For high-voltage pulsed stimulation, what is the current type used?

High-voltage pulsed stimulation primarily utilizes monophasic current. This means that the electrical current flows in one direction during the pulse cycle instead of alternating back and forth, as seen in biphasic waveforms. Monophasic stimulation is particularly effective for certain therapeutic applications, such as pain relief and muscle strengthening, as it effectively recruits muscle fibers without the risk of muscle fatigue associated with continuous alternating currents.

The use of monophasic current allows for a more pronounced stimulation effect on tissues due to the polarity characteristics that can be manipulated for specific therapeutic outcomes. For instance, the use of a negative or positive polarity can influence the type of tissue response, enabling practitioners to target different treatment goals effectively.

In therapeutic settings, high-voltage pulsed stimulation employs specific pulse characteristics—including pulse duration and frequency—within the monophasic framework to optimize patient outcomes in rehabilitation and pain management strategies.