Selective electrotherapy
Krisztina Tatai
Physiotherapist
What is selective electrostimulation treatment?
Selective impulse current therapy, also known as electrical muscle stimulation, is a form of electrotherapy treatment based on muscle stimulation. We stimulate a specific muscle or muscle group with electric current, which makes the therapy “selective”.
What is selective electrostimulation good for?
This treatment is suitable for stimulating striated muscles, primarily our skeletal muscles. It can be a very effective therapy if the innervation is damaged for some reason, and the muscle is paralyzed or weakened. Depending on the treatment device and the complaint or problem, it can also be used for muscle relaxation and improving circulation.
What areas is electrostimulation applied to?
This therapy can be used in many ways. Without being exhaustive: for paralyzed facial muscles (Bell’s palsy), muscle regeneration after musculoskeletal surgeries, pain relief, releasing spastic muscles, and regeneration after nerve injury.
When is selective electrostimulation treatment not recommended?
However, there are several cases where electrical muscle stimulation is not recommended:
- Open wound
- Fever
- Recent fracture
- Malignant tumor
- Untreated high blood pressure
- In case of thrombosis or other vascular changes
- Pregnancy
- Conditions involving bleeding
The latter two, however, should be considered, as treatment is possible if the area to be treated is far from the lower abdomen.
In cases of a history of cancer, it can only be performed with the recommendation of an oncologist.
What is the process of selective electrostimulation?
First, we determine the goal of the treatment and identify the area to be treated. Here, we select the direction of the current, place the electrodes accordingly, then set the current form, intensity, etc., and begin the treatment. You may experience a tingling sensation during the process, but not burning or sharp pain. A side effect may be skin redness, which can be easily remedied with a little cream. If the skin becomes blistered or shows signs of burns, the parameters must be changed!
This type of treatment can also be performed at home, primarily with a TENS device. It is easy to use and does not require in-depth background knowledge, but it can be an effective supplement to therapy at home.
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