What is interferential therapy?

This treatment uses low frequency electrical current to stimulate nerve activity in the injured area of your body.

What are the benefits, risks and alternatives for treatment?

The therapy is designed to give you pain relief and to stimulate blood flow in the area being treated. This will increase the speed of healing and improve your mobility.

Interferential therapy is believed to improve the body’s own natural healing processes.

This treatment may not be suitable if:

• you are pregnant
• you have epilepsy
• you have an electronic implant such as a pacemaker or stimulator in the area to be treated
• you have had a recent infection
• your skin is in poor condition in the area to be treated
• you have had recent radiotherapy.

Depending on your clinical needs and diagnosis, alternatives to interferential therapy can be discussed with your physiotherapist

What will interferential therapy feel like?

The sensation varies depending upon the settings that the physiotherapist uses for your treatment. You may feel a tingling or ‘beat’ effect in your muscles.

Is any special preparation required before treatment?

No preparation is required before your treatment. Please wear clothing that allows access to the area being treated.

What happens on the day of treatment? 

Electrodes are placed on the skin to make contact between the machine and the body. The power from the interferential unit is then slowly increased until you feel a gentle sensation.

What do I need to know or do after treatment?

The treatment for your condition may require more than one visit. Your therapist will advise you about this.

If you have any questions about your treatment, ask your therapist.