapy include:

• Migraines 
• Fibromyalgia 
• Nerve pain 
• Pain from musculoskeletal injuries 
• Morning stiffness 
• Arthritis 
• Post-surgical pain 
• Neck pain and stiffness 
• Lower back pain 

It’s important to note that electrotherapy treatment should not be done near the heart or in people with pacemakers or heart conditions, around the throat to avoid lowering blood pressure, on pregnant women around the foetus or some other conditions. 

Electrotherapy treatment methods 

There are several types of physiotherapy electrotherapy treatments and different methods of delivering them. However, the general principles are the same regardless.

1. Electrode pads
2. Electroacupuncture needles
3. Ultrasound

Electrode pads 

Most often, electrode pads are attached to the skin around the affected area, and a battery-powered device is connected to run a mild current between them. Electrodes can be self-adhesive or affixed with surgical tape. 

Electroacupuncture needles 

In electroacupuncture, needles are inserted into the skin and charged. Therapeutic ultrasound uses a transducer with a gel instead of electrode pads. 

Ultrasound 

Ultrasound is also slightly different from other electrotherapy methods in that it transmits high-frequency sound waves into the body rather than electric signals. Sessions tend to last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or so, depending on the severity of the injury or pain of the patient. 

Electrotherapy can produce electrically induced heat as a relaxation method for muscles. Other therapeutic mechanisms involve increased lymphatic flow, greater mobility of proteins and blood cells, protein synthesis, incontinence management through strengthening musculature around the pelvis, and re-education of muscle movement through electrical stimulation. 

Risk factors 

Certain conditions prevent or restrict the use of electrotherapy, as described above. However, there are generally very few side effects for those who can undergo this type of physiotherapy treatment and those that do occur are usually mild. 

Here are a few issues to be aware of in more detail:

1. Skin irritation

2. Pain or discomfort
3. Cardiac arrhythmia
4. Foetal damage

Skin irritation 

Some people have allergic reactions, redness, or rashes after a session of electrotherapy due to the tape or adhesive used to apply the electrodes rather than the treatment itself. If you have particularly sensitive skin, let your physiotherapist know before starting a course. It is also not advisable to use electrotherapy methods on open wounds, recent burns, or scars. The aim is to target the muscle or soft tissues beneath the skin, not the skin itself. 

Pain or discomfort 

Overusing electrotherapy can leave a burning sensation on the skin. A warming feeling or slight pain or discomfort can sometimes be felt during regular treatment. This is normal, but it is worth knowing that some methods or higher intensities can increase discomfort. However, higher levels of discomfort during the procedure are sometimes experienced to achieve longer-term relief from the pain being treated.

Cardiac arrhythmia 

The heart functions like any other muscle – by fibres twitching with small, controlled electrical signals from the brain and nervous system. If a pacemaker is installed, this substitutes for that stable mechanism for keeping the heart pumping. However, introducing an external electrical wave through electrotherapy can interfere with this signalling and cause the heart to beat irregularly. That is why physiotherapists are specially trained to position electrodes properly, and you should always inform your therapist of any heart condition before treatment begins. 

Foetal damage 

Pregnant women are advised to avoid electrotherapy altogether if possible. Though foetal damage is generally a low risk since the electric waves are quite low-powered, your physiotherapist can recommend other, less risky interventions in place of electrotherapy. 

Besides these risk factors, electrotherapy is generally considered very safe. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves electrotherapy devices for safe use in the USA.

When to Seek Electrotherapy Treatment  

A qualified physiotherapy clinic can advise a patient when to use different kinds of electrotherapy in individual cases. It’s worth investigating the possibilities of treatment for specific complaints and situations. 

Electrotherapy can alleviate chronic and acute pain without the use of opiates. Painkilling drugs such as morphine or over-the-counter tablets can be effective, but there is always a risk of addiction and overconsumption, especially in cases of long-term pain. 

Similarly, in cases of prior addiction or other medical conditions where opiates cannot be taken, electrotherapy is a popular alternative. 

Any muscular pain, sports injury, stiffness, ligament or tendon damage, or recovery from an operation are excellent instances when seeking electrotherapy. In the hands of a trusted, professional physiotherapist, it can lead to quicker recovery and discomfort alleviation. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Electrotherapy

What does electrotherapy feel like?

The sensation during electrotherapy can vary depending on the specific treatment and intensity. Many patients describe a mild tingling or buzzing sensation. Some treatments may cause a slight muscle contraction. While you might feel a sensation, electrotherapy should not be painful. If you experience any discomfort during treatment, inform your physiotherapist immediately so they can adjust the settings.

Can I use electrotherapy at home?

While some electrotherapy devices, such as TENS units, are available for home use, it's crucial to consult with a qualified physiotherapist before starting any self-treatment. They can provide proper guidance on device usage, electrode placement, and appropriate settings. Home electrotherapy should complement, not replace, professional physiotherapy treatment. Always follow your physiotherapist's instructions and never use electrotherapy devices on areas of reduced sensation or near the heart without professional supervision.

How does electrotherapy compare to other pain management techniques?

Electrotherapy offers several advantages compared to other pain management techniques:

• Non-invasive and drug-free, reducing the risk of side effects or dependency
• Can be used in combination with other physiotherapy treatments for enhanced results
• Provides targeted treatment to specific areas
• Can offer both immediate and long-term pain relief

However, the effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Your physiotherapist can help determine if electrotherapy is the best option for your specific needs.

What should I do before and after an electrotherapy session?

Before an electrotherapy session:

• Inform your physiotherapist of any medical conditions or medications
• Ensure the treatment area is clean and free from lotions or oils
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area

After an electrotherapy session:

• Stay hydrated
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your physiotherapist
• Monitor the treated area for any unusual reactions
• Continue with any prescribed exercises or stretches

Your physiotherapist at CK Physio will provide detailed guidance tailored to your specific treatment plan.

How long do the effects of electrotherapy last?

The duration of electrotherapy effects can vary widely depending on the condition being treated, the type of electrotherapy used, and individual factors. Some patients experience immediate pain relief that lasts for several hours after treatment, while others may notice more gradual improvements over time with repeated sessions. For chronic conditions, regular treatments may be necessary to maintain the benefits. Your physiotherapist will monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan to optimize long-term results.

Is electrotherapy suitable for everyone?

While electrotherapy is generally safe and effective for many conditions, it's not suitable for everyone. Contraindications include:

• Pregnancy (especially in the abdominal or lower back area)
• Patients with pacemakers or other implanted electrical devices
• Certain types of cancer
• Epilepsy or other seizure disorders
• Areas of reduced sensation or open wounds

Always provide your physiotherapist at CK Physio with a complete medical history to ensure electrotherapy is safe and appropriate for you.

Conclusion 

If you are looking for a trusted physiotherapist in London who can advise you on a course of electrotherapy at a reasonable cost, contact CK Physio. 

With years of experience, the physiotherapists in our Ealing practice can provide more information in a detailed consultation and assess which form of electrotherapy will be most effective for your specific circumstances.

Call us on 020 8566 4113 or email info@ckphysio.co.uk for more information.