Want to see how the Interferential current therapy (IFC) works in real time? Watch the short video below to see it in action during an actual treatment session.
Interferential Current Therapy (IFC) is a non-invasive, pain-relieving treatment that uses medium-frequency electrical currents to stimulate deep tissues beneath the skin. It is commonly used in chiropractic and physical therapy settings to manage acute and chronic pain, reduce inflammation, relax muscle spasms, and support the healing process.
Unlike other forms of electrotherapy, IFC penetrates deeper into the body’s tissues with minimal discomfort, making it highly effective for conditions involving the joints, nerves, and muscles.
IFC uses two medium-frequency electrical currents that intersect or “interfere” with each other at the site of pain. Where the two currents meet, they create a low-frequency therapeutic effect deep in the tissues, without causing the skin irritation often associated with low-frequency stimulation.
Therapeutic effects of IFC include:
Treatments are typically pain-free and last 5-15 minutes. Electrodes are placed on the skin surrounding the painful or injured area, and the intensity is adjusted for comfort and effectiveness.
While IFC (Interferential Current) and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) are both forms of electrical stimulation used for pain management, there are important differences:
| Feature | IFC | TENS |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | Medium-frequency (4,000 Hz) currents that intersect to produce therapeutic low-frequency effects | Low-frequency (usually 80–100 Hz) direct to skin |
| Penetration Depth | Deeper tissue penetration | Surface-level stimulation |
| Comfort Level | Often more comfortable, less skin irritation | May cause tingling or skin fatigue |
| Effectiveness | Stronger for deep muscle or joint pain, swelling, and nerve root irritation | Best for mild to moderate surface-level pain |
| Clinical Use | Used in clinical settings by practitioners | Often used in home units |
At Lakeside Chiropractic, we use IFC in-clinic for enhanced results during recovery and can guide you on whether TENS at home might also be appropriate.
Most people describe it as a mild tingling or pulsing sensation. The intensity is adjustable to suit your comfort level and therapeutic goals.
TENS primarily works at the surface level and is commonly used at home. IFC uses medium-frequency currents that reach deeper tissues, making it more effective for joint pain, inflammation, or nerve-related issues.
Yes. IFC is often combined with chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, soft tissue therapy, or stretching to enhance overall treatment outcomes. It can help reduce pain before manual therapy or improve results after it.
Yes. IFC is often used to reduce nerve irritation and muscle spasm caused by disc bulges or nerve root compression. It’s a gentle option for patients unable to tolerate manual therapy initially.
Most people tolerate IFC well, but it may not be recommended for individuals with pacemakers, metal implants near the treatment site, pregnancy (over the abdomen or lower back), or certain skin conditions. Your chiropractor will assess suitability before use.
The electrical stimulation increases local circulation, reduces inflammation, and relaxes tense muscles. These effects improve oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues, which supports the body’s natural healing process.
