Electrical stimulation therapy is a commonly used treatment modality in chiropractic care that uses low-level electrical currents to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, relax muscle spasm, and support tissue healing. At Loop Spine & Sports Center, it is used as a supporting component of treatment for patients who benefit from additional soft tissue work beyond chiropractic adjusting and massage therapy.
How It Works
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Electrical stimulation is delivered through small electrode pads placed on the skin over the affected area. The electrical current stimulates the sensory and motor nerves in the tissue, producing several therapeutic effects depending on the frequency and intensity used. At lower frequencies it can help block pain signals and promote the release of natural pain-relieving compounds in the body. At higher frequencies it produces a gentle muscle contraction that helps reduce spasm, improve circulation, and accelerate the healing process in injured tissue.
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At Loop Spine & Sports Center, electrical stimulation is typically delivered using an IST table, which combines interferential current therapy with traction to address both muscle tension and spinal compression simultaneously. Most patients find the treatment comfortable and relaxing.
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When Electrical Stimulation Is Used
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Electrical stimulation is most commonly used at this office for patients who are not receiving massage therapy during a particular visit, or as an adjunct to adjusting for conditions with a significant inflammatory or muscular component.
It is particularly helpful for:
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Acute and Chronic Low Back Pain
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Neck Pain and Upper Back Tension
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Muscle Spasm
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Tendinitis Conditions Including Tennis Elbow and Golfer's Elbow
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General Muscle Soreness and Tension
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How It Fits Into Your Care
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Electrical stimulation is not a standalone treatment at Loop Spine & Sports Center. It is used as part of a broader treatment plan that centers on chiropractic adjusting and, for most patients, massage therapy. Dr. Trottier determines which combination of modalities is appropriate for each patient based on their condition, their response to care, and what is scheduled for that particular visit.
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New patients are welcome and can take advantage of our $75 first visit special, which includes a thorough consultation, complete spinal examination, digital x-rays if needed, and a report of findings. No pressure, no obligation. Just an honest conversation about what is going on and whether we can help.
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Loop Spine & Sports Center is located at 30 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 605 in the heart of the Chicago Loop, steps from Millennium Park and accessible from every CTA train line.