If you've had physiotherapy or chiropractic care, you may have seen a clinician glide a small probe over an injured area, or place sticky pads on the skin connected to a small machine. These are therapeutic ultrasound and electrotherapy, two of the treatment tools (often called modalities) we use at Beachealth Brampton.
Here's what each one does, what it feels like, and why we use them as part of a plan rather than on their own.
What is therapeutic ultrasound?
Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves, far above the range of human hearing, delivered through a hand-held probe and a layer of gel. Depending on the settings, the sound waves can gently warm deeper tissues or produce non-thermal effects that are thought to support tissue healing.
Clinicians may use ultrasound for:
- Irritated tendons and ligaments, such as tennis elbow or a sore Achilles tendon
- Muscle strains and areas of persistent tension
- Soft tissue injuries that are past the initial, acute stage, as part of a wider rehab plan
Most people feel little or nothing during treatment, apart from mild warmth. A session usually takes just a few minutes per area.
What is electrotherapy?
Electrotherapy uses mild electrical currents delivered through pads on the skin. There are several types, and your clinician will choose the one that suits your goals:
- TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation): a low-level current that can reduce the sensation of pain while it's switched on
- Interferential current (IFC): two currents that cross beneath the skin, often used for pain and muscle spasm in larger areas such as the lower back
- Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES): a current that makes a muscle contract, used to help wake up muscles that have become weak or inhibited, for example after surgery
Electrotherapy usually feels like tingling, buzzing or gentle pulsing, and the intensity is adjusted until it's comfortable for you.
Why modalities work best as part of an active plan
Ultrasound and electrotherapy can ease pain and make it easier to move, but research suggests they work best alongside active treatment rather than on their own. That's why we pair them with the things that create lasting change: hands-on care, targeted exercise and education about your condition. Think of modalities as a way to calm things down so you can do the work that helps you recover.
Is it safe for everyone?
Both treatments are safe for most people when they're applied by a trained clinician, but they aren't suitable in every situation. Let your clinician know if you:
- Have a pacemaker or another implanted electronic device
- Are pregnant
- Have, or have had, cancer
- Have reduced sensation, broken skin or a skin condition over the area being treated
- Have a known blood clot or a circulation problem
Your clinician will screen for these during your assessment and choose a different approach if needed.
Ultrasound and electrotherapy in Brampton
Beachealth Brampton, at 155 Clark Blvd, Unit 7A, Brampton, ON L6T 4G6, offers therapeutic ultrasound and electrotherapy as part of physiotherapy and chiropractic treatment plans, alongside shockwave therapy. Book online at beachealthbr.janeapp.com or call (437) 524-5161.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does therapeutic ultrasound hurt?
No. Most people feel little or nothing, or a mild warmth. Tell your clinician right away if anything feels uncomfortable.
What's the difference between TENS and IFC?
Both use mild electrical current to help with pain. TENS is typically delivered through pads on or around the painful area, while interferential current (IFC) uses two currents that cross beneath the skin and is often used for larger or deeper areas such as the lower back.
Does Beachealth Brampton offer ultrasound and electrotherapy?
Yes. Beachealth Brampton offers therapeutic ultrasound and electrotherapy as part of physiotherapy and chiropractic care, alongside shockwave therapy.