Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
What Is NMES?
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) is a therapeutic technique that uses electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contractions. It involves placing electrodes on the skin over target muscle groups, which then deliver controlled electrical currents to the nerves. This process activates muscles in a way similar to how the body naturally signals muscles to contract. Originally developed for rehabilitation and muscle training, NMES is now widely used in physical therapy to support various aspects of muscle recovery and performance improvement.
How do Physiotherapists use NMES?
In physiotherapy, NMES is often used as part of a broader rehabilitation program. It’s beneficial for patients recovering from injury, surgery, or conditions that limit muscle function or strength. NMES is especially helpful when patients experience muscle atrophy due to lack of use, or when they’re unable to engage muscles fully on their own. By contracting muscles passively, NMES helps maintain or rebuild muscle strength, improve blood flow, and reduce stiffness. Depending on the condition being treated, therapists may use NMES for muscle strengthening, pain relief, or even to retrain specific muscle groups
What are the benefits of NMES?
NMES offers several benefits, particularly for people who struggle with mobility or have limitations on active movement. Some of the main benefits include:
1. Muscle Strengthening: NMES can help strengthen weakened muscles, especially in patients who are recovering from injuries or surgeries and may not yet be able to engage those muscles voluntarily.
2. Improved Range of Motion: By repeatedly contracting muscles, NMES helps to improve flexibility and joint range of motion, which can be especially useful in overcoming stiffness and preventing contractures.
3. Pain Reduction: Electrical stimulation can reduce pain by stimulating sensory nerves, which may help block pain signals from reaching the brain. This can be particularly useful for patients with chronic pain or following surgical procedures.
4. Enhanced Blood Flow: By stimulating muscles, NMES improves circulation in the targeted area, promoting oxygenation and nutrient supply to tissues, which is essential for healing.
5. Neuromuscular Re-education: For patients who’ve lost some control over muscle movements due to injury or neurological conditions, NMES can assist in retraining the brain and body to regain functional movement patterns.
Can NMES Speed Up My Recovery?
Yes, NMES has the potential to speed up recovery in certain cases. By stimulating muscles and increasing blood flow, NMES can support quicker healing in injured tissues. For example, after surgeries or injuries that cause significant muscle loss, NMES can prevent further atrophy and help maintain some muscle function until the patient is ready for active exercises. Additionally, the improved circulation that comes with NMES can help remove waste products and increase the supply of nutrients essential for tissue repair.
While NMES alone isn’t a substitute for a comprehensive rehab program, it complements other treatments and exercises, enhancing the overall effectiveness of recovery. In essence, NMES acts as a “bridge” therapy—it can keep muscles active and engaged while patients work toward resuming full activity.
Is NMES Dangerous?
NMES is generally safe when administered by trained professionals, such as physiotherapists. However, as with any therapeutic intervention, there are precautions. NMES should not be used by individuals with certain medical devices (such as pacemakers) or on areas where there is an open wound, infection, or active bleeding. Additionally, patients with epilepsy or certain heart conditions should discuss NMES with their healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe.
During NMES sessions, patients may feel tingling or pulsing sensations, which is normal. However, if NMES causes pain, discomfort, or muscle spasms, the settings can be adjusted. When performed by a qualified physiotherapist, NMES is a safe and effective tool for supporting muscle recovery and enhancing physical therapy outcomes.
How do I book a NMES session?
Your physiotherapist will assess your injury in your appointment, if NMES seems like the correct treatment for you and your body they will then discuss and advise you further so you can make an informed choice before moving forward.