Technique
Electrostimulation
Electrostimulation is a physiotherapy technique that applies controlled electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin to strengthen muscles, relieve pain or improve blood and lymphatic circulation.
The technique
What is electrostimulation?
Electrostimulation is a physiotherapy technique that applies controlled electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin. Depending on the frequency and intensity used, this stimulation can strengthen muscles, relieve pain or improve blood and lymphatic circulation.
It is used in particular for post-traumatic rehabilitation, muscle recovery, reducing chronic pain and preventing muscle atrophy.
Your doctor or physiotherapist may recommend electrostimulation to strengthen muscles, relieve pain and improve functional recovery. This technique uses low-intensity electrical impulses to stimulate muscle or nerve fibres, promoting muscle contraction and blood circulation.
Who is it for?
Indications and contraindications
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Indications
When is electrostimulation recommended?
Electrostimulation is indicated for a range of disorders and conditions, including:
- Muscle strengthening after prolonged immobilisation (after a fracture or surgery).
- Prevention of muscle atrophy in cases of weakness or partial paralysis.
- Relief of chronic and acute pain (lower back pain, sciatica, post-operative pain).
- Pelvic floor stimulation for urinary incontinence or pelvic disorders.
- Rehabilitation after a stroke or other neurological conditions to improve muscle tone.
- Optimised muscle recovery for athletes after intense exertion.
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Contraindications
When is electrostimulation not recommended?
This technique is contraindicated in certain cases, including:
- A pacemaker or electronic implant.
- Epilepsy or a history of seizures.
- Deep vein thrombosis or serious vascular disorders.
- Application to the abdomen during pregnancy.
- Skin lesions or local infections in the area to be treated.
Before any treatment, a physiotherapy assessment is essential to adapt the intensity and frequency of the impulses to each patient.
Electrostimulation can be combined with other treatments, such as manual therapy, biofeedback and TECAR therapy, to maximise its effects.
The benefits
Electrostimulation in physiotherapy
Targeted muscle strengthening: works weakened muscles without straining the joints.
Effective pain relief: an analgesic effect achieved by modulating the nerve signals of pain.
Improved blood and lymphatic circulation: reduces oedema and speeds up recovery.
Non-invasive and painless: no major side effects, just a sensation of controlled muscle contraction.
At start.physio, we use electrostimulation devices such as Compex in our rehabilitation protocols to optimise recovery and improve our patients’ muscle function. For physiotherapy sessions to be covered by your health or accident insurance, a medical prescription is required.
Our practices
Where can you get electrostimulation?
Electrostimulation is available at the following start.physio practices:
Techniques and equipment
We use a range of treatment techniques and specialised equipment to speed up recovery.
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Your questions
Answers to the questions you ask us most often.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes. For your sessions to be covered by your health or accident insurance, you need a medical prescription.
Does my insurance cover the sessions?
Illness: basic health insurance (LAMal). Accident: accident insurance (LAA). In some cases: disability insurance (LAI) or military insurance (LAM).
Do you offer home visits?
Yes, for people whose health prevents them from coming to a practice, and in nursing homes (EMS). A specific prescription for home physiotherapy is required: the doctor must write “at home” on it.
Can I cancel or reschedule an appointment?
Yes, but please let us know at least 24 hours in advance. Appointments missed without notice may be charged.