Interferential Current (IFC) is a common modality used in physiotherapy treatment. The primary focus of IFC is to provide localized temporary pain control. Four electrodes are placed around or near the pain site, and an electrical impulse is passed through the involved area. The brain perceives this as a tingling sensation.
The tingling sensation interferes with the pain pathway that has been experienced by the same portion of the brain, thus minimizing or diminishing the pain impulse. Physiologically at the site of the IFC there is a localized increase in blood flow, which helps to enhance healing.