Treatment · Winback TECAR
TECAR therapy in Brisbane
TECAR is the technology at the centre of physiotherapy at BTS Health Clinic. This page explains what it is, how it feels, who it suits and how it fits with exercise, at our Milton and Mansfield clinics.
- No referral needed
- From $119 initial
- HICAPS on site
Reviewed by Ellie Lee, Physiotherapist · October 2026
What is TECAR?
TECAR stands for Capacitive and Resistive Electric Transfer. A Winback device passes high-frequency energy between a handpiece and a return plate. The tissues in between generate their own warmth, so the heat is created inside the muscle, tendon or joint rather than on the skin.
Capacitive mode is used for muscles and soft tissue. Resistive mode is used for denser tissue such as tendons, ligaments and joints.
Frequencies and currents
- 300 kHz for deeper, denser tissue.
- 500 kHz for muscle and fascia.
- 1000 kHz for more superficial tissue.
- Hi-TENS, a current used for pain management.
- Hi-EMS, a current used to activate muscles.
What a session feels like
You lie or sit comfortably while your physiotherapist moves the handpiece over the area. Most people feel a gentle, deep warmth. Over bony or thin areas, such as the fingertips, it can feel intense, so the intensity is adjusted as you go and you can ask to pause at any time.
TECAR is applied while you are still. Exercise is done before or after, as part of the same appointment.
Who it is not suitable for
- Pregnancy
- Pacemakers, insulin pumps, neurostimulators or other implanted electronic devices
- Cancer
- Bleeding disorders
Your physiotherapist screens for these and other precautions at your assessment.
How TECAR fits into your plan
At BTS, TECAR is not used on its own. It is one part of a plan that starts with an assessment and always includes exercise you can continue at home. Research on TECAR is still developing, and results vary between people, so your physiotherapist will explain why it is or is not being used in your case.
Commonly treated areas include the lower back, neck and shoulders, knees and sports injuries.
TECAR therapy questions
Does TECAR therapy hurt?
Most areas feel warm and comfortable. Over bony or thin areas, such as the fingertips, the sensation can be intense. Your physiotherapist adjusts the intensity as you go.
How is TECAR different from a heat pack or ultrasound?
A heat pack warms the skin from the outside. TECAR passes high-frequency energy through the tissues, so warmth is created within the area being treated.
How long does a TECAR treatment take?
TECAR is part of your physiotherapy appointment rather than a separate session. The time spent on it depends on the area and your plan.
Is TECAR covered by my health fund?
TECAR is delivered within a physiotherapy consultation, which can be claimed on private health extras that include physiotherapy. HICAPS is available at both clinics.