Therapeutic ModalitiesElectrical stimulation is the process of applying electrical current to a tissue in order to achieve a therapeutic goal. This can involve either passing an electrical current through the tissue (known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS), or delivering an electrical shock to the tissue (known as electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT).
These techniques utilize the body's natural ability to heal itself in order to facilitate rehabilitation. Electrical stimulation in physical therapy sessions is one way that your doctor of physical therapy can help you get back on your feet faster than you thought possible! Electrical Stimulation for Pain Management One of the most common ways that electrical stimulation is utilized in physical therapy sessions is for pain management. Electrical stimulation can be used to activate natural pathways that trigger an analgesic effect, which means that your body will release chemicals that block the perception of pain. The result is a reduced tolerance for discomfort and greater mobility as the injured area diminishes in size and swelling goes down. |
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Electrical Stimulation During Physical Therapy Sessions
Your physical therapist may use electrical stimulation during your sessions in order to facilitate the healing process.
Your physical therapist can utilize these techniques in a variety of ways, depending on your individual situation and the goals that they are working toward with you. There are four main types of electrical stimulation that are used to facilitate physical therapy:
- TENS is used to activate the body's natural energy pathways and trigger a pain-blocking effect. This can be done with either low intensity (for chronic and acute pain management) or high intensity (for soreness after intense workouts).
- NMES/EMS is used to strengthen muscles. Prolonged use of this type of electrical stimulation builds muscle mass, tone, and strength.
- The use of electrical stimulation as a form of modality is done either for the purpose of increasing blood flow to an area, or as part of a treatment for specific forms of autonomic dysfunction.
Electrical stimulation can offer you numerous benefits that can accelerate your recovery from injuries or surgeries. Try it today and see what you're missing!
Your physical therapist may use electrical stimulation during your sessions in order to facilitate the healing process.
Your physical therapist can utilize these techniques in a variety of ways, depending on your individual situation and the goals that they are working toward with you. There are four main types of electrical stimulation that are used to facilitate physical therapy:
- TENS is used to activate the body's natural energy pathways and trigger a pain-blocking effect. This can be done with either low intensity (for chronic and acute pain management) or high intensity (for soreness after intense workouts).
- NMES/EMS is used to strengthen muscles. Prolonged use of this type of electrical stimulation builds muscle mass, tone, and strength.
- The use of electrical stimulation as a form of modality is done either for the purpose of increasing blood flow to an area, or as part of a treatment for specific forms of autonomic dysfunction.
Electrical stimulation can offer you numerous benefits that can accelerate your recovery from injuries or surgeries. Try it today and see what you're missing!