Which therapeutic technology is good for what? – A selection guide
If you've made it this far, you already know: modern physiotherapy technologies can be applied in many areas. But now comes the real question:
Which one should I choose?
This isn't a simple question because every technology works differently. Electricity is not the same as light. Magnetism does something different than ultrasond. And what is excellent for one problem might not be the best choice for another. In this article I review the main technologies so that you can make an informed decision.
If you haven't yet read what home medical devices are actually for, start with this introduction →
The main physiotherapy technologies
| Technology | Mechanism of action | Main applications |
|---|---|---|
| Electrostimulation | Electrical impulses acting on nerves and muscles | Pain relief, muscle strengthening, improved circulation |
| Softlaser | Low-energy light absorbed by cells | Inflammation reduction, wound healing, tissue regeneration |
| Magnetic therapy | Pulsed magnetic field affecting tissues | Bone healing, improved circulation, pain relief |
| Ultrasond | Microvibration and heating caused by sound waves | Deep tissue treatment, inflammation, tendons and ligaments |
| Compression therapy | Alternating air pressure applied to the limbs | Lymphoedema, venous circulation disorders, regeneration |
| Salt therapy | Inhalation of salt dust or saline solution | Respiratory diseases, allergies, asthma |
1. Electrostimulation (TENS, EMS, NMES)
Electrostimulation is the most versatile technology. Weak electrical impulses affect the nervous system and muscles.
Types:
- TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) – for pain relief
- EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) – for muscle stimulation and strengthening
- NMES (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation) – to improve nerve-muscle connection
- FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation) – to support functional movement
- Iontophoresis – to deliver medications through the skin
When to choose it?
- For acute and chronic pain (TENS)
- For muscle weakness, muscle atrophy (EMS)
- For post-workout recovery (EMS)
- For incontinence treatment (with special electrodes)
Advantage: Fast effect, many uses, relatively inexpensive.
Not ideal for: Deep tissue problems, bone healing on its own.
→ More about electrostimulation
2. Softlaser therapy
Softlaser (Low-Level Laser Therapy, LLLT) emits low-energy light into tissues, which stimulates cellular metabolism.
When to choose it?
- For inflammatory processes
- To support wound healing
- For tendon inflammations and ligament problems
- For skin issues (wounds, scars)
Advantage: No noticeable sensation during treatment, non-invasive, local effect.
Not ideal for: Deep tissues (e.g. bones), time-consuming for large areas.
→ More about softlaser therapy
→ Home applications of softlaser
3. Magnetic therapy
Magnetic therapy uses a pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF – Pulsed Electromagnetic Field). The field penetrates tissues and acts at the cellular level.
When to choose it?
- To support bone healing (after fractures)
- For joint problems, osteoarthritis
- For circulation disorders
- For general regeneration and well-being improvement
Advantage: Penetrates deeply, treats large areas, pleasant treatment.
Not ideal for: Acute inflammation, rapid pain relief.
4. Ultrasond therapy
Therapeutic ultrasond emits sound waves into tissues, causing microvibration and heating in deep tissues.
When to choose it?
- For deep tissue problems (tendinitis, bursitis)
- To loosen scar tissue
- For chronic inflammations
- For sports injuries
Advantage: Deep penetration, localized treatment.
Not ideal for: Acute inflammation, open wounds, directly next to bones.
→ More about ultrasond therapy
5. Compression therapy (pressotherapy)
Compression therapy uses special cuffs with alternating air pressure on the limbs, which "pumps out" accumulated fluid.
When to choose it?
- For lymphoedema treatment
- For venous circulation disorders
- For swollen, heavy legs
- For athletes' recovery
Advantage: Excellent for lymphatic circulation, pleasantly relaxing.
Not ideal for: Pain relief, muscle/bone problems.
→ More about compression therapy
6. Salt therapy (halotherapy)
Salt therapy means inhalation of salt dust or saline solution, which cleanses and moisturizes the airways.
When to choose it?
- To relieve symptoms of asthma, COPD
- For allergic rhinitis, hay fever
- For recurrent respiratory infections
- For sinusitis
Advantage: Natural, free of side effects, also suitable for prevention.
Not ideal for: Musculoskeletal problems.
Which should I choose? – A decision aid
| If your problem... | First choice | Supplementary option |
|---|---|---|
| Acute pain | TENS | Softlaser |
| Muscle weakness | EMS | Magnetic therapy |
| Joint degeneration | Magnetic therapy | Ultrasond |
| Tendinitis | Ultrasond | Softlaser |
| Swollen legs | Compression therapy | Magnetic therapy |
| Respiratory problems | Salt therapy | - |
| Sports recovery | EMS + Compression therapy | Magnetic therapy |
An important reminder
This guide provides general information. The specific treatment plan is always determined by your doctor based on the diagnosis.
More about the principles of treatment →
Interested in other technologies?
In addition to softlaser, there are many other home physiotherapy technologies – electrostimulation, magnetic therapy, ultrasond, compression therapy. If you want to understand which is for what and which might be the best choice for your problem, read the Which technology is good for what? comprehensive guide.
Summary – Quick overview
What is this article? A guide to understanding the main physiotherapy technologies and choosing the right one.
Who is it for? Anyone who wants to understand what each therapeutic device is for.
Main message: Every technology has its strengths. The right choice depends on the nature of your problem.
The information in this article is for guidance only. Home therapy devices are intended to complement medical treatment and do not replace specialist care.
