INTERFERENTIAL THERAPY

Interferential Therapy

Interferential therapy is a form of electrotherapy that has a variety of uses. It uses two interfering electrical currents – hence the name “interferential”. It is a very safe current to use for treatment to a selection of conditions. The machines we uses can be altered to have different effects depending on what needs to be treated.

Two to four electrodes area placed around the area to be treated. These are wet or covered in gel to allow the transmission of the electric current. The current is then adjusted to suit the patient. We usually ask the patient to let us know when they feel a strong tingling sensation. This tingling sensation is what triggers the endorphin release [ our bodies natural painkillers] and gives pain relief during and after treatment. Treatment typically lasts 15-20 minutes.

Interferential therapy is also used to help decrease swelling. It can help a lot with acute sports injuries when there is both pain and swelling. Common conditions benefiting from interferential are ankle sprains, ligament injuries, back pain and neck pain.