ELECTRIC MUSCLE STIMULATION
At Chiropractic Health Associates, we use a variety of therapies to enhance our patient’s experiences. One of the therapies we use is Electric Muscle Stimulation.
What is Electric Muscle Stimulation (EMS)?
EMS is a machine that sends electrical impulses through electrodes that are placed onto the skin. These electrical signals travel through the skin and into the muscles and nerves. The electrodes are placed in the area that is giving you pain. The electrical current causes the muscles of that area to contract rhythmically. This does not hurt! EMS can be set to varying levels to ensure that you are comfortable. When you are seated and comfortable, we will place the electrodes on the area that is giving you pain. Then, we will place an icepack on the area that the electrodes are to reduce any inflammation that may follow. Next, we will use the dial on the machine and gradually increase the voltage until you are comfortable. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or get used to the voltage, we can remove you from the machine or increase the intensity.
Uses
EMS is primarily used for pain management of all kinds. It can be used by both athletes and non-athletes alike. EMS is used to treat muscle pain, stimulate damaged nerves, relax muscle spasms, auto injuries, muscle weakness, and chronic pain. It can also help alleviate pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, injuries from sports.
When should EMS be avoided?
There are some cases where EMS is not suitable for some patients. This is to protect you from harm. We are precautious on the use of EMS if you are a child, pregnant, or have any of the following conditions:
- Pacemaker
- Epilepsy
- Pain medications*
- Cancers
- Skin Issues
The use of all of our therapies are developed on a case by case basis. In your initial visit, the doctor will look at your history and forms. He will also perform a series of assessments to develop the best treatment plan for you. We want to make you feel better, because of this, we cut no corners when we assess your condition and what will best help you. *If you are going to complete EMS treatment, we ask that you do not take pain medication prior to your appointment. Taking the medication and using the EMS machine can result in injury or harm. This is because your body’s sensitivity to pain is being suppressed by the medication.
Benefits
The benefits of EMS are as follows:
- Increased blood flow
- Decreased inflammation
- Decreased muscle spasms
- Increased range of motion
- Increased rate of healing
- Increased coordination
- Increased muscular strength
A frequently asked question regarding electric muscle stimulation?
I’ve seen EMS/TENS machines online available for purchase. Why should I come to Chiropractic Health Associates?
At Chiropractic Health Associates, we use a clinical strength EMS/TENS machine. This means that it can go to higher strength than ones that you can get online. This allows you to receive a higher level of care. We also supervise you to ensure that you are comfortable, and that no injury occurs. If the machine is turned on and increased too high or too fast, injury can occur. To prevent this, we slowly increase the strength of the machine, and constantly check-in and make sure that you are comfortable.
We will never push you past the level you are comfortable at. Here, you are also able to perform multiple therapies in one visit. Research has shown that using both the EMS/TENS and Y-axis Decompression in conjunction with one another has shown even greater benefits than just using one of the two.