What It Is
Interferential Therapy (IFT) is a form of electrotherapy that uses medium-frequency electrical currents (usually around 4,000 Hz) that intersect in tissues to produce a low-frequency therapeutic effect.

It is primarily used for pain relief, muscle stimulation, and promoting circulation.

How It Works
IFT operates on the principle of interference:

-Two medium-frequency currents are delivered through electrodes on the skin.
-These currents cross within the tissues.
-The crossing creates a beat frequency (e.g., 100 Hz), which is a low-frequency current.
-This low-frequency current:
-Stimulates peripheral nerves
-Promotes analgesia via gate-control theory
-Improves blood flow
-Reduces muscle spasm
-May stimulate natural pain-modulating chemicals (endorphins)

Why medium frequency?
Medium-frequency current penetrates the skin more easily and is more comfortable for patients than low-frequency currents.

 Indications (When IFT Is Used)

IFT is widely used in physiotherapy for conditions such as:

-Pain Management
-Acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain
-Low-back pain
-Neck pain
-Osteoarthritis
-Rheumatoid arthritis (non-acute)
-Post-operative pain
-Shoulder pain (e.g., rotator cuff injuries)
-Sciatica / radiculopathy
-Muscle-Related Uses
-Muscle spasm reduction
-Muscle stimulation / strengthening (to some extent)
-Increasing local blood flow
-Circulation & Healing
-Chronic venous insufficiency symptoms
-Local edema reduction (non-acute)
-Promotion of tissue healing in chronic injuries

 Contraindications (When NOT to Use IFT)

IFT should not be used in the following situations:

-Absolute Contraindications
-Pacemakers or implanted electrical devices
-Pregnancy over the abdomen or pelvic region
-Malignancy in the treatment area
-Active tuberculosis or infection at the treatment site
-Patients with seizures/epilepsy (avoid head/neck region)
-Over carotid sinus
-Over areas of impaired sensation where patient cannot report discomfort
-Relative / Precautionary Contraindications
-Open wounds (unless electrodes are specially designed)
-Metal implants in the area (may cause discomfort but usually not dangerous)
-Acute inflammation (if symptoms worsen)
-Recently radiated tissue
-Severe circulatory disorders
-Fragile or damaged skin
-Patients with severe cardiovascular disease
-Risk Factors & Possible Side Effects
-IFT is generally safe, but potential risks include: