The muscles throughout the body contract in response to electrical currents. Electronic muscle stimulation utilizes this property to allow for the forced contraction of muscles, which allows it to be used for a variety of medical purposes.
Mechanism
Electronic muscle stimulators generate a mild electrical current that is transmitted through the skin via an external device. The electrical current causes muscles to contract, which in essence forces the muscle to exercise, which results in changes in the muscle fibers and physiology, the National Skeletal Muscle Research Center explains.
Uses
Electronic muscle stimulation can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions, the Food and Drug Administration explains. It can be used to treat muscle atrophy, to reduce muscle spasms, to treat reduced range of motion and to help treat other muscle problems that can be caused by a stroke, injury or major surgery.
Misconceptions
The Food and Drug Administration notes that there is no evidence that electronic muscle stimulators can aid weight loss, reduce girth or result in "rock hard" abdominal muscles. Consequently, the Food and Drug Administration does not recommend them as fitness or exercise equipment.
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