Advanced tendon care

Percutaneous Electrolysis Therapy (EPTE)

EPTE is an advanced, ultrasound-guided technique for tendinopathies and chronic soft-tissue injuries. By applying a controlled galvanic microcurrent through a fine needle, it triggers a gentle, localised inflammatory response — the key signal that reactivates natural tissue regeneration. The procedure is quick, precise and well tolerated, helping restore tendon health and function in less time than conventional approaches.

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What it is and how it works

Under ultrasound guidance, a fine acupuncture-type needle is introduced into the portion of the tendon or soft tissue that shows degenerative changes. A low-intensity galvanic current is applied to create a controlled electrochemical reaction that reactivates the body’s self-repair mechanisms.
This targeted stimulus promotes the reorganisation of collagen fibres and improves tendon structure and capacity for load — without unnecessary trauma.
Dosing (intensity, time and frequency) is individualised according to your presentation and tolerance. We integrate EPTE with exercise therapy, graded loading and education so that improvements become meaningful in daily life and sport.

Good to know: The technique is minimally invasive and usually well tolerated. A brief, local sensation is common and fades quickly after the application.

Therapeutic effects

Tissue regeneration

Stimulates collagen remodelling and tendon healing.

Reactivates stalled repair in chronic degeneration.

Improves tissue quality and load capacity.

Pain & inflammation

Reduces persistent pain linked to tendinopathy.

Creates a controlled, healthy inflammatory response.

Enhances tolerance to movement and rehab.

Integration with rehab

Pairs with progressive strength and mobility work.

Short, precise applications with quick return to activity.

Supports sustainable, long-term outcomes.

Clinical indications

Shoulder & elbow

Supraspinatus / rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Epicondylitis (“tennis elbow”).

Knee & ankle

Patellar tendinopathy (“jumper’s knee”).

Achilles tendinopathy.

Plantar fasciitis.

Sport & soft tissue

Hamstring tendinopathy.

Muscle tears and overuse injuries

Other degenerative tendinopathies (US-assessed).

Contraindications

EPTE should be avoided or adapted in the following situations:

Pacemakers or implanted electronic devices.

Pregnancy.

Active cancer or oncological treatments.

Thrombophlebitis or coagulation disorders.

Severe osteoporosis.

Heart disease (as advised by your physician).

Open wounds, scars, tattoos or local skin infections.

Infectious synovitis.

Metal allergy (e.g., nickel).

Recent lymphadenectomy.

Significant neurosensory disorders.

Presence of metal prosthesis / osteosynthesis in the target area.

At Weheal: we always explain benefits, risks and alternatives so you can make an informed decision with complete confidence.

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Safety & professional guidance

EPTE is a precise, evidence-based technique performed with sterile material and continuous ultrasound guidance. Our priority is accuracy, safety and comfort at every step.
We tailor parameters to your goals and re-assess each session to fine-tune the plan. When indicated, we combine EPTE with exercise, manual therapy and load management for a complete, sustainable recovery.

Percutaneous Electrolysis Therapy (EPTE) — FAQs

Answers to common questions about EPTE at Weheal: how it works, when we use it and how it integrates with your rehabilitation plan.

What injuries is TPE indicated for?

TPE (Therapeutic Percutaneous Electrolysis) is highly effective for a wide range of tendon and soft-tissue injuries, especially chronic or stubborn cases. At Weheal, we commonly use it for supraspinatus/rotator cuff, patellar and Achilles tendinopathies, epicondylitis (“tennis elbow”), plantar fasciitis, muscle tears/overuse and hamstring tendinopathies.

What care should I take after a TPE session?

Give your body time to respond to treatment. We recommend avoiding intense activity for 24–48 hours, not applying ice (a mild inflammatory response is desired), and avoiding NSAIDs in that period unless otherwise indicated. Follow your physiotherapist’s advice on gentle mobility, stretches and progressive loading.

Is TPE painful?

Most patients find TPE well tolerated. You may feel slight pressure, tingling or brief discomfort when the current is applied, but sensations are usually mild and short-lived. We use very fine needles and adjust the intensity to your sensitivity.

Does TPE have side effects?

Side effects are generally mild and temporary — slight redness, warmth or sensitivity in the area — and settle within hours. A gentle inflammatory response is expected as part of the regenerative process. We’ll explain what to expect and guide you step by step.

How many TPE sessions are needed to notice improvement?

It varies by injury and individual response, but most people notice clear improvement after 4–6 weekly sessions. We monitor your progress and adjust dose, frequency and complementary exercises to secure steady, long-term gains.

Does TPE replace other physiotherapy treatments?

Not necessarily. TPE is a complementary technique within a broader plan. We integrate it with therapeutic exercise, manual therapy and education to address causes — not only symptoms — and ensure full, sustainable recovery.

Are there any contraindications for TPE?

Yes. We avoid or adapt TPE with pacemakers/implanted devices, pregnancy, active cancer, thrombophlebitis or coagulation disorders, severe osteoporosis, heart disease (as advised), local skin infections/wounds/tattoos, infectious synovitis, metal allergy (e.g., nickel), recent lymphadenectomy, marked neurosensory disorders or metal prosthesis/osteosynthesis in the target area. We assess each case individually.

Is TPE suitable for acute injuries?

TPE is mainly indicated for chronic injuries (tendinopathies/degenerative changes). In acute injuries with active inflammation, we prioritise stabilisation and protection first. TPE may be added later as part of a progressive plan.

Is EPTE right for your case?

Tell us about your situation and we’ll guide you clearly. If EPTE adds value, we’ll integrate it with movement and education so benefits translate to daily life and sport.

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