The electrical device used in physical therapy is considered a non-drug treatment, as it relies on electrical current to enhance the activity of cells and muscles throughout the body. The benefit of electrophysical therapy is that it is used for muscles as a rehabilitation method for some cases, and it is an effective method in physical therapy to prevent muscle buildup due to lack of movement or loss of balance.
At Medca Physical Therapy Solutions, we are keen to provide you with the best methods of electrical physical therapy, which is considered effective and drug-free to care for general health, which contributes to improving symptoms and progress towards the healing process.
Benefits of electrophysiotherapy
Muscle stimulation is widely used to improve the condition of individuals with muscle injuries, examples of which include patients whose stroke has caused them to lose their ability to use certain muscles. Exercising these muscles using electrical stimulation units can enhance their strength, which contributes to giving the patient back control of his movements. Muscle stimulation can also be used after an injury.
This benefit is especially noticeable for older adults who need support with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and getting out of a chair. Electrical stimulation units can help these patients regain strength in their limbs, enabling them to better perform necessary tasks and achieve independence at home or in a care facility.
In the following paragraphs, we will review the most important benefits of physical therapy, which include:
1- Electrostimulation treatments contribute to accelerating the recovery process from sports injuries
Sprains, strains, and even fractures are examples of injuries that can benefit from physical therapy with this type of stimulation. Electrostimulation therapy promotes the healing process by increasing blood flow to the damaged area. This is achieved through two effect mechanisms:
Increased blood flow to the affected area improves the transport of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, promoting repair processes and removing accumulated waste.
Blood enhances the functioning of the immune system in an individual’s body, as it contributes to repairing damage and removing debris from the damaged area, which contributes to faster recovery of the body.
1- Muscle Atrophy Prevention
Muscle atrophy is a natural process where muscles shrink and lose their size and strength due to inactivity. When individuals are unable to move, such as staying in bed for long periods due to surgery, their bodies begin to lose muscle mass. This results in muscle weakness and difficulty performing daily tasks during the recovery period and resuming daily activities.
By training muscles using electrical stimulation, patients can maintain muscle mass and strength during rest or while waiting to recover from injury. Stimulative therapy works by stimulating the nerves responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and muscles. These nerve impulses instruct the muscles to move and help maintain their strength.
2- Back Spasm Relief
Electrical stimulation devices have been used in physical therapy centers for decades to help patients overcome back spasms by sending electrical currents through electrodes placed in specific areas of the lower back. The electrical charges stimulate muscle contraction and relaxation.
Electrical stimulation is often considered the first line of defense against back spasms. Electronic stimulation units designed to treat back pain can be worn on a belt or placed in a pocket, allowing individuals the freedom to engage in daily activities (with cautious avoidance).
Research shows that wearing a nerve electrical stimulation unit through the skin reduces the patient’s need for painkillers during spasm periods, allowing them to enjoy a higher level of comfort.
Also read: The Difference Between Physical Therapy and Natural Therapy
The most important cases treated with electrical pulse devices
Back problems, whether disc herniation or spinal column
Neck injuries and pains, and shoulders.
The electrical pulse device is used with electric massage.
Some doctors rely on electrical pulses to lose weight with some medical conditions.
Benefits of electrical pulse therapy devices for physical therapy
The benefits of electrical pulse therapy devices include:
- Pain relief: Used to provide general relief and pain relief, showing particular effectiveness in cases of muscle and nerve pain.
- Improving circulation: Enhances blood flow in tissues, promoting tissue nutrition and improving body functions.
- Improving mobility: Enhances body movement and functional capacity, especially for patients suffering from muscle weakness or loss of movement after injury or surgery.
- Improving shape and appearance: Contributes to improving skin appearance and eliminating cellulite by stimulating tissues and improving blood flow.
- Improving endurance: Enhances the patient’s ability to endure and increases energy levels, facilitating the performance of daily activities.
- Improving overall health: Improves overall health by improving blood flow and eliminating toxins from the body.
How to use electrical pulse therapy devices for physical therapy
The electrical pulse device, also known as the TENS device, is a small, portable device used in physical therapy to provide anesthetic effects and pain relief by applying electrical pulses to the affected areas of the body.
Using the device involves connecting the electrical electrodes and carefully placing them on the skin, preferably placing the electrodes on both sides of the painful area or nearby to ensure effective coverage. After connection, the appropriate settings on the TENS device need to be adjusted.
The tension level, frequency, pulse type, and treatment duration can be adjusted according to the device’s instructions and recommendations from the physical therapist. Once the settings are adjusted, you can start the electrical therapy session for physical therapy, preferably following a specific time period as directed by the physical therapist. Continuation of device usage is necessary until the specified treatment period ends to achieve optimal results.
It is advisable to monitor and evaluate progress in physical therapy using the TENS device. Observe any improvement in pain, muscle relaxation, or movement and consult with your physical therapist about any changes in your general condition.
Names of physical therapy devices and their uses with pictures
When it comes to physical therapy, the Czech Republic is one of the prominent destinations worldwide, known for providing high-quality medical care and using the latest technology in this field. Some of the latest devices used include:
- Rhythmic Ambulator for Intensive Walking Training: This device is used to stimulate and strengthen leg muscles by providing heavy load to the muscles during walking, enhancing strength and flexibility. It is considered effective in treating muscle weakness, stroke, and paralysis.
- Vanquish Me Device for Weight Loss: Used in the treatment of obesity and weight loss, it directs low-frequency wireless technology to fatty tissues, breaking down fat cells and stimulating fat burning.
- Icon Device for Skin Treatment: Used in skin treatment and cell renewal using IPL and RF technology, improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles, scars, and dark spots.
- Emofo Rehabilitation Device: Used in rehabilitation after injuries and surgeries to improve motor coordination and increase muscle strength, offering multiple programs to achieve optimal results in this process.
- TR-THERAPY Radio Frequency Device: Used in pain and muscle spasm treatment, where radio frequency is sent to deep tissues in the body, improving blood circulation and relieving pain and spasms.
This range of devices is effective in multiple areas of physical therapy, providing comprehensive care for patients.
When not to use electrical stimulation?
There are cases where electrical stimulation should be avoided. The physical therapist should be attentive to these factors that require avoiding electrical stimulation. This includes:
- Changes in tissue sensation.
- Mental state weakness.
- Presence of implanted electrical device.
- Malignant tissues.
- Very wet wounds.
- Sensitive areas such as the eyes, temples, neck front, or above the genitals.
The physical therapist should have identified these issues during your initial assessment. However, it is important to remind them of any medical conditions that may negatively interact with electrical stimulation.
Key FAQs:
Key Services Provided by Medica Solutions for Physical Therapy:
Home Physical Therapy Specialist
Physical Therapy for Nerves
Electrical Therapy