How Does It Work ?

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  Interferential current therapy works by sending small amounts of electrical stimulation to damaged tissues in the body. The therapy is meant to boost the body’s natural process for responding to pain, increase blood flow and the production of hormones that promote healing. 

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    ICT delivers stimulation through two different frequencies, one of about 4000Hz and the other varies up to 400Hz. When the two currents cross, the difference in frequency creates interference, which is where the name for the therapy originates. The exact frequencies, and resulting interferential frequency, can be controlled by the physical therapists during the session.

 

   The interferential current is able to travel deep into the muscle tissue or nerves for targeted treatment. This combination effect is also what makes ICT a strong form of therapy without some of the uncomfortable sensations associated with low-frequency stimulation. 

 Conditions Treated with ICT ?
 

   ICT is often used to treat muscle strains, spasms, sports injuries, joint damage, and edema. This therapy can provide relief from and chronic pain caused by arthritis, surgery, muscle damage, or an injury, and from symptoms like inflammation and swelling. IFC is often used in combination with chiropractic care and physiotherapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for these conditions. 

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   Treatment targets areas of the body to help alleviate soreness, promote healing and a quick recovery. Stimulation can be delivered deep into the tissue in localized areas including: 

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Musculoskeletal system : bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and connective tissues.

 

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• Neck 

• Shoulder

• Elbow

• Wrist

• Back

• Hipjoint

• Ankle

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In some cases, interferential current therapy is incorporated as part of a patient’s pain management program.

 

The Advantages of Interferential Current Therapy ?

 This type of stimulation releases endorphins to promote recovery while increasing blood circulation to the area to support the body’s natural healing process. ICT helps decrease swelling and inflammation and reduce or eliminate pain. It can also increase joint mobility and range of motion.  

 

What Patients Should Expect with ICT ?
 

 Though it may sound like a complicated or uncomfortable treatment, ICT is safe and painless. In fact, most patients say that they feel less discomfort and side effects with ICT than with other types of electrical stimulation. Most describe the experience as a tingling or ‘pins and needles’ sensation on the skin. 

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 Interferential current therapy usually requires sessions with a duration of about 15 to 30 minutes. During this time, the physiotherapist will attach four electrode pads to the area which will be treated. Wires connect the pads to the current intensity regulator device which delivers the frequencies required.

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  *Interferential Current Therapy Is Not Recommended : patients with pacemakers or severe health conditions.