ODG (Pain Chapter)
May be appropriate on a trial basis to study the effects and benefits of interefential devices for the following conditions:
- Pain is ineffectively controlled due to diminished effectiveness of medications; or
- Pain is ineffectively controlled with medications
due to side effects; or
- History of substance abuse; or
- Significant pain from postoperative or acute conditions limits the ability to perform exercise/programs/physical therapy; or
- Unresponsive to conservative measures.
Continued use and purchase is recommended “if there should be evidence of increased functional improvement, less reported pain and evidence of medication reduction.”
ODG (Shoulder)
Not recommended as an isolated intervention, but has been shown effective in conjunction with shoulder exercise program.
ODG (Knee)
Under study for osteoarthritis and recovery post knee surgery. After knee surgery, home interferential current therapy (IFC) may help reduce pain, pain medication taken, and swelling while increasing range of motion, resulting in quicker return to activities of daily living and athletic activities.
ACOEM Guidelines
Interferential therapy for post-operative ACL reconstruction, meniscectomy, and knee chondroplasty is recommended immediately post-operatively… Patients should be engaged in an appropriate postoperative rehabilitation program in combination with interferential therapy.
California Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (Chronic Pain Guidelines)
Appropriate for the following conditions if it has been documented and proven to be effective as directed or applied by the physician or a provider licensed to provide physical medicine:
- Pain is ineffectively controlled due to diminished effectiveness of medications; or
- Pain is ineffectively controlled with medications due to side effects; or
- History of substance abuse; or
- Significant pain from postoperative conditions limits the ability to perform exercise programs/physical therapy treatment; or
- Unresponsive to conservative measures (e.g., repositioning, heat/ ice, etc.).
If criteria are met, then a one-month trial may be appropriate to permit the physician and physical medicine provider to study the effects and benefits. There should be evidence of increased functional improvement, less reported pain and evidence of medication reduction.