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Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) was developed to assist in many types of muscle rehabilitation and to prevent muscle degeneration in paralyzed patients, but it has quickly been adapted to other protocols as well.

The technology for EMS is based on the reaction of the body to normal exercise. In healthy exercise, the brain sends a signal through the nerves to the muscles. When the signal reaches the muscle, it triggers a chemical reaction, causing the muscle to contract or twitch. This twitch usually involves several muscular motor points at the same time and is directly related to the intensity of stimulus.

In clinical practice, EMS equipment is generating a weak electric impulse that is used to produce a strong muscular contraction similar to a normal voluntary contraction. In EMS, the number of muscles involved in a contraction can be controlled by the number of electrodes placed on the muscles as well as the location and placement of these electrodes. In general, when the muscles are electrically stimulated their contractile force depends on the amplitude of stimulus which is defined as the duration of the stimulating pulse and its frequency (repetition rate).

The therapy utilizes this current in an effort to help reduce swelling, muscle spasm and release trigger points that may have the muscle locked up. It also causes the body to release natural pain killers – naturally occurring opiate compounds called endorphins and enkephalins. This is a great therapy if there is a soft tissue injury that causes pain. It works well in relaxing the muscle and allowing it to return to its normal state rather quickly. Short therapy sessions are excellent at facilitating relief from acute and chronic pain.

Contra-Indications:

Patients usually describe the experience as a tingling sensation that is generally very pleasing and easily tolerated. Ask Us About How You Could Benefit From Electrical Muscle Stimulation Today!