When treating for edema, using the monopolar electrode placement, where do you suggest to place the “dispersive” electrode? Example: a patient has pitting edema on anterior tibialis – would you place the dispersive electrode further up along the anterior tib or somewhere up on the thigh?

The dispersive electrode is often the larger of the 2 electrodes (the smaller being the active or treatment electrode). [1] Monoplanar electrode placement is used for treatment of areas affecting a localized aspect of the body. The active electrode can be placed directly over the affected part and with adequate spacing, the dispersive electrode can be placed over some other area or may not used at all [2] as it is usually only required to complete the circuit.

To avoid polarity interference, I would recommend in this case, that the dispersive electrode be placed up on the thigh.

Reference 1: Sussman C, Bates B M. Wound Care; A Collaborative Practice Manual. 3rd Edition, 2007. Pg 532., Reference 2: Nanda B K. Electrotherapy Simplified. Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers. 1st Edition. Pg 341.