Electrical Muscle Stimulation Therapy (EMS)

Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS), also called neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) or electromyostimulation, is a therapeutic method commonly used for physical rehabilitation or helping individuals meet their fitness goals. It can also aid in recovery from various diseases and injuries.

EMS uses specialized devices that send electrical signals or impulses through the skin to the target muscles or nerves. These impulses activate muscle contractions to improve strength, enhance performance, and provide some degree of pain relief.

How Does EMS Work?

EMS therapy uses electrode pads, typically integrated into couches, body vests, and straps. These electrodes send small electrical impulses to the targeted body regions to stimulate muscles. This stimulation aids with pain relief, recovery from injuries, and muscle strengthening and may enhance the effectiveness of light workouts.

It is worth mentioning that muscles need electrical stimulation to work. Our bodies have a natural mechanism of generating and regulating these impulses to keep the muscles active. The therapeutic EMS provides additional electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contraction.

What are the Uses of EMS Therapy?

EMS or NMES therapy can have several uses, including the following.

Pain Relief

EMS at low levels can help reduce the amount of pain in many regions of the body. When administered, EMS modulates the pain signals being transmitted to the brain. This technique may also help release natural painkillers called endorphins to provide quick relief to the affected area.

Muscle Contraction

EMS therapy can effectively trigger muscle contraction to stimulate muscle groups or improve muscle tone. Besides enhancing your workout gains, muscle contraction with EMS therapy can also help address various issues, such as:

• Pain or lack of function of the shoulder after a stroke: EMS, in this case, helps maintain shoulder muscle tone.
• Urinary incontinence: EMS can help contract and strengthen pelvic floor muscles, potentially reducing involuntary urinary leakage.
• Lack of strength after surgery: EMS therapy is an effective post-surgery rehabilitation technique to stimulate thigh muscles for improved strength and stability.

Benefits of Electrical Muscle Stimulation

There are several benefits of EMS therapy, such as the following:

• A more sculpted muscular appearance: EMS therapy triggers muscle contraction, helping you improve muscle tone and achieve an athlete’s build.
• Pain relief: EMS may help reduce the intensity of spasms, providing pain relief.
• Physical rehabilitation: EMS is often a part of physical rehabilitation programs aimed at strengthening different body areas or muscles.
• Increased muscle mass and strength: Individuals engaging in weight training can benefit from EMS therapy, as it can stimulate tissue healing and recovery. Not only does this aid muscle growth, but it also helps enhance strength and power.
• Improved range of motion: With its ability to target isolated muscles and muscle groups, EMS can help increase the range of motion of several body areas. This can significantly enhance your sports performance.
• Helpful for people with certain illnesses: According to a study, EMS can be used to enhance strength and endurance in individuals suffering from chronic heart failure (CHF) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Machine We Use for EMS Therapy

At the Dubai Cosmetic Surgery Clinic, we use the Stima Lounge EMS Lounge Chair, a specialized couch designed for effective back therapy. Its ergonomic shape and structure offer a relaxing therapeutic experience. It features precisely integrated electrodes that combine EMS pulse, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) pulse, and heat to help with pain relief and muscle activation & strengthening.

The Stima Lounge EMS Lounge Chair is designed to reduce back pain and promote muscle growth and strength. It also benefits people with conditions like arthritis and spinal cord injuries. The combination of EMS and heat provides a deeper massage to the muscles and tissues, reducing stress and restoring energy.

What are the Risks of EMS Therapy?

EMS therapy is very less likely to cause health risks. Side effects commonly associated with this treatment include minor skin irritation and tissue burns.

Can EMS be Combined With Other Therapies

EMS training therapy can be used in conjunction with PEMF, or pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, mainly when the primary goal is pain management or rehabilitation. PEMF uses electromagnetic pulses to realign electricity in your cells and can help reduce pain and inflammation in your muscles, bones, and joints.

Book a consultation

Experience advanced physical rehabilitation with our state-of-the-art EMS system, operated by highly skilled medical professionals at the Dubai Cosmetic Surgery Clinic. For more details, please contact us at +971 4 348 5575. To schedule an online consultation, kindly fill out the form provided below.