Which current range is cited as capable of causing muscle paralysis?

• A. 5 to 10 mA
• B. 15 to 19 mA
• C. 20 to 30 mA
• D. 60 to 80 mA

Answer: (B)

Current through the body produces different effects depending on how much current flows and the frequency of the current. At around 15 to 20 milliamperes of alternating current, the muscles can contract so strongly and persistently (tetany) that a person may lose the ability to release a live conductor. This gives the sense of muscle paralysis in practical terms, since the grip becomes effectively stuck. That’s why the 15–19 mA range is cited as capable of causing muscle paralysis. Lower currents tend to produce only tingling or minor shocks and don’t reliably prevent release, while higher currents bring more dangerous effects such as breathing difficulties or heart rhythm disturbances, including ventricular fibrillation, especially as you move into the tens of milliamperes and above.