Electrotherapy uses small electrical currents, delivered through pads on the skin, to help manage pain and keep muscles working. We use two main types, TENS and EMS, alongside other treatments for dogs, cats, horses and exotic pets.
TENS and EMS: what's the difference?
TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
TENS uses low-level pulses that stimulate the nerves under the skin and help reduce how much pain is felt. It can be a useful addition to pain relief when pain is holding an animal back, including for animals that can't take certain medications. Your vet always stays in charge of medication.
EMS (electrical muscle stimulation)
EMS makes muscles contract. It helps maintain muscle and re-train muscles to switch on when an animal can't use a limb normally, for example after surgery, injury or nerve damage.
What it's used for
- Pain after surgery or injury
- Arthritis and other long-term (chronic) pain
- Muscle loss after surgery, injury or a period of restricted exercise
- Weakness from neurological conditions, such as disc disease (IVDD)
- Re-training muscles to work at the right time (neuromuscular re-education)
What to expect
Electrotherapy is non-invasive. Small pads are placed on the skin, sometimes with a little gel, and the intensity is turned up slowly to a level your animal is comfortable with. TENS usually feels like a mild tingle; EMS produces a visible muscle twitch. Most animals settle quickly, and we watch their reactions throughout.
It's rarely used on its own. Most sessions combine it with manual therapy and exercise therapy, and it plays a big part in neurological rehab.
Safety first. Electrotherapy isn't suitable for every animal or every area of the body. For example, it isn't used over tumours, over a pregnant uterus, or in animals with a pacemaker. We check all of this at your animal's assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Does electrotherapy hurt?
It shouldn't. The intensity is set to what your animal is comfortable with, and we adjust it or stop if they show any discomfort.
Can cats and horses have electrotherapy?
Yes. TENS and EMS are used across species. Pad placement and settings are adjusted to the animal's size, coat and condition.
Will my animal still need pain medication?
Possibly. Electrotherapy can support pain relief, but it doesn't replace your vet's treatment. We work alongside your vet on the overall plan.
Where we work
We're a mobile practice, so we come to you: at home, at the yard or on the farm. We cover Betty's Bay, Botrivier, Gansbaai, Grabouw, Hermanus, Kleinmond, Pringle Bay, Somerset West, Stanford and Stellenbosch, and the areas around them. See our service area map.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Every animal is assessed individually, and we work alongside your vet.