Massage, cold whirlpool treatment, or compression therapy may be used to control swelling by flushing the extra fluid away from the area. The use of cold, compression, and elevation are a beneficial combination for reducing swelling. In the acute treatment of a ligament injury, the stimulation can ease pain and help remove swelling. It is often used in combination with ice in the early stages and heat in the later stages of recovery. This treatment stimulates nerves by sending an electrical current gently through your skin.
Some people say it feels like sort of like a massage on their skin.
Electrical stimulation can ease pain by sending impulses that are felt instead of pain. Once the pain eases, muscles that are in spasm begin to relax, letting you move and exercise with less discomfort. Improving knee movement can help keep the joint surfaces aligned and healthy. Getting more motion can give you the relief you need for daily activities. If you don't have full range of motion, your therapist has several ways to help you get more movement including graded joint mobilization, manual stretching, and select exercises.