Effects of Microcurrent Treatment With and Without Resistance Exercises on Body Composition, Muscle Strength, and Physical Function in Middle-aged Adults

Microcurrent therapy is non-invasive method that provides different frequencies and transmits tiny currents through the skin within the range of milliamperes (<1 mA). Human studies demonstrated that microcurrent can reduce the severity of symptoms of muscle damage induced by exercise protocols in healthy men, healthy men and women, trained men, and cross-country male athletes. To the best of the authors' knowledge, no formal research has been conducted to verify the effects of microcurrent added to resistance exercises on physical function in non-trained middle-aged adults. Therefore, it is important to understand to what extent the application of microcurrent added to physical exercises (the hallmark of prevention and treatment of sarcopenia) can slow the age-related decline of muscular function and play a role in the prevention of sarcopenia.

Aim: To analyse the effects of microcurrent treatment alone, and combined with a resistance exercise programme, on muscle strength, body composition and physical function in middle-aged adults.

Hypotheses (i) Microcurrent alone will counteract the loss of muscle mass and strength which accompanies ageing, and it will improve functional capacity and wellbeing compared to a sham, non-microcurrent treatment, in individuals with a low level of physical activity (sedentary population who are not engaged in regular exercise programmes).

(ii) The application of microcurrent alone, although not improving strength, will counteract the loss of muscle mass and strength in sedentary individuals.

(iii) Adding a resistance training programme to microcurrent treatment will optimise exercise-induced outcomes, allowing superior gains in muscle mass, strength, functional capacity, and wellbeing, compared to the application of microcurrent alone.