Interferential Current stimulation is very useful in the treatment of circulatory and muscular disorders, stiffness of joints, edema, and inflammation. If you suffer from health problems such as cumulative trauma disorders, body pain, joint injuries, or are pre or post orthopedic surgery, interferential current therapy is and important option.
What is Interferential current therapy (IFC)?
Apr 14, 2018 · 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.
Is Interferential current therapy effective for pain management?
Interferential current therapy has quick and lasting effects. It targets the damaged tissues around the injured area and therefore, gives relief from pain, swelling, and inflammation. IFC is a common treatment method to cure pain. A research study conducted in 2010 at the University of Alberta highlights that it can manage musculoskeletal pain. It can provide relief from chronic back …
What is the basic principle of interferential therapy?
Oct 06, 2017 · Interferential therapy is a type of therapy which is very effective and is used in relieving pain by various physiotherapic clinics. This helps to accelerate the process of self healing and getting a patient’s body free from pain and regain healthy physical conditions.
What is an Interferential current machine?
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. It utilizes a higher frequency than traditional electrical current therapy.
How does IFC decrease pain?
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.Jan 3, 2017
What are the physiological effects of interferential therapy?
The physiological effects include: Increasing local blood flow which can improve healing by reducing swelling and as a result helps remove damaged tissue and bring nutrients necessary for healing to the injured area. Stimulation of local nerve cells providing a pain reducing effect.
How effective is IFC?
Frequencies produced by the IFC have been proven to stimulate endorphins, the body's natural pain killers. This can help to create a self-healing process without the need to for medications. This form of therapy is also extremely useful in reducing pain, inflammation, curing edema, and spasms.
Does IFC help trigger points?
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).Oct 16, 2014
What is interferential current therapy?
Interferential current therapy (ICT, or sometimes IFC) is the most common type of electrical muscle stimulation used to treat chronic pain resulting from surgery, injury or trauma. The end goal for using ICT as part of a physical therapy or rehab program is to relieve pain and help patients heal faster.Nov 21, 2019
Is interferential therapy effective?
Fourteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. 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.
When is interferential therapy used?
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. Interferential therapy is used for the following symptoms: Acute and chronic pain e.g. lower back pain and sciatica.
How do you use interferential current?
0:022:34How to prepare for Interferential Current (IFC) treatment? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFor the interferential current treatment depending on the size of the treatment area you can applyMoreFor the interferential current treatment depending on the size of the treatment area you can apply for pads or in a smaller area you can apply two pads. And use a pre modulation setting on the device.
What is IFT in physiotherapy side effects?
The use of IFT is generally considered safe with virtually no side effects. Precautions are, however, recommended in patients with pacemaker, local infection, tumours and hypersensitivity to the gel electrodes. The current case emphasises an unusual excessive morphine-like effect.
What position should the electrodes be placed in when using interferential current?
0:559:33Interferential and Premod for Acute and Chronic Pain - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe will then place the electrodes on the skin remember with interferential we want to do this in aMoreWe will then place the electrodes on the skin remember with interferential we want to do this in a crossing pattern.
Is IFC better than TENS?
Research has shown that each is effective for different types of pain. For example, IFC has been shown to be more useful for short-term treatment of acute inflammatory pain. Conversely, TENS may be a better option for your patients with chronic pain.Oct 21, 2016
Does a TENS unit reduce inflammation?
Thankfully the TENS unit can help with Inflammation as well. Numerous studies have discovered that the electric impulses can reduce inflammation located deep within the muscle fibers.
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 is a sweep in neurology?
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.
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.
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.
What is a sweep in neurology?
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.
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.
Where is the interferential current produced?
In this therapy, the interferential current is produced on the skin, of the affected body part of the patient, with the help of interferential device by expert physiotherapist. This interferential current penetrates into the skin and reaches the underlying living muscle tissue. This therapy involves an orthopaedic physical therapy setting.
What is interferential therapy?
Interferential therapy is a type of therapy which is very effective and is used in relieving pain by various physiotherapic clinics. This helps to accelerate the process of self healing and getting a patient’s body free from pain and regain healthy physical conditions. In this therapy, the interferential current is produced on the skin, ...
How long is a physiotherapy session?
This therapy is given to patients for 15 minutes in a single session. Physiotherapy treatment plays a vital role in management of pain and some more physical conditions. The basic principles of interferential therapy are to utilise strong physiological effect in low frequency of electrical stimulations to muscle tissues and nerves too.
How long does it take for a patient to get a pain relief?
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 is electrode gel therapy?
In this therapy, on the allotted portion of the body part of the patient, a lubricant known as electrode gel is applied at first. Then the four electrodes are placed in clover leaf pattern right angle to each other.
Does interferential therapy follow any rules?
The interferential therapy does not follow any such rules and regulations or guidelines for the patients after the treatment is done. In case of patients having any other problem in their body, must follow all the rules and guidelines as prescribed by their concerned doctors.
Can physiotherapy help with pain?
Patients suffering from pain in various body parts are generally eligible for the treatment. This therapy is also used in sports medical field, such as athletes, who gets sudden pain due to any heavy exercise or any accidental event are sometimes provided this therapy by expert physiotherap ists and has proved to be helpful for quick recovery.
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 IFS in musculoskeletal?
For individuals who have musculoskeletal conditions who receive Interferential current stimulation (IFS), the evidence includesrandomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses. Relevant outcomes are symptoms, functional outcomes, quality of life,medication use, and treatment-related morbidity. Placebo-controlled randomized trial(s) have found that IFS when used to treatmusculoskeletal pain and impaired function(s), does not significantly improve outcomes; additionally, a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials did not find a significant benefit of IFS for decreasing pain or improving function. The evidence is insufficient todetermine the effects of the technology on health outcomes.
What is the NG59?
In 2016, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence had a guideline (NG59) on assessment and management of low backpain and sciatica in people aged 16 and over.3, The guideline states "Do not offer interferential therapy for managing low back pain withor without sciatica”.
How does localized blood flow help with swelling?
an increase in localized blood flow which can improve healing by reducing swelling (the additional blood flowing through the area takes edematous fluid away with it) and as a result helps remove damaged tissue and bring nutrients necessary for healing to the injured area
What is interference in a knee?
Where the two currents meet, they actually ‘interfere’ with each other ; hence the name ‘interferential.’.
What is IFC equipment?
Interferential Current (IFC) Equipment. Interferential current (IFC) therapy is a therapeutic modality that is used often in an orthopedic physical therapy setting. The following article serves as a brief introduction to the modality and it’s uses.
Why does my electrode feel uncomfortable?
If discomfort is felt it is usually because an electrode sponge is not damp enough or because the sponge is not entirely covering the electrode and therefore is allowing some direct contact between a portion of the electrode and the skin.
Is IFC safe for pregnant women?
However, use should be avoided on individuals with pacemakers and near the low back or abdomen of pregnant women.
Can a strong current cause pain?
The intensity of the current should be increased within the patient’s comfort level. A stronger current will usually have a more beneficial effect but the intensity should not be turned up so high as to cause pain.
Can you feel discomfort from an interference current?
The patient should not feel any discomfort from the application of the interferential current. The electrodes will usually be used with a damp sponge placed between the electrode and the patient’s skin.
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 …