Electrotherapy comes in two forms at Lewis Morgan Physiotherapy. First is TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), which is a form of treatment which makes use of small electrical impulses to stimulate your nervous system to provide pain relief. Secondly, there is Ultrasound, which stimulates the body's cells to work harder and faster to repair fascia, ligament and tendons.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS is a tiny, portable device which sends electrical signals through the skin using electrodes. Electrodes are positioned over painful areas, nerve roots and trigger points so as to control pain. The electrical signals that are produced stimulate nerve fibres which in turn block the flow or transmission of opposing pain signals and this is very important in relieving acute or chronic pain, especially where conventional medicine is not as effective. This method is described as “Traditional TENS.”
“Acupuncture Style TENS” actually releases endorphins, which are chemicals that are produced by the body to relieve pain. TENS can be administered at high or low frequency to relieve both acute and chronic pain.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)
EMS uses electrical signals to cause muscle contraction. The current is passed onto the skin via electrodes that are placed strategically close to targeted muscle groups. This form of electrotherapy is used to optimize treatment by strengthening the muscles, reducing muscle spasms, re-educating the muscles and increasing blood circulation in that area.
Ultrasound
Physiotherapists use ultrasound therapy as one of the many combinations of treatments. Ultrasound is a form of therapeutic treatment. It sends ultrasound waves into tendons, fascia and ligaments to heal them faster. It is not used for muscle and joint or bone pain as the qualities of ultrasound do not lend itself to these specific structures. It actually works by stimulating the repairing cells in tendons, fascia and ligaments to work faster, therefore accelerating the healing process.
Electrotherapy is sometimes used together with traditional physiotherapy treatments for optimal results.
Book an appointment with us today and learn more about this treatment method.
Rear of 167 High Street,
Hornchurch,
Essex.
RM11 3XS.
Tel: 07946 464602
Email: enquiries@lewismorganphysio.co.uk