THE EFFECT OF GALVANIC EXERCISE ON DENERVATED AND RE-INNERVATED MUSCLES IN THE RABBIT

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Abstract
The effect of galvanic stimulation on the muscles innervated by the peroneal nerve was studied. The expts., carried out in a series of 30 rabbits, were divided into 2 groups. In the 1st group denervated muscles without possibility of re-innervation were treated. This group was divided into 2 subgroups: short-term denervation (37 days) and long-term denervation (67-150 days). In the 2d group treatment was given to muscles in which re-innervation was allowed: (1) After crushing the nerve; (2) after division and primary suture of the nerve; (3) after division and secondary suture by cross union. In all expts., the paralyzed muscles of the left leg were exercised while those of the right leg remained untreated for control purposes. The initial method of treatment was 20 mins. galvanic exercise daily at a current strength of 4-6 ma. The earlier the treatment, the greater the effect. The main effect appeared during the denervation period, but a difference was demonstrable even 4 mos. after interruption of the treatment. Treated muscles presented larger muscle fibers and less fibrosis than untreated ones. After a treatment of 1 hr. daily, beginning immediately after denervation, the muscles lost only 17% in wt. in 60 days, compared with a loss of 59% in untreated muscles.