COMMUNICATIONS LEVEL TECHNOLOGY
The terms “low frequency” include frequencies ranging anywhere between .01 Hz to 999 Hz, and “middle frequency” are those frequencies between 1,000 Hz to 100,000 Hz. This classification of frequencies was first introduced in 1944 by GILDEMEISTER. Low frequency currents and/or modulated middle frequency currents to a low frequency rate can be efficaciously used for imitative or exhaustive stimulation of excitable tissues (receptors, nerves, and muscles), e.g. for the generation of action potentials synchronous to the frequency of stimulation.
It is important to note that the special characteristics of middle frequency currents also include the frequency-dependent decrease of the capacitive resistance and of the occasionally described local discomfort or systemic electro-toxicity. Additionally, middle frequency signal currents have a special threshold behavior with a typical diminishment of current sensation correlated to transient excitatory activity in surrounding tissue. Increasing the amplitude of the signal will increase the treatment coverage area as well as produce the generation of a reversible, partial sustained depolarization of specific nerve fibers (neuron blockade) and in muscles with a physiological contracture.
Until recently almost all known medical devices used to deliver the middle frequency (Multi-facilitation) effects utilized carrier frequencies around 4,000 Hz and operated only from an Amplitude Modulated (AM) electro-technical format. The device utilized in the Outcome Medical pain management program utilizes all frequencies between 2,500 Hz and 20,000 Hz, and low-frequency modulation frequencies between .01 Hz and 300 Hz. The system also changes automatically or delivers simultaneously Amplitude Modulated (AM) or Frequency Modulated (FM) electronic signals to imitate, exhaust or interrupt the axon action impulse mechanism without possibility of neural accommodation. These electronic signals are delivered in an ever-changing signal frequency format, in quartertone steps (intonation). Periodic dwell times on specific frequencies that are mathematically calculated are sequentially, yet randomly actuated to produce harmonic vibratory effects to the cell membrane and surrounding tissue.
Ultimate clinical effects for the patients include; better signal tolerance, (less potential irritation from the application of the medical device electrodes) and a more therapeutic effect (better and longer lasting symptom control).
