Electrotherapy and ultrasound therapy
Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy as a treatment means the therapeutic, totally safe application of an electrical current. This is generated by the transportation of charged particles (electrons and ions). The treatment by the therapists at our healing practice involves the placing of electrical plates on the surface of the skin, with a low current pulsing into the relevant areas of the body in order to heal muscle strains or swelling.
Types and effects of electrotherapy:
- Galvanic currents: A weak direct current is passed through the body, producing an analgesic effect that simultaneously stimulates the blood circulation.
- Low-frequency stimulation currents: This current frequency causes a stimulation of nerve and muscle fibres, as well as the activation of weakened and partially paralysed muscle parts.
- Mid-frequency stimulation currents: This application stimulates the blood circulation, reduces swelling and at the same time relaxes the muscles.
- High-frequency therapy: The electric current in this form of electrotherapy has a warming effect on the body that in turn stimulates the blood circulation and relaxes the muscles. The body’s metabolic and immune processes are also stimulated.
Applications:
The healing current is used in various pain syndromes in the musculoskeletal system, muscle sprains and tears as well as muscle weakness and paralysis. Electrotherapy also efficiently reduces swelling and eliminates paralysis of the bladder muscles (which may cause incontinence) and reactivates muscles.
Ultrasound therapy
Ultrasound therapy converts electrical current into high-frequency sound waves that oscillate over 20,000 times a second. These sound waves are transmitted to the affected areas of the body by using a transducer in circular movements and a contact gel to improve sound transmission.
How it works
The transmission of sound to the relevant region of the body produces a gentle heat that stimulates the skin’s blood circulation while simultaneously relaxing the muscles. The blood vessels are widened, the cells are better supplied with oxygen, the connective tissue is strengthened and lymphatic drainage improved. Ultrasound therapy improves the healing of muscles and tendons, mobilises restricted joints, heals bruising faster and reduces pain.
Applications:
- Muscle injuries
- Nerve pain
- Tendon irritations or injuries
- Inflammation of tendon sheath and synovial bursa
- Arthroses and arthritis of the joints