Abstract

In the electrical stimulation therapy of physiotherapy various stimulation current forms are used and the neurophysiological reactions will vary by setting stimulation parameters. To execute the electrical stimulation that is to stimulate target nerve or muscle tissue the electrical stimulation has to pass through the skin. If the skin impedance could be reduced it is possible to carry out the electrical stimulation with less discomfort. High-voltage pulsed current therapy is one of the electrical stimulation therapy and it is considered as electrical stimulation with less discomfort. This report describes features of high-voltage pulsed current and its clinical effect in the view of its electric characteristics in living body. The main features of high-voltage pulsed current are twin-peak pulsed current, high voltage and mono-phasic current. High-voltage pulsed current was developed in the USA during 1940s since then its clinical effectiveness has been proven by many researchers. This report also summarize its application and mechanism on prevention and improvement of edema, acceleration of wound healing, improvement of blood circulation and muscle strengthening.