ELECTRO-THERAPEUTIC POINT STIMULATION (ETPS) FAQs
What is ETPS? – ETPS is a non-invasive integrated therapy that combines the principles of acupuncture, massage, physical therapy, and microcurrent stimulation to combat acute and chronic pain.
How is ETPS different from other types of therapy? – ETPS utilizes hand-held neurostimulators that apply very low doses of concentrated direct current to specific groups of acupuncture and muscle triggerpoints. This type of therapy incorporates Eastern treatment philosophies (i.e. acupuncture) with Western medical technologies. ETPS allows therapists to offer the benefits of acupuncture without the use of needles! It is the only intervention that can duplicate the acupuncture needle's pain killing effectiveness. ETPS gives better pain relief in a fraction of the time as compared to other therapies offered currently.
Is ETPS the same thing as a TENS unit? – No. ETPS utilizes direct current (DC) microstimulation, TENS uses an alternating current (AC). Since the human body’s nervous system “runs” on a low frequency DC impulse, ETPS allows altered nerve function to be restored to normal and significantly accelerate tissue repair. By duplicating the same frequency of the human nervous system, ETPS can relax muscles and provide a significant calming response. TENS cannot do this.
What type of conditions can be treated with ETPS? – ETPS can be administered to treat chronic pain, including arthritis, lower back problems, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, tennis/golfer’s elbow, sciatica, plantar fascitis, diabetic neuropathy, etc. ETPS is also very effective for acute injuries such as slip and fall injuries, fractures, whiplash, and sporting injuries. ETPS can also be used for individual’s suffering from shingles and Bell’s Palsy.
How does ETPS actually decrease pain? – ETPS helps to increase/decrease circulation, facilitates the release of endorphin chemicals from the brain that help to control pain, stimulates a particular part of the nervous system that has a calming effect on the body, relaxes contracted (“tight”) muscles which may be compressing nerves and limiting a patient’s range-of-motion. ETPS is also very effective in relieving pain and restrictions associated with scar tissue formation.
Is the procedure painful? – Most patients state they feel a tingling or warm sensation when the stimulator is activated. Some treatment sites may be more sensitive than others, causing a sensation similar to a bee sting. Your treatment will be modified based on your tolerance to the stimulation.
Are there needles involved? – No. Unlike traditional acupuncture, ETPS does not involve the use of needles.
Does my insurance company cover this? – Yes! This procedure is billed under a therapy code that is recognized by all insurance programs.
Are there any contraindications for ETPS? - ETPS is not advised in the following situations: 1) individuals with pacemakers, 2) pregnancy, 3) seizure disorders, and 4) persons with active cancer.
How long does it take for the procedure to work? – The results with ETPS have shown that substantial relief from pain may often occur in the first or second treatment. Most patients require 2-10 treatments for permanent results. Some chronic cases may take longer. ETPS may be combined with other therapies to accelerate your pain resolution.
For more information, please contact us at (419) 882-1841 or