Pulssilla

Pulssilla is a term used in rehabilitation to denote a pulsed electrical stimulation modality designed to modulate neural activity for therapeutic purposes. It uses non-invasive surface electrodes placed on the skin and a compact control unit, sometimes integrated into a wearable sleeve or patch. Protocols generally deliver trains of electrical pulses with adjustable frequency, pulse width, and amplitude, set to comfort and specific goals such as pain relief or motor training.

Mechanism: Pulssilla engages peripheral nerves and central pathways to alter sensory and motor processing. In sensory applications, it can activate the gate-control mechanism to reduce pain signals. In motor applications, higher intensities may induce muscle contractions that support strengthening and motor relearning. Repetition and timing of pulses are thought to promote neuroplastic changes, though precise mechanisms are under investigation.

Technology: Many systems support multi-channel stimulation, various waveforms (biphasic, burst), and, in some cases, closed-loop control using surface EMG or movement data to adjust parameters in real time.

Applications: Potential uses include chronic musculoskeletal pain, postoperative rehab, stroke or spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and athletic recovery. It is commonly employed as an adjunct to physical therapy, strengthening programs, or pain-management strategies.

History and status: The term surfaced in rehabilitation literature during the late 2010s and 2020s as a generic description of pulsed stimulation approaches. There is no universal protocol, and devices and parameters vary. Evidence from high-quality trials is limited, and conclusions about efficacy remain cautious.

See also: transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, neuromodulation, bioelectronic medicine.