Frequency Specific Microcurrent FAQ’s
How does frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM) work?
FSM is applied to the body with a device that delivers a mild current. Microcurrent is an extremely mild electrical current (one millionth of an ampere). The human body actually produces its own current within each cell.
In FSM, depending on the tissue involved, specific frequencies are selected to encourage natural healing of the body and to reduce pain. Frequencies have been identified for nearly every type of tissue in the body.
One of the ways FSM works is by potentially increasing the production of the substance ATP in injured tissues. ATP is the major source of energy for all cellular reactions in the body. Because treatment with FSM can increase ATP production by as much as 500% in damaged tissues, this may help with the recovery process. Depending on the condition, treatment with FSM can “loosen” or soften the muscles, which can help relieve pain and/or stiffness.
What conditions can be treated with frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM)?
FSM is most often used to treat pain, especially nerve and muscle pain, inflammation, and scar tissue, from the following conditions:
- shingles
- burns
- kidney stones
- asthma
- irritable bowel syndrome
- disc injuries
- fibromyalgia
- diabetic neuropathy
- neuromas (overgrowth and scarring to a nerve after an injury)
- tendinopathy (inflammation and/or swelling of the tendon)
- acute (sudden) and chronic (long-term) musculoskeletal injuries
- acute and chronic neuropathic (nerve) pain
- chronic fracture and bone pain
- arthritis
- torticollis (the head is tilted to one side)
- disc injuries/discogenic- and facet-based pain
- viscerally-referred pain
- concussions
- headaches
- plantar fasciitis (pain in the heel and foot)
- sports injuries
- wounds
Is frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM) painful?
Treatment with FSM is non-invasive and painless. The currents used in FSM are so low that the patient often does not feel them. During FSM treatment, patients may notice certain effects, including warmth and a softening of affected tissues.
Are there any situations in which frequency-specific microcurrent should not be used?
In addition, certain frequencies should not be used in cases of acute infection, new scar tissue (within 6 weeks), and acute fractures. Please discuss any of these concerns with your provider during consultation so that appropriate recommendations can be made.
How is frequency-specific microcurrent applied?
The current is most often applied with a moistened towel or with skin patches. It’s very important for the patient to be well hydrated (drink plenty of fluids) before FSM treatment.
How long do the effects of a frequency-specific microcurrent treatment last?
What are the risks and side effects of frequency-specific microcurrent treatment?
Give us a call today to book your appointment.
- Visceral and Somatic Disorders: Tissue Softening with Frequency Specific Microcurrent, McMakin C, Oschman J, Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2012, Vol. 18, Number 00, pp 1-8.
- Frequency Specific Microcurrent in Pain Management, Textbook for practitioners, Carolyn McMakin author, Elsevier Science Press, Edinburgh, 2010.
- The efficacy of frequency specific microcurrent therapy on delayed onset muscle soreness, Curtis D, Fallows S, Morris M, McMakin C, Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies; 2010; 14 (3): 272-9.
- Non-pharmacologic treatment of shingles, McMakin C, Practical Pain Management, 2010, Vol 10; 4; 24-29.
- Non-pharmacologic treatment of neuropathic pain using Frequency Specific Microcurrent, McMakin, C, The Pain Practitioner, Fall, 2010, pp 68-73
