Did you know that electrotherapy originated in 63 AD in Rome, when Scribonius Largus stood on an electrical eel for pain relief? That’s how old the treatment is, but modern technology has just allowed it to be more accessible to the general public.
Electrotherapy is a medical treatment where electrical impulses are sent across the skin to the target tissue that is causing the problem. The electrical impulse increases blood circulation in the target area, releases endorphins (pain-relieving hormones), or interferes with the pain nerves to relieve pain. Here are the most common conditions that can be treated with electrotherapy.
1) Nerve Related Pain or Phantom Pains
Electrical stimulation therapy is highly effective in treating nerve-related pain, numbness, tingling, burning sensation or muscle weakness throughout the body, and even phantom pains. Usually, for this treatment, a TENS machine targets the painful nerves that carry the pain message to the brain. The electrical charge interferes with the pain signals and confuses them, reducing the pain. The results of TENS electrotherapy are long-lasting, too!
2) Musculoskeletal Pain or Injuries
Musculoskeletal pains like tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, jumper’s knee can be effectively treated with electrotherapy. During such treatments, low-intensity electrical impulses are sent past the skin to the target muscle. These impulses stimulate the tissue, improving the blood flow. The increased blood flow then promotes the healing of the tissue.
3) General Body Pain
You may also suffer from general body pain, perhaps due to bad posture or a tweaked muscle. Such pains can also be treated using electrotherapy as it promotes tissue repair. It is the most recommended treatment method for general body pain as it is non-invasive, drug-free pain control that does not cause any side effects. This kind of treatment also doesn’t hurt at all, so it is the best way to relieve body pain.
4) Muscle Atrophy
Muscle atrophy occurs when the specific muscles are not used for an extended time due to injuries, illness, or nerve damage. During muscle atrophy, the tissue starts to lose mass and start degenerating. If not addressed on time, it can lead to permanent disability. To prevent atrophy, electrotherapy is used to stimulate the target muscles. When the electrical charge reaches the tissue, it stimulates the muscles, contracts it, and improves blood flow. As a result, muscle atrophy can be prevented in patients.
5) Wounds
Wounds are quite common, especially if you play any kind of sport. To heal these wounds, blood circulation is crucial. But sometimes, the blood circulation may not be enough to repair the damaged tissue. In such cases, you can opt for electrotherapy as electric currents can boost the blood flow in the injured region. This can speed up the healing process.
Different forms of electric currents are used depending on the condition. And contrary to popular belief, electrotherapy doesn’t hurt at all. In most cases, it just leaves a slight tingling sensation on the skin for some time. So you don’t have to worry about any side effects!
If you are facing any of the problems mentioned above, you should contact Physicatrx Rehab. We offer the best electrotherapy treatments in Surrey that can effectively treat your condition without any side effects. Book an appointment now.
