Electrotherapy

Electrotherapy is a proven physiotherapy method that uses electrical impulses to relieve pain and improve muscle activity. At our practice in Boll, we use a Compex device specifically in physiotherapy treatment to treat your complaints in a targeted way and give your recovery the best possible support.

In brief

How often should electrotherapy be carried out?: We typically recommend about 2 sessions per week, depending on your symptoms.
Full answer: How often should electrotherapy be carried out?
Is electrotherapy painful?: No, most patients experience electrotherapy as a pleasant tingling sensation.
Full answer: Is electrotherapy painful?
Does electrotherapy have any side effects?: Side effects are very rare and usually consist only of mild skin irritation at the application site.
Full answer: Does electrotherapy have any side effects?
Is electrotherapy covered by health insurers?: Yes, with a doctor’s prescription, basic insurance and accident insurance cover the costs.
Full answer: Is electrotherapy covered by health insurers?

Electrotherapy in physiotherapy: an overview of the method

In electrotherapy, special electrotherapy devices transmit electrical currents of various frequencies and intensities to the skin via electrodes. This is done in a completely safe and controlled way.

How electrotherapy works

Pain relief through electrical stimulation therapy (TENS)

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses weak electrical impulses to interrupt the transmission of pain signals to the brain and to release the body’s own pain-relieving substances.

Promoting muscle activity through electrical stimulation

Targeted electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) helps to activate and strengthen weakened muscles, especially after injuries or operations.

Improving blood circulation

Electrical stimulation improves local blood circulation, reduces swelling and promotes healing.

Areas of application: when is electrotherapy useful?

Electrotherapy is versatile and particularly well suited to supporting the treatment of:

Shoulder complaints and shoulder injuries: reduces pain and improves mobility.
Back pain: promotes muscle relaxation and relieves chronic pain.
After knee surgery: supports muscle building and speeds up rehabilitation.
Acute and chronic pain: general pain reduction through targeted impulses.
Muscle weakness and muscle wasting: rebuilding weakened muscles after immobilisation or neurological conditions.

What happens in an electrotherapy session

A typical electrotherapy treatment follows several clearly defined steps:

Individual case history and advice: first, we look at your complaints and determine the appropriate form of electrotherapy.
Placing the electrodes: the electrodes are placed precisely on the skin over the affected areas.
Carrying out the electrotherapy: the frequency and intensity of the electrical impulses vary depending on the aim of the therapy. A session typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
Conclusion and aftercare: afterwards, we give you tips on complementary exercise or on what to do after the treatment.

Types of electrotherapy

TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation): particularly suitable for pain relief, often used for chronic pain.
EMS (electrical muscle stimulation): for targeted strengthening and rehabilitation of the muscles after injuries.

These treatments include electrotherapy

General physiotherapy
Treatment of musculoskeletal complaints.
Sports physiotherapy
Prevention and rehabilitation for sports injuries.
TMJ treatment
Therapy for jaw joint complaints.

Frequently asked questions about electrotherapy

How often should electrotherapy be carried out?

We typically recommend about 2 sessions per week, depending on your symptoms.

Does electrotherapy have any side effects?

Side effects are very rare and usually consist only of mild skin irritation at the application site.

Is electrotherapy painful?

No, most patients experience electrotherapy as a pleasant tingling sensation. The intensity is adjusted individually.

When must electrotherapy not be used?

Contraindications include pacemakers, implants/metal, pregnancy, epilepsy and open wounds in the treatment area.

Is electrotherapy covered by health insurers?

Yes, with a doctor’s prescription, basic insurance and accident insurance cover the costs.

Can I also use electrotherapy devices privately?

Yes, suitable devices for home use are available – we will be happy to advise you on whether private use is sensible and safe.

How quickly does electrotherapy take effect?

Many patients feel initial relief after just a few sessions. Lasting results often become apparent after several weeks.

Can electrotherapy be combined with other treatments?

Absolutely – we often combine electrotherapy with manual therapy, active physiotherapy or other methods for the best possible results.