Bioelectric phenomena and interactions are important to human health at both the cellular and the organ systems levels. This is where scientific Western and Eastern principles of human physiology unmistakably intersect. The various types of cells and tissues that compose the body, possess an intrinsic electric nature, which allows the transmission of bioelectrical signals for information and control of different biological processes.

Bioelectrical events and their importance to healing and repair have been observed in numerous animal species. These bioelectrical phenomena are also present in humans, and permeate the body at different levels. Furthermore, distinct changes in bioelectrical activity are associated with injury, which return to normal levels once healing occurs.
 
There is evidence suggesting that the application of fine-tuned exogenous electrical impulses stimulate the body and produce significant physiological effects. Since the body generates its own bioelectricity and is capable of responding to external electrical stimuli, this provide the rationale for further investigation to advance the understanding of these phenomena.
 
Electrotherapy has been applied to biological systems, particularly humans, in different settings. Electrotherapy techniques are utilised to mediate physiological changes, which bring about numerous therapeutic benefits. Electrotherapy comprises various modalities, and each of these modalities stimulates the body in a specific way with numerous possible applications, ranging from improving function and enhancing physical performance, to rehabilitation and the treatments of different conditions. For instance, electrotherapy has been applied for improving back pain, rheumatoid arthritis pain, neck pain, musculoskeletal pain, diabetes neuropathy pain, inflammation, wound healing, muscle strength and endurance and glucose metabolism.