Electro Therapy Method Interferential Current Therapy and Its History

Interferential Current Therapy, also known as IF, is a form of electro therapy, in which electricity is used to provide pain relief and promote tissue healing.

History
This therapy originated in Germany and was originally administered by an interferential physiotherapist. It wasn't until 1960 before the therapy was delivered by physical therapists in the U.S. It has been used by physiotherapists to reduce inflammation and swelling. It has also been observed that IFC helps sufferers of asthma and can benefit those with back pain and osteoarthritis.

Interferential Therapy and TENS
Pain treatment through mean of electricity first originated when TENS machines were developed. TENS (Transcutaneous Electronic Nerve Stimulation) also delivers electric current however it faces some resistance in penetrating skin and hence it results in an unpleasant feeling.

Interferential Therapy on the other hand penetrates skin more easily and is more comfortable and pleasant than TENS. The two currents produced by Interferential interfere with each other to create signals stronger than TENS which can penetrate deeply to interfere with pain sources. Hence, it can be argued that interferential is one step beyond TENS.

The resulting impulses stimulate underlying tissues and nerves. They are not painful though. Patients feel them as minor prickles on their skin.

How does it work?
The electrotherapy device involves placing electrodes on skin near the affected area. The electrical device generates minute electric impulses which are transmitted through your skin. The crossing over of two or more electric currents cancels parts of electric currents which create a different net current applied to the target tissue.

These low-frequency signals stimulate endorphins, natural painkillers produced by our body. Interferential therapy can treat muscle strains, sprains and spasms.

Many times a physical therapist might use warm moist heat also with the interferential treatment. It involves applying heat to reduce pain and promote healing once swelling has minimized. Heat applied to the affected are attracts blood which is conductor of electricity. More blood in the area create an electrically conducive environment. This enhances the ability of IFC current to stimulate underlying sensory nerves.

Interferential therapy can be used for:

Osteoarthritis, Muscle Reeducation, Acute Edema, Circulatory stimulation and Urinary and Fecal Incontinency.

Although there are many benefits of this therapy, there are some contraindications as well. It can not be applied near heart if the patient has a pacemaker. It can also not be used in pregnant women. Precaustions must be taken before use.