A non-surgical physical therapy method that aims to control pain and restore muscle function using TENS, interferential, and other electrical currents.
Indication
- Acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain (lower back, neck, upper back)
- Knee osteoarthritis and joint pain
- Postoperative pain control and edema
- Muscle weakness following peripheral nerve injury
- Urinary incontinence (pelvic floor muscle weakness) — under appropriate protocol
- Rehabilitation following sports injuries
- Chronic neuropathic pain (when there is a TENS response)
Preparation
- Physician examination and selection of the appropriate type of current
- Ensuring skin integrity and cleanliness in the treatment area
- Inform the physician if there are metal implants, open wounds, or skin infections
- Pacemaker and advanced cardiac arrhythmias must be reported
How it's performed
- The patient is placed in a suitable position; the treatment area is cleaned
- Surface electrodes are placed at the determined points
- Device parameters (frequency, intensity, duration) are personalized for the patient
- The patient feels mild tingling or muscle vibration; it should not be painful
- A session usually lasts 15-30 minutes
- The patient is monitored by the physiotherapist throughout the treatment
Post-procedure
- 5-10 sessions may be applied for acute conditions, 10-20 sessions for chronic conditions
- It is recommended to be carried out together with an exercise program
- Effectiveness is reassessed after the 2nd-4th session
- If the response is insufficient, the program is revised
Risks
- Mild skin redness or allergic reaction at the electrode site
- Contraindicated in pacemaker, implanted defibrillator, pregnancy (abdominal area), epilepsy, and carotid sinus stimulation
- Not applied to open wounds, acute thrombosis, cancer site, and active infection
- Improper placement or high intensity may cause muscle spasm or skin burns
FAQ
Does electrotherapy cause pain?
No, mild tingling or muscle vibration is felt. If pain occurs, the intensity is reduced.
What is the difference between TENS and interferential current?
TENS is effective for superficial pain control, while interferential current is more effective in deeper tissues. The physician determines which current is appropriate.
Are home-use TENS devices the same?
They work on a similar principle but are not recommended without physician/physiotherapist evaluation. Improper use may be ineffective.
Can I have electrotherapy if I have a pacemaker?
No. Pacemakers and implanted defibrillators are absolute contraindications for electrotherapy.
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