What does interferential therapy means?
- Swarup Mondal
- Dec 31, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 4

Interferential therapy (also referred to as transcutaneous electrical stimulation or T.E.S.) is a non-invasive treatment. It involves the application of a medium frequency current wave, through the abdominal wall, to modulate (attune) the nerves of the large bowel.
It is basically used for the treatment of Chronic, Post Traumatic, and Post-surgical pains. The basic principle involves the utilization of effects of low frequencies (<250pps) without painful or unpleasant side effects. |
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How does interferential therapy works?
Interferential current therapy works by sending small amounts of electrical stimulation to damaged tissues in the body. The therapy is meant to boost the body's natural process of responding to pain, by increasing circulation thus producing hormones that promote healing. I.F.T. delivers intermittent pulses to stimulate surface nerves and block the pain signal, by delivering continuous deep stimulation into the affected tissue. I.F.T. relieves pain, increases circulation, decreases edema, and stimulates the muscles.

Where is I.F.T. used?
It is basically used for the treatment of Chronic, Post Traumatic, and Post-surgical pains. The basic principle involves the utilization of effects of low frequencies (<250pps) without painful or unpleasant side effects. The major advantage of I.F.T. is that it produces effects in the tissue, exactly where required without unnecessary and uncomfortable skin stimulation. This technique is widely used to elicit muscle contraction, promote healing and reduce edema.
Sweep frequency
The principle of using the sweep is that the machine is set to automatically vary the stimulation frequency, it uses either pre-set or user-set sweep ranges. The sweep range should be appropriate to the desired physiological effects.
Vector effect
The interference field is rotated to an angle of 450 in each direction, the field thus covers a wider area. This is useful in diffuse pathology or if the site of the lesion cannot be accurately localized.
Constant frequency
Some treatments may be carried out with the interference fixed at a certain frequency. Rhythmic frequency is useful if several types of tissues are to be treated at once. A variation in the frequency also overcomes the problem of tissue accommodation where the response of a particular tissue decreases with time.
How does interferential therapy feels?
Interferential therapy is generally well-tolerated by most individuals. During the session, you may feel a tingling or vibrating sensation at the treatment site. Some people describe it as a gentle, pulsating sensation. The intensity of the sensation can be adjusted by the therapist based on your comfort level.
Contraindications of I.F.T.
I.F.T. is a common pain-relieving modality without side effects that oral painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications have. Like any other therapeutic modality, it also has some limitations: Infective condition, Malignancy, Pacemakers, Loss of sensation, Danger of Hemorrhage, Large open wounds, Dermatological Conditions, Pregnant Uterus, Arterial disease, Fever.
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