Looking for drug-free pain relief? Welcome to SCENAR therapy. The SCENAR (Self-controlling Energy Neuro Adaptive Regulator) device is an entirely non-invasive, medical biofeedback unit that was originally developed by the Russians in the 1980’s for use by their cosmonauts so they would be able to treat themselves when in space. SCENAR therapy was FDA approved in 2010 for pain relief and biofeedback.
How does SCENAR therapy work?
The goal of SCENAR therapy is to stimulate the body’s own healing abilities. It does so by incorporating two sensors into the hand-held device. One sensor reads the impedance of the cutaneous nerves, while the other sensor emits modulated electromagnetic signals that are nearly identical to those emitted by human nerve cells, thereby creating a biofeedback circuit. In order to achieve maximal therapeutic effectiveness, the electrical activity of the SCENAR device changes in accordance with the reaction that it has induced in the body. This creates a state of dynamic biofeedback, which results in a speedier healing process and restoration of function, primarily through three main mechanisms:
The shape of the electrical waveforms that the SCENAR device sends into the body are similar to the brain waves that are part of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the part of the nervous system that encourages relaxation. Thus, the “I hurt” signal being sent from the injured area is replaced with an “I feel good” signal – at least temporarily.
The intensity of the electrical current is modified according to the degree of sensitivity of each patient, which allows the proper degree of stimulus to the cutaneous nervous system to release healthy amounts of pain-relieving neuropeptides.
Due to its ability to mimic physiological biocurrents in the body, the SCENAR device stimulates the c-fibers in the treatment area. These c-fibers are responsible for carrying sensory input to a particular part of the brain that is responsible for our perception of pain. By activating the local c-fibers, we remind the brain of the injury, which in turn promotes continued healing.
What types of conditions is SCENAR therapy used for?
SCENAR has been widely and successfully used in Australia, Russia, the UK, and other parts of the world for many health issues including:
What does a SCENAR treatment feel like?
At the beginning of a treatment, the intensity is adjusted to the treatment area until a gentle tingling sensation is felt. During the treatment, the skin color may change or the sound of the device may change as it passes over the treatment area.
How long is a SCENAR treatment session?
The number of treatments varies depending on the health status of the person as well as the condition treated. Typically, acute concerns may necessitate 2-4 treatments, whereas long-standing conditions can take upwards of 10 treatments. After the active treatment phase has been completed, interval treatments every 2-4 weeks may be indicated for optimal long-term neuromuscular health.
Is SCENAR therapy safe?
The SCENAR impulse is similar to the body’s own nerve impulses, and therefore it is non-damaging and safe. However, it is recommended that pregnant women and people with cardiac pacemakers or epilepsy do not undergo SCENAR therapy.
SCENAR therapy has no known negative side effects. As for positive side effects, people have noted improved energy, better quality sleep, increased digestive function and appetite, and an overall improved sense of well-being. In a most natural and harmonious way, SCENAR encourages the human body towards a state of self-recovery and homeostatic balance.
