What are Electronic Muscle Stimulators (EMS)?
An Electronic Muscle Stimulator is a device that produces electrical signals used to stimulate nerves through the skin. The unit is usually connected to the skin using two or more adhesive electrode pads. Because they are lightweight, portable and battery-operated, Electronic Muscle Stimulators can be used almost anywhere.
How do Electronic Muscle Stimulators work?
An Electronic Muscle Stimulation unit sends gentle electrical pulses to your muscles, causing them to alternately contract and then relax, just as if the message were coming from your brain. This stimulation tones the muscles just like regular exercising, without putting undue stress on your neck, back, knees or other joints. The stimulation also results in better blood circulation which reduces pain and promotes healing by oxygenating the cells and removing toxins.
What are EMS devices used to treat?
Electrical Muscle Stimulation devices are predominately used by doctors and physical therapists to prevent or reduce muscle atrophy. Atrophy is the weakening and loss of muscle tone, which is usually experienced after surgery or injury. This type of "passive exercise" strengthens atrophied muscles in people with paralysis or those who live sedentary lives. Doctors also use EMS units to improve blood circulation, strengthen and enhance muscle endurance and increase range of motion.
In addition, electrical stimulation therapy is used for muscle relaxation, nerve re-education and also pain management. Muscle-related aches and pains are alleviated for conditions such as spastic muscles, sore muscles, or tight muscles. EMS units reduce pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back pain, TMJ (Temporo-Mandibular Joint), joint stiffness, rheumatoid and osteo-arthritis, menstrual pain, peripheral nerve injuries, shingles, headaches and migraines, cancer pain, trigeminal neuralgia, phantom limb pain, sports injuries, sciatica, aching joints, whiplash and neck injury, post-surgical recovery, and many others. What is the difference between TENS and EMS?
All Electronic Muscle Stimulators are technically TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulators), the difference being which nerves are stimulated. EMS machines stimulate the muscle motor nerves, while TENS devices are designed to stimulate sensory nerve endings. They all work by generating an electrical pulse which stimulates motor nerves through the skin causing the muscles, supplied by those nerves, to contract.
Unlike ordinary TENS machines, the Rhythm Touch Q Electronic Muscle Stimulator has additional controls to adjust the strength of the stimulation and also allow relaxation in between contractions. The later is important to prevent rapid fatiguing of the muscle. In addition, when the Rhythm Touch Q stimulates muscles by sending mild, low frequency electrical pulses through the skin, it causes the body to produce beta endorphins (the natural pain-relief hormones secreted by the body).
Are Electronic Muscle Stimulators safe?
If used as directed, electronic muscle stimulators are very safe and reliable. In fact, they have been used by the medical community for many decades. The technology continues to be used extensively by doctors in hospital settings, physiotherapy clinics, and also by chiropractors, sports coaches, spas and health clubs. EMS is widely used by bodybuilders and other athletes as a supplement to strength training. Olympic athletes have been utilizing EMS to enhance their training for over twenty years.
What do the impulses that stimulate the muscles feel like?
Since your muscles are contracting and relaxing in a similar fashion to regular exercise, the sensation feels very much like a good workout. Some have described it as a mild tingling sensation. Remember that since you control the strength of the impulses, you also control the amount of stimulation and can adjust for your own comfort level.
How soon will I get results?
For Pain Management, you may begin to feel better after only a few sessions. You may be able to stop taking pain medication completely or at least reduce your intake. Many people have become pain free for the first time in years. For some, the relief is so dramatic that it has changed their lives.
Please be aware that EMS treatments can usually relieve pain but are not meant to offer a cure. Pain is the body's way of warning you that something is wrong. Before using any EMS unit, you should establish the source or cause of your pain.
For Muscle Toning you can expect to see results within 3 to 4 weeks. Electronic muscle stimulation technology suits the busy lifestyle of many. As an exercise resource it can be used regardless of time, place, weather conditions or availability of facilities. Think about it, you can watch television or read a book while you exercise. Although EMS will help achieve muscle toning results, you should supplement your therapy with a normal workout.
Are there any health benefits from using Electronic Muscle Stimulators?
In addition to the cosmetic effects of toning the body, the electronic stimulation of muscles improves blood circulation which helps deliver nutrients and oxygen to muscle cells. In addition, toxins and waste products such as lactic acid are removed from the body. Improved blood circulation can also reduce recovery time after surgical procedures.
EMS tones muscles, increases endurance and improves the range of motion in joints, which reduces the chance of injury. Bodybuilders frequently use EMS for the relaxation of muscle spasms. EMS treatments can also improve your posture. They provide relief from the stress and discomfort caused by overworked muscles, and they contribute to an overall relaxed and refreshed feeling. EMS treatments may also improve body metabolism, resulting in higher energy and burning excess fat.
Who should not use an EMS machine?
Muscle Stimulation units must not used by: Pregnant women, Epileptics or Seizure prone individuals, people who have Heart Disease, people who wear Pacemakers or use Heart Monitors, anyone with Metal Plates or Pins in their body.
Are there any age restrictions?
Young children and early teens probably don't need the benefits of Electronic Muscle Stimulation because during the early growing years, they are generally active enough to get most of the exercise that is necessary for healthy growth. Hormonal changes in the body after 50 cause muscle activity to slow down, which is why you should proceed slowly and increase activity gradually.
Does a doctor have to operate the machine, or can I?
No assistance from a physician or other technical person is required. Although you can operate the machine safely by yourself, please observe the warnings indicated to avoid the possibility of physical harm. |
