Electrical Stimulation (E-stim) is a tool often used by both physical therapists and chiropractors. When used correctly, and can relieve pain, spasms, inflammation, and even muscle weakness. In other words, E-stim mimics muscle contraction. Electrodes attached to the skin carry these neurological impulses. Starting at a low frequency, the impulses will get slightly more intense to get to an effective, but still comfortable range. E-stim can help with things from headaches to ankle sprains.
What to Expect
While it might sound a little nerve-wracking, E-stim is a pretty simple process. The administrator will ask you to expose the area of your body that’s being treated. They will then apply the electrodes, which usually look like a sticky, 2D square. The physical therapist or chiropractor will turn the machine on, and you will start to feel a tingling sensation. They will increase the frequency and strength of impulses until it feels manageably strong.
For some, this is going to feel weird and slightly uncomfortable. A bit of discomfort is okay, but E-stim should never hurt. If it starts to, please ask your administrator to turn it down.
How Long?
In regard to treatment, most appointments last around 15 minutes or so. By the end of the visit, pain should be reduced. And in some cases, patients experience improved function. And in regard to pain relief, that can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
*Please note that here at Zock Family Chiropractic, we believe in a holistic approach to healing and encourage all patients to look at other tools to promote healing.
The Benefits of E-Stim
When chiropractic care is concerned, patients who also utilize E-stim see an improvement in:
- Lower back pain
- Knee pain
- Shoulder pain
- Elbow pain
- Muscle spasm
- Muscle fatigue
- Training recovery
- Numbness
- Pinched nerves
It is recommended that those who suffer from chronic back pain, post-surgical pain, poor motor control. Those with tendonitis or bursitis consider E-stim as part of their healing.
Different Types of Electrical Stimulation Therapy
Different types of electrical stimulation can meet different goals. Here are some of the most common types of E-stim:
- TENS: this type of E-stim is useful for those who suffer from chronic pain. Transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation blocks pain signals moving from your body to the brain
- Iontophoresis: this type of E-stim actually helps optimize the medication you take. In this version, the electrical current pushes administered medicines through your skin and into the body.
- NMES: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation uses impulses to make your muscles contract. Electrodes are placed over the top of the muscle and other various locations to affect the severity of contraction.
- Russian Stimulation: similar to NMES as it also helps the muscles contract. Russian stim is a bit less intense.
- IFC: most often used to decrease pain. It can decrease spasms, relieve pain, and even improve localized blood flow.
Pain Relief with Zock Family Chiropractic
If you’re someone who suffers from chronic pain, adding chiropractic care may be the natural preventative treatment you need. If you would like more insight into optimizing your body, Dr. Zock would love to discuss your thoughts and concerns. She can evaluate your body mechanics and help you decide what natural methods are best for your specific pain relief! Make an appointment in Cranberry to schedule an introductory session and provide you with a happy and healthy fall season!
* This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please contact a medical professional for advice.
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