Interferential Current (IFC)

Question 1

Beat frequency

Answer 1

f2- f1

Question 2

Premodulated IFC

Answer 2

• two medium frequency currents are interfered within the IFC machine
• don’t need to crisscross two channels of electrodes

Question 3

Prime physiological effect

Answer 3

• Depolarizes peripheral sensory and motor nerve fibers

Question 4

Main therapeutic effects

Answer 4

• management of pain
• management of urinary incontinence
• management of muscle weakness

Question 5

Stimulator types and electrodes

Answer 5

• can have line powered / portable with self adhesive or suction cup electrodes

Question 6

Electrode placement

Answer 6

• over the treatment area or within the targeted tissues

Question 7

Parameters for pain Modulation

Answer 7

• follow TENS
• Beat frequency: range of 1 to 200 beats per seconds
• Amplitude depends on the desired level of sensory or motor nerve stimulation

Question 8

parameters for Evoking muscle Contraction

Answer 8

• Follow NMES
• Beat frequency: 50 beats per second
• 2 large electrodes for Premodulated IFC
• 4 smaller electrodes for IFC

Question 9

Considerations

Answer 9

• adverse effects such as fainting, nausea, burns (monitor IFC more)
• avoid high current density (small electrodes with high amplitude current)

Question 10

Suction cup electrodes should be avoided

Answer 10

• Sponges and suction cup can be contaminated with microorganisms
• Negative pressure may bruise skin