Electrotherapy Lab Manual
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
Practical 1: Application of Interferential Therapy (IFT)
Objective:
To understand the principles and practical application
of Interferential Therapy.
To learn the effects of IFT on pain relief, muscle
stimulation, and circulation improvement.
Equipment Required:
IFT Unit
Electrodes (Suction or Pad type)
Conductive Gel
Cleaning wipes
Towels for skin preparation
Indications:
Chronic and acute pain management
Muscle spasm relief
Edema reduction
Improved local blood circulation
Contraindications:
Cardiac pacemakers
Pregnancy (over the abdominal or pelvic area)
Epilepsy
Open wounds or infected areas
Procedure:
1. Explain the treatment to the patient and obtain
consent.
2. Position the patient comfortably with proper exposure
to the treatment area.
3. Clean the skin and apply conductive gel to enhance
electrode contact.
4. Select the appropriate electrode placement technique
(quadripolar/bipolar) based on treatment goals.
5. Adjust frequency (typically 1-100 Hz) and intensity
according to the treatment plan.
6. Ensure the patient is comfortable and monitor the
response throughout the session.
7. Adjust parameters if necessary, based on patient
feedback and therapeutic effect.
8. Record findings, including patient response,
parameters used, and any adverse reactions.
Practical 2: Application of Infra-red Rays (IRR)
Objective:
To demonstrate the therapeutic use of infrared rays in
physiotherapy.
To understand the effects of IRR on tissue healing,
muscle relaxation, and pain reduction.
Equipment Required:
Infra-red Lamp
Protective Goggles for both patient and therapist
Measuring tape (to ensure proper distance)
Indications:
Muscle pain and stiffness
Joint stiffness (e.g., arthritis)
Wound healing
Circulatory disorders
Contraindications:
Acute inflammation
Malignant tumors
Over areas with impaired sensation
Pregnant women (over the abdomen)
Procedure:
1. Position the patient in a comfortable manner, exposing
the treatment area.
2. Clean the skin to remove any lotions or oils that may
interfere with heat penetration.
3. Place the IR lamp at an appropriate distance (45-60
cm) at an angle of 45 degrees.
4. Set the duration (10-20 minutes) based on the
condition being treated.
5. Continuously monitor the patient for any signs of
excessive erythema, discomfort, or burns.
6. After the session, check the skin reaction and
document any effects observed.
Practical 3: Application of Ultrasound Therapy
including Phonophoresis
Objective:
To apply ultrasound therapy for therapeutic effects
such as pain relief, tissue healing, and inflammation
reduction.
To demonstrate phonophoresis as a drug delivery
method using ultrasound.
Equipment Required:
Ultrasound Machine
Conductive Gel
Medicinal Gel (for phonophoresis)
Timer
Cleaning wipes
Indications:
Soft tissue injuries (e.g., tendonitis, bursitis)
Joint contractures
Muscle spasms
Pain relief
Contraindications:
Over pacemakers or metallic implants
Pregnancy (over the abdomen or lower back)
Cancerous areas
Over fractures or open wounds
Procedure:
1. Explain the procedure and obtain patient consent.
2. Position the patient comfortably and expose the
treatment area.
3. Apply an adequate amount of conductive gel over the
target area.
4. Select the appropriate frequency (1 MHz for deep
tissues, 3 MHz for superficial tissues) and intensity.
5. Move the transducer head in slow circular motions to
ensure even distribution of ultrasound waves.
6. For phonophoresis, mix or apply the medicinal gel
before moving the transducer.
7. Set the treatment duration (usually 5-10 minutes) and
monitor patient feedback.
8. Clean the area and transducer after the session and
document observations.
Practical 4: Application of Ultraviolet (UV) Rays &
Determination of Test Dosage
Objective:
To demonstrate the safe application of ultraviolet rays
for skin conditions and wound healing.
To determine the minimal erythema dose (MED) for
appropriate dosing.
Equipment Required:
UV Lamp
UV Protective Goggles
Dosimeter for test dose determination
Skin marker
Timer
Indications:
Psoriasis and eczema
Chronic ulcers and pressure sores
Vitamin D deficiency
Acne treatment
Contraindications:
Skin cancer or pre-malignant conditions
Lupus or other photosensitive disorders
Recent radiation therapy
Hyperpigmented skin conditions
Procedure:
1. Explain the procedure to the patient and protect all
non-treatment areas.
2. Conduct a test dose by exposing different areas of skin
to UV light for varying durations.
3. Observe the erythema reaction after 24 hours to
determine the MED.
4. Based on MED, determine the therapeutic dose for full
treatment.
5. Administer UV therapy while monitoring for
excessive erythema, burning, or discomfort.
6. Record parameters and patient response after the
session.
Practical 5: Application of Cold Packs
Objective:
To demonstrate the appropriate application of cold
therapy for pain relief and inflammation control.
To understand the physiological effects of
cryotherapy.
Equipment Required:
Cold Packs
Insulating Towels
Timer
Indications:
Acute injuries and inflammation
Post-surgical swelling
Muscle spasm reduction
Pain management
Contraindications:
Cold hypersensitivity
Peripheral vascular disease
Open wounds
Frostbite-prone areas
Procedure:
1. Assess the patient's condition and select the treatment
area.
2. Wrap the cold pack in an insulating towel to prevent
direct contact with the skin.
3. Apply the pack to the target area for 10-15 minutes,
ensuring periodic monitoring.
4. Observe for adverse effects such as frostbite,
excessive redness, or numbness.
5. After the session, remove the pack and reassess the
treated area.
6. Document the duration, patient response, and any
observed effects.
Practical 6: Supervised Application of Wax Therapy
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of wax therapy for deep heat
application in conditions such as arthritis and chronic
pain.
To understand safety precautions and the
physiological effects of wax therapy.
Equipment Required:
Wax Bath Unit
Paraffin Wax
Plastic Wraps and Towels
Timer
Spatula (for layering method, if required)
Indications:
Rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Joint stiffness
Chronic pain conditions
Contraindications:
Open wounds or skin infections
Peripheral neuropathy
Vascular disorders
Sensory impairment
Procedure:
1. Ensure the wax bath temperature is maintained
between 45-55°C.
2. Instruct the patient to dip the affected area (e.g., hand,
foot) into the wax bath 5-7 times to form a wax layer.
3. Alternatively, use a spatula to apply wax if immersion
is not possible.
4. Wrap the treated area with plastic wrap and cover it
with a towel for insulation.
5. Leave for 15-20 minutes to allow heat penetration.
6. Remove the wax gently and clean the skin post-
treatment.
7. Monitor patient response and record findings.
Electrotherapy Lab Manual
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
Practical 1: Application of Mechanical Traction
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of mechanical traction for
spinal decompression and pain relief.
Equipment Required:
Traction Unit
Straps and Harnesses
Adjustable Bed/Table
Indications:
Herniated disc
Sciatica
Spinal stenosis
Facet joint dysfunction
Contraindications:
Unstable fractures
Osteoporosis
Spinal infections
Severe cardiovascular conditions
Procedure:
1. Position the patient comfortably on the traction table.
2. Secure the harnesses and straps appropriately.
3. Set the traction force according to patient condition
(lumbar: 25-50% of body weight; cervical: 10-20% of
body weight).
4. Administer traction intermittently or continuously
based on clinical indication.
5. Monitor patient response throughout the session.
6. Gradually release traction and reassess the patient.
7. Document findings and any patient feedback.
Practical 2: Supervised Application of Hot Packs &
Electric Heating Pads
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of hot packs and electric
heating pads for therapeutic heating.
Equipment Required:
Hydrocollator Unit with Hot Packs
Electric Heating Pads
Towels or Protective Covers
Indications:
Muscle spasms
Joint stiffness
Chronic pain conditions
Myofascial trigger points
Contraindications:
Acute inflammation
Open wounds or burns
Impaired sensation
Circulatory disorders
Procedure:
1. Heat the hot pack in a hydrocollator to 70-80°C or
prepare the electric heating pad.
2. Wrap the hot pack in several layers of towels to
prevent burns.
3. Position the patient comfortably and place the heating
device over the target area.
4. Ensure the treatment duration is between 15-20
minutes.
5. Monitor the patient for excessive heat and discomfort.
6. Remove the pack/pad and assess skin reaction.
7. Document the treatment parameters and patient
response.
Practical 3: Application of Shortwave Diathermy
(SWD)
Objective:
To apply SWD for deep tissue heating and pain relief.
Equipment Required:
SWD Machine
Electrodes or Drum Applicators
Towels
Indications:
Muscle spasms
Joint stiffness
Chronic pain syndromes
Fibrosis
Contraindications:
Pacemakers or metal implants
Pregnancy
Active infections
Cancerous tissues
Procedure:
1. Position the patient and remove any metal objects.
2. Set up the SWD machine and choose the appropriate
mode (continuous/pulsed).
3. Place the applicator at the correct distance from the
treatment site.
4. Adjust intensity based on patient tolerance.
5. Administer treatment for 15-20 minutes.
6. Monitor patient response and document findings.
Practical 4: Application of LASER Therapy
Objective:
To demonstrate the application of LASER therapy for
pain management and tissue healing.
Equipment Required:
LASER Therapy Unit
Protective Goggles
Indications:
Wound healing
Pain relief
Tendonitis
Neuropathic pain
Contraindications:
Direct exposure to the eyes
Cancerous areas
Pregnancy (abdominal region)
Epileptic patients
Procedure:
1. Provide protective goggles to both patient and
therapist.
2. Clean the treatment area.
3. Select the appropriate wavelength and power settings.
4. Apply LASER probe over the treatment site for the
recommended duration.
5. Monitor for any adverse reactions.
6. Document the parameters used and patient response.
Practical 5: Supervised Application of Shock Wave
Therapy
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of shock wave therapy for pain
relief and tissue regeneration.
Equipment Required:
Shock Wave Therapy Unit
Indications:
Plantar fasciitis
Tendinopathies
Myofascial pain syndrome
Calcific shoulder tendinitis
Contraindications:
Over major blood vessels
Pregnancy
Open wounds
Patients with bleeding disorders
Procedure:
1. Apply coupling gel over the treatment area.
2. Position the shock wave applicator correctly.
3. Set the appropriate intensity and frequency.
4. Administer pulses for the recommended number of
shocks.
5. Monitor patient response and document findings.
Practical 6: Application of Magnetic Therapy
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of magnetic therapy for pain
relief and circulation improvement.
Equipment Required:
Magnetic Therapy Device
Indications:
Arthritis
Muscle spasms
Circulatory disorders
Neuropathy
Contraindications:
Pacemakers
Pregnancy
Active bleeding disorders
Metal implants
Procedure:
1. Position the patient in a comfortable manner.
2. Apply the magnetic therapy device over the affected
area.
3. Set the appropriate intensity and duration.
4. Monitor for patient comfort and response.
5. Document treatment details.
End of Lab ManualElectrotherapy Lab Manual
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program
Practical 1: Application of Mechanical Traction
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of mechanical traction for
spinal decompression and pain relief.
Equipment Required:
Traction Unit
Straps and Harnesses
Adjustable Bed/Table
Indications:
Herniated disc
Sciatica
Spinal stenosis
Facet joint dysfunction
Contraindications:
Unstable fractures
Osteoporosis
Spinal infections
Severe cardiovascular conditions
Procedure:
1. Position the patient comfortably on the traction table.
2. Secure the harnesses and straps appropriately.
3. Set the traction force according to patient condition
(lumbar: 25-50% of body weight; cervical: 10-20% of
body weight).
4. Administer traction intermittently or continuously
based on clinical indication.
5. Monitor patient response throughout the session.
6. Gradually release traction and reassess the patient.
7. Document findings and any patient feedback.
Frequency, Intensity, and Duration:
Frequency: 3-5 times per week
Intensity: Lumbar (25-50% of body weight), Cervical
(10-20% of body weight)
Duration: 10-20 minutes
Practical 2: Supervised Application of Hot Packs &
Electric Heating Pads
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of hot packs and electric
heating pads for therapeutic heating.
Equipment Required:
Hydrocollator Unit with Hot Packs
Electric Heating Pads
Towels or Protective Covers
Indications:
Muscle spasms
Joint stiffness
Chronic pain conditions
Myofascial trigger points
Contraindications:
Acute inflammation
Open wounds or burns
Impaired sensation
Circulatory disorders
Procedure:
1. Heat the hot pack in a hydrocollator to 70-80°C or
prepare the electric heating pad.
2. Wrap the hot pack in several layers of towels to
prevent burns.
3. Position the patient comfortably and place the heating
device over the target area.
4. Ensure the treatment duration is between 15-20
minutes.
5. Monitor the patient for excessive heat and discomfort.
6. Remove the pack/pad and assess skin reaction.
7. Document the treatment parameters and patient
response.
Frequency, Intensity, and Duration:
Frequency: Daily or as needed
Intensity: Moderate heat (comfortable warmth)
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Practical 3: Application of Shortwave Diathermy
(SWD)
Objective:
To apply SWD for deep tissue heating and pain relief.
Equipment Required:
SWD Machine
Electrodes or Drum Applicators
Towels
Indications:
Muscle spasms
Joint stiffness
Chronic pain syndromes
Fibrosis
Contraindications:
Pacemakers or metal implants
Pregnancy
Active infections
Cancerous tissues
Procedure:
1. Position the patient and remove any metal objects.
2. Set up the SWD machine and choose the appropriate
mode (continuous/pulsed).
3. Place the applicator at the correct distance from the
treatment site.
4. Adjust intensity based on patient tolerance.
5. Administer treatment for 15-20 minutes.
6. Monitor patient response and document findings.
Frequency, Intensity, and Duration:
Frequency: 2-3 times per week
Intensity: Mild to moderate warmth sensation
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Practical 4: Application of LASER Therapy
Objective:
To demonstrate the application of LASER therapy for
pain management and tissue healing.
Equipment Required:
LASER Therapy Unit
Protective Goggles
Indications:
Wound healing
Pain relief
Tendonitis
Neuropathic pain
Contraindications:
Direct exposure to the eyes
Cancerous areas
Pregnancy (abdominal region)
Epileptic patients
Procedure:
1. Provide protective goggles to both patient and
therapist.
2. Clean the treatment area.
3. Select the appropriate wavelength and power settings.
4. Apply LASER probe over the treatment site for the
recommended duration.
5. Monitor for any adverse reactions.
6. Document the parameters used and patient response.
Frequency, Intensity, and Duration:
Frequency: 3-5 times per week
Intensity: Low-level (3-10 mW)
Duration: 5-15 minutes
Practical 5: Supervised Application of Shock Wave
Therapy
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of shock wave therapy for pain
relief and tissue regeneration.
Equipment Required:
Shock Wave Therapy Unit
Indications:
Plantar fasciitis
Tendinopathies
Myofascial pain syndrome
Calcific shoulder tendinitis
Contraindications:
Over major blood vessels
Pregnancy
Open wounds
Patients with bleeding disorders
Procedure:
1. Apply coupling gel over the treatment area.
2. Position the shock wave applicator correctly.
3. Set the appropriate intensity and frequency.
4. Administer pulses for the recommended number of
shocks.
5. Monitor patient response and document findings.
Frequency, Intensity, and Duration:
Frequency: 1-2 times per week
Intensity: 1-4 bar pressure
Duration: 2000-3000 shocks per session
Practical 6: Application of Magnetic Therapy
Objective:
To demonstrate the use of magnetic therapy for pain
relief and circulation improvement.
Equipment Required:
Magnetic Therapy Device
Indications:
Arthritis
Muscle spasms
Circulatory disorders
Neuropathy
Contraindications:
Pacemakers
Pregnancy
Active bleeding disorders
Metal implants
Procedure:
1. Position the patient in a comfortable manner.
2. Apply the magnetic therapy device over the affected
area.
3. Set the appropriate intensity and duration.
4. Monitor for patient comfort and response.
5. Document treatment details.
Frequency, Intensity, and Duration:
Frequency: 3-5 times per week
Intensity: Low to moderate field strength
Duration: 15-30 minutes
End of Lab Manual
