It may sound a little intimidating, but frequency-specific microcurrent therapy (FSMT) is nothing to fear.
In FSM therapy, subtle electrical currents are used in targeted areas to promote the healing of soft tissues in the body. This is a practice that dates back over 100 years and is used by acupuncturists, chiropractors, and physical therapists today.
Some clients have questions about frequency-specific microcurrent therapy and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). Both use similar electronic devices but have different effects on the body.
FSM vs TENS
The mild electrical current used in FSM is not intended to stimulate muscle movement, which is a primary use of TENS. For example, at a chiropractor’s office, it’s common for patients to undergo a TENS treatment prior to their adjustment. In this use, TENS is meant to alter how the body is sending and receiving pain signals and stimulate endorphin production. Muscles contract in response to the TENS currents and, combined with the chiropractic adjustment that follows, can offer pain relief to the patient.
In contrast, with FSM therapy patients are not likely to feel muscles contracting. Instead, the micro amperage currents are targeting soft tissue to promote cellular repair. The intended results of the resonated frequencies used in FSM can range from pain management to decreased brain fog. FSM appeals to holistic medicinal practices because its administration can be customized for each patient; it is not a one-size-fits-all treatment.
So while the equipment used to administer FSM is approved as a TENS device, it can be manipulated to deliver small micro amperage electrical currents that do not stimulate muscle contraction.
What is an FSM Treatment Doing?
Studies show that targeting soft tissue with FSM currents acts a bit like jumpstarting an engine. Our cells have electrical currents already, so FSM is a way to increase them and get the cells to repair themselves. FSM is called such because there are specific frequencies for different tissue throughout the body.
When FSM is administered, it helps promote the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in our cells. ATP functions as:
- An energy transfer molecule
- A phosphate donor
- A signaling molecule
When FSM occurs, it’s like jumpstarting a cell’s ATP production. Increased by up to 500% with the help of FSM, ATP can work more quickly and efficiently in our cells. Additionally, FSM can help loosen stiffness in our muscles, increasing ease of mobility.
What Does FSMT Feel Like?
As mentioned, you won’t feel muscle contractions during FSMT. You may, however, feel a warmth throughout the targeted area. Some patients also feel a release of tension during FSMT, as well as decreased pain related to the injury being treated. Since FSM uses millionths of an ampere, the electrical current is too small to register physical sensations in the body.
WHAT FSM CAN BE USED TO TREAT
Specifically, FSM can be used to treat symptoms of many ailments. After consulting with a doctor, you may want to try FSM for any of the following:
- Achilles tendonitis
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Burn pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Chronic aches
- Concussion
- Endometriosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Headaches
- Kidney stones
- Neuromas
- Plantar fasciitis
- Shingles
- Spinal disc injuries
- Torticollis
WHO SHOULD NOT RECEIVE FSM TREATMENT
FSM treatment is not recommended for patients with pacemakers or implanted pumps. It’s also not advised to undergo FSMT while pregnant, or if you have a history of seizures. You may also need to delay FSM treatment for six weeks after suffering an acute fracture or infection. If you have questions, be sure to address them with your health care provider before undergoing FSM therapy.
How to Prepare for FSM Treatment
While frequency-specific microcurrents have shown to be effective for all types of patients, there are some ways you can prepare for treatment. The number one factor that affects results is hydration. Dehydrated patients see less effective results than those who are adequately hydrated. It is recommended to drink at least a quart of water prior to an FSM treatment. You should also be prepared to continue hydrating with a liter or two of water following your treatment.
At Alpine Clinic, we also recommend abstaining from applying topical products to the skin prior to FSMT sessions. The FSM conducts more efficiently on clean skin that is free of lotions or perfumes.
Contact Alpine Clinic today to explore FSMT and other treatment modalities offered by our physicians.