Electrophysical Therapy
Electrophysical Therapy offers rehabilitative benefits by stimulating cell or nerve activity using safe levels of electric or sonic energy.
What is electrophysical therapy?
Electrophysical Therapy refers to a variety of techniques, such as ultrasound and TENS, that work by stimulating nerves or affecting the transport of blood to and from injured areas.
These treatments do not take long, are not painful, and often result in reduced pain after they are done.
What electrotherapy techniques are available?
Pinpoint offers a variety of Electrophysical Therapy techniques that each serve a different purpose:
- Ultrasound – Best suited for injuries such as ligament sprains and tendonitis
- TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) – Works best on increased muscle tension and heightened pain sensitivity
- NMES (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation) – Most appropriate for patients with post-surgical muscle weakness
- Electrophysical Therapy may even include the application of heat or cold to an injured area!
Which technique is best for my needs?
Your therapist will work with you to determine if electrophysical therapy is the right approach for your recovery needs.
Generally speaking, where ultrasound and TENS are therapeutic in nature, NMES is used as a rehabilitation tool.
For example, key local muscles are often inhibited after injuries or surgeries such as ACL repairs. In this case, NMES electrodes are placed on the skin and used to facilitate muscle contraction when the patient’s own engagement is weak.
What is electrotherapy commonly used for?
Electrophysical Therapy is often used for treating muscle tension, chronic pain conditions, tendonitis, swollen joints, and to aid in recovery from surgical procedures.
Electrophysical Therapies are used for:
- relaxing muscle spasms
- pain management
- increasing blood circulation
- aiding in muscle rehabilitation
- improving range of motion
- increasing strength and motor control
Your first appointment
Will I receive electrophysical therapy at my first appointment?
During your initial assessment your physical therapist will determine the best course of therapy for you. Depending on your needs, your physio may recommend one or more types of Electrophysical Therapy as part of your comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
Can I specifically request electrophysical therapy at my first visit?
Ultimately the application of electrophysical therapy is left to the discretion of your physical therapist. If you feel it is important to have electrical therapies administered on your first visit, please bring this up during your assessment.
Will I be provided with home-care exercises I can follow myself?
Yes, your visits at Pinpoint commonly include exercise guidance, which plays an important role in your rehabilitation. In fact, your dedication to doing your prescribed exercise is just as important as the hands-on therapy you receive.
Can I use electrophysical therapy at home?
Some of these tools, such as TENS, have become quite affordable for the consumer and can be used at home.
A great approach is to trial these treatments in clinic first under the professional guidance of your physiotherapist.
If your trial proves beneficial, your physio will educate you on what approach and products will likely work best for you.
Get Started with Electrophysical Therapy
Have questions about Electrophysical Therapy or any other treatments? Visit the FAQs page or get in touch for help.
