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Questions and Answers
What type of current produces a polarity effect only if it is unbalanced?
A monophasic waveform causes current to flow above and below the zero line alternately.
False
What therapeutic application uses DC for denervated muscle?
Iontophoresis
In a balanced waveform, electrodes are considered to be __________.
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Match the following types of currents with their definitions:
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Which of the following is a disadvantage of using monophasic waveform?
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Therapeutic currents can only flow in one direction.
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What does biphasic current include that distinguishes it from monophasic current?
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Acute edema is treated using __________ current (HVPC).
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Which type of current flows continuously and is sinusoidal in nature?
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Study Notes
Waveform Properties
- The shape of the electrical current produced by an electrotherapy device is referred to as a waveform.
- Waveforms are described by their shape, direction, amplitude, duration, and frequency.
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Monophasic waveforms have current flowing in one direction resulting in one electrode being positive and one negative.
- Monophasic waveforms are represented by pulses above or below the 0 line.
- This creates a polarity effect.
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Biphasic waveforms have current flowing in both directions.
- Biphasic waveforms are represented by pulses that are above and below the 0 line.
- Biphasic waveforms create a polarity effect only if they are unbalanced.
- Unbalanced biphasic waveforms produce a mild polarity effect.
- Balanced biphasic waveforms have no polarity effect.
- Polarity effect is the difference in electrical potential between two electrodes.
- Polarity effect is most pronounced in monophasic waveforms.
- Polarity is described as either positive or negative based on the direction of current flow.
- Polarity effects can be used therapeutically for iontophoresis and treatment of denervated muscles.
Waveform Types
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Direct Current (DC) is a continuous flow of electrons in one direction for more than 1 second.
- DC has a constant polarity.
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Alternating Current (AC) is a continuous flow of electrons that change direction.
- AC is sinusoidal and has no polarity effect.
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Pulsatile Current is a non-continuous flow of electrons delivered in pulses.
- Monophasic pulsed current flows in one direction.
- Biphasic pulsed current flows in both directions and can be balanced or unbalanced.
Therapeutic Implications of Polarity
- Iontophoresis and Denervated Muscle Stimulation benefit from polarity.
- Acute edema can be treated with high-voltage pulsed current (HVPC) which utilizes a polarity effect.
- Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) uses a biphasic asymmetrical unbalanced waveform that results in a minimal polarity effect.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Polarity
- Advantages: Increased activity of one electrode over another.
- Disadvantages: Uncomfortable for patients. Risk of burns from charge accumulation under electrodes.
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Description
This quiz explores the different types of waveforms used in electrotherapy, including monophasic and biphasic waveforms. You'll learn about their characteristics, such as shape, polarity, and effects. Test your knowledge on how these waveforms contribute to the efficacy of electrotherapy treatments.
