What Are the Benefits of Electronic Muscle Stimulation?

Electronic muscle stimulator (EMS) units use continuous electrical bursts aimed at particular muscles to force them to contract and relax. During muscle stimulation, the body sends blood and oxygen to these areas and increases production of endorphins. Electronic muscle stimulator units are beneficial in a variety of medical and cosmetic applications.

Pain Relief

• Electronic muscle stimulator units can help relieve joint pain, muscle aches and pain caused by stress. Increased levels of blood an oxygen delivered to these areas, as well as the release of endorphins, are ways the body naturally responds to pain.

Muscle Stimulation

• Electronic muscle stimulator units are used in patients with partial or full paralysis. The muscle contractions caused by the EMS machine stimulate the muscles and prevents non-use atrophy.

Sports Training

• Dr. Y. Kots of the Central Institute of Physical Culture in the former USSR conducted a study showing that electronic muscle stimulation causes contractions that are up to 30 times more powerful than normal voluntary contractions. This leads to enhanced muscle strength and improved muscle recovery.

Rehabilitation

• Electronic muscle stimulator units can help rehabilitate muscles that have been injured due to trauma, surgery or disease. The contractions caused by the EMS help to strengthen muscles of individuals who may not be able to participate in physical therapy.

Warning

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes some EMS units as a "device" that provides some therapeutic and cosmetic benefits; however, not all models on the market meet FDA standards, and they can actually be dangerous. Therefore, thoroughly investigate each unit before use.