Techniques for Microcurrent

Microcurrent technology, also referred to as Microcurrent Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation or Frequency Specific Microcurrent, is a type of therapy that uses low-level, pulsating electrical currents that mirror the body’s own natural current in order to decrease pain and stimulate healing. Microcurrent therapy has been around since the 1980s but is still considered controversial in some circles.

Applications

• Microcurrent is Similar to TENS technology

  Clinical microcurrent therapy is often used in response to pain, muscle spasm and soft tissue inflammation, with benefits that include increased circulation, decreased pain and inflammation, and faster wound healing. A study in 1990 on pain reduction by Lynn Wallace, PT, concludes that "94% of 1531 patients experienced a reduction in pain during the first treatment" and 88 percent were pain-free within 10 treatments. A 2003 study by Dr. Chi, director of the University of Washington Department of Pathology, notes "a 35% increase in blood circulation in tissue treated with microcurrent."

  Mirocurrent therapy is also used to enhance appearance and slow the aging process by renewing muscle tone (usually in the face), reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving facial circulation and increasing the natural production of collagen and elastin. Dr. Chi's clinical microcurrent study results state, “The application of microcurrent to skin and tissue produced a firmer and tighter feeling on the skin surface.”

Function of Microcurrent

• Microcurrent Can Be Used for Esthetic Purposes

  With microcurrent therapy, small electrical charges travel around the body, penetrating traumatized or damaged cells and initiating chemical reactions that help the body heal naturally. Microcurrent is also used to lengthening facial muscles that have become shortened over the years with age. The key to microcurrent therapy is the small amount of electrical current used, smaller than other types of electrotherapy.

Treatments

• Clinical microcurrent therapy can be performed by medical professionals, including physical therapists, chiropractors and physicians. Microcurrent therapy on the face is generally performed by an esthetician or nurse. Home units can be purchased as well.

  Sessions vary in length, but can be part of a physical therapy session or last over an hour for a dedicated session. For facial treatments, more than one session is recommended. The quantity and frequency of sessions depends on the condition being treated, the severity of that condition and the desired results.

Safety and Side Effects

• During a microcurrent treatment, there is very little to no discomfort. Some patients have felt a small amount of tingling at the therapy site.

  Microcurrent therapy has been advocated as safe for people of all ages, but it is not recommended for those with pacemakers or for pregnant females. There have been no significant side effects reported.

Results

• Although results vary by patient, some patients have experienced immediate pain relief. Others experienced relief after the session is complete or did not noticed a difference in pain. Patients undergoing esthetic microcurrent therapy have reported benefits. Studies performed at the University of Washington indicate a 14-percent increase in the production of natural collagen, a 48-percent increase in elastin production and a 38-percent increase in blood circulation over the course of 20 days.