The
clinical application of high voltage microsecond pulses provides an
important diagnostic ability, along with its therapeutic benefit. The
pulsed voltage can elicit mild pain when applied over
trigger points. The patient will complain of no discomfort in the
surrounding area, yet feel will slight pain over active trigger points.
This is due to localized inflammation that changes the local cell
membrane voltage, making the cells more responsive and reactive.
This diagnostic and therapeutic, ability is referred to by Bonica, M.D., in his seminal JAMA
article "Management of Myofascial
Pain Syndromes in General Practice".
Dr. Bonica says:
"Trigger areas likewise may be quickly located
with ultrasound/electrical stimulation which can also be used for
treatment"
Dr. Bonica further writes:
“many cases which in the past have been diagnosed as subacromial bursitis, tendinitis, arthritis, periarthritis, and brachial neuritis were actually myofascial pain syndromes, with trigger areas in the muscles of the back and shoulder girdle and pain referred to the shoulder and arm." (Example: Thoracic Outlet
Syndrome)
Dr. Bonica adds:
"A
very significant consideration, which makes this group of disorders
particularly important to the general practitioner, is that they are relatively
simple to manage, since most of the therapeutic procedures can be carried out
in the physician's office, and, when treatment is properly executed, prompt
cure ensues. On the other hand, if therapy is incorrect, chronic disability
results."
Painful areas are often symptomatic of the underlying structural imbalance, injury or inflammation.
This ability to identify myofascial pain syndrome, saves time and helps
to uncover the underlying problem that has manifested as a pattern of
chronic pain.
Note:
to identify reactive areas and points use negative polarity with voltage set at
80% of sensory level without lotion or ultrasound.
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