What is NMES?
NMES uses a device that sends electrical impulses to nerves. This input causes muscles to contract resulting in stronger and more toned muscles. It is almost like an artificial exercise, it is simulating what your brain does by sending a signal for the muscles to contract.
Dr. Claire using NMES before surgery on her meniscus!
Who can use NMES?
Electrical stimulation used to only be used by physicians and physical therapists. Now it is becoming more popular for anyone to have access to, including professional athletes, trainers, active individuals, and more. There are different products at a wide range of prices, giving you options to fit your needs.
What are the benefits?
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Improved muscle performance
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Improved range of motion
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Strengthened muscles
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Increased muscle growth and blood circulation
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Prevent muscle atrophy
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Relax muscles
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Reduce muscle soreness
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Tone muscles
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“Re-train” or “Re-educate” a muscle
When to use NMES?
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After an injury use NMES to help with the recovery and swelling. The controlled muscle movements bring blood to the area helping to decrease swelling. Those controlled muscle movement also help to prevent the muscle in the surrounding area to atrophy due to not being able to use it. For example, when suffering from a torn meniscus (the cartilage in your knee) your quadriceps often “turns off” after an injury causing you to loose strength/mass in those muscles. This is vital in the retention of full knee extension and knee stability.
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Pair it with your workout programs and routines. With the benefits of NMES you will notice improved fitness performance due to improvements in muscle recovery between workouts and post workout. It can be used at any fitness level, any stage in your journey.
Interested NMES and recovery methods? Schedule a session with Perform Physical Therapy and Wellness!
Work Cited:
“#28: The Science and History behind EMS.” PowerDot.com, https://www.powerdot.com/blogs/training/the-science-and-history-behind-ems.
“Understanding the NMES Device.” Pacific Biomedical, 19 Feb. 2021, https://recoveraftersurgery.com/understanding-the-nmes-device/.