Which of the following is NOT a contraindication to electrotherapy?

• A. Prior history of stroke
• B. Pacemaker or implanted electronic devices
• C. Active malignancy in treatment area
• D. Pregnancy near abdomen/pelvis

Answer: (A)

The main idea is understanding which situations truly oppose using electrical stimulation. An absolute concern is when applying currents could harm the patient or interfere with other medical devices or treatments. A history of stroke by itself is not an absolute barrier to electrotherapy. People who have had a stroke can often benefit from electrical stimulation for pain relief, muscle re-education, or spasticity management under clinical supervision, as long as there are no current acute neurological events or contraindications present.

In contrast, a pacemaker or implanted electronic device is a real risk. Electrical currents can interfere with the device’s function and may cause unsafe changes in heart rhythm or device operation, so it’s a clear contraindication. Active malignancy in the treatment area is avoided because the effects of electrical stimulation on tumor tissue are not well understood and could potentially influence tissue biology in undesirable ways. Pregnancy near the abdomen or pelvis is avoided due to potential risks to the fetus, and electrical therapy in that region is generally contraindicated.

So, the option describing a prior history of stroke is the one that is not a contraindication, while the others are.