Electrotherapy-types, indications and contraindications

Electrotherapy is one of the methods of treatment in which an electric current is applied with the help of special medical equipment. It is often prescribed to reduce the intensity of pain syndrome of various origins by reducing the sensitivity of pain receptors, modulating the pain dominant of the central nervous system, activating opioid peptides and reducing perineural edema. In addition, the electric current contributes to the normalization of disturbed blood flow, stimulates metabolic and biosynthetic processes in tissues, and improves the conduction of nerve impulses.

Types of electrotherapy that are used in medicine

In physiotherapy, there are such options for the use of electric current:

1. Franklinization, based on the use of a constant electric field by applying a high voltage (30-50 kV) to the needle electrode. The impact can be systemic or local. When using this method of electrotherapy, the blood supply to the peripheral parts of the body improves due to the expansion of blood vessels, the intensity of gas exchange in the lungs and excretion by the kidneys increases, and blood pressure decreases.
2. The effect of direct electric current is carried out by two methods: electroplating and electrophoresis. Galvanotherapy is often used as one of the methods of physical therapy in patients with malignant neoplasms. Exposure to a direct electric current of 30-80 ma contributes to the destruction of tumor cells, while normal unchanged structures continue to function normally. Electrophoresis is prescribed for mild pathologies that are accompanied by pain syndrome. The drug is applied to the electrode pads. When exposed to an electric current, the drug must enter the human body through the skin.
3. Exposure to low-frequency alternating current includes electromyostimulation and electroson. Myoneurostimulation is effective in patients with impaired functions of the central and peripheral nervous system, it is actively used in cosmetology. Elektroantriebe causes inhibition of impulses of the cerebral cortex, and promotes the activation of serotonin neurons. This neurotransmitter reduces emotional and reflex activity, which is manifested by drowsiness and falling asleep.
4. Exposure to high-frequency current is carried out by such methods: local darsonvalization and diathermy. When darsonvalization occurs, high-frequency pulses affect the skin or mucous membranes. Electrotherapy with pulsed currents involves the use of devices for the treatment of diathermic currents. The most characteristic effect is analgesic, which appears due to the effect on the nervous tissue and stimulation of blood circulation, which eliminates hypoxia.

All these techniques do not cause discomfort and pain in the patient – he may feel a slight tingling, vibration or slight burning sensation.

How is electrotherapy performed?

Usually, treating doctors prescribe from 5 to 10 procedures of this method of physiotherapy, since one session will not have a significant effect. The duration of the course depends on the patient's pathology. The first 5 procedures are aimed at reducing the pain syndrome, and in the future, electrotherapy is necessary to eliminate its cause. Usually, sessions are prescribed 3-4 times a week.

In what diseases it is necessary electrotherapy?

Treatment using electric current is prescribed by specialists for the rehabilitation of patients after injuries and in the postoperative period, with chronic diseases of various organ systems, in particular:

• pathologies of the spinal column-osteochondrosis, herniated disc;
• diseases of the joints and muscles-deforming arthrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatomyositis, muscle tissue atrophy;
• disorders of the central nervous system-neuroses, neuralgia, Raynaud's disease, paresis and paralysis;
• pathologies of the digestive system – peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, colitis, biliary dyskinesia;
• varicose veins;
• chronic inflammatory diseases of the skin, the presence of trophic ulcers, to prevent the appearance of bedsores;
• chronic pathologies of the female genitals, as well as menopausal syndrome.

In addition, electrotherapy can be used for diseases of the cardiovascular system, in particular, for hypertension in the early stages. The treatment option and its duration are indicated by the attending physician.

In what situations is the procedure contraindicated?

Electrotherapy sessions can be performed strictly according to the appointment of a specialist after consultation. The procedure is prohibited if the patient has:

• epilepsy;
• malignant neoplasms;
• infectious diseases;
• bleeding;
• urolithiasis or cholelithiasis;
• chronic pathologies in the stage of decompensation.

The procedure is absolutely contraindicated in patients who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some people may also have an intolerance to electric current, which is manifested by increased sensitivity to the effects of this factor.