Clinical Application of Transcutaneous Microcurrent Therapy for an Acute Traumatic Contusion in a Special Operations...

Contusions are highly prevalent injuries in the armed forces. They can substantially impair physical performance, particularly in special operations forces, where operational readiness depends on maintaining a high level of physical fitness. Transcutaneous microcurrent therapy (TMCT) is a non-invasive intervention that has been reported to promote tissue repair. The aim of this case report was to describe the evolution of creatine kinase levels, functional outcomes, pain, and perceived well-being during TMCT following an acute traumatic contusion. Case presentation: A 34-year-old special operations military officer with an acute traumatic contusion in the dorsum of the left foot received TMCT applied over the injured area for 72 h. The device delivered a monophasic rectangular current at 21 mV and 42 μA, with a total application time of 2360 min over the 72-h observation period. CK and the Hooper Index were assessed at baseline and at 24, 48, and 72 h, whereas NPRS and LLFI were assessed at baseline and at 72 h. Over the 72-h observation period, CK decreased from 571 to 203 IU/L, the Hooper Index decreased from 15 to 12 points, the NPRS score decreased from 7 to 6 points, and the LLFI score increased from 52% to 84%. No intervention-related adverse events were reported. Conclusions: During the 72-h observation period, reductions in CK and pain and an increase in perceived lower-limb function were observed while the participant was receiving TMCT. These preliminary observations support further investigation of TMCT as a potential adjunct to standard conservative care. However, the single-case design and the absence of a control condition prevent the observed changes from being attributed to TMCT. Controlled studies are required to evaluate its efficacy and clinical applicability.