Raffles Rehabilitation Centre

Ultrasound refers to mechanical vibrations, which are essentially the same  as  sound waves but of a higher frequency. These vibrations cause an increase in blood flow as well as a micro-massage to the deeper tissues.

Therapeutic ultrasound is beneficial in the following conditions:

• Acute/ Sub-acute Inflammatory
• Chronic Rheumatoid
• Arthritic Conditions
• Scar and Excessive Fibrous Tissue
• Pain

You  should  only  feel  a  mild  comfortable  warmth  and  it should  not cause  any burn injuries to the skin.

Cold is applied to the affected area using icepacks. It has the following effects:

• Decreases bleeding
• Decreases swelling
• Reduces muscle spasm
• Reduces the acute inflammatory reaction
• Reduces pain

You usually feel a gradual increase in coldness, followed by a period of discomfort. The area should feel numb without pain.

Traction is a pulling force on the spine that creates either a stretch, distraction or gapping effect on the vertebral column.

​Effects on the body:

• Reduces pain
• Reduces joint compression and stiffness
• Decreases joint swelling
• Manages disc pathologies
• Releases nerve root impingement and numbness

You will feel a pulling sensation during the treatment. You might experience  some muscle stiffness for a short duration of time after the traction.

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)

TENS is a non-invasive technique in which a low-voltage electrical current is delivered through wires from a small power unit to electrodes located on the skin. The main effect of TENS is pain relief and is especially effective in the following conditions:

• • Low back pain
  • Arthritic pain
  • Muscle pain
  • Nerve pain

Therapeutic effects of Interferential current:

This machine produces electrical currents (~4000HZ) that pass through the affected area. The current tends to penetrate deeper than other electrical modalities and is used for the following conditions:

• Acute and chronic pain
• Muscle spasms
• Oedema
• Inflammation
• Low muscle tone

Electrical stimulation causes a sensation of pins and needles to the skin and, depending on the frequency, cause muscle contraction. These sensations should be at a comfortable level to each individual to prevent electric burns.