Among the many different types of physical therapy treatments we provide here at Kentucky/Indiana Foot and Ankle Specialists, one that we frequently prescribe to our patients is electrical muscle stimulation therapy. What is it, and how does it help with foot and ankle injuries? Our podiatrists are here to tell you!
What is it?
Electrical muscle stimulation therapy is used to alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and improve healing of injuries through increased blood flow. Controlled electrical currents are generated and delivered through electrode pads that are placed directly on your skin. The electrical stimulation imitates the contraction and release of your muscles, and the intensity and frequency of currents can be changed.
What kind of injuries can be treated?
The following are commonly treated with electrical stimulation:
- Achilles tendinitis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Ankle sprain
- Surgery recovery
How does it help?
There are several ways that this form of therapy can help:
- Strengthens weakened muscles through repeated contractions
- Stimulates healing through increased blood flow
- Decreases muscle spasms
- Alleviates pain
There are also different types of electrical stimulation therapies, including Transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation (TENS) and Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), which target the nerves. The type of treatment you receive will depend on your specific foot or ankle issue.
Contact our team!
At Kentucky/Indiana Foot and Ankle Specialists, we pride ourselves on having state-of-the-art technologies that enable us to provide our patients with the highest quality podiatric care. Our full spectrum physical therapy services play a big part in our patients’ successful treatments and recoveries. From plantar fasciitis, sports injuries, and tendon injuries, to post-surgical treatments, electrical stimulation therapy can help treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. Have questions about our physical therapy services? Contact any of our offices in Louisville, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown, KY and New Albany, IN to set up an appointment with our podiatrists today!