Electrical stimulation

Home / All treatments / Electrical stimulation

Electrical stimulation for pain relief and recovery

Electrical stimulation is a safe and effective treatment that provides pain relief and recovery for several conditions. It uses self-adhesive electrodes placed around the target area, connected to a device that sends electrical impulses to interact with sensory and/or motor nerves.

If you're suffering from a painful condition and seeking relief, electrical stimulation may be the answer. Request an appointment with Integrative Physio Approach in Midtown East and Penn Plaza, New York today to learn more.

How will electrical stimulation benefit me?

At our Midtown East and Penn Plaza clinics, your comfort, safety, and dignity are our main priorities. During your initial appointment, you'll undergo a physical examination and discuss your current condition and medical history. Based on this, one of our licensed physical therapists will create a personalized treatment plan.

If electrical stimulation is deemed beneficial, your therapist will explain it in-depth and incorporate it into your treatment plan. During the treatment, you'll sit or lie comfortably, the target area will be cleaned, and your therapist will guide you through the process step-by-step.

Will electrical stimulation hurt me?

Simply put – no! The intensity of the electrical stimulation can be adjusted to your tolerance. Different modes of stimulation, such as TENS, interferential, pre-modulated, Russian, and bi-phasic currents, are used based on your condition's nature and severity. Some patients feel a “tingly,” “prickly,” or “pins and needles” sensation. When used for muscle strengthening, it may be slightly uncomfortable but should never cause pain.

What should I experience from electrical stimulation?

Electrical stimulation is primarily used for pain management. It can trigger a natural analgesic effect by stimulating sensory nerve fibers, decreasing the sensation of pain, and releasing neurotransmitters that prolong pain relief. Other benefits include:

  • Decreased swelling

  • Reduced muscle spasm

  • Improved range of motion

  • Increased local circulation

  • Enhanced motor coordination

  • Neuromuscular re-education

  • Biofeedback (improved body awareness)

  • Prevention or reversal of muscle atrophy

  • Pain control (both acute and chronic)

Electrical stimulation is safe for use on any body area, including the anterior neck and over areas with damaged skin or decreased sensation. However, it is not suitable for everyone, including those with deep vein thrombosis, pregnant individuals, those with pacemakers, and those with impaired cognition.

Common conditions treated with electrical stimulation

  • Repetitive stress injuries

  • Ligament sprains

  • Muscle strains

  • Acute sports-related or auto accident-related injuries

  • Neurological conditions, such as stroke

Consult with a physical therapist today!

If you're interested in learning more about electrical stimulation or think it could benefit you, contact Integrative Physio Approach today to request an appointment. We'll help you start on the path toward pain relief and recovery!