Stimulation of bone healing in new fractures of the tibial shaft using interferential currents

Abstract

The aim of this research was to establish whether interferential currents (IFC) could significantly reduce the healing time for fractures of the tibia and thereby prevent nonunion. Males between the ages of 12 and 86, who had sustained fractures of the tibiae, were entered into this double blind clinical trial. According to strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, a final sample of 227 cases (208 subjects) were entered by block randomization into two groups; an experimental group (n=41) and placebo group (n=35). A further group was entered retrospectively – control group (n=151). IFCs were applied to the experimental group via suction electrodes for 30 minutes per day for 10 days, using a beat frequency of 10 – 25 Hz and a swing mode of 6 ∫ 6. The placebo group had only suction electrodes applied, the intermittent mode produced a rhythmical massage effect; subjects in this group commented on pain relief which resulted in the addition of the control group as a check on the possible effect of intermittent suction. The control group received no intervention. The data were analysed using analysis of covariance which resulted in a finding of no significant difference in the time taken to union for the three groups. This means that to date there is no reason to believe that IFCs (using the parameters of this trial) can reduce the healing time for new fractures of the tibia or prevent nonunion. However, further investigation is recommended. Copyright © 1997 Whurr Publishers Ltd.