What is EMS – Electrical Muscle Stimulation
EMS, or Electrical Muscle Stimulation, is a technology that involves the use of electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contractions. In the context of massage, EMS is sometimes incorporated into treatments to complement traditional hands-on techniques. During an EMS massage, electrodes are placed on the skin over specific muscle groups, and electrical pulses are delivered to induce muscle contractions. This stimulation is thought to mimic the natural contraction and relaxation of muscles that occur during physical activity.
EMS massage is often utilized for various purposes, including muscle strengthening, toning, and rehabilitation. It is believed to enhance blood circulation, increase muscle awareness, and potentially improve muscle tone and endurance.
It’s important to note that while EMS massage can be a part of certain therapeutic approaches, its efficacy and safety depend on factors such as the individual’s health condition.
EMS, also known as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), is a treatment used to stimulate superficial muscles. It is used as a preventative treatment to help delay the visible signs of aging. The treatment works by applying a low frequency, interrupted direction current between 10-120 hertz, to the motor point of the muscle to cause a contraction. The electrical impulses strengthen weak muscles, reduce swelling, relieve pain and help heal wounds.
The electrical impulses are generated by a device and delivered through rubber pads over the centre of the muscles that require stimulation. The device has various settings which make the contractions either barely noticeable or may feel, and look, like involuntary muscle twitches. The treatment works to improve the body contours and restore muscle tone. For the most effective and comfortable treatment the pads should be placed on the motor points of superficial muscles.
This treatment is used by athletes as a muscle conditioning or recovery as it can create contractions in different types of muscle fibres to allow athletes to train injured or weakened muscles for particular functions.
Benefits of EMS – Electrical Muscle Stimulation Massage
1. Muscle Strength and Toning: EMS is often used for muscle strengthening and toning. The electrical impulses can induce muscle contractions, engaging and working the muscles in a way that may contribute to increased strength and definition.
2. Improved Muscle Endurance: Regular use of EMS may enhance muscle endurance, allowing individuals to perform activities or exercises for more extended periods without fatigue.
3. Rehabilitation and Recovery: EMS is utilized in rehabilitation settings to help individuals recover from injuries or surgeries. It can assist in preventing muscle atrophy and promoting muscle recovery.
4. Enhanced Blood Circulation: The stimulation of muscle contractions through EMS massage may contribute to improved blood circulation in the treated areas. Better circulation can support nutrient and oxygen delivery to muscles and aid in the removal of metabolic waste.
5. Muscle Relaxation: While EMS is known for its ability to stimulate muscle contractions, it can also be used at lower frequencies to promote muscle relaxation. This can be beneficial for individuals experiencing muscle tension or soreness.
6. Targeted Muscle Engagement: EMS allows for the targeted activation of specific muscle groups. This precision can be advantageous for individuals looking to address specific areas of weakness or imbalance.
7. Time-Efficient Workouts: EMS is often promoted as a time-efficient workout solution. The intensity of muscle contractions during EMS can be higher than traditional exercises, potentially allowing individuals to achieve results with shorter sessions.
8. Joint Mobility: Improved muscle strength and flexibility, resulting from EMS massage, may positively impact joint mobility and range of motion.
9. Aesthetic Benefits: Some individuals use EMS for aesthetic purposes, such as body sculpting and fat reduction. While the evidence supporting these claims is not conclusive, some people incorporate EMS into their beauty and wellness routines.
10. Complement to Traditional Massage: In combination with traditional massage techniques, EMS massage can offer a holistic approach, addressing both muscular and relaxation aspects of wellness.
How often should you get EMS?
Start with one session per week and gradually increase the frequency to 2-3 sessions per week as you become more comfortable.
A typical EMS massage session may last anywhere from 20 minutes to 60 minutes, with the duration depending on the goals of the treatment
ABSOLUTE CONTRAINDICATIONS
1. Pacemaker:
The magnetic field and alternating current can interfere with the functionality of the pacemaker. They can cause a misinterpretation of the electrical current in cardiac contraction, inhibiting the effect of the pacemaker and thereby the stimulation to the heart.
2. Epilepsy:
For patients with this type of pathology, where they are more susceptible to a repetitive epileptic attack, we recommend the prohibition of both EMS training equipment and sporting activity.
3. Pregnancy
It is prohibited to apply electrical stimulation to the abdominal area in the second part of pregnancy.
However, after pregnancy and with the doctor’s permission, electrostimulation is very effective in rebuilding stress caused to the pelvic and abdominal muscles.
4. Phlebitis, febrile processes and thrombophlebitis
Electrical stimulation of the muscles can cause the rupture and disappearance of a blood clot or even the death of the patient.
5. Inguinal o abdominal hernia
Using the muscle stimulator will increase the pressure in the abdominal area, increasing the risk of worsening the hernia.
6. Significant arterial disorders
If the medical specialist determines or suspects a disease based on the user’s blood test, and therefore determines that the user is at high risk of thrombosis of any kind, the use of the stimulator is contraindicated.
RELATIVE CONTRAINDICATIONS
(You need confirmation from your doctor)
1. Painful muscles
2. Severe muscular atrophy
3. Muscle spasms
4. Inflammatory joint problems
