Electrical Stimulation, or E-Stim, sends mild electrical impulses through the skin to help stimulate injured muscles or manipulate nerves to decrease pain. It helps improve blood flow, promotes relaxation, and blocks pain.
Uses a weak current to help with chronic and acute pain
Uses a stronger current to cause rhythmic muscle contractions, which aid in injury recovery
Similar to TENS; uses current to stimulate nerves and decrease pain
Uses a strong current to restore muscle function and strength, prevent muscle atrophy, and reduce spasms
2-4 self-adhesive electrodes will be placed on specific areas of skin depending on what is being treated and the goals of therapy. Patients will feel a tingling sensation which may cause slight contractions of nearby muscles. It is generally well-tolerated and most patients find the sensation decreases their pain. Treatments typically last 8-15 minutes.
Most people can benefit from E-Stim, but there are certain instances when it should not be used, such as for people with a history of cancer, certain skin conditions, or presence of a pacemaker. Talk to your therapist for more information
