How electrotherapy can help reduce pain and support your rehab

magdasportstherapy
Sep 24
4 min read

Updated: Sep 25

I'm excited to share that electrotherapy is now available at Magda Sports Therapy. With my new Chattanooga machine, widely used and trusted in rehabilitation clinics worldwide, I can now offer Interferential Therapy (IFT) and Therapeutic Ultrasound (TUS).

Both are safe, evidence-based techniques that I have been trained and examined on during my degree. While they are not 'magic fixes', when used thoughtfully, they can significantly ease rehabilitation, reduce pain, and support healing, making your journey to recovery more comfortable and effective.

What Is Electrotherapy?

Electrotherapy uses either gentle electrical currents (IFT) or sound waves (ultrasound) to stimulate tissues in the body (Watson, 2002).

Its main goals are to:

reduce pain
improve circulation
support soft tissue healing
ease stiffness or swelling

Interferential Therapy (IFT)

IFT involves small pads on the skin that deliver a mild electrical current. Most people describe it as a pleasant tingling feeling.

What it may help with:

reducing pain, including some nerve-related discomfort
relaxing muscle spasms
easing swelling
supporting circulation

Therapeutic Ultrasound (TUS)

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves that are too high in frequency to be heard. A gel is applied to the skin, and the treatment head is moved gently over the area.

What it may help with:

increasing local blood flow
reducing stiffness
supporting tendon and ligament healing
softening scar tissue or adhesions

What the Research Shows

Research on electrotherapy shows promising but varied results:

In a randomised trial, pulsed ultrasound for six weeks reduced pain, improved function, and even resorbed calcium deposits in shoulder calcific tendinopathy compared to placebo (Ebenbichler et al., 1999).

Another trial showed improvements in symptoms and nerve conduction for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, with benefits lasting months (Ebenbichler et al., 1998).

Reviews highlight that electrotherapy is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive plan that includes manual therapy, exercise, and education, rather than as a stand-alone solution (Watson, 2008; Fuentes et al., 2010).

And this is precisely how I use it: never as a replacement, but as a tool to make manual therapy and exercise more effective.

Who Might Benefit (And Who Might Not)

May benefit:

chronic pain (back, joints)
tendon or muscle injuries
post-surgery stiffness or slow healing
mild nerve irritation (e.g. carpal tunnel, sciatica)

Not suitable if you have:

a pacemaker or electrical implant
active infection or open wounds
recent fractures in the area
pregnancy (over abdomen or lower back)
suspected or known cancer in the treatment zone

My Approach in Practice

From my experience, many patients find electrotherapy relaxing and supportive. This alone can make a significant difference: when pain eases, it becomes easier to move, stretch, and build strength.

Here's how I integrate electrotherapy into our sessions, always as part of a bigger picture:

Getting to know you – I'll ask about your history, symptoms, and what you hope to achieve.
Checking safety – Together, we'll ensure that our approach is safe and the best fit for you.
Using a mix of techniques – I'll combine manual therapy, exercise, and supportive tools, always tailored to your individual needs.
Staying on track – I'll keep an eye on your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Keeping you informed – I'll explain my choices, so you always feel included and supported in your recovery.

FAQ - Questions you may want to ask

Does it hurt?

No – both IFT and ultrasound are gentle and comfortable, providing a non-invasive and relaxing experience.

Is it safe? Will I have any side effects?

Yes, electrotherapy is considered very safe when used correctly. Side effects are rare and typically include temporary redness or increased blood flow, which usually subside within a short period.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on your condition. Sometimes, one to two sessions help; sometimes, more are needed. I'll always guide you individually.

Does it replace exercises?

No. Electrotherapy may reduce pain or stiffness, but lasting recovery always depends on movement and rehabilitation. Think of it as a tool that helps us get there more smoothly.

How does it actually work in the body?

I'm always happy to explain the science behind it during our sessions – as much or as little detail as you'd like.

Final Thoughts

Electrotherapy (IFT and ultrasound) is a modern, evidence-based addition to my clinic. Easing pain and stiffness often makes rehabilitation more effective and comfortable.

For many people, this means less pain, more comfort, and a smoother path back to the activities they love.

It's not about replacing the fundamentals; movement, patience, and consistent therapy remain the heart of your progress. But having more tools in the toolbox means I can better adapt treatment to what you need.

If you'd like to try electrotherapy in your next session, just let me know when booking. Together we'll decide whether it's right for you.

💬 Have you ever tried electrotherapy before? I'd love to hear about your experience in the comments below!

Warm regards,

Magda

References & Further Reading

Ebenbichler, G., Resch, K., Nicolakis, P., Wiesinger, G., Uhl, F., Ghanem, A. and Fialka, V. (1998) 'Ultrasound treatment for treating the carpal tunnel syndrome: randomised "sham" controlled trial', BMJ, 316(7133), pp. 731-735. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.316.7133.731

Ebenbichler, G., Erdogmus, C., Resch, K., Funovics, M., Kainberger, F., Barisani, G., Aringer, M., Nicolakis, P., Wiesinger, G., Baghestanian, M., Preisinger, E. and Fialka-Moser, V. (1999) 'Ultrasound therapy for calcific tendinitis of the shoulder', The New England Journal of Medicine, 340(20), pp.1533-1538. Available at: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199905203402002

Fuentes JP, Armijo Olivo S, Magee DJ, Gross DP. (2010). "Effectiveness of interferential current therapy in the management of musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Physical Therapy, 90(9), 1219–1238. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20651012

Watson, T. (2002) 'Current concepts in electrotherapy', Haemophilia, 8(3), pp. 413-418. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2516.2002.00613.x

Watson, T. (2008) 'Ultrasound in contemporary physiotherapy practice', Ultrasonics, 48(4), pp.321–329. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18466945

4 Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.

No ratings yet

Becky

Oct 31

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Loved it

Sophie

Sep 24

Ooo 🤯Thanks, that's valuable information. I sent you a private message to arrange an appointment 😊

Amy

Very interesting information. From your post, I learned that electrotherapy offers many benefits.

Katie

I had IFT several times and really liked it! It was pretty relaxing. Happy to have it during our next session x

I'm excited to share that electrotherapy is now available at Magda Sports Therapy. With my new Chattanooga machine, widely used and trusted in rehabilitation clinics worldwide, I can now offer Interferential Therapy (IFT) and Therapeutic Ultrasound (TUS).

Both are safe, evidence-based techniques that I have been trained and examined on during my degree. While they are not 'magic fixes', when used thoughtfully, they can significantly ease rehabilitation, reduce pain, and support healing, making your journey to recovery more comfortable and effective.

What Is Electrotherapy?

Electrotherapy uses either gentle electrical currents (IFT) or sound waves (ultrasound) to stimulate tissues in the body (Watson, 2002).

Its main goals are to:

reduce pain

improve circulation

support soft tissue healing

ease stiffness or swelling

Interferential Therapy (IFT)

IFT involves small pads on the skin that deliver a mild electrical current. Most people describe it as a pleasant tingling feeling.

What it may help with:

reducing pain, including some nerve-related discomfort

relaxing muscle spasms

easing swelling

supporting circulation

Therapeutic Ultrasound (TUS)

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves that are too high in frequency to be heard. A gel is applied to the skin, and the treatment head is moved gently over the area.

What it may help with:

increasing local blood flow

reducing stiffness

supporting tendon and ligament healing

softening scar tissue or adhesions

What the Research Shows

Research on electrotherapy shows promising but varied results:

In a randomised trial, pulsed ultrasound for six weeks reduced pain, improved function, and even resorbed calcium deposits in shoulder calcific tendinopathy compared to placebo (Ebenbichler et al., 1999).

Another trial showed improvements in symptoms and nerve conduction for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, with benefits lasting months (Ebenbichler et al., 1998).

Reviews highlight that electrotherapy is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive plan that includes manual therapy, exercise, and education, rather than as a stand-alone solution (Watson, 2008; Fuentes et al., 2010).

And this is precisely how I use it: never as a replacement, but as a tool to make manual therapy and exercise more effective.

Who Might Benefit (And Who Might Not)

May benefit:

chronic pain (back, joints)

tendon or muscle injuries

post-surgery stiffness or slow healing

mild nerve irritation (e.g. carpal tunnel, sciatica)

Not suitable if you have:

a pacemaker or electrical implant

active infection or open wounds

recent fractures in the area

pregnancy (over abdomen or lower back)

suspected or known cancer in the treatment zone

My Approach in Practice

From my experience, many patients find electrotherapy relaxing and supportive. This alone can make a significant difference: when pain eases, it becomes easier to move, stretch, and build strength.

Here's how I integrate electrotherapy into our sessions, always as part of a bigger picture:

Getting to know you – I'll ask about your history, symptoms, and what you hope to achieve.

Checking safety – Together, we'll ensure that our approach is safe and the best fit for you.

Using a mix of techniques – I'll combine manual therapy, exercise, and supportive tools, always tailored to your individual needs.

Staying on track – I'll keep an eye on your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Keeping you informed – I'll explain my choices, so you always feel included and supported in your recovery.

FAQ - Questions you may want to ask

Does it hurt?

No – both IFT and ultrasound are gentle and comfortable, providing a non-invasive and relaxing experience.

Is it safe? Will I have any side effects?

Yes, electrotherapy is considered very safe when used correctly. Side effects are rare and typically include temporary redness or increased blood flow, which usually subside within a short period.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on your condition. Sometimes, one to two sessions help; sometimes, more are needed. I'll always guide you individually.

Does it replace exercises?

No. Electrotherapy may reduce pain or stiffness, but lasting recovery always depends on movement and rehabilitation. Think of it as a tool that helps us get there more smoothly.

How does it actually work in the body?

I'm always happy to explain the science behind it during our sessions – as much or as little detail as you'd like.

Final Thoughts

Electrotherapy (IFT and ultrasound) is a modern, evidence-based addition to my clinic. Easing pain and stiffness often makes rehabilitation more effective and comfortable.

For many people, this means less pain, more comfort, and a smoother path back to the activities they love.

It's not about replacing the fundamentals; movement, patience, and consistent therapy remain the heart of your progress. But having more tools in the toolbox means I can better adapt treatment to what you need.

If you'd like to try electrotherapy in your next session, just let me know when booking. Together we'll decide whether it's right for you.

💬 Have you ever tried electrotherapy before? I'd love to hear about your experience in the comments below!

Warm regards,

Magda

References & Further Reading

Ebenbichler, G., Resch, K., Nicolakis, P., Wiesinger, G., Uhl, F., Ghanem, A. and Fialka, V. (1998) 'Ultrasound treatment for treating the carpal tunnel syndrome: randomised "sham" controlled trial', BMJ, 316(7133), pp. 731-735. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.316.7133.731

Fuentes JP, Armijo Olivo S, Magee DJ, Gross DP. (2010). "Effectiveness of interferential current therapy in the management of musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Physical Therapy, 90(9), 1219–1238. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20651012

Watson, T. (2002) 'Current concepts in electrotherapy', Haemophilia, 8(3), pp. 413-418. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2516.2002.00613.x

Watson, T. (2008) 'Ultrasound in contemporary physiotherapy practice', Ultrasonics, 48(4), pp.321–329. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18466945

4 Comments