Electric therapy machines have gained popularity in recent years due to their numerous applications and benefits in healthcare. It is a medical device that uses electrical currents through electrodes to stimulate the nerves and muscles in the body. It works by blocking the transmission of pain signals to relieve pain or inducing muscle contractions for strengthening. Hence, it has wide applications in the field of pain management, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
Electrotherapy or electrical stimulation offers a non-invasive and drug-free alternative to managing pain and promoting healing. Individuals looking for non-pharmacological treatments may benefit from this type of therapy. Today, many use it as a standalone treatment method or as an adjunctive treatment alongside other therapies. The following sections will help you know more about the functions and features of electrical stimulation machines, how they work, and their uses and applications.
What is an Electric Therapy Machine?
An electric therapy machine is a battery-operated device consisting of a control unit and adhesive electrode pads. The unit generates and sends electrical pulses through the electrodes attached to the body. Additionally, the machine typically allows for adjustable intensity levels to suit individual needs and comfort. This can elicit various responses in the nervous system, depending on the settings.
These devices are frequently used in healthcare settings, such as pain clinics and physical therapy centres. A healthcare professional supervises the operation of such devices for patients with chronic pain conditions, injuries, or postoperative pain. However, there are also more portable versions that individuals can apply at home. They have adjustable control knobs or settings that are easy to use.
There are different types of electrical therapy devices: traditional and wireless. The standard device has a handheld control unit that connects to the electrode pads through wires. On the other hand, a wireless device allows the pads to attach directly to a compact pulse generator. It utilises Bluetooth technology to control the stimulation through a smartphone app.
Purpose
- Drug-free treatment: Electrical stimulation machines offer a non-medicated option for pain relief. This allows individuals to manage various types of pain without the associated side effects of medicines.
- Non-invasive therapy: The devices are applied externally through electrode placement. It does not involve intrusive procedures that can be risky or uncomfortable, such as surgery or injections.
- Home use: Individuals can use the machines in the comfort of their homes, minimising the need to go to hospitals or clinics for regular therapy sessions.
- Adjunctive therapy: They can be used alone or with other treatment methods, such as medication, exercise, or physical therapy.
How Electric Therapy Machines Work
Mild electrical signals play a crucial role in transmitting information between cells. It allows the body to carry out essential processes such as muscle movement, sensory perception, and even regulating heartbeat. Electric therapy machines work on these principles to deliver therapeutic relief and improve muscle functions. Mainly, the unit sends electrical impulses to specific body parts to stimulate the sensory nerves, muscles, and tissues.
The electrical stimulation can have various effects depending on the settings and intensity levels. One of the effects is pain modulation. It interferes with the transmission of pain signals to the brain. It can also trigger the release of endorphins, the natural painkillers of the body. These can provide relief for individuals suffering from chronic and acute pain.
Another effect of electric currents on the body is muscle stimulation. The electrical pulses can cause muscles to contract, which can help with muscle rehabilitation and strengthening. It can also improve blood circulation in the targeted area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Mechanisms of Actions
One of the main mechanisms behind the pain relief effects is the Gate Control Theory. According to this theory, electrical currents can close the gating mechanism in the spinal cord, where pain signals pass through the brain. Moreover, the same currents at lower frequency levels can initiate endorphin production.
Electrotherapy also helps dilate blood vessel size, known as vasodilation. This leads to increased blood flow to the treated area, helping to reduce inflammation. Additionally, stimulation of the motor nerves induces muscle contractions, similar to when a person flexes them. This can help improve muscle strength without the strain of exercise.
Applications of Electric Therapy Machines
Electric therapy machines are versatile devices with a wide range of applications. Firstly, it is beneficial in pain management and physical therapy. A prevalent type is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). The technique can help treat various conditions, including musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic pain, chronic low-back pain, and labour pain.
Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is another application of the device. They are beneficial in physical rehabilitation to strengthen muscles that were weakened due to an injury or surgery. It also promotes the regeneration of blood vessels, enhancing tissue healing and reducing inflammation. This makes it a valuable tool to increase muscle functions and the range of motion.
Furthermore, electronic pulse massagers can aid in relaxation and stress relief. TENS and EMS devices often offer modes that provide soothing massage or gentle tingling or tapping sensations. This helps relax the muscles, alleviating stress and muscle tension or soreness. Other applications would include stimulation of the vagus nerve, pelvic floor muscles, and lymphatic drainage.
Are There Potential Side Effects?
Therapy machines are generally safe to use, but there are some potential side effects to be aware of. One common reaction is skin irritation or redness at the electrode site. This may occur due to the adhesives of the pads. To avoid this, clean the skin before placing the electrodes. Also, use hypoallergenic pads.
Another possible side effect is muscle soreness or fatigue after prolonged therapy administration. Some may also experience headaches or dizziness due to high stimulation levels. Make sure to set the pulse rate and intensity within a tolerable range to avoid discomfort.
Conclusion
Electric therapy machines have various purposes. One of the main types of devices is a TENS machine. It is mainly used in pain modulation through the pain gate mechanism and endogenous opioid release. TENS therapy works by blocking pain messages from reaching the brain. Another type is electrical muscle stimulation. This therapy aims to improve muscle function and prevent muscle atrophy. It is beneficial for rehabilitating injuries and limited mobility.
These devices have adjustable settings to suit individual needs and preferences. They are generally safe to use, but it is essential to be aware of potential side effects such as skin irritation or muscle soreness. Overall, electrical stimulation therapy can provide effective pain relief, muscle stimulation, and relaxation, making them valuable tools in various healthcare settings. Individuals can get handheld devices or wireless types like the iTENS for personal or home use.
