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Electrical stimulation therapy, often referred to as e-stim therapy or electrotherapy, is a therapeutic technique that uses electrical currents to stimulate nerves and muscles. It is commonly used in physical therapy, sports medicine, and rehabilitation settings to manage pain, improve muscle function, and aid in the recovery process. We offer it at our Denver Sports Rehab facility. Because not everyone is familiar with this effective form of therapy, we want to share with you just how this therapy works and can help you.

How E-Stim Therapy Works

In e-stim therapy, electrodes are placed on or near the area of the body being treated. These electrodes are connected to a device that generates controlled electrical currents. The therapist or healthcare provider adjusts the parameters of the electrical stimulation, including the frequency, pulse duration, and intensity, to meet the specific treatment goals and the patient's needs.

When the electrical currents are applied, they stimulate the nerves and muscles in the targeted area. The stimulation can vary from gentle tingling sensations to more pronounced muscle contractions, depending on the settings.

E-stim therapy can help reduce pain through several mechanisms. It may block pain signals from reaching the brain, stimulate the release of endorphins (natural pain relievers), and promote muscle relaxation.

Why E-Stim Therapy Works

E-stim therapy is effective in managing various types of pain, including acute and chronic pain. It can be particularly beneficial for conditions like back pain, neck pain, arthritis, and nerve-related pain syndromes.

E-stim therapy is often used to strengthen and rehabilitate muscles that have been weakened due to injury, surgery, or disuse. It helps improve muscle tone and prevent muscle atrophy.

Additionally, electrical stimulation can enhance blood circulation in the treated area, promoting tissue healing and reducing swelling. This therapy has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to decrease inflammation in injured or inflamed tissues.

For individuals with nerve injuries or conditions like peripheral neuropathy, e-stim therapy can improve nerve function and reduce symptoms such as numbness and tingling.

It also helps retrain muscles and nerves to work together effectively, restoring functional movement patterns.

In summary, e-stim therapy works by using controlled electrical currents to stimulate nerves and muscles, providing pain relief, improving muscle function, and aiding in the rehabilitation process. If you are curious to see if this therapy can help you relieve pain or recover faster, contact us today to schedule an appointment.