Electrical Stimulation

Near Glen Carbon

Electrical stimulation (E-Stim) uses gentle currents to reduce pain, relax muscles, improve circulation, and aid recovery. At Superior Chiropractic & Rehab, we combine E-Stim with chiropractic care and exercise to help you move and feel better, enabling a quicker return to your routine.

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WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION TECHNIQUES?

TENS THERAPY (PAIN RELIEF)

TENS, or Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, is a widely utilized therapeutic method designed to assist in the effective management of pain across a diverse range of conditions. It achieves this by sending mild electrical signals through the skin, which work to “quiet down” the pain signals that travel to the brain, thereby providing significant relief. Many patients who have experienced TENS report it as a gentle tapping or tingling sensation, which is often described as being both soothing and restorative.


This innovative method is particularly beneficial for those suffering from various types of pain, including low back discomfort, neck tension, joint irritation, and painful flare-ups that can hinder comfortable movement and daily functioning. Whether the pain is acute or chronic, TENS therapy offers a non-invasive pain management alternative that can be easily integrated into a patient’s routine. Additionally, when the primary goal is to calm pain, TENS therapy becomes an excellent option, allowing individuals to move more freely and engage actively in vital rehabilitation exercises and essential daily activities. The ability to alleviate pain can empower patients to reclaim their mobility, enhance their overall quality of life, and foster a more positive and active lifestyle. Overall, TENS therapy represents a valuable tool in the comprehensive approach to pain management..

NMES (MUSCLE RE-EDUCATION)

NMES (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation) is a highly effective therapeutic technique that is utilized to activate muscles that are not firing properly, often due to a variety of factors such as pain, prolonged injury, or inherent muscle weakness. By delivering targeted electrical impulses, this innovative stimulation encourages the affected muscle to contract in a controlled and systematic manner. This process not only aids in the re-training of these specific muscles but also facilitates ongoing strength building over time, ultimately promoting comprehensive recovery and effective rehabilitation.


The applications of NMES can be particularly advantageous following various injuries, as it plays a crucial role in muscle activation during the recovery phases. This therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who may struggle with engaging specific muscle groups that require additional assistance to function effectively—such as the glutes, quadriceps, and the critical stabilizing muscles surrounding the spine. By incorporating NMES into a well-rounded rehabilitation program, individuals can significantly enhance their recovery process, thereby improving their overall functionality and strength while also reducing the risk of future injuries. This approach not only accelerates healing but also helps restore mobility and athletic performance, making it a valuable tool in contemporary physical therapy practices.

IFC (INTERFERENTIAL CURRENT)

IFC, or Interferential Current therapy, is a specific form of electrical stimulation that utilizes crossing currents to effectively target deeper tissues within the body. Many patients who undergo IFC treatment find it to be a comfortable and soothing experience, making it a widely accepted choice among practitioners in the field of physical rehabilitation. This innovative therapy is commonly employed to reduce pain, calm irritated areas, and decrease muscle guarding, thereby helping patients regain their mobility and ease discomfort.


Due to its effectiveness in addressing broader or deeper areas of discomfort, IFC can be a particularly strong option for those suffering from stubborn low back pain, sciatica-like symptoms, or tightness that significantly limits movement and affects their daily activities. By penetrating deeper layers of muscle tissue, IFC is capable of providing relief for conditions that may have proven resistant to other forms of treatment, such as conventional pain relief methods or superficial therapies. This unique aspect of IFC treatment not only alleviates pain but also plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall quality of life for many patients, enabling them to engage in activities they might have previously found challenging or impossible. With its broad range of applications and palpable benefits, IFC continues to gain popularity among both patients and healthcare providers alike.

EMS / STRENGTH & RECOVERY SUPPORT

SEMS, or Electrical Muscle Stimulation, is a cutting-edge technique that focuses specifically on muscle activation to enhance both recovery processes and athletic performance. This innovative method utilizes electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contraction, thereby promoting improvements in strength and endurance. In a rehabilitation setting, EMS can effectively facilitate targeted muscle activation, improve overall muscle engagement, and provide vital support for strength-building exercises—particularly when it is integrated with corrective exercise routines tailored to individual needs and conditions.


At Superior Chiropractic & Rehab, we implement E-Stim not merely as a standalone treatment but as a strategic component of a comprehensive recovery plan. Our multifaceted approach ensures that you receive more than just temporary relief from discomfort; it fosters the development of long-term resilience and robustness in your muscles. This ultimately promotes not just healing but also enhances your overall strength and functionality for the future. We are dedicated to your full recovery, aiming to help you return to optimal performance while equipping you with the essential tools and techniques necessary for sustained health and well-being. This commitment empowers you to engage in your daily activities and athletic endeavors with increased confidence and capability.

HOW IT WORKS

  • What is electrical stimulation (E-Stim)?

    Electrical stimulation is a therapy that uses gentle electrical currents delivered through small pads placed on the skin. Depending on the setting, it can help reduce pain, relax tight muscles, improve circulation, and support muscle activation during rehab.

  • What are the benefits of electrical stimulation?

    E-Stim can help with pain relief, muscle relaxation, improved blood flow, reduced muscle guarding, and better muscle recruitment. Many people use it to feel looser and more comfortable so they can move better and get more out of treatment.

  • Does electrical stimulation hurt?

    It shouldn’t. Most patients feel a light tingling, tapping, or gentle muscle pulsing. We adjust the intensity to what’s comfortable for you, and you can always tell us if you want it turned up or down.

  • Is electrical stimulation safe?

    For most people, yes—when it’s used appropriately and supervised. We’ll review your health history and make sure it’s a good fit before starting.

  • Who should NOT use electrical stimulation?

    Certain conditions may require avoiding E-Stim or using it with extra caution (for example, some implanted devices or specific medical considerations). We’ll go over any red flags with you and choose the safest option.

Superior Chiropractic & Rehab provides non-surgical care for low back pain and sciatica, serving Glen Carbon, Edwardsville, and surrounding communities. Led by Dr. Brad Polen, our team focuses on identifying the root cause of pain and building long-term strength and resilience.


Through a personalized combination of chiropractic care, electrical stimulation, physical therapy strategies, and corrective exercise, we help active adults move better, feel stronger, and return to lifting, running, work, and daily life with confidence.