Electrotherapy equipment usually consists of an electric-powered device connected by wires to electrode pads which are placed on the skin. A mild electric current is sent to the skin via the electrode once the electrodes are attached and the unit is turned on.

Electrotherapy has been a component of physiotherapy practice since the early days however its delivery method has changed remarkably and continues to do so even today. The most popular modalities used these days are very different though efficient in many respects compared to those used years ago. Modern electrotherapy practice needs to be evidence-based and used appropriately, used at the right place, at the right time for the right reason and it has a phenomenal capacity to do good. The skills of a physiotherapist while administering electrotherapy is to make the appropriate clinical decision as to which modality to use and when.

All electrotherapy modalities (with the exception of biofeedback) involve the introduction of some physical energy into the human body. This energy initiates one or more physiological responses, which are of therapeutic benefit to the patient. It is more useful to work it in reverse – first, determine the nature of the problem and then determine the physiological changes needed in order to achieve the desired effects. Most important is the choice of the modality that can bring about the changes in the tissues involved will be relatively an easy decision. Modality and dose selection appears to be key, and critical clinical decision-making issues.

Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) is another type of electrotherapy used to stimulate muscles. EMS focus is on the muscle as opposed to microcurrent, TENS and interferential, focussing on the nerve endings. It is used in muscle re-education, muscle relaxation, to increase circulation and can prevent atrophy by exercising muscles passively. When muscles receive the EMS signal through the electrode, it contracts as if the brain has sent the signal itself.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is one of the most popular forms of electrotherapy modalities used. To put as simply as possible, TENS is a non-invasive, drug-free method of controlling pain. TENS uses electrodes to send tiny electrical impulses through the skin to the nerves to modify pain perception. TENS can also initiate the release of endorphins to fight the pain (our body’s natural pain reliever). TENS works by disrupting pain signals traveling to the brain. TENS is used to treat a variety of conditions, including but not limited to: chronic pain, phantom limb pain, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, tendinitis and can also help reduce postoperative edema if used for post surgically.

Interferential Therapy (IFT) current uses very high pulse rate. This high frequency uses electrodes to penetrate the skin and muscles better than TENS or other modalities, thus can be more effective in pain control. Interferential provides pain relief and has a “nerve blocking” effect.