Rebox electrotherapeutic method is based on non-invasive transcutaneous application of specific electric currents to a living tissue. Main indications for using the Rebox include treatment of acute and chronic pain, immobility, musculoskeletal and neurological disorders and oedema.[1][2][3][4][5]
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Rebox electrotherapeutic rehabilitation has been clinically used in human and animal medicine since 1985. It was invented and patented by Ing. Petr Slovak, Ph.D., a lecturer at Czech Technical University in Prague, CZ. The name Rebox is derived from the "Rehabilitation Box".
Rebox method is different from classic Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulations (TENS) in many basic characteristics. Specific impulses (frequency 2–4 kHz, pulse width 100-300 μs) of weak electric currents (100-200 μA) are introduced transcutaneously to the affected region with a touch of a small non-invasive treatment electrode (cathode) while the patient holds a second reference electrode (anode) in a hand to complete electric circuit. The treatment electrode (active surface 1,5 mm2) is applied for 2–3 seconds in one spot, then proceeding approx. 1,5 cm to another point. About 20 points are treated per one session. Frequency of treatment sessions is individual for each patient.[6]
Attraction of extracellular and intracellular positive ions (Na+, Ca2+, K+, H+) to the treatment electrode (cathode) leads to local changes in tissue microenvironment resulting in positive treatment effects.[6]
Rebox electrotherapy is used by physiotherapists, rehabilitation providers, general practitioners, orthopedists, algesiologists, neurologists and sport-medicine providers. The devices are also used by patients themselves in homecare treatment. The most frequent applications include back pain, epicondylitis, sprained ankle, torticollis, knee ligament damage and other.[5]
One of the main causes of pain is local acidosis due to inflammation and ischemic processes. Rebox is effective in immediate pain relief by correction of local acidosis (phenomena called Transcutaneous Correction of Local Acidosis - TCLA).[6]
Local changes in calcium ions (Ca2+) concentrations cause myorelaxation (decrease of muscular hypertonia and spasm) and significant improvement in range of motion.
Rebox currents improve circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid (mainly due to Na+ movement) leading to antioedematous effect in affected area.
Rebox therapy is used in rehabilitation of after-stroke conditions, Multiple Sclerosis, phantom pain, Parkinson disease and other.
The method facilitates healing processes, this effect is mostly visible in wounds after surgery.
Tissue electric microcharacteristics can be visualized by the Rebox devices. The physiological curve differs from pathological situations and is specific for variety of disorders.[6] This diagnostic value is helpful for monitoring of effectiveness and progress of treatment.