Neutral electrodes (used for introducing a high frequency treatment current via a skin section of a human or animal body) that include, in addition to known components, at least one measuring electrode spaced from the main electrode, and at least one measuring current generator that is connected to the main electrode and to the measuring electrode generating a high frequency measuring current, which flows between the measuring electrode and the main electrode. The neutral electrodes thus allow for monitoring of the contact of the neutral electrode with the skin and for monitoring of the high frequency current flow and its spatial distribution. This allows for increased safety during use of the neutral electrode for treatment.
