Selecting a pulse rate


Specific pulse rates (or frequencies) will illicit different results.

Pulse rates and their effects

1 – 10 pps
Endorphin Release

50 – 100 pps
Pain Gating

100 pps (modulated)
Endorphin Release and Pain Gating

100 pps (constant/surge)
Muscle Stimulation

1 – 3 pps
Sleep

8 – 14 pps
Relaxation

Endorphins

Naturally occurring hormones that reduce pain and enduce a feeling of well-being. They are released in response to injury and physical stress. Morphine, and related medications, have a similar chemical structure to endorphins – which explains their strong painkilling effects.

Gating Effect

Occurs when a physical stimulus overrides the sensation of pain. For example, pain can be reduced after we stub a toe by rubbing it vigorously. These new “non-painful” messages compete for attention, and are processed in favour of the “pain” messages.

Rates according to BioStim® equipment settings:
(These figures will vary slightly between different models)

  • 2 pps = ‘L’ Low
  • 6 pps = ‘M’ Medium
  • 100 pps = ‘H’ High