Electrical Stimulation Therapies

If you’ve heard about electrical stimulation but aren’t sure what exactly is involved, then you’ve landed on the right page. 

As experienced chiropractors in Aurora, we offer e-stim treatments of the highest standard using state of the art equipment. 

Read on, to learn…

  • What electrical stimulation is
  • What the many benefits of it are
  • The different types of electrical stimulation
  • What to expect during your appointment
  • What your alternatives to E-stim are
  • How to book a session with us


What Is Electrical Stimulation?

Electrical stimulation, also known as E-stim, uses electrical pulses to either send signals to the muscles or block signals sent from the muscles to the brain. 

Small electrodes are placed on the body, which facilitates the movement of the currents. The electrodes themselves are simply sticky pads with wires attached to them.

The wires, in turn, are connected to an electrical stimulation unit, which is a small device that can fit in the palm of your hand. 

Depending on the aim of the treatment, electrical stimulation employs different wavelengths to manipulate certain areas of the body. 

Although it may sound like something out of a Mary Shelley book, the reality is less dramatic. In fact, the electrical currents used are very mild and rarely cause the patient to feel discomfort.

And as the top chiropractors in Aurora, you know you’re in safe hands with us.

What Are the Benefits of Electrical Stimulation?

There are quite a few benefits of electrical stimulation, as it’s a very versatile treatment. Many people have sought e-stim treatment, from injured athletes to stroke survivors.

Here are some of the conditions E-stim can treat:

  • Muscle spasms.
  • Muscle injury.
  • Inflammation.
  • Calcium deposits.
  • Functional impairment. 
  • Back pain.
  • Circulation issues. 
  • Joint stiffness. 

The currents used during E-stim can either stimulate muscles to make them contract, or block the pain signals sent from injured muscles to the brain. 

Types of Electrical Stimulation

There are several types of electrical stimulation, all of which work in a similar fashion. However, there are some key differences that are important to understand if you’re considering treatment.

1. EMS

Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is one of the most popular E-stim treatments. It’s a good way to speed up recovery from work or sports injuries and only takes a few minutes of your time.

2. ESTR

Electrical stimulation for tissue repair (ESTR) can improve blood circulation and reduce swelling and inflammation. More importantly, it can speed up wound healing if you’ve suffered an injury. 

3. FES

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) requires a device to be implanted into the area of your body where you experience pain. There, it can provide pain relief through long-term electrical stimulation of the painful area. 

4. HVGC

High voltage pulsed galvanic current (HVGC) is useful when we need to reach deeper into the body tissue. It can improve your joint mobility, increase your blood flow, and treat muscle spasms. 

5. IFC

Interferential current (IFC) treats issues like lower back pain uses four electrodes placed in a crossed pattern. That allows us to use a higher intensity current without causing discomfort. 

6. Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is a treatment that uses electrical currents to transport medication around your body. The method is often used to treat muscle spasms, inflammation, or calcium deposits. 

7. NMES

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is used to help your muscles contract. The electrodes stimulate the muscles, which triggers muscle contraction and assists blood flow.

8. Russian Stimulation

Similar to NMES, Russian stimulation also aids in muscle contraction. The difference between the two treatments lies in the electrical waveform used. Some patients prefer Russian stimulation over NMES.

9. SCS

Similar to FES, Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) involves a device that is implanted into the painful area of the body and then uses electrical currents to block out the physical sensation of pain

10. TENS

Transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation (TENS) can decrease physical pain. We place electrodes on the painful area, which send electrical currents that blocks out the pain signals.

What to Expect During Electrical Stimulation

Your experience with electrical stimulation will vary depending on the kind of treatment session you have booked. 

You will either have electrodes attached to the affected area of your body or have a tiny device implanted for long-term treatment. In the vast majority of cases, such as back and neck pain or injuries, the electrodes placed on your skin are sufficient. 

Once they’re placed on the affected area, the therapist will use the E-stim unit to send the currents through your muscles. You’ll begin to feel a prickly sensation where the electrodes are positioned, but it won’t be enough to make you uncomfortable. 

Your muscles will often contract and relax several times during the session.

One of the factors that can affect the treatment session is how your muscles change shape once they receive the electrical stimulation. Some muscles may contract in a way that requires the therapist to adjust the placement of the electrodes.

The entire process rarely lasts longer than 15 minutes. 

Alternatives to Electrical Stimulation

E-stim is a very effective treatment for muscles and joints, but it’s by no means your only option. It is simply one of many ways we can help you recover from strain or injury.

Here are some of the other ways we can help you:

If you’re not sure which treatment method is right for your condition, then you’re always welcome to get in touch to discuss your options. 

Is Electrical Stimulation Right for You?

There are many chiropractors in Aurora, but we believe we offer the best e-stim treatments here at De La Cruz Chiropractic. But don’t take our word for it -- see what our clients have to say.

Need qualified chiropractors in Aurora? Call us today!

We offer a variety of electrical stimulation therapy services for our valued patients. We encourage you to learn more about what we provide and how we can help. If you have any questions, please contact us at (630) 264-8004. We're always happy to hear from you!

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