In the medical field, the effect of weak low-voltage electrical impulses on deep tissue layers is called electrophoresis (EP). This is one of the most common physiotherapeutic methods, used in practice since the last century. It has a local effect on the treated areas, provides a general therapeutic and prophylactic effect, and in tandem with medications guarantees the safest and most painless administration.
The ability of dispersed phase particles to move in a liquid or gaseous medium under the influence of an electric field was discovered back in 1809. The authors of the discovery were P.I. Strakhov and F.F. Reiss is a professor at Moscow University. In 1887, the Swedish physical chemist Svante Arrhenius proposed a theoretical basis for medicinal EF. 50 years later, this proposal found practical application under the leadership, again, of the Swedish scientist A. Tiselius.
Since then, the EF method of physiotherapy has undergone periods of widespread dissemination and moments when its effectiveness became a reason for skeptical opuses. Today, it has found its application in various medical fields: from otolaryngology to gynecology and orthopedics.
Device structure
The electrophoresis apparatus is an alternating current rectifier, semiconductor (now), electron tube (formerly). It operates from a standard network with a frequency of 50 Hz and a voltage of 220 V and is equipped with a milliammeter.
Electrophoresis devices operate primarily using galvanic current. It is continuous, low voltage, constant intensity. Always passing in one direction, the current is able to maintain polarity, strength, and voltage. The action is comparable to a blow of wind that does not change its strength. Thanks to this, the electrophoresis device is able to “deliver” drugs deep into the body, affecting the tissues and mucous membranes of the body. For direct current, even dense tissues can be considered permeable.
Mechanism of action of electrophoresis
Electrophoresis introduces drugs percutaneously directly into the pathological focus. The device promotes the breakdown of substances into smaller particles - ions. They move towards the electrophoresis electrodes from opposite poles. When approaching them, the ions undergo electrolysis. They change from ions to atoms due to the loss of their charge.
If a drug is placed on one of the electrodes, it begins to move into the tissue. There it accumulates in depth in the form of a depot and is slowly consumed (up to 2 weeks). Knowing the specific density and resistance of body tissues, the physicochemical properties of the drug, and the parameters of the electric current, it is possible to accurately determine the concentration of the drug at a given depth.
There are two types of ions: anions (-), cations (+). Water breaks down into H (+) and OH (-). Near the electrodes, ions interact with water and form acid and alkali. Therefore, burns are likely at the site where the cathode and anode are attached, and during electrophoresis, pads moistened with water are always used to dilute these solutions.
A change in ion concentration causes the body's cells to become excited. Metabolic processes and the ability to respond to external influences are accelerated. Ultimately, this accelerates intracellular recovery and removes metabolic products faster.
Will electrophoresis help get rid of a hernia?
Galvanization is prescribed for hernias as an auxiliary or primary method of treatment. It is not able to get rid of advanced forms of the disease. Its main action is aimed at stimulating the natural regenerative abilities of tissues and relieving pain in the initial stages of the disease.
The use of electrophoresis for hernia leads to:
- changes in the permeability of cell membranes - cells become more sensitive, regenerative capacity increases;
- dilation of blood vessels, which promotes blood flow and the supply of more essential nutrients;
- increased lymphatic drainage - decomposition products are removed more quickly;
- the occurrence of local and general reflex reactions.
Thanks to this, the affected tissues are restored faster, the foci of inflammation are reduced, and the pain syndrome is weakened.
After treatment, most patients experience a decrease in the volume of the hernia by 50% or more, its structure becomes more homogeneous and less dense. In the case of small hernias, in some patients their complete disappearance was recorded.
Advantages of using electrophoresis
The main advantage is the rapid achievement of a positive effect due to local effects. Medicines are administered specifically to the desired site. This compares favorably with this method of treatment even from injections. Electrophoresis allows it to be used even by patients with diseases of the liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract (there is no load on these organs). It can be used by people with blood flow disorders. In this case, standard tablets and injections will be ineffective. And the action of galvanic current bypasses the circulatory system.
Already after the first session of electrophoresis, the pain syndrome associated with a hernia decreases
Electrophoresis is effective due to the long-lasting current. Therefore, it is carried out in a course, with pre-calculated sessions. During the intervals between them, the therapeutic effect is maintained.
Electrophoresis has no side effects. The process is non-invasive, so there is no discomfort or recovery period. The action of current through tissue does not cause allergic reactions, eliminating the possibility of overdose.
Indications for use in infants
Electrophoresis with aminophylline is also used for infants. There is a misconception that this is dangerous for children of this age. But this is far from true. On the contrary, the procedure only has a positive effect. Therefore, it is prescribed to infants starting from the first month of life with the following diseases:
- Skin burns.
- Congenital heart defects.
- Tonsillitis.
- Sinusitis, sinusitis.
Otitis.- Cystitis.
- Pyelonephritis.
- Cerebral palsy.
- Hepatitis.
- Colitis.
- Enterocolitis.
- Stomatitis.
- Cystitis.
- Diathesis.
- Bronchitis.
- Pneumonia.
- Dysplasia and subluxation of joints.
- Increased and decreased muscle tone.
- Torticollis.
- Birth injuries.
- Hydrocephalus.
- Lymphadenitis.
- Slow development.
Indications for procedures
Electrophoresis is prescribed to all patients diagnosed with a hernia who experience severe pain - an inevitable companion to this disease. Other indications depend on the type of protrusion.
Each type of intervertebral hernia has serious complications, so you should not delay treatment.
See how easy it is to get rid of a hernia in 10 sessions
Indications for electrophoresis for cervical hernia
For herniated intervertebral discs in the cervical spine, electrophoresis is prescribed for:
- dizziness and migraines;
- surges in blood pressure;
- weakness in the upper limbs;
- loss of sensitivity in the limbs;
- limitation of movement, muscle weakness.
Read more about cervical hernia in this article.
Indications for electrophoresis for thoracic hernia
For a thoracic hernia, electrophoresis is indicated for anyone who has:
- numbness, tingling in the upper extremities;
- limited mobility due to muscle hypertonicity.
Read more about the symptoms and treatment of thoracic intervertebral hernia here.
Indications for electrophoresis for lumbar hernia
For a lumbar hernia, electrophoresis is prescribed if the following symptoms are present:
- tingling sensation, numbness of the lower extremities;
- problems with urination;
- the feeling that “your legs won’t obey you.”
Read about other symptoms in the article “Intervertebral hernia of the lumbar spine.”
Indications and contraindications
Electrophoresis is very similar to galvanization. Galvanization is different in that it applies direct current, but does not contain any medicine. Therefore, electrophoresis can also be called “medicinal galvanization.” Indications for electrophoresis will be:
- chronic inflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system (myositis, rheumatism, osteochondrosis and its complications);
- compression neurovascular syndromes;
- plexitis, neuritis and neuralgia;
- syndrome of acute pain in the neck (cervicago), chest and lower back - lumbago;
- chronic myofascial tonic syndrome, causing constant back pain.
Many of the above conditions are inevitable companions of discogenic exacerbations of osteochondrosis.
Electrophoresis is indicated in the initial stages of hypertension and coronary heart disease (with the exception of unstable angina). This method is used for pathologies of the lungs and bronchi, gastrointestinal tract, various gynecological and urological pathologies, diseases of the ENT organs and in many other cases.
General contraindications to electrophoresis include any tumor growth, both malignant and benign, active tuberculosis, suppuration, streptoderma, erysipelas at the sites where electrodes are applied and bleeding wounds, disorders of the integrity of the skin such as eczema and psoriasis, skin mycoses .
Special contraindications include intolerance to exposure to electric current, foreign metal prostheses in the intended area of influence, severe cardiovascular insufficiency, and heart rhythm disturbances.
How an electrophoresis session is performed in the clinic
Electrophoresis sessions are carried out in a special physiotherapy room.
What devices are used
The most popular device for carrying out the procedure is Potok-1. It has long proven itself in the market and does not lose its effectiveness and demand. This is what is used in most clinics.
But there are a large number of modern devices:
- Elfor;
- Nevoton;
- Mustang-Physio-GalvaFor et al.
Electrophoresis devices
The differences between them are minimal. All are easy to use, they have a compact shape and are affordable. The operation of any device is based on galvanic current, which flows continuously, with constant intensity, in one direction. But sometimes Trabert current is used. It has higher frequency, amplitude modulated currents that do not move in a straight line. They can pass sinusoidally, pulsate or change randomly.
Devices can also be equipped with:
- sinusoidal modulated currents;
- pulsed diadynamic currents (DDT);
- fluctuating current.
What types of intervertebral hernias are most difficult to treat?
4 stages of treatment for intervertebral hernia
Procedure
Before the procedure, the specialist prepares the apparatus and solution. You need to adjust the required current strength, which is selected by the attending physician. Electrodes are then attached to the patient with wipes moistened with a special liquid consisting of prescribed medications and water.
Gaskets are installed based on the location of pathological foci. They need to be attached as close to their center as possible. Due to this, the maximum positive effect is obtained.
Electrode location:
- For a cervical hernia,
the first electrode (+) is attached to the neck, the other (-) to the lumbar area. - In case of pathology of the thoracic discs
- (+) is attached to the thoracic spine, (-) to the lower back. - For a lumbar hernia
, the method of split electrodes is used: (+) attached to the lower back, split (two electrodes) (-) attached to the legs - in the back of the thighs or calves.
Then turn on the device and slowly increase the current based on the recommendations. This eliminates discomfort for the patient. During the first session, the electrodes are left on for only 10-15 minutes in order to observe the patient’s condition and completely eliminate negative consequences.
What should the current be?
The current strength for all types of hernias is on average the same. The device is set at 6 milliamps and gradually increased to 15. But these values may vary depending on the characteristics of the human body and the stage of the disease.
Session duration
The duration of the session for cervical hernias is from 5 to 15 minutes. When treating the thoracic and lumbar areas, the procedure will take an average of 20 minutes.
What should be the duration of the course?
The course for cervical hernias is 15 sessions, for pathologies of the thoracic and lumbar spine - 20. These are average numbers, the exact number is determined by a specialist, based on the needs and characteristics of the body. Procedures can be done daily or every other day. The main thing is to complete the entire course in order to achieve a positive effect.
How does the patient feel?
During the procedure, the patient may experience a slight tingling or warmth under the electrodes. Under no circumstances should there be pain or burning sensation. If they occur, the procedure is completed immediately.
The electrophoresis procedure is painless
Cost of electrophoresis
The cost of electrophoresis treatment consists of the cost of medications and the procedure. The average price of medicines is 70 rubles, and procedures – from 500 rubles.
Features of electrophoresis in children
When prescribing treatment, pediatricians often choose auxiliary therapy - electrophoresis (or iontophoresis). It is safe, has minimal risks of side effects, and allows small doses of drugs to be administered to areas with pathological changes. The procedure is painless for a small patient; tissues are not damaged when the medicine is administered.
Its popularity is due to the fact that current can have a positive effect on the human body:
- dilates blood vessels;
- relaxes muscles;
- relieves inflammation;
- stimulates the immune system;
- regulates hormonal levels.
Electrophoresis in children and adults differs because:
- Children's skin is thin and immature and has fewer cell layers.
- The skin of children absorbs substances faster and has low resistance to current.
- Up to four months, infants do not have developed sweat glands, and thermoregulation is not well developed.
- The epidermis in children has a high ability to regenerate.
Due to these factors, treatment with electrophoresis should be carried out under the supervision of medical personnel and parents, taking precautions.
For young children, the procedure should not exceed 7-8 minutes. For older children, the duration increases to 15-20 minutes.
Carrying out at home
Before starting self-medication, it is imperative to consult a doctor. He will prescribe a course of treatment and the necessary medications. The wrong dosage or medication may cause more harm than good. Also, if you are not sure that you will do everything correctly during the first procedure, it is better to have a medical professional nearby and show everything.
For galvanization, many doctors advise purchasing the Potok-1 or Elfor device. They have simple controls, different modes with different current strengths. The price of the device varies from 5,000 to 12,000 rubles. You will also need pads made of gauze or fabric.
Scheme:
- Prepare a working solution. Attention, you can only use freshly prepared mixture.
- The electrodes are fixed exclusively on napkins moistened with a solution, otherwise a chemical burn is possible.
- Remove clothing from the required area of the body to apply electrodes.
- Secure the electrodes and place bags of salt, sand, etc. on top of them for a tighter fit.
- At the end of the procedure, gradually reduce the current supply, turn off the device and only then remove the electrodes.
- Stay calm for 10-15 minutes.
If all prescribed doctor's recommendations are followed, electrophoresis performed at home is in no way inferior in effectiveness. However, it is still worth visiting a doctor in the middle and at the end of the course so that he can determine how much the treatment has helped and whether it is worth adjusting. If pain occurs, the procedure should be stopped immediately and consult a specialist.
What medications are used for electrophoresis for hernia
Karipazim
Carazipam for electrophoresis
It is a solution for external use, which contains papain, a natural plant substance. The main effect of the drug is the breakdown of necrotic elements and the dilution of blood clots, viscous secretions and other protein compounds. Electrophoresis has a beneficial effect on cartilage tissue, stimulating its regeneration, and enhances the restoration of intervertebral disc tissue.
For external use only. Side effects include allergic reactions. Contraindications: pregnancy, breastfeeding and hypersensitivity to the main component. Does not have a systemic effect on the body.
No cases of drug overdose have been identified. There are no important clinically significant interactions with other drugs. Produced in Georgia and Russia. The price for one ampoule, on average, is from 60 rubles.
The course of treatment must be at least 14 procedures.
Karipain Plus
Karipain Plus for electrophoresis
The drug contains papain, bromelain (an enzyme isolated from pineapple pulp), lysozyme (an antibacterial agent), collagenase (an enzyme that breaks down collagen) and excipients (sodium chloride and lactose monohydrate). It relieves local inflammatory processes and reduces joint pain. Stimulates microcirculatory processes and restores skin elasticity. With the help of galvanization, it penetrates deep into the tissue, stimulates natural reconstructive processes, and softens the hernia. This helps relieve inflammation and reduce pain.
Among the contraindications:
- pregnancy period;
- acute inflammatory processes;
- tissue necrosis;
- disintegration of the intervertebral disc;
- allergic reactions.
No cases of overdose have been identified. There are no important clinically significant interactions with other drugs. Produced in Georgia and Russia. The price for one ampoule, on average, is from 210 rubles.
The number of sessions is individual, on average 10-20 sessions.
Novocaine
Novocaine for electrophoresis
The main active ingredient of the drug is procaine hydrochloride 5 mg or 20 mg. Auxiliary ingredients: sodium chloride, water for injection. The drug is available in the form of an injection solution. Has a local anesthetic effect. Therefore, it is prescribed mainly to patients with pronounced pain syndrome due to a hernia.
Contraindications include hypersensitivity to the main active ingredient, progressive cardiovascular disorders, and pregnancy.
Side effects include:
- headache;
- drowsiness, weakness;
- blood pressure surges;
- tachycardia;
- nervous excitement.
Novocaine enhances the effect of sedatives, anesthetics and muscle relaxants. Therefore, it must be used for electrophoresis strictly as prescribed by the attending physician.
They mainly use a drug of Russian origin. The price for 10 ampoules of 0.5% 10 ml starts from 50 rubles. The duration of the course and dosage are regulated by the doctor.
Eufillin
Eufillin for electrophoresis
The active ingredient of the drug is aminophylline. The effect of the drug leads to a decrease in muscle contractile activity. Eufillin is mainly used in pulmonology. In the treatment of hernias, it is used to dilate blood vessels, which improves blood flow in the lesion and stimulates venous outflow. Due to this, pain is reduced and swelling in the area of inflammation is resolved. Thanks to galvanization, the drug has a targeted effect without having a systemic effect.
Local application reduces the occurrence of side effects. A slight drop in blood pressure, dizziness, and tachycardia may occur. Contraindications: allergic reactions, convulsions, severe liver or kidney failure.
Eufillin increases the effect of glucocorticoids, drugs that excite the central nervous system. Reduces the activity of lithium salts. The country of manufacture of the drug is Russia. A box of 10 ampoules will cost 40-60 rubles.
Trypsin
Trypsion for electrophoresis
Trypsin is an enzyme of the hydrolase class that breaks down peptides and proteins. Therefore, its pharmacological effect is regenerative and anti-inflammatory. The main function is the disposal of half-life products.
Contraindications: tumor processes, pregnancy, allergic reactions. Side effects include: tachycardia, allergies.
There are no important clinically significant interactions with other drugs. Trypsin is produced in Russia. The price for trypsin 10 ampoules of 10 mg each starts at an average of 500 rubles.
The duration of the course and dosage are prescribed by the attending physician.
We use non-surgical hernia treatment techniques
Read more about our unique technique
What is this procedure
Understanding what electrophoresis is, what kind of procedure it is, what indications or, conversely, contraindications it has, it is worth noting that this is only an auxiliary technique prescribed by a doctor in combination with drug treatment and other physiotherapy options. EF combines the healing properties of electric current and drugs. For some indications it can be used without medication. The method is based on:
- electrical conductivity of tissues and organs;
- galvanization - the influence of current on biological processes in the area of influence;
- the ability of substances included in medicines to disintegrate into ions under the influence of electrical impulses.
When exposed to impulses in tissues, blood circulation and lymph flow increase, the processes of active metabolism and cellular restoration are launched. In areas affected by current, sensitivity to drugs increases, and, accordingly, the therapy used provides maximum effect much faster. In general, Electrophoresis promotes:
- relief of inflammatory processes;
- reducing swelling;
- pain relief;
- muscle relaxation;
- normalization of nerve conduction;
- improvement of microcirculation;
- rapid tissue restoration;
- natural synthesis of bioactive substances;
- activation of the body's protective function.
EF also has a calming effect. Similar effects can be achieved by the penetration of drugs into the body through the intercellular spaces, sweat and sebaceous glands. When receiving minimal medicinal doses through physiotherapy, the most pronounced effect is achieved. At the same time, the medications do not come into contact with the gastrointestinal tract, significantly reducing the risk of side effects. The general advantages of medicinal electrophoresis include:
- accessibility, non-invasiveness, painlessness;
- minimal likelihood of side effects;
- cumulative effect, long-term result;
- the need to use minimal dosages of drugs.
Separately, there is a targeted effect of treatment on the lesion without affecting healthy tissue.
FAQ
Can electrophoresis be used for children?
Galvanization is often used in pediatrics. There is no need to be afraid of this procedure. It does no harm, is non-invasive, absolutely painless. But only a doctor should select the necessary medications, frequency and amplitude of the current.
Is it possible to combine electrophoresis with other procedures - acupuncture, massage, paraffin baths?
Electrophoresis is compatible with many other procedures, such as acupuncture, various therapeutic and cosmetic massages, and paraffin baths. But a complex treatment regimen is developed by a doctor, since between some manipulations it is necessary to take a break from several hours to several days.
Literature:
- ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases).
- L. O. Neuropathology. - M.: Education, 1982. - P.307-308. Bogolyubov.
- Medical rehabilitation (manual, 3 volumes). // Moscow - Perm. - 1998. Popov S. N.
- Physical rehabilitation. 2005. - P.608.
- State Register of Medicines (GRLS) of the Russian Federation.
Themes
Intervertebral hernia, Spine, Pain, Treatment without surgery Date of publication: 12/23/2020 Date of update: 01/11/2021
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