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Low-Frequency Pulsed Current Versus Kilohertz-Frequency Alternating Current: A Scoping Literature Review
Marco Aurélio Vaz1, Viviane Bortoluzzi Frasson2
1Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, School of Physical Education, Physical Therapy and Dance, Exercise Research Laboratory, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Physique Physical Therapy Centre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|December 17, 2017
Summary
Kilohertz-frequency alternating current (KAC) showed similar or less force and more fatigue than low-frequency pulsed current (LFPC). Evidence does not support KAC being superior to LFPC for rehabilitation or strength training.
Area of Science:
- Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Sports Science
Background:
- Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is utilized for muscle strengthening and rehabilitation.
- Different current types, including low-frequency pulsed current (LFPC) and kilohertz-frequency alternating current (KAC), are employed.
- Comparative effectiveness and physiological mechanisms of these currents require clarification for optimal clinical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare LFPC and KAC effectiveness regarding evoked force, discomfort, current intensity, and muscle fatigability.
- To discuss the physiological mechanisms underlying LFPC and KAC.
- To determine KAC's superiority over LFPC for clinical treatment.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of studies comparing LFPC and KAC in NMES.
- Data sources included PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and SPORTSDiscus.
- Independent review of 15 selected articles focusing on evoked force, discomfort, intensity, and fatigability.
Main Results:
- KAC generated equal or less force and more fatigue than LFPC.
- Discomfort and current intensity for maximal tolerated NMES were similar between KAC and LFPC.
- At similar submaximal evoked force levels, KAC resulted in higher discomfort and current intensity.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not support KAC as being superior to LFPC for strength training.
- KAC is not demonstrated to be more effective than LFPC for rehabilitation purposes.
- Further research may be needed to elucidate specific applications where KAC might offer advantages.
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