Electronic muscle stimulation, utilized to treat injuries and muscle trauma, is thought to be effective in toning muscle. Depending on the reasons for muscle stimulation, the techniques may vary. Using different frequencies, wavelengths and duration will elicit different desired results. Electronic muscle stimulation used concurrently with other treatment modalities is effective in improving overall results when applying muscle stimulation for rehabilitation of injuries.
Muscle Toning
Electronic muscle stimulation (EMS) is utilized to tone muscles in a physical fitness setting. Although controversial, EMS causes muscle contractions using electrical impulses and is thought to firm muscles without the need for physical exercise. According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), an EMS machine may temporarily strengthen, tone and firm a muscle, but no devices have been approved for toning or firming. The technique for toning requires long wavelength and low frequency impulses, causing a prolonged muscle contraction.
Injury Rehabilitation
EMS causes a pumping action with muscle contraction, allowing blood and nutrients to reach the injured area. Injured soft tissue is worked with minimal pain because of the lack of joint movement with EMS treatment. In addition to the benefits in circulation, EMS prevents muscle atrophy caused by lack of use while healing by keeping the injured area mobilized. According to Mayo Clinic, injury rehab techniques with EMS require a physical therapist. The therapist may utilize one of many other treatments along with EMS, such as ultrasound, cold or heat treatment or muscle-massage techniques on your soft tissue to reduce pain and speed healing.
Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation
Transcutaneous electric stimulation (TENS) is a form of electrical stimulation designed for pain relief. TENS uses electrical impulses applied across the skin over an injured or painful area to elicit a pain-relieving response. According to Health Central, a website devoted to chronic pain management, the impulses cause the nervous system to produce natural pain-relieving substances such as endorphins. The release of these chemicals reduces pain without the need for drugs. TENS treatment also provides a pain blocking affect by electrically interfering with pain signals sent from the painful area to your brain, effectively stopping pain. Unlike EMS, TENS are available in portable units that can be worn and used in normal activity. This feature allows for treatment of chronic pain that otherwise would interfere with daily activities. TENS treatment provides electrical stimulation below the threshold of muscle contraction but enough to cause the pain-reducing effects.
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