Effects of Paradic Current
When employed in mild currents there results an agree¬able and soothing sensation of vibration. But it may be em¬ployed in strong current for pronounced stimulating or counter-irritant effect. It is often applied by means of large sponge or dry wire-brush electrodes, the latter producing con¬siderable pain if a fairly strong current is used. Yet there are specialists who prefer this treatment for some neuralgias, as it usually gives considerable relief if continued for five or ten minutes. Because of its stimulating effect upon the circulation of the blood and lymph, the faradic current is often used also as an aid in the absorption of effusions.
It has the further effect of producing cutaneous hyperemia, which makes it of some value in relieving congestion of deep-seated Organs; but several methods by which this can be accom¬plished have already been discussed, and some of these, notably local light therapy-, are superior to faradism for the purpose. General faradization has a favorable influence upon nutrition through its influence upon the circulation and all vital proc¬esses. But, again, there are other agents by which this may be accomplished more effectively, perhaps especially by the gen¬eral electric-light bath. An effect sometimes produced by faradism is the production of restful sleep. To accomplish this the treatment must, in many cases, be most carefully given; else the nerves will be somewhat stimulated rather than soothed. Among the conditions which are greatly benefited by the application of the Faradic current are the several forms of motor paralysis. It is also of considerable value in the treat¬ment of chronic gastritis.