The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy defines electrotherapy as:

"a term for treatment that uses various types of electrical equipment aiming to promote healing, tissue repair and reduce pain. It includes Biofeedback, Interferential therapy, Laser therapy, Pulsed shortwave therapy, Ultrasound and TENS."

Although osteopathy and physiotherapy are different professions, there can be some overlap. Some osteopaths, like Marc Jones, have completed post-graduate training to be able to offer some of these treatments to their patients.

The following forms of electrotherapy are available and Osteopath Marc Jones has completed courses in their safe use and application:

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a form of electrotherapy that uses high-frequency sound waves (vibrations) to treat injuries to muscles, tendons and other soft tissues. It stimulates blood circulation and cell activity, speeds up the healing process, reduces scars forming, and may provide pain relief.

Interferential Therapy

Interferential therapy is a form of electrotherapy that uses electrical pads and stimulates peripheral nerves at a low frequency without pain and discomfort in the soft tissue. It is thought to help relieve pain and stimulate muscles, and to increase blood flow to the area and reduce swelling.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a form of electrotherapy that is used to produce a concentrated beam of light to stimulate tissue healing and reduce pain, inflammation and swelling. It is thought to aid healing of soft-tissue injuries, skin conditions, scars and open wounds.

* All definitions taken from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Please note that Marc Jones is a registered osteopath with training in electrotherapy, not a physiotherapist.