In this episode, Dr. Carol McMakin and Kim Pittis discuss Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM) protocols for treating nerve pain, including post-herpetic neuralgia and ataxia. They explain the mechanisms behind nerve inflammation, polarization, and scarring, and shares case studies demonstrating effective FSM treatments. The conversation covers topics such as treating the psoas muscle, addressing ticklishness, and managing complex neurological cases. Dr. McMakin also provides insights on using FSM for patients with cancer and emphasizes the importance of comprehensive assessments in identifying the root causes of pain.

01:13 Understanding Voltage-Gated Ion Channels
02:42 FSM and Nerve Pain Treatment
05:59 Case Study: Cavernous Hemangioma
07:42 Nerve Pain Treatment Insights
12:03 Treating the psoas Muscle
17:04 Scarring and Tissue Treatment
18:14 Case Study: Knee Pain Post-Surgery
23:14 Holistic Approach to Pain Treatment
28:12 Addressing Ticklishness in Treatment
30:23 Nerve Inflammation and Pain Management
34:18 Case Study: Ataxic Gait and Neurological Concerns
42:02 Chronic Conditions and Treatment Approaches
47:08 Treating Cancer Patients: Guidelines and Considerations
50:04 Upcoming Courses and Final Thoughts

As medical practitioners, it's crucial to constantly refine our approaches to treating conditions like nerve pain, ataxia, and other related dysfunctions. In a recent episode of the Frequency Specific Microcurrent podcast, various experts, including Dr. Carol and Kim Pittis, shared valuable insights that can benefit practitioners seeking to enhance their understanding of nerve-related treatments.

Understanding Nerve Pain and Treatment Modalities

Dr. Carol emphasizes the complexities of nerve pain treatment, explaining how conditions like postherpetic neuralgia and traction injuries can influence nerve function. Practitioners are encouraged to consider the underlying causes of nerve numbness or hypersensitivity. Dr. Carol suggests the combination of polarizing frequencies and specific microcurrent protocols to address these issues effectively.

One primary focus is on using combinations such as 40 Hz and 396 Hz to alleviate inflammation and enhance nerve conductivity. Complementing this approach, Dr. Carol underscores the importance of addressing the surrounding scar tissue, often by applying frequencies such as 13 Hz to reduce adhesions and further alleviate nerve discomfort.

Techniques for Addressing Complex Cases

Throughout the podcast, both Dr. Carol and Kim Pittis share personal case studies to illustrate treatment strategies. For instance, Dr. Carol describes a particular case wherein a patient developed knee pain post-tummy tuck procedure. Here, the importance of a holistic approach is evident. Realigning the patella and addressing underlying scar tissues from the surgery was pivotal. Additionally, careful inquiry into the patient's history—identifying past surgical or traumatic events—can help in piecing together effective treatment plans.

Addressing Ataxia and the Importance of Neurological Assessments

In discussing ataxia—an often misunderstood and misdiagnosed condition—Dr. Carol stresses the potential need for thorough assessments beyond standard examinations. She shares anecdotal experiences highlighting that an ataxic gait may stem from spinal, rather than purely cerebral, origins. This revelation points medical practitioners toward the need for detailed diagnostics, including MRI assessments of both the brain and spinal regions.

Promoting Safe and Effective Treatment Environments

Kim Pittis touches on the critical aspect of patient safety and comfort. Ensuring the nervous system perceives treatment interventions as safe is paramount for achieving lasting results. Furthermore, practitioners are encouraged to adopt a patient-centered approach, considering the individual experiences of pain and discomfort and adjusting treatment protocols accordingly.

Kim Pittis, LCSP, (PHYS), MT - fsmsports365.com
Carolyn McMakin, MA, DC - frequencyspecific.com/getstarted

00:14 A Surprising Medical Case

03:08 Exploring Cranial Nerve Frequencies

04:31 Understanding Muscle Spasticity

06:40 Neurological Insights and Patient Education

09:19 FSM Practitioners and Complex Cases

14:10 Muscle Mechanics and Treatment Strategies

25:39 TMJ and Retrodiscal Tissue Treatment

29:13 Exploring TMJ and Facial Nerve Innervation

30:42 Understanding Trigeminal and Facial Nerve Functions

31:55 Upcoming Events and Notable Speakers

33:18 Heart Health and FSM Applications

43:38 Addressing Stenosis and FSM Treatment

52:19 Concluding Remarks and Next Steps

Understanding Complex Neurological Cases

The podcast opens with a fascinating case study involving a Ph.D. research biochemist who developed a condition known as Cavernous Hemangioma. This case illustrates the intricacies of treating fragile neurological conditions with FSM. The discussion delves into the importance of understanding cranial nerves and their frequencies, highlighting the necessity of increased secretions in nerves and innovative approaches to manage cranial nerve involvement. Practitioners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the specifics of cranial nerve treatment, particularly how conditions such as thalamic pain can be influenced by surgery-related changes.

Handling Muscle Spasticity and Weakness

The session further delves into muscle management, emphasizing the concept of "tight weakness" and "stretch weakness" in muscle physiology. For medical practitioners, understanding the cellular mechanics, including the role of actin and myosin, can be crucial in diagnosing and managing spastic or chronically shortened muscles. The podcast underscores the benefit of FSM in increasing ATP for muscle relaxation and strengthening—both critical for optimal muscle function.

Stenosis: Misconceptions and Treatment Strategies

Stenosis, a common concern, is addressed with clarity, dismissing the myth that FSM is contraindicated for such conditions. Practitioners learn that understanding the mechanics of spinal fluid flow and managing inflammation are key to effective treatment. Special attention is given to cervical and lumbar stenosis, advising on how to approach these differently based on anatomical and physiological variances.

Innovative Techniques for Treating Shoulder and TMJ Issues

The podcast emphasizes the versatility of FSM in treating complex conditions like shoulder injuries and TMJ disorders. It introduces the idea of using specific frequencies for labrum and annular ligament issues, which can be potent in resolving chronic pain and dysfunction in shoulder and TMJ patients.

Genetic and Mitochondrial Considerations in Treatment

The session discusses a genetic condition, SPG7, shedding light on the importance of understanding genetic and mitochondrial contributions to disease progression. For practitioners, using FSM for abnormal protein accumulation and mitochondrial health can stave off advancement in otherwise degenerative conditions.

Final Thoughts and Peer Involvement

The concluding parts stress the importance of continuous learning and collaboration in the FSM community, urging practitioners to remain curious and collaborative, utilizing tools like Netter's Anatomy for inspiration. Sharing case studies and engaging in forums can enhance understanding and therapeutic outcomes in practice.

By internalizing the teachings and discussions from this detailed podcast, medical practitioners can unlock new avenues for healing and patient care, integrating FSM into their standard practices for improved outcomes. As always, engagement with the FSM community for continued learning and sharing of knowledge is encouraged, helping to expand the collective understanding and effectiveness of FSM.