Electric muscle stimulator

Electric muscle stimulator (EMS), also known as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) or electromyostimulation, is the elicitation of muscle contraction using electric impulses. The impulses are generated by a device and delivered through electrodes on the skin in direct proximity to the muscles to be stimulated. The impulses mimic the action potential coming from the central nervous system, causing the muscles to contract.

The electrodes are generally pads that adhere to the skin. EMS is both a form of electrotherapy and of muscle training. It is cited by important authors as complementary technique for sport training, and there is published research on the results obtained. In the United States, EMS devices are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Are EMS Products Safe?

In the U.S., EMS products are approved by the FDA, Food and Drug Administration, and are certified in two categories: over-the-counter products that you could go out and buy today, and prescription products that are designed for treating a medical condition and must be used under supervision.

Typically, an electric muscle stimulator is perfectly safe. However, in accordance with FDA guidelines, all products must carry literature about the possible side effects and the danger for certain groups of people, for example, those with pacemakers.