Does TECAR Therapy Help Low Back Pain? Winback TECAR for a Stiff, Aching Back in Hinsdale

Name: Adisi Health Center
Address: 534 Chestnut Street #240, Hinsdale, IL, 60521, US
Telephone: (630) 887-1900

Short answer: Yes. TECAR therapy for low back pain uses radiofrequency energy to create deep warmth inside the muscles, fascia, and joint structures of your lower back, which helps relax tight tissue, improve circulation, and ease pain. Randomized trials show that adding TECAR to hands-on care helps people with chronic low back pain improve pain and daily function more than standard care alone. At Adisi Health Center in Hinsdale, Dr. Steve Petzel offers Winback TECAR therapy, and we’re the only Winback provider in the western Chicago suburbs.

What is TECAR therapy for low back pain?

TECAR stands for Transfer of Capacitive and Resistive Energy. Instead of warming the skin like a heating pad, it creates heat from inside the tissue itself. The Winback system works in two modes:

Capacitive mode targets the more superficial layers: fascia, the muscle “envelope,” and fluid-rich tissue. That’s helpful for tight, guarded back muscles and swelling.
Resistive mode reaches deeper, denser structures like tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules, the tissues around the spine that often feel stiff and achy.

Dr. Petzel can use both modes in the same visit, depending on what’s driving your pain.

Does TECAR therapy work for chronic back pain? What the research shows

Several studies support TECAR for people whose back pain has hung around for months:

TECAR plus manual therapy beat manual therapy alone. In a randomized clinical trial of 60 adults with chronic non-specific low back pain, the group that received manual therapy combined with TECAR (six treatments over two weeks) had greater improvement in pain, disability, and pressure-pain sensitivity than manual therapy alone or no treatment, with benefits still present at one month (Kasimis et al., Medicina, 2023; PubMed 37512085).
TECAR outperformed laser at follow-up. In a randomized controlled trial of 60 patients with low back pain, each receiving 10 sessions over two weeks, the TECAR group improved in pain and disability at every follow-up, and did significantly better than the laser group at one and two months after treatment (Notarnicola et al., Journal of Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents, 2017; PubMed 28685560).
TECAR added to massage helped more than massage alone. In a 2026 study of 35 patients aged 30 to 80 with low back pain lasting more than 12 weeks, combining TECAR with massage therapy produced significantly better reductions in pain and disability than massage alone (Zotaj et al., Clinica Terapeutica, 2026; PubMed 42664123).

Why does my lower back stay stiff and achy?

Chronic low back pain often comes from a cycle: muscles tighten to protect a sore area, circulation drops, tissue gets stiffer, and movement hurts more. Long hours at a desk, commuting, lifting kids or groceries, yard work, and weekend golf all keep that cycle going. We see it every week in patients from Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills, Western Springs, Downers Grove, Westmont, and La Grange.

TECAR’s deep heat is designed to break that cycle by improving blood flow and tissue mobility, so your back can move more freely.

What does a TECAR session for back pain feel like?

Most people describe it as a deep, soothing warmth, nothing like a sharp or painful treatment. Sessions run about 12 to 20 minutes, there’s no downtime, and you can go right back to your day. Many patients find it one of the most relaxing parts of their visit.

Can TECAR be combined with other back pain treatments?

Yes. Dr. Petzel uses TECAR on its own or together with shockwave therapy, Class IV laser, and EMTT as part of a multi-modal plan. If joint restrictions in your spine are part of the problem, chiropractic care may also be recommended. Learn more on our back pain page.

Is TECAR therapy safe?

TECAR is non-invasive, drug-free, and has no downtime. The most common sensation is warmth in the treated area. Because it uses radiofrequency energy and heat, it isn’t appropriate for everyone. Let us know if you:

Have a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device
Are pregnant
Have reduced skin sensation, an active infection, or a known or suspected tumor in the area
Have new numbness, weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, or back pain after a serious fall or accident; these need prompt medical evaluation

Dr. Petzel will review your history before treatment to make sure TECAR is a good fit.

Frequently asked questions about TECAR therapy for low back pain

Does TECAR therapy help low back pain?
Yes. Randomized trials show TECAR combined with manual therapy or massage improves pain and function in chronic low back pain more than those treatments alone.

How many TECAR sessions do I need for back pain?
It depends on your condition. In the studies above, people received about 6 to 10 sessions over roughly two weeks. Dr. Petzel will recommend a plan after evaluating you.

Is TECAR the same as a heating pad?
No. A heating pad warms the skin’s surface. TECAR creates heat from inside the deeper muscles, fascia, and joint tissues.

Does TECAR therapy hurt?
No. Most people feel a comfortable, deep warmth during a 12 to 20 minute session.

Where can I get Winback TECAR therapy near Hinsdale?
Adisi Health Center, 534 Chestnut Street, Suite 240, Hinsdale, IL 60521, is the only Winback TECAR provider in the western Chicago suburbs, serving Oak Brook, Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills, Western Springs, Downers Grove, Westmont, and La Grange.