Selective nociceptive modulation using a novel prototype of transcutaneous kilohertz high-frequency alternating current stimulation: a crossover double-blind randomized sham-controlled trial.

Background: Kilohertz high-frequency alternating current (KHFAC) stimulation has demonstrated to induce rapid and reversible nerve blocks without causing nerve damage. Previous studies have explored frequency-dependent effects using a transcutaneous approach in humans from 5 to 20 kHz. Nevertheless, its application in humans is limited by the lack of stimulators approved for frequencies above 20 kHz.

Effectiveness of Different Electrical Stimulation Modalities for Pain and Masticatory Function in Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Temporomandibular disorders comprise a set of conditions that include alterations of the temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscles. Although different modalities of electric currents are widely used for treating temporomandibular disorders, previous reviews have suggested these are ineffective. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness of different electrical stimulation modalities in patients with temporomandibular disorders for reducing musculoskeletal pain, increasing the range of movement, and improving muscle activity.

Effect of Percutaneous Electric Stimulation with High-Frequency Alternating Currents on the Sensory-Motor System of Healthy Volunteers: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study.

Former studies investigated the application of high-frequency alternating currents (HFAC) in humans for blocking the peripheral nervous system. The present trial aims to assess the effect of HFAC on the motor response, somatosensory thresholds, and peripheral nerve conduction when applied percutaneously using frequencies of 10 kHz and 20 kHz in healthy volunteers. A parallel, placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted.

Percutaneous Versus Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Pain. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: The justification for this review is the need for high-quality evidence to assist in the decision-making process when applying percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in a clinical setting. The main aim was to determine if the use of PENS is more effective and should be recommended when compared to TENS for the reduction of musculoskeletal pain intensity.

Methods: A search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was performed.

The effect on handgrip strength of low-frequency percutaneous electric stimulation applied to the median and cubital nerves: A randomized, double-blind controlled trial.

Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) consists of applying an electric current of <1,000 Hz to different neuromuscular structures through acupuncture needles. Currently, there is controversy surrounding the effect of PENS on muscle strength in the scientific literature. The main objective was to assess the effect of PENS applied to the median and cubital nerves on the maximum handgrip strength (MHS) compared to sham stimulation, as well as to determine the safety of the intervention.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Pediatric Palliative Care: A Systematic Review.

Pediatric palliative care (PPC) is a set of actions aimed at children who suffer from a severe or life-threatening disease to alleviate the symptoms of the disease and improve the quality of life of both the child and his/her family. One of the tools used to control symptoms is physiotherapy; however, its application in the child population has not been thoroughly studied. The main objective of this study was to gather, analyze, and critically evaluate the available scientific evidence on physiotherapy in children who require palliative care through a systematic review of the studies published in the last 10 years in the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, PEDro, CINAHL, and Scopus.

Can Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Enhance Functionality in Older Adults? A Systematic Review.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive, easy to administer, well-tolerated, and safe technique capable of affecting brain excitability, both at the cortical and cerebellum levels. However, its effectiveness has not been sufficiently assessed in all population segments or clinical applications. This systematic review aimed at compiling and summarizing the currently available scientific evidence about the effect of tDCS on functionality in older adults over 60 years of age.