Friday, September 17, 2010

ELECTROMEDICINE: THE OTHER SIDE OF PHYSIOLOGY

Western drug medicine limits itself to our understanding of chemistry to heal and control pain. Microcurrent electrical therapy (MET) is distinct in that it is based on the concept that the biophysics underlying the chemistry also plays a significant role in regulating all of life's processes.

Using waveforms at a level of current similar to the body's own, MET bridges cellular communications reestablishing the normal electrical flow. The concept of a bioelectrical control system is common to every form of healing ever developed in recorded history except drug medicine. The Chinese named bioelectricity ch'i, the Japanese called it ki, and the Indians referred to it as prana. The Russians spoke of the same thing under the name bioplasma.

All doctors in every discipline are taught that there are about 75 trillion cells in a human body, each one having an electrical potential across its cell membrane, just like a battery. It is amazing that Western physiology books do not even bother to speculate on the staggering significance of these facts.

Western medicine acknowledges a limited concept of homeostasis, defined as a tendency to uniformity or stability. Unfortunately it does not yet fully appreciate the natural healing powers of the body or the bioelectrical systems that control them. In our most rudimentary education we were taught that chemicals can be broken down into elements, then atoms and subatomic particles such as electrons.

TENS works by moving electrons through the body at a variety of frequencies. By using two frequency generators per channel TENS actually uses a very broad band of frequencies collectively know as harmonic resonance. This insures that the right frequency will be delivered to reestablish homeostasis within the bioelectrical system. The other frequencies pass harmlessly. 
Two contemporary scientists have proposed new comprehensive models to explain how our physiology is controlled by bioelectrical control systems. Robert O. Becker, M.D. of New York has done over 30 years of research and concluded that all biological systems have a primitive direct current electrical extraneuronal analog data transmission and control system to regulate all life's processes.

Dr. Becker was able to test his theories by studying regeneration. Using low level electrical currents, he completely regenerated frogs limbs and achieved partial regeneration in rats. His book, The Body Electric: Electromagnetism and the Foundation of Life (William Morrow and Co., New York, 1985) is the most important book in electromedicine. It includes a fascinating history of the development of science as it relates to the constant struggle between those who prefer to believe we have a "vital" life force and those who insist that we are just a collection of chemicals without a soul.

Bjorn Nordenstrom, M.D. is another leading pioneer in electromedicine. Dr. Nordenstrom, who recently served as Chairman of the Nobel Assembly, proposed a theory that a controlling bioelectrical system is closely integrated both structurally and functionally with the circulatory system. Dr. Nordenstrom successfully treated terminal patients at the prestigious Karolinska Institute in Sweden to prove his theories. His complete paradigm, including the experimental proof is published in his book, Biologically Closed Electrical Circuits: Clinical, Experimental and Theoretical Evidence for an Additional Circulatory System (Nordic Medical Publishers, Stockholm, 1983).
WHAT TO EXPECT

Many people will experience results during or directly following the very first treatment. Some will not achieve an effect until the morning following treatment. Others may require five to seven or more sessions before the effects will be noticed. If there is no change after ten treatments, and several electrode placement sites have been tried, the use of the Alpha-Stim 100 should be reevaluated. Although a slight tingling sensation is sometimes felt under the electrodes, it is not necessary to feel this in order to achieve results. Most people feel nothing at all except positive results. The current should never be raised to a level that is uncomfortable. Alpha-Stim treatment often leaves the user feeling relaxed, but, unlike with drugs, the mind remains alert. Frequently people report an increase in their energy level. For people who are having trouble falling asleep, Alpha-Stim should be used at least three hours before going to bed or the increased alertness may prevent sleep.

INDICATIONS


Microcurrent electrical therapy (MET) is continuously being subjected to rigorous study and evaluation by the international medical community. Findings to date indicate that the Alpha-Stim 100 is an effective treatment with broad applications for a variety of syndromes involving pain. In many cases it is the sole therapeutic method required. Effective results have been seen during and/or subsequent to stimulation over effected body parts, adjacent areas, and even areas removed from those in pain. As with any therapeutic intervention, not all patients will respond to the Alpha-Stim 100. The degree of efficacy will vary with the nature of the problem being treated and with the method of treatment. Accordingly, a trial evaluation is recommended on each patient to determine the best possible electrode location and to ascertain the long-term benefits of treatment.
The risk/reward ratio for the Alpha-Stim 100 ranks exceedingly high when compared to pharmacological management and other brands of TENS. Typically, one 10 to 20 minute treatment session every other day is sufficient to manage the conditions for the Alpha-Stim 100 is prescribed. However, some people will benefit from more (or less) treatment time. The Alpha-Stim 100 is safe enough to be used continuously if necessary.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
No contraindications have been established.
PRECAUTIONS

For external use only. TENS may affect the operation of cardiac pacemakers particularly demand type pacemakers; it is not recommended for use by these patients. Do not stimulate directly on the eyes. Do not stimulate directly over the carotid sinus (upper side of neck). Do not allow children to use or handle this device without adult supervision. Do not operate potentially dangerous machinery or motor vehicles during periods of stimulation. Safety of stimulation has not been established during pregnancy. Caution is advised in cases where other forms of analgesia would not be used; such as to retain the beneficial aspects of pain for diagnosis or in cases where patients may overuse pain-controlled areas. Use only for the purpose for which it is prescribed.

ADVERSE EFFECTS

No clear documentation of adverse effects exists to date. No death or serious injury has ever been reported following the use of the Alpha-Stim or any other TENS. The most common area of concern is skin reactions at the electrode sites. To minimize this problem, clean the skin prior to use. Cleaning the skin will also assure better electrode contact. If skin irritation occurs, consult your physician.

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