Stimulation Therapy or otherwise known as Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) is the elicitation of muscle contraction using electric impulses. EMS has become more popular in the past few years due to the acceptance of its benefits from the medical community.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) or electromyostimulation has applications as a strength training tool for healthy subjects and athletes and as a rehabilitation/preventive tool for patients recovering from sports injuries. Other common use include evaluation of neural and/or muscular function in vivo and a post-exercise recovery tool for athletes. Impulses transferred from electrodes mimic the signals coming from the central nervous system. The electrodes are generally pads that adhere to the skin.
Shop our Stimulation Therapy and Electrotherapy Categories for many different types of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Therapy Devices and Electrodes from top Brands like Mettler, Chattanooga, Roscoe Medical, Dynatronics and more.
Stim Machine FAQs
What Are the Types of Stim Machines?
Different types of stim devices are used for various physical therapy needs. Some of the types we carry include the following:
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Neuromuscular electrical stimulation
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Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
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High-voltage electrical stimulation
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Interferential current electrical stimulation
While all of these machines use electrical impulses, they work in slightly different ways to treat conditions ranging from chronic pain and muscle spasms to arthritis and injury recovery.
How Do You Choose the Right Stim Machine?
A physical therapist may recommend one type of stim machine over another, depending on your needs. Low and medium voltage options, such as TENS and IFC, work primarily for pain relief. On the other hand, high-voltage electrical stimulation is better for wound healing. Talk with a physical therapist to find which machine is right for you.
Is a Stim Machine the Same as a TENS Unit?
TENS is a type of stim machine, but its purpose differs slightly from a normal electrical stim machine. While TENS is used for pain relief, the latter is usually used for strengthening and wound recovery.
What Are the Benefits of a Stim Machine?
Electronic muscle stimulation of any kind is a great treatment for both minor pains and larger injuries. Electrical currents and pulses stimulate muscles and increase blood flow, leading to quicker healing.
How Long Does Stim Take to Work?
Many patients notice results from stim treatments during the first week of treatments. For those with larger injuries, results may take longer, depending on the frequency of treatments.