How does galvanization differ from electrophoresis?
Galvanization is the basic method of electrotherapy, with which all hardware physical therapy historically began. Electrodes with wet pads are placed on the skin, and a direct current of several milliamps is passed through the tissue. The patient feels a slight tingling and warmth under the electrodes.
Electrophoresis is the same galvanization, but the pad is moistened with a medicinal solution, and the current delivers the active substance to the tissue. That is, galvanization is the physical basis of electrophoresis, and not a separate method of the same series. It can also be used independently: direct current changes the ionic balance in tissues, dilates blood vessels, increases local blood flow and has an analgesic effect.
Indications: neuritis and neuralgia, radiculopathy, consequences of injuries, low-grade inflammatory processes, peripheral circulatory disorders, some diseases of the digestive system. Contraindications are standard for electrotherapy: skin damage in the area where electrodes are applied, individual intolerance to current, pacemaker, malignant tumors and fever.
The place of physiotherapy in treatment
Physiotherapy is almost never a stand-alone treatment. Its task is to enhance the effect of medications, accelerate the resolution of inflammation, improve local blood circulation and prepare tissues for movement. Therefore, it is prescribed in conjunction with medications, physical therapy and massage.
The greatest benefit is achieved at the subacute stage: when acute pain and severe swelling have already been relieved, but recovery is not yet complete. In the midst of acute inflammation, many methods are contraindicated.
Why is this course needed?
A one-time procedure gives a short-term effect that is not permanent. The physiological response of tissues - improvement of microcirculation, changes in membrane permeability, activation of enzymes - accumulates from session to session, so the standard course is 8-10 procedures daily or every other day.
A repeat course is usually possible after 1–2 months. The procedures should not be repeated endlessly: the body adapts and the effectiveness decreases.
General contraindications
For most hardware methods, contraindications include malignant neoplasms, fever and acute infections, decompensated heart disease, severe hypertension, bleeding tendency, presence of a pacemaker, pregnancy, active tuberculosis and mental disorders in the acute stage.
Local restrictions - skin damage, purulent processes and metal structures in the affected area. That is why physiotherapy is prescribed by the doctor after an examination, and not chosen by the patient himself.