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Electrical Stimulation Therapy in Burlington

What Is Electrical Stimulation?

Electrical stimulation therapy (EMS) is a form of electrotherapy that uses safe, controlled electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contractions. This technique is widely used in physiotherapy to:​

  • Strengthen weak or inactive muscles

  • Reduce swelling and inflammation

  • Relieve acute or chronic pain

  • Support wound healing and recovery

A related technique, called neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), uses higher intensities to activate peripheral nerves and produce muscle contractions for functional recovery.

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At Cogent Rehab in Burlington, we use electrical stimulation as part of individualized rehabilitation programs to help restore mobility, improve muscle function, and accelerate healing.

How Does Electrical Stimulation Work?

Electrical impulses are generated by a small device and delivered through adhesive electrodes placed on the skin over targeted muscles. These impulses mimic the natural signals sent by your central nervous system, causing the muscle to contract.

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By producing controlled contractions, electrical stimulation helps retrain muscles, improve circulation, and reduce pain — supporting faster and more effective recovery.

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Common forms of electrical stimulation include:

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  • TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) – for pain relief

  • Interferential Current (IFC) – to reduce pain and swelling

  • Russian Current – for muscle strengthening

  • Pre-modulated Current – for pain management in localized areas

  • Biphasic Currents – for neuromuscular re-education

When Do We Use Electrical Stimulation?

Electrical stimulation can be used for a variety of rehabilitation goals, including:

  • Pain Relief – Reduces pain signals to the brain and stimulates the release of endorphins (natural painkillers).

  • Muscle Contraction – Helps maintain or restore muscle activity in cases of weakness or dysfunction. Examples include:

    • Strengthening thigh muscles after surgery

    • Maintaining shoulder muscle tone and reducing pain after a stroke

    • Stimulating pelvic floor muscles to treat urinary incontinence

    • Restoring ankle movement in patients with foot drop due to stroke or spinal cord injury

What Are The Benefits of Electrical Stimulation?

Electrical stimulation offers many clinically proven benefits, such as:

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  • Reducing or controlling acute and chronic pain

  • Improving joint range of motion

  • Increasing local blood circulation

  • Reducing swelling and inflammation

  • Decreasing muscle spasms

  • Supporting neuromuscular re-education after injury

  • Improving motor coordination

  • Preventing or reversing muscle atrophy (wasting) after prolonged immobility or casting

Is Electrical Stimulation Painful?

Most patients describe electrical stimulation as a tingling, prickly, or “pins and needles” sensation. The intensity can always be adjusted to your comfort level.

  • For pain relief and circulation, the sensation is typically mild and comfortable.

  • For muscle strengthening, contractions may feel slightly stronger or uncomfortable, but they should never be painful.

Why Choose Cogent Rehab?

At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our experienced physiotherapists integrate electrical stimulation into customized treatment plans that match your unique condition, comfort, and recovery goals. Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, surgery, stroke, or managing chronic pain, electrical stimulation can be an effective part of your rehabilitation journey.

Start Your Recovery With Electrical Stimulation

Don’t let pain, weakness, or limited mobility hold you back. Take the first step toward better mobility, lasting pain relief, and improved quality of life.

 

Call us today at 905-635-4422 or Book Your Appointment Online to see how electrical stimulation can support your recovery.

 

FAQs on Electrical Stimulation

Q1. What conditions can electrical stimulation help with?

Electrical stimulation is effective for:

  • Sports injuries and post-surgical recovery

  • Stroke rehabilitation and neurological conditions (e.g., foot drop, spinal cord injury)

  • Chronic pain and arthritis

  • Swelling and circulation problems

  • Muscle weakness or atrophy after immobilization or prolonged bed rest

 

Q2. Is electrical stimulation painful?

Most patients describe it as a mild tingling, prickling, or “pins and needles” sensation. It is safe and comfortable. For muscle strengthening, the stimulation may feel stronger but should not be painful.

 

Q3. How many sessions of electrical stimulation do I need?

The number of sessions depends on your condition and recovery goals. Some patients benefit from just a few sessions, while others (especially with neurological or post-surgical needs) may require longer treatment plans. Your Burlington physiotherapist will discuss this during your assessment.

 

Q4. Is electrical stimulation covered by insurance in Ontario?

Yes. Since electrical stimulation is part of a physiotherapy treatment plan, it is typically covered under most extended health insurance plans in Ontario. Check with your provider for specific coverage details.

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