Electrotherapy
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
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Uses low-frequency currents to stimulate the skin's surface. Mechanisms of Action TENS works on two theoretical pain models: the Gate Control Theory and the Endorphin Release Theory.
In the Gate Control Theory, TENS is believed to stimulate non-painful sensory nerve fibers, which carry their signal faster than pain fibers. This effectively “closes the gate” in the spinal cord’s dorsal horn, preventing the transmission of pain signals to the brain. In the Endorphin Release Theory, TENS is thought to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which bind to opiate receptors in the brain to reduce the perception of pain.
Interferential Current Therapy (ICT)
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​Uses medium-frequency currents that penetrate deeper into the tissue. ICT is stronger than TENS and can deliver higher currents. ICT can use multiple applicators in different planes to treat complex areas like the shoulder.
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Pain relief
ICT can help with chronic pain, especially pain from musculoskeletal issues. It works by sending small amounts of electrical stimulation to damaged tissues, which can help prevent pain signals from reaching the brain.
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Tissue repair
ICT can help with tissue healing and can decrease inflammation and muscle spasms.
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Other conditions
ICT has been proposed to treat conditions such as dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation. It may also be a promising therapy for bladder dysfunction and enuresis in children.
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Other benefits
ICT can help with muscle strength production, edema reduction, and restoring lost movement.
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How it works
ICT works by stimulating underlying tissue and nerves, which can increase blood flow and hormone production that helps the body heal. The impulses are not painful and are described as a minor prickle on the skin.
Thermal Design Power Lamps
Thermal Design Power (TDP) lamps are far infrared heating devices used to accelerate natural healing processes. Far infrared (below visible light spectrum) emissions are thought to penetrate deeply into the body, increasing microcirculation and thus delivering more oxygen and nutrients to injured cells while eliminating cellular waste.
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It is commonly used on the upper or lower abdomen or back, in combination with needling, for cold and deficient patterns, or on painful areas in the case of injuries, bi syndrome (rheumatic and arthritic conditions) etc.
