Hodgkinson's Electro Neurotone Apparatus, English, 1920-1930

Hodgkinson's electro neurotone (vibrator), by the Electro Neurotone Co. Ltd., in mahogany case, English, 1920-1930

Electrotherapy is a medical treatment. An electric current is passed over the damaged area. It was thought that this increased the blood flow to the cells and promoted healing by stimulating activity in damaged muscles. This is an example of an English electrotherapy machine made by the Electro-Neurotone Company Limited during the 1920s. Advertisements in pamphlets and newspapers stated it would cure conditions including 'Rheumatism, Nervousness, Neuralgia, Paralysis, Strains, Sprains, Sciatica, Stiff Joints'.

This Electro-Neurotone Apparatus was patented by T. G. Hodgkinson in the early 1890s. Electrotherapy gained popularity with the medical profession well into the 20th century. However, the unorthodox practice eventually fell out of favour. It failed to survive as a credible treatment. Today, some forms of electrotherapy such as ultrasound are used for pain relief.