Visceral and somatic disorders: tissue softening with frequency-specific microcurrent

Abstract

Frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM) is an emerging technique for treating many health conditions. Pairs of frequencies of microampere-level electrical stimulation are applied to particular places on the skin of a patient via combinations of conductive graphite gloves, moistened towels, or gel electrode patches. A consistent finding is a profound and palpable tissue softening and warming within seconds of applying frequencies appropriate for treating particular conditions. Similar phenomena are often observed with successful acupuncture, cranial-sacral, and other energy-based techniques. This article explores possible mechanisms involved in tissue softening. In the 1970s, neuroscientist and osteopathic researcher Irvin Korr developed a "γ-loop hypothesis" to explain the persistence of increased systemic muscle tone associated with various somatic dysfunctions. This article summarizes how physiologists, neuroscientists, osteopaths, chiropractors, and fascial researchers have expanded on Korr's ideas by exploring various mechanisms by which injury or disease increase local muscle tension or systemic muscle tone. Following on Korr's hypothesis, it is suggested that most patients actually present with elevated muscle tone or tense areas due to prior traumas or other disorders, and that tissue softening indicates that FSM or other methods are affecting the cause of their pathophysiology. The authors believe this concept and the research it has led to will be of interest to a wide range of energetic, bodywork, and movement therapists.

Figures

FIG. 1.

Examples of frequency-specific microcurrent methods for delivering microcurrents to the body. (A) Conductive gloves are placed in warm wet hand towels or face cloths placed on the neck and forehead for treatment of sinus conditions. Eight (8) possible frequency combinations previously identified for treating sinus conditions are tested in sequence until the therapist detects a profound softening of an arm muscle. (B) Treatment of the upper back, shoulder, and posterior part of the neck using conductive graphite gloves to restore biomechanics and relieve pain. The fingers sense change rather than force it. The frequencies and currents do the work. A latex or nitrile glove is worn under the graphite glove to prevent current conduction to the practitioner. (C) Gel electrode pads used to treat lumbar ligaments without nerve involvement. Another pair of electrode pads is placed on corresponding points on the abdomen (not shown). Electrode polarities are arranged to produce an interferential field so that the current and the frequencies pass diagonally through the area to be treated, as an “X” in three dimensions. For details and other treatment techniques, see reference .