Jack shares his experience of working with NMES (neuromuscular electrical stimulation).
NMES or EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) is carried out with the use of a small machine, as pictured below. One of the brand names that market these machines is “Compex”, but there are other brands.
NMES is a technique I use to build muscular strength and endurance.
There are many terms used to describe NMES – you may have heard of EMS, “compex” or “muscle stim” to describe similar equipment.
I have used NMES for several years now and is one of his core components of treatment and rehabilitation, for a range of issues.
NMES is a technique that uses a specialist device to send electrical impulses to nerves, in turn, these nerves stimulate a muscular contraction in the targeted area. Depending on the type, duration and volume of these electrical impulses, we can vary the response by the muscle – and therefore vary the effect.
NMES can be a hugely beneficial treatment – it allows for muscle strengthening, maintenance of muscle mass and increases in strength and endurance without overloading a joint – people struggling with joint based conditions (such as OA or during post-operative rehabilitation) can find NMES hugely important to their recovery – it allows significant growth in muscle tissue around the affected area without stimulating pain or adverse reaction.
During NMES, the body’s method of contracting muscle tissue changes –
with NMES we recruit as much muscle fibre as possible, including type II fibres.
Type II fibres are often only stimulated as we near fatigue –
which is often prevented by pain and muscular inhibition whilst suffering from an injury.
NMES is a fantastic tool for improving function, improving muscular strength/endurance and reducing pain.
However as with any technique, it’s vitally important that you see an expert experienced in the usage of this technique.
I have used this technique for several years now, using it on people of all ages/ abilities (where appropriate);
from professional footballers, triathletes, elite level runners to those suffering from debilitating knee pain,
post-operative rehabilitation and those unlucky enough to be enduring chronic back pain.
NMES may be appropriate for you if;
- You’re suffering with pain, dysfunction or injury
- You’ve tried and failed to improve this – either through rehabilitation, treatment or other methods
- You’re unable to fully, happily weight bear and move a joint
- You feel that with exercise alone is unable to fully “activate” your affected area
If you would like to know more, or have a consultation with Jack, please call the Guildford clinic at Boxgrove