Changes in sensory threshould under the influence of magnetic fields of varying frequency

J. Nowotny, A. Rudzińska, K. Bąk

J. Nowotny, A. Rudzińska, K. Bąk – Changes in sensory threshould under the influence of magnetic fields of varying frequency. Fizjoterapia Polska 2004; 4(1); 13-18

Abstract

Background. The treatment methods used in physiotherapy employ different physical factors. Often, however, the effects are similar, regardless of the type of stimulus. The most information is available on the analgesic effect of physical treatment, especially endogenous warmth generated under the influence of electromagnetic energy. There are various mechanisms underlying this, but it primarily involves reduction of sensation coming from outside into the system. The most attention has been devoted to the analgesic effects of warmth. The purpose of our research was to measure the extent to which electromagnetic energy influences changes in sensory threshold, and to what degree this is directly connected with warmth. To this end we measured the sensory threshold. Material and methods. An electrical impulse was used as a sensory stimulus, with rising amplitude until the sensory threshold was reached, and an i/t curve was drawn. After initial examination, one of three treatments was used: magnetic field, microwave therapy, and shortwave therapy. Additionally, skin temperature was taken before and after treatment using a pyrometer. Immediately after each treatment and again 15 and 30 minutes later, the sensory threshold was again measured, and the results compared to initial data. Results and Conclusions. Under the influence of a single application, immediately after treatment, we observed increased sensitivity to the electrical stimulus in most cases, persisting to the end of the measurement period. The direct measurements of skin temperature indicate that the results are not necessarily connected to the influence of warmth. This would suggest that endogenous warmth does not necessarily give analgesic effects.

Key words:
microwave therapy, shortwave therapy, skin temperature
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