Percutaneous electrolysis is a treatment method for tendon complaints. A thin needle is inserted into the tendon, after which the device delivers a weak current. This stimulus provides pain relief and triggers an inflammatory reaction in the tissue that promotes healing.

Which complaints are treated with percutaneous electrolysis?

Percutaneous electrolysis is a treatment for persistent tendon complaints (tendinopathies). Tendon complaints are known for often causing long-lasting symptoms with pain, signs of inflammation and reduced function. This makes it difficult to perform daily (sporting) activities.

A temporary adjustment of (sporting) activities, patience and a good exercise programme are sufficient for many people to get rid of their complaints. Unfortunately not for everyone. For these people, percutaneous electrolysis can offer a solution.

What does percutaneous electrolysis do to the tendon tissue?

A percutaneous electrolysis device consists of a small unit and a needle holder. On the device the physiotherapist adjusts the settings, such as current strength and duration. In the needle holder the therapist places a thin needle. These are the same needles as those used in acupuncture and dry needling.

In addition, the physiotherapist needs an ultrasound scanner. On the one hand to make the right diagnosis. And on the other hand, the ultrasound is used to insert the needle precisely in the right place in the tendon. It is therefore actually better to speak of ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis.

Once the needle is in the right place, the device administers a weak current. This stimulus triggers a number of processes that give the healing of the tendon an extra push in the right direction and provide pain relief. This treatment is always accompanied by a modification of the load on the injured tendon and an exercise programme. Often only a few electrolysis treatments are needed.

Which forms of percutaneous electrolysis are there?

There are different manufacturers that offer equipment for percutaneous electrolysis. They all do this under a different (brand) name. The current strength also differs per device.

With devices that use a higher current strength, the duration of the treatment is shorter (a few seconds), but also more painful. There are also devices that use a lower current intensity. The treatment then lasts about one and a half minutes, but is generally not painful. The total amount of current that flows through the tendon is approximately the same in both cases.

You will come across percutaneous electrolysis under the following names:

EPTE (ultrasound-guided percutaneous therapeutic electrolysis)
PNE (percutaneous needle electrolysis)
EPI (intratissue percutaneous electrolysis)
USGET (ultrasound-guided galvanic electrolysis therapy)