How long does interferential therapy take to work?
The interferential therapy being just a temporary pain relief therapy takes a time duration of seven days minimum to get a healthy result for a patient. However due to less effectiveness it can be given to a patient continuously for 21 day to a month, for severe cases, as required.
What are the benefits of interferential therapy?
Benefits of interferential include: Increasing local blood flow to reduce swelling. Pain relief. Reduce muscle spasm. Interferential can be used to treat incontinence or muscle weakness secondary to trauma or surgery. This is only used in extreme weakness when a person cannot produce a muscle contraction.
What is inferential current therapy?
The treatment of inferential therapy is done to the localized body part that is affected by muscle pain. This therapy is done with the help of a device known as inferential current therapy device. This device consists of four electrodes and a current intensity regulator.
Does interferential intravenous stimulation (IFT) work?
It has been suggested that IFT works in a ‘special way’ because it is ‘interferential’ as opposed to ‘normal’ stimulation. The evidence for this special effect is lacking and it is most likely that IFT is just another means by which peripheral nerves can be stimulated.
How long does IFC pain relief last?
Both traditional IFC and PREMOD IFC can be done at sensory and motor levels. Sensory settings provide segmental pain relief that is fast-acting and lasts for several hours. Motor stimulation tends to be slower-acting, but may relieve pain for up to 8 hours via segmental and systemic pain modulation.
How effective is interferential therapy in pain management?
Interferential current therapy is an effective therapy option used by many physiotherapy clinics to relieve pain and accelerate the self-healing process, getting your body back to a healthy, pain free state. The high frequency signals of an IFC penetrate through the skin into deeper lying muscle tissues.
Is interferential therapy effective?
Conclusion: Interferential current as a supplement to another intervention seems to be more effective for reducing pain than a control treatment at discharge and more effective than a placebo treatment at the 3-month follow-up.
What are the side effects of interferential therapy?
Common side effects of opioids including synthetic tramadol are reported as sedation, dizziness, physical dependence and loss of alertness. Endorphins or enkephalin produced through IFT may be excessive or may interact with tramadol HCl and potentiate its effects.
How does IFC reduce inflammation?
IFC sends small amounts of electrical current through the skin to stimulate the tissues around an injured body part to promote pain relief and healing.
What does interferential therapy feel like?
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.
How many times a day can you use electrotherapy?
You can begin with one 15-minute therapy session. Repeat for another 15 minutes if needed. Use up to three times per day at a maximum. During each therapy, rate your pain before and after the session, 1 (low) to 10 (high) in order to gauge the true reduction of pain.
What are the benefits of interferential therapy?
Benefits of interferential include:Increasing local blood flow to reduce swelling.Pain relief.Reduce muscle spasm.Interferential can be used to treat incontinence or muscle weakness secondary to trauma or surgery. This is only used in extreme weakness when a person cannot produce a muscle contraction.
What is the cost of IFT machine in physiotherapy?
PHYSIO LIFE CARE Physiotherapy Combination Therapy Ultrasonic Wit... Tycoon Physio Solutions Ultrasonic With TENS Auto Mode 4 channel ......MEDI-PLUSE IFT MACHINE FOR PHYSIOTHERAPY ELECTROTHERAPY Electrotherapy Device (MINI IFT002)Domestic Warranty1 YearCovered in WarrantyMAIN DIVICE4 more rows
Does electrical stimulation help nerve damage?
All experimental results indicated that electrical stimulation facilitates regeneration of injured nerve; direct stimulation caused better recovery than TENS with respect to functional and morphological parameters during the six weeks of the experiment.
Can electrical stimulation cause nerve damage?
Generally, greater intensity, higher frequency, and longer pulse width stimulation lead to more severe damage in nerve cells (McCreery et al., 2004). In addition, although short-term electrical stimulation is not damaging to nervous tissue, chronic electrical stimulation can damage nerve structure.
Can IFC cross the spine?
It has limitations, however, including a limited capacity to treat a small area, such as a hand or wrist or ankle. IFC is more suited for larger treatment sites, such as the spine.
How effective is IFT?
IFT has been claimed to be effective as a treatment to promote the reabsorption of oedema in the tissues. Again, the evidence is very limited in this respect and the physiological mechanism by which is could be achieved as a direct effect of the IFT remains to be established. The preferable clinical option in the light of the available evidence is to use the IFT to bring about local muscle contraction (s) which combined with the local vascular changes that will result (see above) could be effective in encouraging the reabsorption of tissue fluid. The use of suction electrodes may be beneficial, but also remains unproven in this respect.
Why does IFT work?
It has been suggested that IFT works in a ‘special way’ because it is ‘interferential’ as opposed to ‘normal’ stimulation. The evidence for this special effect is lacking and it is most likely that IFT is just another means by which peripheral nerves can be stimulated.
What is the principle of IFT?
The basic principle of Interferential Therapy (IFT) is to utilise the significant physiological effects of low frequency (<250pps) electrical stimulation of nerves without the associated painful and somewhat unpleasant side effects sometimes associated with low frequency stimulation.
How does 2 pole IFT work?
The use of 2 pole IFT stimulation is made possible by electronic manipulation of the currents - the interference occurs within the machine instead of in the tissues. There is no known physiological difference between the effects of IFT produced with 2 or 4 electrode systems.
What frequency is used to stimulate opioids?
Alternatively, stimulation with lower frequencies (2-5Hz) can be used to activate the opioid mechanisms, again providing a degree of relief.
Can portable devices be used for interferential therapy?
Recently, numerous ‘portable’ interferenti al devices have become easily available. Despite their size, they are perfectly capable of delivering ‘proper’ interferential therapy, though some have limited functionality and ability for the practitioner to ‘set’ all parameters.
Introduction of Interferential current Therapy (IFT)
The basic principle of Interferential Current Therapy (IFT) is to utilise the significant physiological effects of low frequency (<250pps) electrical stimulation of nerves without the associated painful and somewhat unpleasant side effects sometimes associated with low frequency stimulation.
PRINCIPLES OF IFT
To produce low frequency effects at sufficient intensity and at sufficient depth, patients can experience considerable discomfort in the superficial tissues (i.e. the skin). This is due to the impedance of the skin being inversely proportional to the frequency of the stimulation.
Physiological Effects of Interferential current Therapy (IFT)
Excitable tissues can be stimulated by low frequency alternating currents.
Uses of Interferential current Therapy (IFT)
Electrical stimulation for pain relief has widespread clinical use, thought the direct research evidence for the use of I/F in this role is limited. Logically one could use the higher frequencies (90-150Hz) to stimulate the pain gate mechanisms & thereby mask the pain symptoms.
Interferential current therapy contraindications
The following condition in which Interferential current therapy contraindicated as per below mentioned. :
IFT Precautions
Following precautions should taken when you applying Interferential therapy as per below :
IFT parameters
Electrode positioning should ensure adequate coverage of the area for stimulation. In some circumstances, a bipolar method is preferable if a longitudinal zone requires stimulation rather than an isolated tissue area. Placement of the electrodes should be such that a crossover effect is achieved in the desired area.
What is IFT therapy?
The basic principle of Interferential Therapy (IFT) is to utilise the strong physiologicaportable iftl effects of low frequency (<250pps) electrical stimulation of nerves without the associated painful and somewhat unpleasant side effects sometimes associated with low frequency stim.
Why does IFT work?
It has been suggested that IFT works in a ‘special way’ because it is ‘interferential’ as opposed to ‘normal’ stimulation. The evidence for this special effect is lacking and it is most likely that IFT is just another means by which peripheral nerves can be stimulated.
Does IFT help with oedema?
Increased local blood flow. Reduction of oedema. In addition, claims are made for its role in stimulating healing and repair. As IFT acts primarily on the excitable (nerve) tissues, the strongest effects are likely to be those which are a direct result of such stimulation (i.e. pain relief and muscle stimulation).
Can interferential therapy be used to stimulate nerves?
It is not capable of direct stimulation of nerve in the common context of such stimulation. Interferential therapy utilises two of these medium frequency currents, passed through the tissues simultaneously, where they are set up so that their paths cross & they literally interfere with each other.
INTRODUCTION
It is a type of electo therapy treatment that uses electric currents to stimulate tissue which provides pain relief, reduction of swelling and many other health benefits.
Skin impedance Interferential therapy
Main problem of direct application of faradic or sinusoidal currents to patient is the very high skin impedance .
Principle of Interferential therapy
It is to pass two medium frequency alternating currents which are the slightly out of phase , through the tissue., where the currents intersect to produce a low frequency effect .
Principle of wave inter fence of Interferential therapy
When the two sinusoidal waves that are exactly in phase or one ,two or three wavelength out of phase , the waves supplement each other in constructive inter fence.
Sweep principle of Interferential therapy
It is using the machine set to automatically the effective stimulation.
Vector effect of Interferential therapy
The interference field is rotated to an angle of 450 in each direction, the field thus covers a wider area.
Frequency swings of Interferential therapy
Some equipment allows a variation in the speed of the frequency swing.
How do you know if interferential current stimulation therapy may be a treatment option for you?
You have muscle spasms, joint damage, edema, muscle strains, or sports injuries.
What is interferential therapy used for?
Interferential current therapy (ICT or sometimes shortened to IFC or IFT) is the most common form of electrical muscle stimulation. It is a noninvasive, drug-free, therapy with minimal side effects. At Loehr Health Center, ICT is used in conjunction with other modalities like chiropractic care and decompression therapy to promote healing.
What is interferential current therapy?
Interferential current therapy is a form of electrical therapy that uses a pair of electrodes containing two independent circuits, high frequency (4,000 Hz) and medium frequency (150 Hz), alternating currents.
What happens during an interferential therapy session?
You are completely clothed during your interferential therapy session. Your provider will ask you to lie on your stomach or back on a therapy table. (Depending on the area being treated, you may be asked to sit upright in a chair instead.)
How much is an interferential therapy treatment?
Loehr Health Center’s clinical team takes a multidisciplinary approach to managing and treating spinal disorders. Interferential therapy is usually part of an individualized treatment plan that includes spinal adjustments with a chiropractor. The cost of interferential therapy per treatment is $25.
What are the side effects of interferential therapy?
Interferential therapy is a non-invasive treatment with minimal side effects. You will feel your muscles contracting during interferential therapy. Patients report a buzzing or tingling sensation on the skin.
How many interferential treatments are required to resolve my condition?
The type of and frequency of treatments that are recommended to you’re you achieve your health goals depends on the severity of your condition and pain level.
What is IFC therapy?
Interferential current (IFC) therapy is not a new technology; rather, it has been available for many years and predates all but the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit from a longevity standpoint. When it comes to reducing tight muscles stemming from muscle guarding, muscle spasms, myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, fascial restrictions, and trigger points, my clinical nod goes to IFC first ( Table 1 ). It has earned the right to be chosen frontline through its long and uncomplicated history of providing reliable pain reduction through reduction of muscular tension levels.
How does IFC work?
IFC treatment uses patient-specific feedback and is controlled with an intensity dial by the provider. Like most forms of electrostimulation, it suffers from “accommodation,” whereby the provider often needs to increase the intensity to counteract the physiological tolerance that develops during a treatment session. Any time the brain can figure out the stimulation pattern, accommodation is likely to follow and be a consideration in treatment effectiveness.
Why is IFC not intuitive?
An IFC treatment setup is not intuitive because of the diagonal pattern required for this treatment mode . Despite providers being taught/trained in the correct way to set up an IFC placement, it is often performed incorrectly. There is no standardization in electrode color (red/black) from one company to the next, which creates confusion. For example, some companies have 2 of the same colors for a given channel while others have different colors for the same channel. Something as simple as electrode color can cause provider confusion and lead to incorrect electrode placement. This can potentially render the overall treatment less effective, with possible adverse effects. Also, more clarity regarding spinal electrode pad placement would be useful to improve safety and help prevent adverse effects. So it’s comforting to have an old standby such as IFC in this top 10 list, but even classic technology should continue to get even better.
Is IFC good for fibromyalgia?
IFC is comfortable and well tolerated when patients are selected properly. Patients with a low pain/pressure tolerance do not do very well with IFC. Therefore, fibromyalgia patients need to be individually screened for this treatment.
Is IFC good for you?
The affordability of an IFC unit is an advantage, and, as a result, it provides good value for the provider. A good case can be made for IFC for adjunctive electrotherapy as part of the care plan for many soft-tissue conditions involving pain and muscle tightness. It has limitations, however, including a limited capacity to treat a small area, such as a hand or wrist or ankle. IFC is more suited for larger treatment sites, such as the spine.
What is interferential therapy?
Interferential therapy is widely used by physiotherapists. It uses electrical current to reduce swelling, relieve pain and stimulate muscle. Interferential applies two different frequencies that interfere with one another to produce a medium frequency current within the tissues.
When to use interferential?
When we use interferential? Interferential is commonly used for pain relief, to promote tissue healing, relieve muscle spasm and stimulate deeply situated muscles such as the pelvic floor muscles. Acute and chronic pain e.g. lower back pain and sciatica.
Introduction
- The basic principle of Interferential Therapy (IFT) is to utilise the significant physiological effects of low frequency (<250pps) electrical stimulation of nerves without the associated painful and somewhat unpleasant side effects sometimes associated with low frequency stimulation. Recently, numerous portable interferential devices have become ea...
Benefits
- By careful manipulation of the input currents it is possible to achieve any beat frequency that you might wish to use clinically. Modern machines usually offer frequencies of 1-150Hz, though some offer a choice of up to 250Hz or more. To a greater extent, the therapist does not have to concern themselves with the input frequencies, but simply with the appropriate beat frequency which is s…
Mechanism
- The magnitude of the low frequency interference current is (in theory) approximately equivalent to the sum of the input amplitudes. It is difficult to show categorically that this is the case in the tissues but it is reasonable to suggest that the resultant current will be stronger than either of the 2 input currents. The use of 2 pole IFT stimulation is made possible by electronic manipulation o…
Treatment
- Whichever way it is generated, the treatment effect is generated from low frequency stimulation, primarily involving the peripheral nerves. There may indeed be significant effect on tissue other than nerves, but they have not as yet been unequivocally demonstrated. Low frequency nerve stimulation is physiologically effective (as with TENS and NMES) and this is the key to IFT interv…
Usage
- Note : Care needs to be taken when setting the sweep on a machine in that with some devices, the user sets the actual base and top frequencies (e.g. 10 and 25Hz) and with other machines the user sets the base frequency and then how much needs to be added for the sweep (e.g. 10 and 15Hz). Knowing which was round your machine works is critical to effective treatment. The patt…
Examples
- There is a clear difference between these examples even though the same numbers are set. One will deliver a full range of stimulation frequencies between the set frequency levels and the other will switch from one frequency to the other. There are numerous other variations on this theme, and the trapeziodal sweep is effectively a combination of these two.
Analysis
- The only sweep pattern for which evidence appears to exist is the triangular sweep. The others are perfectly safe to use, but whether they are clinically effective or not remains to be shown.
Function
- It has been suggested that IFT works in a special way because it is interferential as opposed to normal stimulation. The evidence for this special effect is lacking and it is most likely that IFT is just another means by which peripheral nerves can be stimulated. It is rather a generic means of stimulation the machine can be set up to act more like a TENS type device or can be set up to be…
Criticism
- Selection of a wide frequency sweeps has been considered less efficient than a smaller selective range in that by treating with a frequency range of say 1-100Hz, the effective treatment frequencies can be covered, but only for a relatively small percentage of the total treatment time. Additionally, some parts of the range might be counterproductive for the primary aims of the tre…
Applications
- In addition, claims are made for its role in stimulating healing and repair and for various specialised application e.g. stress incontinence, though for the former examples (healing nad repair) there is a dearth of quality research information available.
Effects
- As IFT acts primarily on the excitable (nerve) tissues, the strongest effects are likely to be those which are a direct result of such stimulation (i.e. pain relief and muscle stimulation). The other effects are more likely to be secondary consequences of these.
Research
- Electrical stimulation for pain relief has widespread clinical use, thought the direct research evidence for the use of IFT in this role is limited. Logically one could use the higher frequencies (90-130Hz) to stimulate the pain gate mechanisms & thereby mask the pain symptoms. Alternatively, stimulation with lower frequencies (2-5Hz) can be used to activate the opioid mec…
Safety
- Whichever electrode system is employed, electrode positioning should ensure adequate coverage of the area for stimulation. Using larger electrodes will minimise patient discomfort whilst small, closely spaced electrodes increase the risk of superficial tissue irritation and possible damage / skin burn.
Advantages
- The bipolar (2 pole) application method is perfectly acceptable, and there is no physiological difference in treatment outcome despite several anecdotal stories to the contrary. Recent research evidence supports the benefit of 2 pole application (e.g. Ozcan et al 2004).
Selected publications
- Adedoyin, R. A., et al. (2002). \"Effect of interferential current stimulation in management of osteo-arthritic knee pain.\" Physiotherapy 88(8): 493-9.
Diagnosis
- Almeida, T. F., et al. (2003). \"The effect of combined therapy (ultrasound and interferential current) on pain and sleep in fibromyalgia.\" Pain 104(3): 665-72.
Selected works
- Alves-Guerreiro, J.et al. (2001). \"The effect of three electrotherapeutic modalities upon peripheral nerve conduction and mechanical pain threshold.\" Clinical Physiology 21(6): 704-711. Atamaz, F. C. et al. (2012). \"Comparison of the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, interferential currents, and shortwave diathermy in knee osteoarthritis: a double-blind, randomiz…
Introduction & Ift Production
- The basic principle of Interferential Therapy (IFT) is to utilise the strong physiologicaportable iftl effects of low frequency (<250pps) electrical stimulation of nerves without the associated painful and somewhat unpleasant side effects sometimes associated with low frequency stim. To produce low frequency effects at sufficient intensity at depth...
Frequency Sweep
- Nerves will accommodate to a constant signal & a sweep (or gradually changing frequency) is often used to overcome this problem. The principle of using the sweep is that the machine is set to automatically vary the effective stimulation frequency using either pre-set or user set sweep ranges. The sweep range employed should be appropriate to the desired physiological effects (s…
Physiological Effects & Clinical Applications
- It has been suggested that IFT works in a ‘special way’ because it is ‘interferential’ as opposed to ‘normal’ stimulation. The evidence for this special effect is lacking and it is most likely that IFT is just another means by which peripheral nerves can be stimulated. It is rather a generic means of stimulation – the machine can be set up to act more like a TENS type device or can be set up to …
Treatment Parameters
- Stimulation can be applied using pad electrodes and sponge covers (which when wet provide a reasonable conductive part), though electroconductive get is an effective alternative. The sponges should be thoroughly wet to ensure even current distribution. Self adhesive pad electrodes are also available (similar to the newer TENS electrodes) and make the IFT application easier in the …