IQ -- Interesting Quote

How Efficacious Is Electrotherapy Equipment?

"Physiotherapy Management of Chronic Low Back Pain," a paper published in the October 1992 issue of the British journal Physiotherapy, makes an interesting remark in its conclusion that should send electrotherapy manufacturers reeling:

"Electrotherapy equipment, found in most physiotherapy departments, is expensive and has neither the advantage of manual therapy or exercise. Research evaluating the efficacy of electrotherapy treatment is necessary."

The paper explores physiotherapy, manipulative therapy, exercise, nonsteroidal anti-inflamatory drugs, and rehabilitation programs. This may be another case when a hands-on approach is preferred. It also could be the beginning of third-party payers questioning the wisdom of reimbursement for care utilizing electrotherapy equipment.