Physiotherapy and PROCEDURE: Therapeutic electrical stimulation

Procedure for elctrical stimulation

DEFINITION/DESCRIPTION:

Application may be by:     carbon-rubber electrodes

                                           +/- suction

                                           continuous or intermittent

The application of alternating currents of frequencies up to 4000Hz. Application may be to promote tissue healing and / or pain relief and may be used to initiate muscle contraction. Maximum dosage for the initiation of muscle contraction must be comfortable for the patient and not produce fatigue. Application is usually for a period of 15-20 minutes.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

-           likelihood of muscle damage

-           likelihood of thrombus/hemorrhage

-           cardiac arrhythmia

-           eczema/open wounds

-           malignant tumours/neoplasma

-           active TB

-           impaired sensation to pinprick

HAZARDS/COMPLICATION/PRECAUTIONS:

-           skin damage/irritation

-           electric shock

INFECTION CONTROL:

-           appropriate hygiene of equipment in contact with the subject

-           appropriate hygiene of plinth etc.

-           all washable equipment to be cleansed after use