Frequency Specific Microcurrent

 

Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) is a non-invasive, therapeutic technique that uses low-level electrical currents to treat pain and promote tissue healing. FSM devices use specific frequencies of current, delivered in millionths of an ampere, to target particular tissues and conditions. 

How FSM works

FSM operates on a theory of "biological resonance," where specific electrical frequencies are believed to "resonate" with different body tissues, helping to stimulate and normalize cellular activity. Practitioners believe FSM works in several key ways: 

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• Increases cellular energy (ATP): FSM may increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy source for cellular reactions, by up to 500% in damaged tissues. This added energy can help accelerate the healing process.

• Reduces inflammation: Specific frequencies can be used to reduce inflammation in targeted tissues.

• Breaks down scar tissue: FSM may help soften and break down scar tissue from injuries or surgery.

• Repairs nerve function: Some frequencies are thought to support and repair nerve function. 

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FSM vs. TENS

While FSM and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) both use electrical currents, their mechanisms and goals are very different: 

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Feature Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM)TENS

• Current Level Microamperes (millionths of an amp).Milliamperes (thousandths of an amp), about 1,000 times higher than FSM.

• Sensation Often undetectable, as the current level is very low.Designed to be felt, as its mechanism relies on stimulating nerves to block pain signals.

• Mechanism Promotes healing by targeting tissues at a cellular level, based on resonance theory.Masks pain signals by either stimulating endorphins or blocking pain signals in the nerve pathway.

• Treatment Goal Long-term healing and tissue repair.Temporary pain relief.

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Potential benefits

While research is ongoing, proponents of FSM suggest it can help with a variety of conditions, most commonly in physical therapy settings. 

• Pain management: Effective for both acute and chronic musculoskeletal, nerve, and spinal pain.

• Injury recovery: Used for sports injuries, tendinopathy, and recovery from fractures or surgery.

• Inflammatory conditions: May help manage pain and inflammation from arthritis, shingles, and fibromyalgia.

• Mental and emotional well-being: Some studies suggest it can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress-related somatic symptoms. 

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Is FSM FDA-approved?

FSM devices are typically cleared by the FDA for marketing as a TENS device, which is indicated for symptomatic pain relief. However, the claims regarding FSM's specific benefits for tissue repair and other conditions are not specifically endorsed by the FDA. Like other complementary therapies, it requires further research to scientifically prove all of its purported benefits. 

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Side effects and risks

When used correctly by a trained practitioner, FSM is generally considered very safe and painless. 

• Minor, temporary side effects: Some patients may experience a brief detox reaction, similar to a massage, including fatigue, a slight headache, or a flu-like feeling. Staying well-hydrated before and after treatment can help minimize this.

• Contraindications: FSM should not be used on pregnant women or people with pacemakers, implanted pumps, or uncontrolled seizures.

• Potential for aggravated symptoms: In rare cases, treating an undiagnosed or hidden infection may temporarily increase pain or cause flu-like symptoms.