Electrotherapy Electrotherapy has been an unconventional therapeutic method for many centuries. In fact, sources cite people taking "electric" torpedo flesh from lakes and streams as early as 400 BC and placing them on ailing body parts in the hope of stimulating and healing them. Of course, we’ve come a long way in 2,400 years. Today’s technologies are much more technologically advanced—and safer. Here are some products that can help zap away the pain—literally.
Shortwave Diathermy The Auto*Therm® 390 is a new shortwave diathermy device from Mettler Electronics. With either continuous or pulsed modes, therapists can provide the warming effects of this modality to their patients. There are two different forms of application—the deep penetration of inductive coil diathermy or the shallower capacitive-style soft-rubber plates. Weighing only 15 pounds, the basic Auto*Therm 390 can be carried easily between treatment rooms when the soft-rubber pads are being used, or it can be mounted to the optional cart to provide a solid platform for the drum electrode.
For more information, contact Mettler Electronics, 1333 S Claudina St, Anaheim, CA 92805; (800) 854-9305; www.mettlerelectronics.com
Interferential/Russian Stimulator The U/50, by Amrex-Zetron, provides therapeutic ultrasound or combination therapy when it is used in conjunction with an external stimulator. Ultrasound features include 0- to 20-W output, interrupted output, a lightweight transducer, a cable fault alarm system, a transducer-protection switch, a 30-minute timer, and small and large faceplate options. With the CB95 package, the U/50 is paired with the Amrex IF250 interferential/Russian stimulator. The CB95 package also includes a three-shelf utility cart. The Amrex IF250 features solid-state circuitry, and it is microprocessor controlled. The IF250 also features a dynamic quad-polar mode; 12 preset beat-frequency settings; push-button controls; digital displays; an adjustable treatment time from 1 to 99 minutes; an intensity reset circuit; a patient-treatment stop switch; and quad-polar, bi-polar, and Russian modalities.
For more information, contact Amrex-Zetron, 641 E Walnut St, Carson, CA 90746; (800) 221-9069; www.amrex-zetron.com
Multifunction Electrotherapy Device The 300 PV, by Rehabilicare, is a multifunction electrotherapy device designed to provide two channels of neuromuscular electrical nerve stimulation and TENS, and a single channel of high volt. This wide-ranging capability allows clinicians to use electrotherapy throughout the healing cycle with a single device. Its programmability allows for individual patient customization. The 300 PV has 13 preprogrammed regimens, each with recommended default settings. Clinicians simply choose the appropriate program for the intended clinical application, and the device is ready for use.
For more information, contact Rehabilicare, 1811 Old Hwy 8, New Brighton, MN 55112; (800) 676-6489; www.rehabilicare.com
Light Probes Dynatronics has combined the features of the 50 Series Plus™ line with light therapy and direct current to create the Dynatron Solaris® series. Solaris offers many options by including ultrasound, seven Stim waveforms, and the option of adding light therapy. All four of the Dynatron light probes are compatible with the Solaris devices. In addition, Solaris features the Dynatron XP™ light pad, which is big, fast, flexible, and can be left unattended. It delivers 7,500 mW of power over an 8- x 10-inch area and can treat the entire low back in less than 10 minutes. The Solaris Series allows clinicians to treat patients with a variety of different modalities. Along with the latest technology, its durable construction and portable size allows Solaris to travel.
For more information, contact Dynatronics, 7030 Park Centre Dr, Cottonwood Heights, UT; (801) 568-7000; www.dynatronics.com