Myofascial trigger points are a well-documented source of head neck and face pain. These trigger points have been mapped by Travell and Simons and you can see pictures of these up in our clinic. As some of you well know, myofascial pain can cause severe and debilitating pain in the head, neck, and face and can lead to restrictions in the normal motion of the joint. It can also lead to problems including impaired neurological function, circulation, and lymphatic flow.
Other issues include sinus congestion, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, dizziness, tinnitus, dry cough, blood pressure fluctuations, paresthesias of the face, eye pain, blurred or double vision, migraines and tension headaches, and restricted cervical motion. Repeated exposure to sympathetic stress, biomechanical overuse, crush injuries, or trauma will cause predictable tissue changes; these changes are what cause trigger points due to biochemical changes in the muscles.
It is hypothesized that Frequency Specific Microcurrent has demonstrated changes in fibrosis, scar tissue, mineral deposits, inflammation, and spasms when specific frequencies are used for veins, connective tissue, arteries, and nerves. The response is frequency specific. An inappropriate or ineffective frequency produces no change in tissue, no matter how long it is applied. A correct frequency produces the characteristic softening of the tissue in moments. Another hypothesis for the effectiveness of this modality is increased ATP production, protein synthesis, and membrane transport at the cellular level.
This treatment is utilized as part of a whole comprehensive approach including specific manual therapy techniques, exercise prescription and diet modification. We are starting to see changes in clients with long-standing neuropathic pain, post-concussion syndrome, migraines, and scar tissue that is impacting the lymphatic flow and postural imbalances.
Frequency-specific microcurrent as an independent modality is not covered by insurance. If used in treatment, we consider it bundled with other techniques, including manual therapy and exercise prescription. Depending on the diagnosis, the recommended intervention is 2-3 times per week; we have priced treatment at $1 per minute, depending on the protocol.
Some protocols run for 20 minutes; others run for over 80 minutes. Patients are required to be hydrated, up to 2 quarts of water within the two hours preceding treatment to get the most from it. (Excerpts from this article taken directly from Microcurrent treatment of myofascial pain in the head, neck, and face, Carolyn McMakin MA CD- with permission).
