Muscle stimulation, also known as electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) or neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), is a therapeutic technique used to relieve pain, improve muscle function, and enhance recovery. This method involves delivering controlled electrical impulses to muscles and nerves, prompting contractions that mimic natural movement. Muscle stimulation is widely used in physical therapy, chiropractic, rehabilitation, and sports medicine to treat various conditions.
Muscle stimulation devices use electrodes placedf on the skin to send electrical impulses to targeted muscles. These impulses cause the muscles to contract and relax, increasing blood flow, reducing tension, and stimulating nerve pathways that help block pain signals.
Conditions treated with muscle stimulation include: chronic pain conditions, injury rehabilitation, neurological conditions, and sports and performance enhancement. A typical session lasts between 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the treatment area and condition being addressed. The intensity of the electrical impulses can be adjusted to ensure comfort and effectiveness. While some individuals may feel a tingling sensation, the treatment is generally well-tolerated.