Bull Tokyo Med Dent Univ. 1978 Mar; 25(1): 1-6.

Fundamental studies on electric stimulator used for acupuncture analgesia.

Yoshida T, Nagayama K, Ikezono E, Matsumoto I, Sawa T.

In order to perform safe and effective electric stimulation in acupuncture analgesia or therapy, basic knowledge concerning the electric stimulator is required. If direct current is used, a negative square wave with a pulse duration of 0.5 approximately 1.5 msec should be applied to the needle electrode to perform effective stimulation. Negative current is more effective at lower amperage than positive current and the possible corrosion hazard by the positive current can be avoided.