II. SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR LAB ACTIVITY B: \"Influence of Varying Electrical
ID: 3473105 • Letter: I
Question
II. SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR LAB ACTIVITY B: "Influence of Varying Electrical Stimulation Parameters" Equipment Needed: Various electrical stimulators Instruction manuals (including manufacturer's specifications) for each stimulator The objective of this activity is to become more familiar with the various parameters available on electrical stimulators and how changing those parameters influence the patient's perception of the current. 1. Using the subjects forearm or thigh, configure the electrodes in a formation appropriate to 2. Note the settings available to be adjusted for the current chosen, and select 3 to be varied 3. Turn the intensity up with the default settings until the subject feels a comfortably strong the type of current assessed sensation, record how the subject describes the sensation. Stop the treatment. Select a parameter to be adjusted from those available on the machine to adjust to 3 separate levels.. For each level selected, turn the intensity up until the subject feels a comfortably strong sensation, record how the subject describes the sensation. Stop the treatment between each trial. Repeat steps 4-5 for each of the other 2 parameters chosen. Repeat steps 1-6 for a second current. 4. 5. 6. 7. Russian Current Parameter Varied Level Sensations haie thet roled into contracHon Frequency ContacHon Go olio lo/3o Contected inot controcted On-Off Cuntructed, Rest, ContaacHon Ramp
Explanation / Answer
The parameter which greatly influenced the subjects in perceiving electrical current is ramp mode of delivering current.
Electrically induced muscle contractions helps to stimulate the circulation of fluid and blood through body and it can also be used for muscle strengthening. The current intensity should be such that it produces a stong and comfortable mucle contraction. Here Russian stimulation is used and this employs a differnt method when compared to conventional stimulators. Burst modulated alternating current is used and studies have showed that they are more beneficial for muscle strengthening. Burst is a waveform of current for specified number of cycles and can be given in sine or ramp form. When bursts or ramps are given the nerves respond fast so there is faster motor response and easier muscle contraction. Here in this study when frequency of current is increased contraction does'nt occur and only when it reaches a medium frequency it contracts. The on/off interval is also not capable of producing a satisfactory muscle contraction. Ramp mode is effective in producing a muscle contraction within a short period of time and hence treatment becomes more effective,