What is INDIBA?
INDIBA is a non-invasive radiofrequency treatment used within physiotherapy. It is a branded form of TECAR therapy (Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive), which delivers radiofrequency energy through electrodes placed against the skin.
The device operates at a fixed frequency of 448 kilohertz (kHz). Depending on the settings, it can produce gentle, controlled warmth within the tissues or be used with very little noticeable heating.
How can INDIBA support your recovery?
Helping you move more comfortably
Pain can cause muscles to tighten and you to move more cautiously. A painful shoulder, for example, may lead you to hold your neck and upper back more rigidly, adding to stiffness.
INDIBA may help reduce discomfort, making it easier to move and take part in hands-on treatment and guided exercises.
Increasing local circulation through controlled warming
When used at settings that produce warmth, INDIBA can increase tissue temperature and local blood flow. Your physiotherapist adjusts the level of warming to suit the treatment area, your symptoms and your comfort.
More heat is not automatically better. Sensitive areas may need little or no noticeable warming, and the settings are selected according to your assessment and treatment goals.
Supporting rehabilitation after injury or surgery
After an injury or operation, pain and stiffness can make everyday movement difficult. Where appropriate, INDIBA may help manage these symptoms so that movement and exercise feel more comfortable.
Treatment takes into account your stage of healing, the condition of your skin and any medical or surgical restrictions. As your recovery progresses, the focus remains on improving movement, rebuilding strength and gradually returning to everyday activities, work or sport.
What conditions can INDIBA therapy be used for?
Depending on your physiotherapy assessment, INDIBA may be used as part of a treatment programme for:
- muscle tightness and tension associated with pain
- joint pain, stiffness and restricted movement
- sports and soft-tissue injuries
- tendon-related problems
- ongoing muscle and joint pain
- rehabilitation following injury or surgery
INDIBA is not suitable for every condition or patient. Your physiotherapist will assess your symptoms and medical history to determine whether it is appropriate for your rehabilitation.
How is INDIBA adapted to you?
INDIBA has two treatment modes, called capacitive and resistive. Your physiotherapist selects the mode and adjusts the intensity to suit the treatment area, your symptoms and your comfort. Both modes may be used during the same session.
What does an INDIBA session feel like?
A conductive cream is applied to the treatment area, and a smooth applicator is moved across your skin. A separate plate is placed against your skin to complete the electrical circuit.
When treatment is intended to produce warmth, you will usually feel a gradual, comfortable warming sensation. At lower settings, you may notice very little heat.
Your physiotherapist checks your comfort throughout the session and adjusts the settings as needed. Let them know straight away if you feel excessive heat or discomfort.
Treatment may focus on the painful area and nearby muscles or other tissues that could be contributing to your symptoms.
INDIBA at PhysioB
At PhysioB, we offer INDIBA as a standalone treatment or alongside other physiotherapy treatments, depending on your needs.
We begin by assessing your symptoms, movement, everyday function and medical history to determine whether INDIBA is appropriate and how it could support your recovery.
Your plan may include hands-on therapy, mobility exercises and progressive strengthening. Other treatments, such as focused shockwave therapy (fESWT), may be considered where appropriate. Each treatment is selected for a specific purpose.
For example, someone with a painful, stiff knee may receive INDIBA to help make movement and strengthening exercises more comfortable. For a tendon-related problem, it may help manage discomfort within a programme focused on gradually rebuilding the tendon’s ability to tolerate activity.
We review your response and adjust your treatment as you progress.
Is INDIBA suitable for everyone?
INDIBA is not suitable for every patient. Before treatment, your physiotherapist will review your medical history, including any conditions or medications that may make treatment unsuitable or require adjustments.
INDIBA should not be used during pregnancy, in people with pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices, or in those with thrombophlebitis—an inflamed vein associated with a blood clot.
Other medical conditions may require additional precautions. Please tell your physiotherapist about any health conditions, implants or medications so they can assess whether treatment is appropriate for you.
If you are unsure whether INDIBA is suitable for you, we can discuss this during your physiotherapy assessment.
How many INDIBA sessions will I need?
The number and frequency of sessions vary from person to person. They depend on your condition, how long you have had symptoms, your stage of recovery and your goals.
Your physiotherapist will discuss a treatment plan with you and review your progress regularly, rather than automatically prescribing a fixed course of INDIBA sessions.
Book an assessment at PhysioB
If pain, stiffness or muscle tension is limiting your movement, sport, work or everyday activities, book a physiotherapy assessment at PhysioB in Ealing, London.
We will assess your symptoms, discuss your goals and determine whether INDIBA could help as part of a treatment plan tailored to you.
