All medical devices have indications and contraindications, and the manufacturer always states these clearly. However, not all electrical stimulation devices on the market are classified as medical devices, so the manufacturer may not clearly describe when they might be unsafe to use.

A very common situation we face when dealing with clients is the presence of metal implants such as joint replacements, fracture fixation plates and spinal instrumentation near where we wish to apply electrodes. The concern has been that the energy generated by electrical stimulation over metal implants would cause local, damaging heating within the tissues. We consider this below.

We must follow the manufacturer's recommendations. However, you might wonder about the real risks. Do the benefits of using electrical stimulation outweigh the risks? This article explores this topic.

Electrical Stimulation Therapy has established itself as a substantial tool in physical therapy. Applications such as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) units and Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) devices have demonstrated substantial effectiveness in improving overall function.
However, the application of electrical stimulation requires stringent safety measures. Assessing patient history, establishing clear treatment objectives, verifying equipment certification, and checking for any contraindications are essential steps to ensure safe and effective treatment. The presence of conditions such as pregnancy, wounds or scars in the electrode area, metal or active implants, and skin diseases may require careful evaluation before proceeding.
Proper patient education on equipment use, along with professional supervision, helps to maximise the benefits while minimising potential risks. Overall, when applied correctly and tailored to individual needs, electrical stimulation can significantly contribute to enhancing rehabilitation outcomes.