Electric muscle stimulation (also known as “E stim”) uses an electrical current to cause a single muscle or a group of muscles to contract. By placing electrodes on the skin in various locations the physical therapist can recruit the appropriate muscle fibers. Using an electrical muscle stimulator helps strengthen the affected muscle. The therapist can change the current setting to allow for a forceful or gentle muscle contraction. Along with increasing muscle strength, the contraction of the muscle also promotes blood supply to the area that assists in healing. This treatment is recommended for sport injuries which result in muscles, tendons or ligament damage.
Benefits
- Reduce pain & swelling
- Relax muscle spasms
- Retrain muscle movement
- Increase range of motion
- Stimulate blood circulation
Did you know that the FDA regulates muscle stimulator devices? Electric muscle stimulation is commonly used as a therapy and rehabilitation tool to prevent muscle atrophy which happens in the aftermath of long-term sport injuries or injuries requiring long periods of bed rest.