What is microcurrent therapy?

Microcurrent therapy is similar to electroacupuncture except it does not use acupuncture needles. It works by applying electrical current in the millionth amp range to acupuncture points. This amount of electrical energy is so small, it is painless. This is a perfect modality for children or those who are sensitive to needles. Microcurrent therapy is very effective for the treatment of pain and can be used for any condition that is also treated by acupuncture needles.

How is microcurrent therapy applied?

The microcurrent machine I use is called the Acutron and was developed by Darren Starwynn, OMD. The microcurrent therapy is applied using small probes which hold a moist Q-tip at the end. In addition, pads are sometimes used to administer microcurrent to specific areas of the body.

How does microcurrent therapy work?

From the perspective of traditional Chinese Medicine, stimulation of acupuncture points with a very small amount of electrical energy is equivalent to stimulating the points with a needle. In a TCM treatment we will use the microcurrent therapy in a similar manner as a needle treatment. We will stimulate acupuncture points, and in addition, may also stimulate along acupuncture meridians.

From a western medicine perspective, each tissue type in your body has its own unique electrical frequency, which can be disrupted by injury or disease. Microcurrent therapy simply restores the electrical frequency of the tissue, resulting in decreased pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms, an increase in blood flow, and an improvement of symptoms. At a cellular level, microcurrent therapy promotes a dramatic increase in ATP, the energy that fuels all biochemical functions in the body. It also increases protein synthesis which is needed for tissue repair.

What is a typical treatment like?

The patient will be treated using either the probes or pads. A session can last 20 to 30 minutes as specific acupuncture points are stimulated or local areas of the body are treated. A treatment course typically involves several sessions and will be discussed in your report of findings visit. Microcurrent therapy is safe and is FDA approved. However, it is not recommended for patients who have pacemakers or are pregnant.