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Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) Therapy

EMS therapy mimics the action potential that comes from the central nervous system. Action potential is what we call it when a neuron (cell in the nervous system) transmits information (electrical impulses) along an axon (the thread-like conduit leading away from the neuron body, toward other cells). When these impulses pass a threshold, the action potential is fired and something happens. In this case, that something is a muscle contraction.

EMS therapy creates steady electric impulses that stimulate muscle contractions--many of them over a sustained therapy session. This repetitive contracting and relaxing of the muscle has the effect of:

  • Increasing circulation (blood flow) to the affected tissue area, which aids in repair.

  • improving strength by flexing and working weakened muscles.

  • slowing the process of muscle atrophy by strengthening weakened or unused muscles.

  • adapting (training or “educating”) muscle fibers to certain patterns of response (e.g., contracts the fibers that are responsible for force, which results in building strength).

USES AND BENEFITS OF E-STIM THERAPY

Some of the common uses of prescription EMS therapy include:

Relieving back spasms. Electric muscle stimulation can relax back muscles, easing tightness and soreness in the lower back area. Sciatica symptoms, for example, can be caused by back muscles in spasm. Stopping the spasm may relieve the pressure on the sciatic nerve. EMS can also help with muscle tightness and soreness from other spinal issues, including postural problems and scoliosis.

Aiding athletic recovery. E-stim active recovery program settings use specific low-level frequencies to increase blood flow, remove lactic acid, release endorphins, and promote muscle relaxation. Athletes working out at high intensity levels--who may be prone to intense cramping or spasms--may find this program beneficial. Endurance athletes, for example, may wish to work regular e-stim sessions into their routines so they can keep their muscles loose and continue training without injury.