Quick answer: In medical and physiotherapy terms, IFC stands for interferential current therapy. It is a type of electrotherapy in which an IFC machine sends two gentle electrical currents through pads on the skin. Where the currents cross, they create a low-frequency stimulation deep in the tissue that can help ease pain, muscle spasm and swelling. Physiotherapists usually use IFC alongside exercise and hands-on treatment, not on its own.
If so, you need to hear about Interferential Current Therapy or IFC. IFC is a branch of electrical muscle stimulation that relieves pain and stimulates muscles. If you’re wondering how IFC can benefit you, contact CN Physiotherapy today. Our Ottawa, ON therapists are happy to answer any questions you may have and set you up with an appointment.
IFC works by delivering small amounts of electrical stimulation to the body’s damaged tissues. The therapy is intended to stimulate the body’s natural pain-response mechanism, increase blood flow, and stimulate the production of hormones that promote healing.
IFC uses two medium-frequency currents (around 4,000 Hz) set at slightly different frequencies. Where the two currents cross, they create a low-frequency “interference” or beat frequency, typically between 1 and 150 Hz, in the deeper tissues. During your session, your physiotherapist adjusts the frequencies and intensity to best suit your needs.
IFC stands for interferential current, also called interferential current therapy or interferential therapy (IFT). It is a form of electrical stimulation used in physiotherapy to help manage pain and swelling.
An IFC machine delivers two medium-frequency currents (around 4,000 Hz) through electrode pads placed around the painful area. The two currents are set at slightly different frequencies, and where they cross they “interfere” to create a low-frequency beat that stimulates the nerves and muscles in the deeper tissues. Medium-frequency current passes through the skin more comfortably than low-frequency current.
No. Most people feel a comfortable tingling, buzzing or pulsing sensation. Your physiotherapist adjusts the intensity so it feels strong but comfortable, and you can ask for it to be turned down at any time.
An IFC treatment usually lasts about 10 to 20 minutes and is often combined with exercise, manual therapy or heat as part of your physiotherapy session. The number of sessions depends on your condition and how you respond.
IFC is not suitable for everyone. It is generally avoided in people with a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device, over the abdomen, pelvis or low back during pregnancy, over areas of known or suspected cancer, over a blood clot (DVT), over broken or infected skin, or over the front of the neck. Your physiotherapist will screen you before treatment.
Both are types of electrotherapy for pain. TENS uses low-frequency current from a small portable unit and is often used at home. IFC uses medium-frequency currents from a clinic machine that cross to create stimulation deeper in the tissues, and it is applied by your physiotherapist in the clinic.
Want to know if IFC is right for you? Book an assessment at our Orléans – Orleanswood, Orléans – Fallingbrook or Ottawa – Carling clinic, or read about TENS, back pain and neck pain treatment.
If pain is interfering with your daily life, it’s time to seek professional help. The assistance you need is available at CN Physiotherapy. Our Ottawa, ON therapists are qualified to perform IFC treatment and can help speed your recovery and lessen your painful symptoms. Contact us today to get started– your body will thank you!