Electrotherapy uses the effect of electric currents on the organism. The main area of application is in pain and muscle therapy, for example, for sciatic pain, rheumatism and arthritis, or muscle tension. The current can be conducted through the body by electrodes which are stuck on the skin.
Full or partial baths are also possible, in which the current is conducted through the water to the skin (for example, rod baths, iontophoresis). TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) is best suited for pain therapy.
TENS treatment
In TENS, electrodes on the skin are used to stimulate the nerves that run there. This does not hurt and the patient only feels a slight tingling sensation. Presumably, the stimulus causes the body to activate its pain regulation system so that the pain threshold of the entire organism is increased. The pain is perceived less strongly or subsides completely.
The electrodes are stuck directly over the painful area. Then the current strength is selected so that the patient feels a slight but pleasant tingling sensation. Three to four treatments a day for half an hour each are usually sufficient. After a few weeks, the effect may diminish, in which case a break should be taken or the electrodes should be used in other places.
The battery-powered pulse generator for TENS is no larger than a pack of cigarettes, the electrodes are only a few square centimeters. The devices should only be used according to a doctor’s instructions.
Cost of TENS treatment
TENS units are considered medical aids and can be rented. The cost is usually covered if electrotherapy has been ordered.
