ABSTRACT
Objectives:
To qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the interaction of Russian and Aussie currents in isometric contraction of the quadriceps femoris muscle in the sensory, motor and pain tolerance spectra in healthy young women.
Methods:
The subjects were studied at a single point in time. A lower limb was selected at random to receive each current, and the electrodes were placed simultaneously on both legs, respecting 10 minutes between individual stimulation. Sensory, motor and pain-tolerance thresholds were assessed in quantitative (current density in mA/cm²) and qualitative (VAS) terms.
Results:
Subjects were 19 volunteers, aged 22.31 (1.29), with a BMI of 21.79 (1.78). The Aussie current reached the sensory threshold with significantly lower current density when compared with the Russian current for the same threshold. The results were significant in the overall group (treatment) for the two currents studied in terms of current density needed to reach the three thresholds. However, in the blocks (individually), there was significance only for the sensory threshold (p = 0.0126). Analysis of the perception of discomfort, assessed by VAS, was significant at the three time points for both currents, but in the comparison between these there was no significant difference.
Conclusion:
The Russian and Aussie currents are adequate in terms of the current density required to reach each threshold studied, and present differences between one another during interaction with the biological system, with the Aussie current necessitating less energy. However, in terms of perception of discomfort there are no significant differences between the two currents. Level of evidence III; Therapeutic studies - Investigating the results of treatment.
Keywords:
Electric stimulation therapy; Muscle strength; Quadriceps muscle; Medium current frequency; Physical therapy modalities
