Muscle stimulator manufacturers claim that it can be used to remove overweight without grueling dieting and exercise. The device, simulating signals from the central nervous system, has a beneficial effect on muscles in certain parts of the body where the sensors are located, as a result of which they begin to work. Let us consider in more detail what benefits the use of the device brings and whether there is any harm from it.

What is a myostimulator, types and purpose of the device

This is a medical device with which you can carry out myostimulation. It is expressed in the fact that a person is affected by current pulses with different frequencies. Other procedures can be performed using this device.

It all depends on the frequency and strength of the current acting on the person. From this, the effect rendered by the device is determined.

Miostimulants are:

1. Wireless. You can wear them on yourself throughout the day. They run on batteries, and therefore cannot have a strong effect on tissues and break down fat. The effect of using them is negligible.
2. Stationary. They consist of a power supply unit, a control center and sensors. Can be professional or semi-professional. Effectively affect fat cells and break them down. With the help of such devices, you can quite successfully correct the figure.

The benefits of myostimulator and myostimulation for the body

With proper use of the device, you can effectively treat:

• lesions of the central nervous system;
• enuresis;
• joint pathology;
• vascular disease;
• bedsores;
• scoliosis.

A muscle stimulator is often used to prevent the appearance of edema, with fractures, sprains and bruises. With myostimulation, the rehabilitation period is shortened, pain disappears. The device has been proven to be effective in treating the gastrointestinal tract, normalizing blood flow and muscle tone.

The device will help muscles quickly recover after stress on the body. Maximum effect will be in the case when a professional device is used and portable devices are accurately distributed on the body. The procedure should be performed by an experienced doctor, physiotherapist.

It is not worth using myostimulants on your own, as negative reactions may occur, for example, irritation and burns of the skin at the place of installation of the electrodes, discomfort during the use of the device or after the procedure.

Body shaping

With this procedure, the myostimulator improves muscle tone. A special program is used for this. The device emits waves in a specific sequence and combination. First, a relaxation program is carried out, in which the cells are warmed up, and then lymphatic drainage.

Often, after such procedures, the skin at the site of the electrode placement does not look its best. Here you will need to carry out her tightening. This manipulation is also performed with the help of a myostimulator.

Fat removal

This procedure, unfortunately, cannot completely remove subcutaneous fat and make an athletic figure. The device only stimulates the muscles and does not allow them to atrophy.

Facelift

The device is able to tighten the skin on the face and chin. It also reduces the depth of wrinkles. The pulses emitted by the device warm the tissues and stimulate their contraction.

When using a muscle stimulator, a person needs to make a minimum of effort. The procedures are easily performed using professional devices.

Harm and side effects

If the portable devices are used incorrectly and for a long time, they can cause harm. Stationary devices can then become killers. When the heart is in the path of current flow, this can lead to its arrest.

It is worth abandoning the use of cheap models of myostimulants. Low-quality materials of manufacture lead to damage to the skin at the place of installation of the electrodes. Incorrect programs emit harmful impulses that will negatively affect the functioning of organs and cause an exacerbation of chronic pathologies or the formation of tumors.

Usually, problems arise when used by those who have purchased a muscle stimulator for private use on the free sale without a certificate. Portable devices can be ineffective or cause complications if used incorrectly. Therefore, for those who have no experience with such a device, it is better to refuse to use it.

Contraindications

These devices have their own contraindications. Therefore, before using them, you should consult your doctor. The most common contraindications are:

• myocardial diseases;
• pregnancy;
• stones in the kidneys;
• chronic alcoholism;
• mental disorders;
• oncology;
• inflammatory processes;
• pathology endocrine system;
• tuberculosis;
• increased sensitivity of the body to the impulses of the apparatus;
• thrombophlebitis;
• circulatory disorders;
• hernia;
• epilepsy.

It is worth abandoning the use of a myostimulator if there is a pacemaker in the body.

Do not place electrodes in the groin area. The device can increase blood flow to the pelvic organs. The manifestation of severe consequences is possible.

It is also worth consulting your doctor before using the device during lactation. After a stroke, to restore the functions of the limbs, it is recommended to use myostimulation only as directed by a specialist.

When using the device yourself, you need to know simple rules:

1. Skin contact with the electrodes should be tight.
2. The duration of the session is no more than 30 minutes.
3. There should be no contraindications.
4. You do not need to eat 1 hour before the procedure.

What are the benefits of using a muscle stimulator, and what is the danger? We find out the whole truth about myostimulants from the video from Vladimir Molodov:

It should be noted that this device can have a positive effect on the body when used correctly with the participation of a specialist. Otherwise, the myostimulator will become dangerous for a person and can lead to his death. The first sessions should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

In contact with

Electrical stimulation (physical stimulation, electrical myostimulation, myostimulation, myolifting) is a physiotherapeutic method related to rehabilitation treatment, which is based on electrical stimulation of muscle and nervous tissue. It is carried out by transferring current with certain characteristics from the myostimulator to a certain area of ​​the body through the electrodes.

The technique of electrical stimulation is widely used for the recovery of patients after injuries, with pathologies nervous system(peripheral and central), muscle hypotonia, in cosmetology and professional sports.

Myostimulation means the use of stationary, fixed electrodes and a current, the intensity of which allows visible contractions of muscle tissue. Myolifting involves the action of moving electrodes on the skin, which do not lead to visible contractions of muscle fibers, but are felt as a passage of current.

Mechanism of action

The action of the impulse current is mainly aimed at the tone and speed of response of muscle tissue.

When muscles or nerves are exposed to an electric current, their bioactivity changes and spike responses are formed. So, electrical stimulation with a frequency of more than 10 imp-1, leads to 2 effects: depolarization and strong, prolonged muscle contraction or dentate tetanus. With an increase in the frequency of the current, due to very frequent impulses, the muscle tissue does not relax and complete tetanus arises, which, with a subsequent increase in frequency, changes to complete non-excitability of the muscle tissue.

The most intense excitation is realized when the frequency ranges of impulse and electrical stimulation coincide in the nerve conductors. Against the background of electrical stimulation of the nerve with impulses of more than 50 imp-1, excitation of motor nerve conductors and passive contraction of muscle fibers are formed.

Besides:

• In the cytoplasm of cells, the number of high-energy compounds (creatine phosphate, ATP) increases, their enzymatic activity is activated, oxygen utilization is accelerated and energy consumption for stimulated muscle contraction is reduced in comparison with arbitrary;
• Blood supply and lymph outflow are activated, which leads to increased trophism;
• The expansion of peripheral vessels, which occurs in parallel with passive muscle contraction, leads to the activation of blood flow.

As you know, nerve cells regulate the activity of other cells. Signals from nerve endings cause contractions of myocytes. When both muscle and nerve cells are active, ions move rapidly across the cell membrane. The current generated during this is called the "action potential" and can be registered using intracellular electrodes.

Impulses that are as close as possible in shape to the "action potentials" of muscle and nerve cells are called neuroimpulses. Preparations that generate neuroimpulses are especially popular in cosmetology, since the procedures are carried out with the greatest comfort, and the result is more effective and noticeable.

Indications for electrical stimulation and the effects of procedures

The procedures allow:

• Prevent muscle tissue atrophy due to a special "training" of muscles during stimulation, namely, contraction and relaxation;
• Restore the nervous regulation of muscle tissue contraction;
• Increase muscle volume and strength without shortening muscle fibers;
• Increase adaptation and fatigue limit of muscle tissue;
• Reduce pain syndrome of any localization;
• Utilize energy reserves (thereby activate lipolysis);
• Provide lymphatic drainage and accelerate the excretion of metabolic products.

The most popular indications for stimulation:

• Weakening of muscle tone;
• Weakening of skin turgor;
• Modeling the oval of the face and neck, restoring muscle tone in this area.

Apparatus for electromyostimulation

Modern computerized equipment allows you to set the required parameters of the procedure, which will be most effective in each case:

• pulse shape;
• pulse repetition rate. Most often, a low pulse frequency is used, from 10 to 1000 Hz.

The low-frequency range, used in physiotherapy practice, is preferable due to the fact that skeletal muscle fibers can respond by contraction to stimulation with a current with a frequency of no more than 1000 Hz. Higher frequencies of the current are no longer perceived by the nervous and muscle tissue as separate stimuli, and this leads to a sharp decrease in the effectiveness of the action.

For impact on skeletal, smooth muscle and nerve conductors need to use different pulse frequencies. If the device allows you to change the frequency of the generated pulses, this significantly expands the scope of its application. Different classes of devices operate at different pulse rates:

• High-class electrostimulation devices - high-frequency filling of impulses with a recommended frequency in the range of 400-600 Hz.
• Devices of the middle class - low-frequency filling of impulses with a recommended frequency of myostimulation in the range of 10-230 Hz.

Also, the devices are classified into professional ones, which are installed in physical rooms and beauty salons of beauty salons, and low-power home devices (belts, butterflies, shorts, etc.), which can be used independently.

The pulse duration is 0.1-1000 ms. Short impulses, from 0.1 to 0.5 ms, are close to natural neuro impulses and the most preferred for myostimulation.

The current strength of the equipment varies depending on the area of ​​the body: for exposure to the face - up to 10 mA, for exposure to the body - up to 50 mA. During the procedures, the intensity of the current varies depending on the person's sensations: muscle contractions should be strong, but not painful.

Pulses are classified into mono and bipolar.

• Monopolar impulses separate substances into ions and can propel particles with an electric charge deeper into tissues. Monopolar pulse current can also be used for electrophoresis. The same substances are used as for electrophoresis with galvanic current.
• Bipolar impulses lead to oscillatory movements of particles with an electric charge on biological membranes. The pulses on the symmetrical zones compensate for the electrolysis, and there is no skin irritation under the electrodes. Such impulses overcome skin resistance more effectively, and procedures are more comfortable for patients.

Electrostimulation treatment is carried out 2-3 times in 7 days (it is possible every other day), 20-40 minutes per session. The course includes 15-20 procedures. The minimum break between courses is 1 month.

Scheme of the procedures

1. The electrodes, well moistened in water, are placed on the active motor points of the muscle tissue in the affected area and secured with bandages.
2. Connect the wires observing the polarity.
3. Launch a suitable program on the machine.
4. The current strength is increased gradually, 3-4 minutes after the start of exposure, until active muscle contractions... There should be no pain during muscle contraction. It is best to increase the intensity of the impact simultaneously in symmetrical zones.
5. After the end of the procedure, the device is turned off and the electrodes are removed.
6. The skin at the site of the procedure is treated with a moisturizing tonic or milk.

Contraindications

Contraindications to electrical stimulation are quite extensive and must be taken into account when prescribing treatment. The fact is that electricity can accelerate the progression of a number of diseases and lead to the most undesirable effects.

• Oncological diseases (however, some types of electrical stimulation are used to relieve pain).
• Blood pathologies.
• Pregnancy (in exceptional cases, it can be used for toxicosis).
• Diseases of an infectious nature.
• Hyperthermia.
• Artificial pacemaker.
• Pulmonary, heart failure above grade 2.
• Severe violations heart rate.
• Hyperthyroidism.
• Arterial hypertension (upper pressure over 180).
• Epilepsy.
• Parkinson's disease.
• Individual intolerance to electric current.

There are also local contraindications that relate to the area of ​​the procedure:

• trauma, abrasion, cuts, and other violations of the integrity of the dermis;
• metal implants, for example, "golden threads" on the face, an intrauterine device with metal elements, if the electrodes are applied to the lower abdomen;
• benign neoplasms, including nevi;
• phlebitis, thrombophlebitis;
• phlebeurysm.

Electrostimulation methods

Neuromuscular electrostimulation

It is successfully used in medical rehabilitation, as well as in addition to athletic professional training, and is suitable for stimulating all muscles of the body.

The procedures help to eliminate sagging muscles and skin, fight against the phenomena of cellulite, help with excess weight, impaired peripheral circulation (venous and arterial) and venous-lymphatic insufficiency. Shown for recovery muscle strength after surgery, fractures, to improve mobility. They are also recommended after a stroke, as they help to restore fine hand movements and gait.

We must not forget about the individual sensitivity of patients to the action of the current, and start the procedure at the lowest rates, increasing them gradually. With prolonged electrotherapy, addiction can develop. Therefore, it is very important to correctly draw up a treatment program, to include other methods for the greatest effect. If we are talking about trained people, athletes, then it should be borne in mind that this group of patients initially has more strong muscles, therefore, the electrical load should be more intense.

Muscle electrical stimulation is well combined with lymphatic drainage, deep heat exposure, electrophoresis, ultrasound therapy, pressotherapy, endermology.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

In other words, the effect on the focus is through the skin. It is effective for acute and chronic pain of various origins and is used in everyday physiotherapy practice.

High-frequency exposure activates pain inhibition mechanisms: electrical impulses lead to a blockade of pain signals that travel along the nerves from the pain focus to the brain. Low-frequency exposure activates the release of endorphins, which are natural pain inhibitors.

Unlike anesthetic drug therapy, TENS does not have side effects... It can be used as monotherapy, and as an addition to other methods.

Transcranial electrostimulation

It implies the effect of pulsed bipolar currents with specified characteristics on the brain. The main indications for electrical stimulation of the brain: post-stroke and post-infarction state, hypertension of 1-2 degrees, rehabilitation after damage to the peripheral nervous system, pain syndrome in cancer, neurological patients, after trauma, depression, anxiety, toxicosis of pregnant women in 1-2 trimesters, menopause, sleep disturbances, itchy dermatitis.

• Activation of opioid structures and the release of beta-endorphin, which relieves pain syndromes, reduces the drug load if pain relief is required;
• Beta-endorphin relieves anxiety and has an antidepressant effect, improves stress resistance and mood, which in itself helps in the treatment of any disease;
• Impact on the vasomotor center of the medulla oblongata normalizes blood pressure;
• The activation of lymphocytes by beta-endorphin leads to an increase in the body's defenses;

The method is also used in the treatment of addictions and relieves the manifestations of withdrawal symptoms. Cravings for alcohol and drugs are reduced by stimulating the opiate system. Helps in the recovery period of severe burn patients. It has an analgesic effect, relieves stress spasm of the vascular wall and improves blood circulation.

Interstitial electrostimulation

The second name is electrical stimulation according to Gerasimov, since the method was developed under the guidance of this scientist. Main indications: spinal osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernias, pain syndrome after spinal surgery for truncation of hernias, scoliosis, deforming arthrosis, VSD, peripheral nerve dysfunction, bronchial asthma, migraine, tension headache, dizziness, heel spur.

For the procedure, special disposable needles are used, which are connected with wires to a device that generates a pulsed low frequency current. The needles are inserted directly into the painful areas.

As a result of the procedure, blood microcirculation improves, swelling decreases, muscle spasm is eliminated and nutrition in the area where the needles are installed improves. Already after the first procedure, there is a significant improvement and decrease in pain.

It is very often practiced for osteochondrosis, localized in any part of the spine. It improves blood circulation, helps to stop the decay of cartilage tissue, restores innervation and, most importantly for patients, eliminates pain in 95% of cases.

Electrostimulation of the eyes

It is realized in the course of exposure to a pulsed current on the muscular apparatus of the eye, the optic nerve, and the retina. Main indications: ptosis, strabismus, dystrophy of the retina, optic nerve, myopia, amblyopia, paresis and paralysis of the oculomotor muscles.

The impact on the motor muscles of the eyelid and eye leads to an improvement in neuromuscular transmission, normalization of muscle tone and more efficient functioning. After a course of procedures, friendly eye movements and lifting of the eyelids are improved. The action on the sensory apparatus (optic nerve, retina) allows you to increase the number of connections with the central nervous system and form a greater feedback, which means to improve vision.

Electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerves

It is an alternative, official treatment for fecal and urinary incontinence. Works for both stress incontinence and dysfunction due to decreased muscle tone pelvic floor and the anal sphincter.

• In stress incontinence therapy, the goal of treatment is to correct the dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles.
• For urinary incontinence, the procedure is aimed at inhibiting the involuntary contraction of the walls Bladder by stimulating the nerves of the pelvic floor.

Electrical stimulation in children

In pediatrics, this method of treatment is used quite widely, from birth, with the following pathologies: intestinal atony, dysfunction of the pelvis, hypotension of the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall, organic damage to the central nervous system, cerebral palsy, flat feet, scoliosis, dysplasia hip joints, the consequences of TBI, including in children in a state of drug-induced sleep, the consequences of infectious lesions of the spinal cord and brain, autism, hyperactivity, speech and hearing impairments, joint pathologies.

All methods of electrical stimulation are used in children, including interstitial, transcranial. The strength of the current, the shape and frequency of the impulse and the duration of exposure are selected on an individual basis. In any case, stimulation is carried out on gentle modes and with a shorter duration of exposure than in adults.

In cosmetology

The procedure is actively used in cosmetology for body shaping, cellulite, giving the oval of the face clearer contours, reducing skin laxity and wrinkles, strengthening and improving the tone of the muscles of the neck and face, abdominal(especially after childbirth), weight loss, acceleration of lymph drainage (elimination of edema).

During the procedure, influence on different muscle groups impulse current of different frequency. Myostimulation allows you to engage even deep muscles.

Improves the condition of small blood vessels, accelerates metabolism, activates the outflow of lymph, forces the muscles to actively contract, neutralizes stagnant processes in the skin and intensively removes excess moisture (this is why, even after the first procedure, you can see a decrease in body volume).

• When the oval of the face changes, the muscles localized in the cheeks are affected.
• For neck flabbiness, stimulate a wide subcutaneous muscle- platysma, by applying self-adhesive skin electrodes.
• To reduce the severity of the double chin, a pulse current is used.
• You can achieve noticeable positive results and when omitted upper eyelid using movable electrodes on a gel base.

Side effects and complications

Muscle discomfort may occur during and after the procedure. An inflammatory reaction may develop at the site of contact between the skin and the electrodes.

To prevent these undesirable effects, during the procedure, the patient should monitor his health and, if discomfort or pain occurs, inform the doctor.

Possible complications include:

• flushing of the skin up to burns. Perhaps if the electrodes are incorrectly positioned;
• increased menstrual flow, especially if the procedure is carried out in the first days of menstruation. Therefore, during the period of menstruation, it is recommended to refuse treatment;
• Nausea, indigestion. This is possible if the abdominal procedure was performed immediately after a meal.

One of the latest inventions in 2017 in the field of electromyostimulation is the EMS trainer, a trainer for the abdominal muscles, hips and arms. This is a relatively inexpensive machine that is designed to stimulate muscles without resorting to physical activity and going to a sports club. But is it worth it?

What is an EMS trainer for?

The EMS trainer stimulates muscles by means of an electric current, it is a method of forced contraction. Electrical impulses force the muscles to work in a passive state, without stress and additional equipment. This method is intended for toning problem areas at home.

What the manufacturer recommends to do and what results the manufacturer promises

The way of working is very simple, the petals of the EMS muscle stimulator are attached to the problem area, for example, on the stomach. The wireless device is triggered by one button and produces electrical impulses that travel through the skin to the muscles. This stimulation is, in a way, a substitute.

Within a week, the promised muscle strengthening (tone) will come, and after 1-1.5 months of stimulation, the desired results will be achieved.

A little history of invention

In the 50-60s in the field of sports medicine of the Soviet Union, a technique was developed based on the use of electromyostimulation of muscles in the preparation of athletes. The goal of the development is to increase strength by stimulating muscles with electric current. Later, in the 70s, this technique came to Western countries, where there was a further study of the mechanisms of action of electromyostimulation on human muscles. Later, EMS found its application in rehabilitation centers, where atrophied muscles were stimulated to bedridden patients and their vitality and mass were maintained. In the nineties, this technique went out of the field of rehabilitation to the masses. healthy people, and became the object of earning money for companies that produce exercise equipment for muscle stimulation without leaving home.

Pros and cons

Here are the results that the manufacturer promises:

• strengthening muscles;
• height muscle mass;
• burning fat;
• correction of problem areas and finding the correct ratio of proportions;
• reduction of cellulite.

From the history of the appearance of this type of simulators, it is clear that electrical stimulation helps to maintain muscle tone, or to defeat atrophy caused by a patient's immobile lifestyle. Studies have confirmed the positive effects of electrical stimulation on muscles, increasing muscle strength, maintaining mass, and preventing further fiber breakdown.

But not a single experiment has shown an effect on the burning of subcutaneous fat, and therefore, a decrease in cellulite, but also an effect on muscle growth has not been revealed. Therefore, most of the qualities are invented to attract more clients among men and women. Therefore:

• per- tone, strengthening and increasing muscle strength;
• against- the promise to burn fat and gain muscle.

Contraindications to the use of myostimulator EMC trainer

The fact that the simulator works in calm state a person, without resorting to loads, does not mean that there are no contraindications for its use. The simulator is prohibited when:

• diseases and inflammatory processes of the abdominal organs;
• heart disease, including the presence of pacemakers;
• during pregnancy;
• with bone fractures and problems with the spine.

And also the use of the simulator forbidden for viral, oncological, skin diseases and mental disorders.

How to use the EMS ab machine?

Before using the simulator, it is necessary to cleanse the skin of the problem area, dry it from moisture, and even remove unwanted hair in order for the simulator to adhere well to the skin. The original EMS trainer kit contains a special gel that is applied to the trainer's petals and ensures good current conductivity.

The simulator provides 15 modes, which are easy to select according to the sensations, depending on the desired impact. To start stimulation, you only need to press one on / off button and select the intensity of the load. After expiration 15 or 25 minutes workout, the simulator must be turned off. It must be rinsed under running water, rinsing off the remaining gel and dried. And the skin should be cleaned and treated with an antiseptic.

Even manufacturers recommend combining EMS training with physical activity, supplementing, and even additional crunches for the press. In any case, no visible effect can be achieved without dynamic movements. Myostimulation can complement power training, preparation for the competition in order to avoid excessive muscle fatigue with constant loads. Thus, EMS can be performed on rest days as relaxation and relief.

Conclusion

On forums and even thematic sites, you can find a lot of positive reviews, including those praising the effect of EMS on weight growth, fat burning, etc. These are all paid reviews written specifically to advertise a product and increase sales.

Not a single experienced athlete will confirm such a magical spectrum of myostimulant action, knowing that fat burning is promoted by an increase in heart rate - heart work, and the duration of the load, which is far from twenty minutes.

We can say that stimulation is suitable for untrained people who need to recover from illness, or during hospitalization (taking into account contraindications). But talking about a complete replacement physical activity(voluntary reduction) is not allowed. Think carefully about the feasibility of buying, know what you can achieve by playing sports better results.

Video: description of the EMS trainer action on the example of Amplitrain

Method description
Electrical muscle stimulation is an internationally recognized clinical method of physiotherapy in specialties such as orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation. When applied to a central or peripheral partially damaged nerve, electrical stimulation can induce muscle responses in patients with limited or lost muscle activity. This method is an adjunct to physical therapy and should be combined with vigorous training, strength and coordination exercises. The method is simple and suitable for both inpatient and outpatient treatment at home.

Operating principle
NMES stimulates motor nerves to generate muscle contractions, in contrast to low-frequency TENS, which creates small muscle twitches. NMES also stimulates A-beta nerve fibers (like TENS), which has an analgesic effect.

Examples of indications

• restoration of quadriceps function after surgery
• maintaining or increasing the range of active movements
• capillarization
• reduction of muscle atrophy / wasting
• maintaining muscle strength during immobilization
• prevention of loss of muscle strength after surgery, for example on the vastus medialis
• reduction in spasticity, such as reciprocal inhibition of flexor muscles in the arms in patients with hemiplegia
• training after partial injury to a peripheral nerve with symptoms of reinnervation such as plexus injury
• stimulation of the peroneal muscles
• incontinence treatment
• anesthesia
• warm-up
• increased muscle strength
• recovery

NMES treatment

Installation of electrodes
Correct electrode placement is essential for good results. The muscle contracts by stimulating the motor nerve. The motor point is the area on the skin that is closest to the entry point of the motor nerve into the muscle. This is the most advantageous location for induction of contraction using electrical impulses. The NMES programs of Cefar stimulators generate a symmetrical biphasic wave, that is, the polarity is constantly changing. This means that both electrodes are equally active.

Exists different methods the location of the electrodes. The most optimal is the installation of a pair of electrodes over the elevated place of this muscle. By placing one electrode over the motor point of the muscle, you will get the strongest possible muscle contraction without discomfort. When placing electrodes over motor points different muscles you can work effectively with large muscle groups.

What size electrodes should I choose?
A large muscle group requires a larger electrode area. For a small muscle group, small electrodes are better suited, since they are more specific, which provides a high current density (mA / cm2). Large muscle groups may also require dual-channel stimulation, which uses four electrodes at the same time.

Which pulse frequency and duration should you select?

NMES usually operates at frequencies of 20-120 Hz. Select frequencies up to 10 Hz to increase blood circulation. The aim is to induce vibrations, not contractions. Adjust the pulse duration in relation to the amount of energy of each pulse. When stimulating a small muscle group, a short pulse (say 200 µs) is usually sufficient, while a long pulse (say 400 µs) is used for a large muscle group.

NMES 20-70 Hz

1.Rise
2.Period of stimulation
3. Decline
4.Pause

The illustration above demonstrates electrical muscle stimulation. It starts with the lifting phase (1), during which the contraction gradually increases, with a maximum contraction in the stimulation phase (2). During the decay phase (3), the stimulation gradually weakens and enters the rest phase, in which the stimulation stops or is at a moderate level (active rest). Active rest prevents muscle injury and prepares the muscle for the next contraction. Stimulation with regular pauses is called intermittent stimulation.

How should stimulation feel?
The purpose of NMES is to induce muscle contractions. Increase the amplitude above the somatosensory barrier until you see a motor response. The patient often experiences a stronger electrical contraction than a voluntary contraction. But contractions shouldn't be unpleasant.

Testing the position of the electrodes.
The Motor Point Electrode and Gel help determine the optimal location for the application of the electrodes. By sliding the moving electrode over the skin surface, you find the position with the maximum and most comfortable muscle contraction. Often the patient needs to get used to the stimulation and the therapeutic intensity may not be achieved in the first sessions. During the course of treatment, the intensity of stimulation should be gradually increased. In the first session, a short session can be conducted to determine the patient's response. Excessive muscle contractions caused by electrical stimulation can injure muscles that are not prepared for stress. The gradual increase in the load and the regularity of the exercises ensure a good treatment result.

To achieve good results, NMES can be combined with other types muscle training. Muscle stimulation can act in the phase of concentric and eccentric movement, or only in one of them. It depends on how you combine the stimulation with the voluntary movement.

How long should the course of treatment be?
Depending on the condition of the muscles and the phase of the patient's rehabilitation, the treatment can last from 5 to 60 minutes and be repeated from three times a week to twice a day. In order to intensify the treatment, you can gradually increase the duration of the stimulation depending on the pause. You can also increase the amplitude, frequency and / or duration of the pulse.

Denervated muscles.
Stimulation of denervated muscles differs from stimulation of muscles with preserved innervation.
If the innervation of the muscle is preserved, you can stimulate via the motor nerve, if the muscle is denervated, you must stimulate directly muscle fibers for induction of contraction. The purpose of stimulating denervated muscles is to maintain their contractile units while waiting for possible reinnervation. To generate a contraction, the pulse duration is 100-300 ms. Rectangular impulses are used for completely denervated muscles, while triangular or trapezius impulses are used for partially denervated muscles. It helps to separate the innervated and denervated fibers.

Switch.
You can use the switch during electrical stimulation to adjust the length of the pause and stimulation periods. The switch is especially practical when electrical muscle contractions are combined with voluntary contractions. The result is effective personalized treatment.

Installation of electrodes.
Here are some examples of electrode placement for the most common indications. For NMES, there is no difference in the position of the red and black electrodes.

Shoulder - subluxation and abduction

Indication:

1. Functional subluxation of the shoulder after stroke.

2. Decreased function of the shoulder muscles after fracture, dislocation, etc.

Installation of electrodes: Place one electrode in the middle of the deltoid muscle and the other on the supraspinatus muscle. The position of the electrodes and the type of stimulation may differ depending on the type of subluxation.

Shoulder area- impaired triceps function

Indication:

1. Decreased triceps function, for example, after stroke.

2. Fracture in the area of ​​the elbow joint.

Installation of electrodes: Place one pair of electrodes on your triceps.
Torso, lower back - training of the extensor muscles of the spine

Indication: Pain / Weakness in lumbar region

Placement of electrodes: Place two pairs of electrodes in the lumbar region paravertebrally along the erector muscles of the spine on both sides.
Torso - abdominal muscle workout

Indication: decreased function of the rectus abdominis muscles.

Placement of electrodes: Place two pairs of electrodes on the rectus abdominis muscles on both sides.
Forearm - violation of strength / hypotrophy of the extensors of the hand

Indication:

1. Impaired wrist extension and / or flexor spasticity after stroke, etc.

2. Decreased function of the wrist extensors after fracture, etc.

Installation of electrodes: Place a pair of electrodes over the extensor muscles.
Knee joint - instability

Indications:
1. The postoperative period after plastic surgery of the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee joint.
2. Extension contracture of the knee joint.

Placement of electrodes: Place one pair of electrodes over the quadriceps.
Knee joint - muscle imbalance

Indication: Muscle imbalance medial head relative lateral head quadriceps.

Installation of electrodes: Place one pair of electrodes over the medial head.
Thigh area - Positive Trendelenburg symptom

Indication: 1. Positive symptom of Trendelenburg. 2. Decreased function of the abductor muscles of the thigh after central disorders such as stroke.

Installation of electrodes: Place one pair of electrodes over the abductor muscle and over the flexor.
Calf area - Achilles tendon dysfunctions

Indication: Achilles tendon dysfunction.

Placement of electrodes: Place one pair of electrodes over the gastrocnemius muscle.
Lower leg area - reduced strength of the flexors of the foot

Indication: Decreased dorsal flexion, spasticity.

Placement of electrodes: 1. One electrode above the exit of the peroneal nerve just below the head of the fibula, and the other on the anterior surface of the tibia. 2. Both electrodes are on the anterior surface of the tibia.
Contraindications

1.Patients with a pacemaker, intracardiac defibrillator, or other active implants should not be treated with NMES.
2. Exercise carefully during the first trimester of pregnancy.
3. In a pregnant woman, never connect a pair of electrodes across the abdomen.
4. Do not perform stimulation near the carotid glomus, in the projection of the throat next to the carotid artery, as this is dangerous due to a drop in pressure.
5. Do not perform stimulation during the period of acute inflammation and acute blood loss.
6. Be extremely careful when stimulating patients with lymphatic disease.
7. If there are contraindications to the load on the tendon or muscle.

Go to the CATALOG

EMS training (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) is the stimulation of muscles by a device or simulator that sends weak electrical signals through electrodes attached to the surface of the skin. Essentially, an electrical muscle stimulation machine generates impulses similar to real muscle contractions during strength training.

Advertisements for exercise equipment and reviews of EMS training studios promise to create strong muscles and a toned athletic body in just 20 minutes of training three times a week, and homemade EMS belts for the press "guarantee" embossed cubes without exhausting twists. It is enough just to put on this electric belt when watching TV, while exercise is not necessary.

Unfortunately, the evidence base for EMS training is controversial. Even if the method of myostimulation can increase muscle tone, in most cases advertising for training significantly overestimates the advantages (especially for losing weight and fighting cellulite) - and never talks about the disadvantages, possible harm and contraindications. In turn, home EMS trainers for the abdomen are more of a toy.

Who invented EMS?

The history of myostimulants dates back to the 18th century, when researchers discovered that a weak electrical current can provoke contractions of a certain muscle in the human body. In the 1960s, Soviet scientists announced that they had developed innovative training mechanics for professional athletes that would increase their muscle strength by a significant 40% (1).

Later it turned out that it was more about special restorative and rehabilitative therapy, and not at all about a method of increasing strength and muscle mass in healthy athletes. Then, in the 1970s, Germany began to use the technique of electrical muscle stimulation in physical therapy and accelerated recovery of athletes. The first EMS training studios also appeared in Germany - Bodytec and Miha.

EMS trainer - customer reviews

As for the feedback on the direct operation of such equipment and the sensations during EMS training, most people note noticeable indications. Impulse currents seem to compress the body from all sides, forcing the muscles to contract. It is quite difficult to resist them, therefore even simple physical exercises become a test. During training, the heart rate increases, and breathing may become difficult.

Note that the cost of a professional EMS trainer can be hundreds of thousands of rubles - this pushes sellers to the methods of "black" Internet marketing, which consists in publishing fake reviews. In no other Fitseven material, we see such a high activity of "joyful buyers", telling in detail how happy they are with pumped up muscles and a slimmer body.

How does EMS training work out?

Typically, one full workout in the EMS studio lasts about 20-30 minutes. A person wears a special suit with electrodes, and the trainer adjusts the power of supplying electrical impulses for each part of the body, based on the sensations and endurance of the trainee. Then the simplest physical exercises are performed for various parts of the body - squats, bending and extending the arms, swinging to the sides, and so on.

The final stage of the training is lymphatic drainage massage, during which you only need to lie down and enjoy the pleasant tingling sensations.

Trainings are held 2-3 times a week.

Real Feedback on EMS

As a physiotherapist, I repeatedly faced complications from impulse currents in women of all ages and young girls - life-threatening bleeding from the uterus (rupture of the corpus luteum) occurred. It has now been convincingly proven that, even in the absence of contraindications, it is impossible for women and girls to carry out such procedures.

After the 4th workout, a liquid formed above the kneecap, by the evening the knee was all swollen. I went to the emergency room and the doctor said this because of the heavy load on the body, in general, he forbade similar training, everyone's body is different and it is not known how it will react to such training.

First, constant electrical stimulation is harmful to the heart; secondly, external stimulation is not a neural impulse, the muscle works without communication with the brain, where is the development of movement stereotypes ?; thirdly, as coaches in these studios they take just anyone (look at the ads though on the headhunter); fourthly, this trend is for the lazy and who supposedly does not have time for full training and the desire to go broke with your own body.

EMS training- pros and cons

The first commercial EMS personal training machines appeared in the United States in the late 1990s. Manufacturers tried to give their products and the method of myostimulation for the press as much authenticity as possible, organizing all kinds of scientific congresses and developing intricate methods of certification of their own equipment - but without real scientific support.

One attempt at such certifications used the wording “weight loss and weight loss device” - but was categorically rejected by regulators as misleading. As a result, EMS received certification as a treatment for muscle atrophy and relieve spasms in bedridden patients, but not as a technique for muscle growth or body contouring (2).

EMS abdominal belt - does it work?

A separate area of ​​EMS technology is home exercise equipment and belts for creating a relief press. Obsessive advertising and numerous reviews of "happy buyers" promise fat burning, instant drawing of cubes, getting rid of cellulite and other positive effects. It is enough just to buy this belt and watch TV in it - and the stomach will go away by itself.

Unfortunately, most home EMS belts are just low quality toys from an unnamed manufacturer. Even with careful use, they fail literally in the second week. We also note that such a belt must be "glued" to the skin using replaceable gel pads or even paper tape - which means that the stomach will have to be shaved.

EMS: contraindications and harm

We also note that the EMS training method has a serious list of contraindications - from pregnancy to the presence of a number of chronic diseases - including any circulatory disorders, diseases gastrointestinal tract, kidney failure, cancer and so on. Among other things, there are risks in the presence of a common cold.

A separate group of contraindications for electrical stimulation includes people with pacemakers and other devices for correcting heart rhythm, as well as people who have suffered bone fractures, sprains, or any damage to the skin in the recent past. However, when selling a subscription in EMS studio trainings about this are often "forgotten" to warn.

Final opinion

Although EMS training can be effective for bedridden and paralyzed patients, they are not able to affect either muscle growth, or weight loss and noticeable fat burning, or get rid of stretch marks, cellulite or any other improvement in body contouring. In addition, the EMS method has a significant list of contraindications and is not recommended even for a serious cold.

EMS trainer manufacturers have been repeatedly fined for inaccurate advertising and misleading promises that myostimulation technique can replace strength training and create an "iron press with absolutely no effort and without a drop of spilled sweat" (3). At the same time, most of the rave reviews on the Internet are most likely a fake, written by order of manufacturers.

***

EMS training increases muscle tone exclusively in untrained people and in paralyzed patients, without affecting either fat burning or cellulite removal. It is also important that manufacturers of such equipment have repeatedly been fined for misleading advertising that EMS simulators able to "build muscle without effort."

Scientific sources:

1. Russian electrical stimulation: the early experiments,
2. FDA: Import Alert 89-01,
3. FTC Charges Three Top-selling Electronic Abdominal Exercise Belts with Making False Claims,