What Is IFT (Interferential Therapy)?
Interferential therapy (IFT) is an electrotherapy modality that passes two medium-frequency electrical currents through the body. Where the two currents cross inside the tissue, they create a therapeutic low-frequency beat frequency that produces deep pain relief, muscle relaxation, and anti-oedema effects. It is safe, painless at the skin surface, and widely used in physiotherapy for joint conditions.
How IFT Treats Knee Pain and Post-Surgical Swelling
Knee pain — whether from osteoarthritis, ligament injury, or surgery — is commonly accompanied by joint effusion (swelling inside the knee) and inhibition of the quadriceps muscle. IFT's deep current stimulation activates the lymphatic and venous systems around the knee joint, helping to resolve oedema. Simultaneously, it stimulates the quadriceps motor fibres, reducing muscle inhibition caused by pain and swelling — a critical step in restoring normal knee function after injury or surgery.
What to Expect During Treatment at Realign Rehab Clinic
Dr. Vaishali Suri at Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5 Faridabad, places four electrodes around the knee joint in a criss-cross configuration. The current level is gradually increased until you feel a comfortable, deep tingling sensation. Each session takes 20–30 minutes. IFT is commonly used in the early phase of post-surgical recovery — for example, after ACL reconstruction or total knee replacement — to reduce pain and swelling and enable earlier mobilisation. Patients typically receive it alongside manual therapy and exercise.
Benefits of IFT for Knee Pain
- Reduces joint swelling and post-surgical effusion
- Relieves deep knee pain without oral medication
- Reduces quadriceps inhibition, enabling earlier rehab progress
- Suitable for acute injuries, osteoarthritis, and post-operative recovery
Is IFT Therapy Safe?
IFT is safe for the vast majority of patients, including elderly individuals with arthritic knees. It should not be used over metal implants in the treatment area if the device manual specifies this restriction, in patients with cardiac pacemakers, or over active infection or DVT. Dr. Vaishali Suri assesses each patient's suitability, including post-operative cases, before beginning IFT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does IFT therapy hurt?
IFT is comfortable and most patients find it pleasantly numbing. The sensation is a deep vibrating or tingling feeling inside the knee, quite different from the prickling of surface-level electrical stimulation. The intensity is always adjusted to a comfortable level.
How many sessions of IFT therapy will I need?
Post-surgical patients often receive IFT in the first two to four weeks of rehabilitation, typically three to five times per week in the acute phase. For ongoing knee osteoarthritis pain, eight to twelve sessions combined with strengthening exercises provides the best long-term outcome.
Is IFT therapy available in Faridabad?
Yes. IFT (Interferential Therapy) is available at Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5 Faridabad. Dr. Vaishali Suri uses this technique as part of a comprehensive physiotherapy programme. Call +91 9818185589 to book.