This treatment uses a mixture of electric currents, (both galvanic and impulse) that have an inhibitory or facilitatory effect depending on the frequency, intensity and other parameters. The result is both pain relief and an improvement in circulation. Generally the treatment is prescribed for conditions such as sprains, bruises, oedemas, joint and spine wear and disc degeneration.
Four cell galvanic bath
This treatment is especially beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis. The forearms and lower limbs are placed into water trays of 34 °C. Water and a gentle electrical current are the components of this treatment and the electric current is passed through these particular body parts. Because only the limbs of the body are immersed in water, the electric current in the four-cell bath can be given at a stronger intensity that the full galvanic bath (See: Galvanic Bath). The treatment also has the benefit of improving the circulation.
Galvanic bath
Water and a gentle electrical current are the components of this treatment that is carried out in a bath at a temperature of 34 °C whilst the electricity is passed through the body. The electric current causes a tranquillizing effect in cases of nerve agitation. This makes the treatment suitable for all aching conditions of the motor organs, in particular degenerative, inflammatory arthritis and joint problems. It also has a positive effect in improving the metabolism of the tissues, the shrinking of oedemas and reducing pain and spasticity.
Interference
In this treatment different medium frequency electrical pads are placed onto the body in conjunction with a small vacuum. The effect is one of a micro massage on the damaged tissue. Depending on the pre-set frequency the muscles can be stimulated to a so-called muscle gymnastic condition or alternatively produce relaxation in muscle tone to have an analgesic effect. The treatment has two advantages, firstly it reduces pain and secondly the micro massage improves the circulation and flow of oxygen to the tissue resulting in a healing effect.
Ionphoresis
This is a treatment whereby medicines are absorbed into the body, through the skin by means of an electric galvanic current. This is normally recommended as a treatment in cases of arthritis and chronic inflammatory spinal problems.
Magnetic therapy
This treatment is conducted in the lying position on a bed or couch, while the treated body part is exposed to an artificial magnetic field (magnetic blanket, contact treatment head or magnetic cylinder). By creating a weak pulsating magnetic field around the body, it has the effect of recharging the magnetic stimulation of the cells. This results in the normalizing of the metabolism and regeneration of cells thereby supporting the healing process. The treatment also has counter indications, such as implanted cardio stimulators (pace maker), fungal diseases, tumors and pregnancy.
Selective stimulus galvanic current
Two pads are placed at both ends of the indicated muscle. An electric current is released between the two pads. As a result it is possible to feel the muscle fibers contracting and relaxing as the treatment is in progress. The purpose of this treatment is to build strength in the muscles following an injury or operation and is an important part of a rehabilitation package.
Tens
Transcutaneous Electric Neuro Stimulation This uses the principle that pain and pain impulses in the body can be dispersed through stimulation of the nervous system by an electrical current. This electrical current is either applied in impulses in short bursts, in waves or in a continuous stream. A pad is placed upon the site of the problematic area and the current passes through the skin to the nerve. This treatment is especially effective for conditions that require the reduction of pain particularly on the back or neck, specific examples include spine diseases, headaches and post-traumatic pain.
