Chronic pain and muscle aches are unfortunate experiences for many people. While medications may bring temporary relief, some people choose natural approaches to pain relief offered by chiropractors, such as massage therapy and acupuncture. However, if the aches persist, electrotherapy may be a viable option. Below is a helpful guide to help you learn more about this treatment option. 

What Is Electrotherapy?

Also known as electrical muscle stimulation, electrotherapy is a treatment that uses low-level electrical pulses to stimulate the musculoskeletal and peripheral nervous systems. The treatment is designed to promote tissue regeneration and pain management. The electrical signals used during the application disrupt the neural pain signals as they travel to the brain.

As a result, pain is minimized, and the endorphin hormone is released from the brain to relieve pain further. 

What Are Its Benefits?

Electrotherapy is a non-habit forming treatment for chronic pain relief. It involves no chemicals or dangerous additives. The electrical pulses are natural and safe enough to use as needed. 

In addition to reducing nerve pain and tissue healing, electrotherapy can also improve local blood circulation and prevent muscle spasms. Atrophy from disuse is a painful ordeal caused by an injury. However, electrotherapy stimulates muscles without causing additional discomfort. The result is increased muscle thickness and the interruption of atrophy.

How Is the Treatment Applied?

Most electrotherapy treatments are applied using a small battery-operated device connected to wires with electrode pads on their ends. The pads have a mild adhesive that will stick to skin without leaving residue behind. The chiropractor will place the pads on problematic areas where pain, muscle spasms, or atrophy persist. The device is then turned on, and mild electrical pulses are sent through the wires and into the skin. 

Electrotherapy can also be applied using ultrasound therapy. It works well for people experiencing the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome, scar tissue pain, sprains, strains, and osteoarthritis. The handheld device uses sound waves to generate heat deep within tissue using vibrations. The warmth encourages healing by increasing the metabolism of the tissue cells.

If you are experiencing chronic pain, experienced chiropractor James Lustig, DC, and his team at Mid Rivers Chiropractic are here to help. Based out of Saint Peters, MO, these professionals use a wide range of chiropractic techniques to alleviate neck and back pain, including ultrasound therapy, acupuncture, and spinal adjustments. Dr. Lustig will pinpoint the source of your problem and perform the necessary treatments to improve your overall wellness. To learn more about his services, call (636) 279-1400 or visit his website today.