Electrical impulses for muscle stimulation. What you need to know about electrical muscle stimulation. Contraindications for myostimulation

Good day to all!

Last year, during a routine examination of my child at the age of 3 years, the orthopedist diagnosed diagnosis:

• valgus alignment of feet(over time the problem may develop into flat feet) - when looking at the feet from above, the middle section of the feet is “collapsed” inward in such a way that X is visible (decrease in the height of the arches of the foot and curvature of its axis).

The daughter wore orthopedic shoes from the moment she began to walk, and the most surprising thing is that until the age of 3, nothing like this (valgus deformation of the child’s feet) was observed. ​

Although this diagnosis is usually given to children at an early age, about one year old, and it is very common.

Cause of hallux valgus

- insufficiently developed ligamentous apparatus of the child’s feet, which is deformed under the influence of the weight of the body.

Factors influencing the development of the disease

I can assume that since my daughter is a child who often suffers from colds, including in early infancy, perhaps this played a role in the appearance of this illness?!

Scary consequences of this disease:

When my daughter and I came to see our orthopedist, for some reason everyone who came was diagnosed with:hallux valgus in children, were prescribed to wear orthopedic shoes, exercise therapy (gymnastics) at home, and were referred for electrical stimulation of the feet and legs ​in the physiotherapy room of the clinic.

• Electrical stimulation of the muscles of the feet and legs ​

The essence of the method: supplying current pulses through special electrodes.

We were prescribed 10 procedures, alternating the leg (today the right, tomorrow the left, etc.).

These electrodes from the device were brought to the child’s lower leg and foot, wrapped in a damp, warm bandage with medicine, and then the device was turned on, setting a certain current strength that the child could tolerate.

The pain is “grabbing” (grabbing/releasing). The procedure lasted in our case 10 minutes.

How many tears and torments we had.... My daughter screamed so loudly that the whole clinic could hear.

I saw that other older children (about 6 years old) tolerated this procedure calmly.

As a result, my daughter and I went to 3 sessions, and we were given the lowest current strength possible.

On the third day, the nurse in the physiotherapy room turned off the device, saying that she could no longer tolerate our roar, this procedure would not help my daughter, since the current strength was very small and tomorrow we would NOT COME to THEIR physiotherapy room! And go to the orthopedist for another appointment.

Of course, I didn’t notice any improvements during the three “magic” days spent in the physiotherapy room with electrical stimulation of the muscles of the feet and legs.

I decided that we would do therapeutic exercises at home with my daughter, I purchased it specially wall bars(review about her), wear orthopedic shoes and go to another orthopedist if possible.

I am adding to the review. After this, we visited the physiotherapist’s office, who told us thatElectrical stimulation of the muscles of the legs and feet is supposedly prescribed for children after 4 years, since the procedure is difficult to tolerate for young children.

And also her do not prescribe if the child has ever had seizures or had neurological problems. The orthopedist didn’t even ask my daughter and me about problems in this area, but there were some.

In 2007, the Scientific and Technical Center PNI developed a method of complex multi-purpose electrical stimulation aimed at correcting postural attitudes and reducing muscle tone in patients with cerebral palsy and other motor development disorders. Multi-purpose electrical stimulation includes electromyostimulation, stimulation of cranial and peripheral nerve trunks, scleromeric massage, conducted under the control of emg and enmg studies, registration of somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP). Multi-purpose electrical stimulation of muscles and nerves can be carried out in combination with therapy carried out at the Scientific and Technical Center PNI, as well as as an independent course in the break between the main courses, or as a method of correction of convalescent patients with residual effects of movement disorders.

Electrical muscle stimulation, as one of the effective types of physiotherapy, is widely included in the complex therapy of cerebral palsy and other developmental disorders of psychoneurological functions. The purpose of electrical stimulation is not only electrical stimulation, but mainly to reproduce the effective contraction of antagonists of spastic muscles (SMA), which, through the mechanism of reciprocal regulation, reduces spastic postural settings and facilitates the restoration of full voluntary movements.

Tonic and phasic systems for regulating muscle tone

The regulation of active movements and postural reactions is carried out by the coordinated activity of two vertical motor systems - phasic and tonic. The phasic system provides control of active movements, and the tonic system provides control of muscle tone, which normally protects joints from excessive movements, and the muscles themselves from excessive contractions and stretches. The phasic and tonic systems have a “control apparatus” at all levels of the nervous system - in the motor cortex, brain stem, segments of the spinal cord, peripheral nerves and in the muscle itself. Both systems are connected by a feedback (reciprocal) connection: when the activity of the phasic system increases, the activity of the tonic system decreases and vice versa. In other words, an increase in muscle tone weakens active movements, and the movements themselves reduce muscle tone (Fig. 5.1, 5.2).

Figure 5.1. Regulation of feedback (reciprocal) communication between antagonist muscles at the level of spinal cord segments.

Figure 5.2. The effect of multi-target electromyostimulation on antagonist muscles in children with cerebral palsy.

In addition, reciprocal feedback is normally present in the regulation of antagonist muscles that provide opposite movements: flexion-extension, rotation of limbs outward and inward, etc. For example, flexion of a limb at any joint is accompanied by inhibition of the extensors, which should not interfere with flexion. On the other hand, an increase in tone in the extensor muscles leads to a decrease in tone in the flexor muscles. In some nervous diseases, the feedback between antagonist muscles is disrupted, which is manifested by general stiffness.

In spastic forms of cerebral palsy, a painful restructuring of these systems occurs. Increased activity of the tonic system leads to an exorbitant increase in muscle tone in certain muscle groups: arm flexors, muscles that flex and adduct the hips, flex the lower leg, and extend the foot. The posture of patients characteristic of this form of cerebral palsy occurs, which is aggravated by the vertical position of the body. As a result, geological and technical movements become difficult and subsequently impossible (the regulatory influence of the corresponding phasic systems is inhibited).

In muscle tissue that is under constant tonic tension but does not contract, secondary pathological changes occur: the muscle fibers themselves are depleted and become thin, the connective tissue “framework” of the muscle, on the contrary, grows, and its elasticity decreases due to an increase in hard collagen fibers and a decrease in elastic ones. This leads to muscle shortening and contractures. At the same time, disorders develop in muscle groups that are antagonists of GTM. Unable to resist muscle hypertonicity, they atrophy from inactivity, and the activity of the phasic system in them fades away.

In this regard, as a rehabilitation method, the Center has developed complex multi-purpose electrical stimulation of muscles and nerves, which is aimed at solving the following problems:

• Stimulation of spastic muscle groups: to reduce tone, activate phasic systems, improve microcirculation and trophism of GTM.
• Stimulation of weakened antagonist muscles: to train and improve their functionality.
• Muscle stimulation in order to eliminate postural abnormalities and develop the correct motor stereotype.
• Stimulation of peripheral nerves in order to eliminate abnormalities in limb posture and develop the correct motor stereotype.
• Stimulation of the cranial nerves (trigeminal, facial, hypoglossal) in order to restore the functions of the muscles that provide chewing, facial movements, tongue movements, etc.

Experience with the use of this multi-purpose electrical stimulation of muscles and nerves indicates its high effectiveness. Stimulation of the GTM stimulates their phasic activity and, due to this, ensures a decrease in their tone, which, in combination with stimulation of antagonist muscles and correction of the posture of the limbs, helps to restore the motor functions of the sick child.

Electrical muscle stimulation (ESM) technique

During the examination, the patient's spastic muscles (STM) and the degree of increase in muscle tone in them are determined in standing, sitting, lying positions (on the back, stomach, on the side), with the shoulder raised and lowered, with the arm extended and bent, with the legs spread apart hip joints, with bent and straightened legs. Not only the level of muscle hypertonicity is determined, but also the presence of fibrous changes in them as a result of long-term dominant spasticity and the lack of proper functional load.

GTM are compacted to the touch, and fibrous nodes are often identified in them. Their antispastic stimulation initially does not give a rhythmic response due to the “exorbitant” activity of the tonic system and the simultaneous inhibition of the phasic system. Against the background of stimulation, a weak and then a clear rhythmic response gradually appears, while muscle tone decreases significantly. Since individual muscle segments can have different metameric origins, it must be stimulated in at least two places on both sides of its attachment to the bones.

The electrical signal sent to the GTM causes a set of processes leading to excitation and contraction of the muscle, an increase in functioning muscle fibers, and an increase in the number and territory of motor units (MU). The most effective contraction is caused by rectangular pulses with a frequency of 1–1.5 Hz, a current intensity of 100–200 mA, and a stimulus duration of 100–500 μs. The optimal mode of electromyostimulation of GTM is a mode with a pulse sending duration (stimulus duration) of 0.5-1 ms and a pause of 0.5-1 s.

Before installation, the electrode is moistened with saline solution. The recommended duration of ESM for each GTM is 2–3 minutes (depending on the severity of spasticity). As a rule, at the initial stage of EMS, by the end of the first minute of muscle stimulation, a more or less pronounced muscle response appears, the quality of which improves and increases by the end of the second minute of stimulation and manifests itself in the form of active rhythmic muscle contraction. With daily EMS, an active muscle response begins to be recorded earlier, 15–20 s from the start of stimulation, and after 7–9 EMS sessions it is possible to achieve an adequate muscle response and a significant reduction in spastic muscle tone.

In the first sessions, the electrogenic zone of spasticity, as a rule, expands due to prolonged dominant hypertonicity of the affected muscles. Thus, spasticity of the calf muscles of the leg and functional inactivity of the peroneal muscle group leads to a sharp narrowing of the electrogenic zone of the latter. Stimulation of their zone often leads to a paradoxical response not from the peroneal muscles, but from the gastrocnemius muscles. After several sessions, the electrogenic zones of the peroneal group expand and are gradually restored.

This equally applies to other muscle tandems “spastic agonists - weakened antagonists”. It should be taken into account that the location of the most effective stimulation points may change during the course, which requires their correction over time for each patient and for each individual course of therapy, and from course to course.

Even isolated myostimulation leads to a decrease in spastic muscle tone, which is clinically manifested in an increase in the range of movements in the shoulder, elbow, brachio-carpal, hip, knee, and ankle joints. The shoulders and hips lower and spread, the neck lengthens, extension in the elbow and knee joints improves, and the amount of dorsiflexion and supination in the hands and feet increases. Combination of ESM with complex metameric therapy (sclero-, neuro- and myomeric administration of prepapatates and daily scleromeric massage according to the method developed at the Scientific and Technical Center PNI) 3–4 times a year or only with scleromeric massage in the intermediate course, after 1–1.5 months after the main course, leads to an even more pronounced achievement of a positive result both clinically and in EMG parameters in the form of a gradual, from course to course, increase in the amplitude of M-responses and SPIeff values ​​in the peripheral nerves of the upper and lower extremities, as well as improvement parameters of somatosensory EP.

ESM requires a special approach and attention when recurvating the knee joints and varus positioning of the tibia with support on the entire foot in patients with a history of encephalomyelodysplasia and hip dysplasia. The characteristic posture of such a patient when standing and walking is expressed in the forward bending of the torso, flexion of the hips, varying degrees of hyperextension in the knee joints, plantar flexion in the ankle joints with external (varus) rotation of the feet.

In maintaining such a pathological setting, spastically altered muscles of the pelvic girdle and lower extremities (anterior bundles of the gluteus medius muscle, quadriceps femoris, rectus femoris and adductor muscles, lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle) and paretic antagonist muscles weakened from “inaction” (semitendinosus , semimembranosus, popliteal and biceps femoris muscles, peroneal group and medial head of the gastrocnemius muscle). ESM during recurvation of the knee joints is best performed with the knees slightly bent, both on the back and on the stomach. Walking for patients with severe recurvation without prosthetic and orthopedic devices is undesirable, as it can aggravate the already significant hyperextension and destruction of the knee joints.

Contraindications to EFM, as well as to other electrical procedures, are: current epileptic syndrome, increased excitability of the patient. It is also necessary to exclude neoplasms (malignant or benign); cardiovascular failure in the sub- and decompensation stage. Before the start of treatment and in the dynamics of its implementation, the child must undergo a neurophysiological examination: EEG, ENMG and determination of SSEP, which at the same time makes it possible to judge the effectiveness of the course of electromyostimulation.

Multipurpose electromyostimulation in the correction of postures and movements of a patient with spastic forms of cerebral palsy

The posture of a patient with spastic tetraform cerebral palsy has characteristic features (Fig. 5.3):

• short neck due to increased tone of the upper portion of the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles with pulling up the shoulder girdle, as well as due to functional insufficiency of the lower portion of the trapezius muscle, pectoralis minor and subclavian muscles;
• the shoulder is adducted and pronated due to increased tone of the pectoralis major muscle, latissimus dorsi muscle, teres major and minor muscles, long head of the triceps brachii muscle, as well as due to functional insufficiency of the deltoid and supraspinatus muscles;
• the forearm is bent, pronated due to increased tone of the brachialis and brachioradialis muscles, biceps brachii (mainly internal, short abdomen), pronator teres and quadratus, as well as functional insufficiency of the triceps brachii (mainly lateral and medial heads), ulnar muscle, supinator muscle , external long belly of the biceps brachii muscle;
• the hand is bent, abducted to the ulnar side and pronated, the fingers are clenched into a fist, the thumb is adducted, which is due to increased tone of the ulnar and radial flexors of the wrist, palmaris longus, adductor pollicis, superficial and deep flexors of the fingers, interosseous and lumbrical muscles , as well as functional insufficiency of the long, short and ulnar extensor of the wrist, extensor fingers, extensor of the little finger, short and long extensor pollicis, long and short abductor pollicis muscles;
• the hip is flexed, adducted and pronated, due to increased tone of the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, sartorius, tensor fasciae lata, pectineus, adductor magnus, brevis and longus, gracilis, anterior bundles of the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, as well as functional insufficiency of the gluteus maximus muscle, biceps femoris muscle, semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles, portions of the large, middle (posterior bundles) and small gluteal muscles, iliopsoas muscle, external and internal obturator muscles;
• the lower leg is bent and pronated, due to increased tone of the biceps femoris muscle (mainly the internal abdomen, semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles, popliteus and sartorius muscles, individual portions of the gastrocnemius muscle, as well as functional insufficiency of the quadriceps femoris muscle, individual portions of the gastrocnemius muscle;
• the foot is flexed and pronated due to increased tone of the triceps surae muscle, tibialis posterior muscle, long flexors of the first toe and 4 toes, as well as functional insufficiency of the tibialis anterior muscle, peroneus longus and brevis, long extensors of the big toe and 4 -x fingers.

Figure 5.3. Postures of a patient with cerebral palsy (according to K.A. Semenova, 1999).
The characteristic posture of patients with spastic forms of cerebral palsy: the shoulder girdle is raised (shortening of the neck), the shoulders are turned anteriorly and inwardly, the head is tilted anteriorly, the arms are bent at the elbow joints, the back is hunched, the legs are bent at the hip, knee joints, the hips are “crossed”, extensor placement of the feet.

As previously noted, electromyostimulation can play an important role in correcting the posture of a patient with cerebral palsy, relaxing the GTM muscles and activating inactive and weakened antagonist muscles. In this case, you should clearly understand which muscles provide certain movements and which counteract them as antagonist muscles, which need relaxing stimulation, and which need activating stimulation. Table 5.1 shows the basic movements of the human body and the muscles that carry them out.

Table 5.1. Muscles that provide multidirectional movements of the head, torso and limbs.

We present a working scheme for correcting posture and movements in children with cerebral palsy by performing relaxing electromyostimulation of the GTM and tonic stimulation of their weakened antagonist muscles (Table 5.2)

Table 5.2. Zones of multi-purpose electrical stimulation of muscles and nerves: relaxing stimulation of GTM and activation of proper movements in patients with cerebral palsy.

Correction of shoulder posture and movements.

Correction of shoulder posture and movements includes:

1. stimulation of spastic muscles (STM) - the pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi (the tonic system is inhibited and shoulder abduction is facilitated), the teres major and minor muscles, the long head of the triceps brachii muscle. Stimulation promotes activation of the phasic system and, conversely, inhibition of the tonic system, which facilitates the relaxation of these muscles and at the same time increases contractility (Fig. 5.4);
2. stimulation of weakened and atrophied antagonist muscles (deltoid and supraspinatus) from inactivity, unable to counteract GTM.

Figure 5.4. Shoulder muscles (front and back views). Approximate location of electrodes for stimulation of the phasic system of the GTM (A) and for tonic stimulation of passive and weakened muscles that abduct the shoulder (B).
1 – pectoralis major, 2 – latissimus dorsi (the tonic system is inhibited and shoulder abduction is facilitated), 3 – teres major, 4 – teres minor, 5 – long head of the triceps brachii, 6 – deltoid, 7 – supraspinatus (building muscle mass and increasing the strength of active movements).

Correction of posture and movements of the forearm.

Correction of posture and movements of the forearm includes:

1. stimulation of the GTM - brachial and brachioradialis muscles, biceps brachii (mainly internal, short abdomen), pronator teres and quadratus. Stimulation promotes activation of the phasic system and, on the contrary, inhibition of the tonic system, which facilitates the relaxation of these muscles and at the same time increases contractility (Fig. 5.5);
2. stimulation of weakened and atrophied antagonist muscles from inactivity - the triceps brachii muscle (mainly the lateral and medial heads), the ulnar muscle, the supinator muscle, the external long belly of the biceps brachii muscle, which are not capable of counteracting GTM.

Figure 5.5. Muscles of the forearm (front view). Approximate location of electrodes when stimulating the phasic system of spastic muscles, as well as during tonic stimulation of passive and weakened muscles that extend and supinate the forearm.
1 – internal belly of the biceps, 2 – pronator teres, 3 – brachioradialis, 4 – pronator quadratus, 5–6 – triceps brachii, 7 – supinator.

Correction of posture and hand movements.

Correction of posture and hand movements includes:

1. stimulation of the GTM – flexor carpi ulnaris and radialis, palmaris longus, adductor pollicis, superficial and deep flexors of the fingers, interosseous and lumbrical muscles (Fig. 5.6);
2. stimulation of weakened and atrophied antagonist muscles from inactivity - extensor carpi longus, brevis and ulnaris, extensor digitorum, extensor of the little finger, extensor pollicis brevis and longus, abductor pollicis longus and brevis, which are unable to counteract GTM.

Figure 5.6. Forearm muscles involved in hand movements. Approximate location of the electrodes for stimulation of the phasic system of GTM (A) and for tonic stimulation of passive and weakened muscles that extend and supinate the hand (B).
A) 1 – flexor carpi ulnaris, 2 – flexor carpi radialis, 3 – palmaris longus, 4 – flexor digitorum profundus, 5 – pronator quadratus.
B) 6–8 – long, short radial and ulnar extensor of the wrist, 9 – extensor of the fingers, 10 – long abductor pollicis, 11–12 – long and short extensor pollicis, 13 – extensor of the little finger, 14 – supinator.

Correction of hip posture and movements.

Correction of hip posture and movement includes:

1. stimulation of the GTM - iliopsoas muscle, rectus femoris muscle, sartorius muscle, tensor fascia lata, pectineus muscle, adductor magnus, short and longus muscles, gracilis muscle, anterior bundles of the gluteus medius muscle, gluteus minimus muscle (Fig. 5.7),
2. stimulation of weakened and atrophied antagonist muscles from inactivity - the gluteus maximus muscle, the biceps femoris muscle, the semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles, portions of the middle (posterior bundles) and small gluteal muscles, the iliopsoas muscle, the external and internal obturator muscles, which are not able to counteract the GTM.

Figure 5.7. Muscles of the pelvis and thigh. Approximate location of electrodes for stimulation of the phasic system of GTM, as well as for tonic stimulation of passive and weakened muscles.
1 - iliopsoas muscle, 2 - rectus femoris muscle, 3 - adductor longus muscle, 4 - adductor magnus muscle, 5 - gracilis muscle, 6 - anterior bundles of the gluteus medius muscle, 7 - gluteus minimus muscle, 8 - pectineus muscle, 9 - sartorius muscle, 10 - biceps femoris muscle, 11 - semimembranosus muscle, 12-13 - portions of the middle (posterior bundles) and small gluteal muscles.

Correction of posture and movements of the lower leg.

Correction of lower leg posture and movements includes:

1. stimulation of the GTM - biceps femoris muscle (mainly the internal abdomen, semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles, popliteus and sartorius muscles, individual portions of the gastrocnemius muscle (Fig. 5.8),
2. stimulation of weakened and atrophied antagonist muscles from inactivity - the quadriceps femoris muscle, individual portions of the gastrocnemius muscle.

Figure 5.8. Muscles of the thigh and lower leg. Approximate location of electrodes for stimulation of the phasic system of GTM, as well as for tonic stimulation of passive and weakened muscles.
1 - biceps femoris muscle (mainly internal belly, 2 - semimembranosus muscle, 3 - semitendinosus muscle, 4 - sartorius muscle, 5 - separate portions of the gastrocnemius muscle, 6-8 - quadriceps femoris muscle, 9 - separate portions of the gastrocnemius muscle.

Correction of posture and foot movements.

1. stimulation of the GTM - triceps surae muscle, tibialis posterior muscle, long flexor muscles of the first toe and 4 toes (Fig. 5.9),
2. stimulation of weakened and atrophied antagonist muscles from inactivity - the tibialis anterior muscle, the long extensor muscles of the big toe and 4 toes, the long and short peroneus muscles.

Figure 5.9. Muscles of the thigh and lower leg. Approximate location of electrodes for stimulation of the phasic system of GTM, as well as for tonic stimulation of passive and weakened muscles.
1–2 – triceps surae, 3 – tibialis posterior, 4 – flexor hallucis longus, 5 – flexor 4 toes longus, 6 – tibialis anterior, 7 – extensor 4 toes longus, 8 – long peroneus muscle, 9 – peroneus brevis muscle.

One way to lose weight is to relax

or pump up muscles, develop flexibility.

Article-instructions for use

electrical muscle stimulators

Method of training with an electrical stimulator

professional electrostimulator

Training with an electrical stimulator for muscles in the general case is a series of effects on the muscle of electrical current pulses of a special form. During the training process, the following changes change: the amplitude of the impulse (the degree of muscle contraction depends on it), the duration of the impulse (the period of time the muscle is in a tense state), the period of repetition of the impulses (the time of relaxation of the muscle depends), the filling frequency - carrier (to ensure painlessness of electrical stimulation). All modern terms such as lipolysis are based on this.

Scheme of applying electrodes to areas of the body

The electrical stimulator directly affects the muscles using electrodes fixed to certain muscles (or muscle groups) using an elastic bandage or belt or a wide tape with a burdock type fastener. The diagram for attaching electrodes during training is shown in the figure below. In all cases, electrodes are attached to the muscle transversely to its fibers, in the middle at a distance of 1-2 cm or more from each other. In cases where the goal of training is to develop the flexion or extensor functions of a muscle, the electrodes are installed closer to the end of the muscle that ensures the performance of these functions. During an electrical stimulation session, in order to obtain the maximum effect, it is necessary that the stimulated muscle is in a state of static tension (you need to tense this muscle), and also do not allow the arm or leg to bend at the joints. The sequence of electrical stimulation of different muscle groups is not of fundamental importance.

As an option, the following sequence of effects on muscle groups is recommended (see figure):

electrical muscle stimulator

• deltoid muscles 1;
• biceps 2;
• triceps 15;
• brachioradialis muscle 3;
• extensor radialis 14;
• trapezius muscle of the back 8;
• subscapularis and latissimus dorsi 9;
• teres major muscle 10;
• external oblique abdominal muscle 6;
• serratus anterior and rectus abdominis 5;
• gluteus medius, tensor fasciae lata, gluteus maximus 11;
• sartorius and rectus femoris 7;
• biceps femoris 13;
• semitendinosus muscle;
• semimembranosus muscle;
• calf muscle 12.

ATTENTION! It is not recommended to subject the pectoral muscles to electrical stimulation. To prevent current flow through the heart area, electrodes should always be placed only on the left or right, upper or lower parts of the body, but never on both sides.

To avoid unpleasant sensations during electrical stimulation, it is necessary to ensure reliable contact between the electrode area and the skin. To do this, place 6-8-layer gauze pads soaked in a 5-10% solution of table salt under the electrodes. The best results are obtained by powdered graphite with spindle oil (the consistency of sour cream).

1. Increased muscle strength and muscle size

To develop strength qualities, electrical stimulation of the muscle is carried out with the highest possible current (voltage), the value of which is individual and determined by personal sensations. There should be a feeling that the muscle is being torn. This effect is achieved in addition to increasing the amplitude of the signal, also by the duration of the effect. The muscle is brought to a state of complete fatigue by a series of messages: stimulation-relaxation. The duration of stimulation and relaxation is selected individually, observing the main criterion - rapid achievement of fatigue. Before starting the session, you should warm up all muscle groups. It is recommended to carry out training 1-2 times a day; with limited time, stimulation of the most important muscle groups is carried out. Electrical stimulation time for one muscle is up to 5 minutes.

ATTENTION: In the first days of classes, do not allow yourself to become overtired. The achieved results last for 3-4 months without continuing training.

2. Reduction of subcutaneous fat layer

Electrical stimulation allows you to reduce the thickness of the fat layer, activating metabolic processes throughout the body. For this purpose, stimulation of large muscle groups (gluteal, abdominal, etc.) is performed. The amplitude of the output signal is set to a painless and maximum tolerated muscle contraction. Course – 20 daily sessions, following a fasting diet. Session up to 10 minutes for each muscle group. Electrical stimulation is also effective for emphasizing muscle relief.

3. Flexibility training

The use of electrical stimulation allows for effective stretching of muscles and ligaments, which significantly reduces the time for mastering exercises that require flexibility (for example, “splits”). This area of ​​application of ES can be recommended for representatives of various types of martial arts. To increase flexibility, electrodes are applied to those muscles whose “tension” does not allow performing a particular exercise (for example, the muscles of the back and front of the thigh when doing the splits). The signal amplitude is gradually increased from zero, the relaxation time should be equal to the stimulation time. You need to perform exercises that “stretch” the muscles and ligaments, the stretching of which determines the successful implementation, for example, of the same twine. The combination of exercise and electrical stimulation is very effective in developing flexibility. Work on each muscle for up to 5-10 minutes.

compact portable electrical stimulator

All this can be done by a professional electrostimulator - in our country the most common stimulator in terms of price/quality is ESMA. If you need a simpler and very cheap model, then you can take Chinese models like these butterfly stimulants: http://ali.pub/2hsngy, http://ali.pub/2hsnt0 or http://ali. pub/2hsnjo, or very cheap ones for a couple of hundred rubles like this one http://ali.pub/2hsod1.

Rules for turning on and controlling the electrical stimulator

The “Output Level” knob should be moved to the far left position. Then, without connecting the electrodes, set the “Output Level” to maximum, switches AM to “1”, FM to “0”. In this case, the battery voltage indicator HL3 should light up; the HL2 modulation indicator lights up rhythmically; synchronously with it - the dial indicator deviates to the right. The pulse presence indicator HL1 should glow from low to moderate level (depending on the “Pulse frequency” knob).

Before starting the session, moisten the electrodes in a saline solution, securely attach the electrodes to the stimulated muscle, connect the wires coming from the electrodes to connectors X1 and X2 of the electrical stimulator. Turn on the electrical stimulator, use the amplitude regulator to gradually set the desired SI amplitude from zero, based on the training methodology and personal feelings. If tingling or burning occurs, press the electrodes harder against the muscles. When performing electrical stimulation according to point 1, AM, FM is turned on, pulse repetition rate is 30-100 Hz, modulation frequency is 0.2-0.25 Hz (12-15 bursts per minute), filling frequency is 2-8 kHz. The optimal position of the adjustments is determined according to personal feelings, achieving the least discomfort. The rest is according to No. 1 of the Methodology. For electrical stimulation according to point 2 of the Method: AM on, FM off, repetition rate 100-200 Hz, filling frequency 4-8 kHz, modulation frequency 0.5 Hz (30 bursts per minute). When performing electrical stimulation according to clause 3, set the parameters according to clause 1 of the Methodology.

Nutrition

Electrical stimulation for the purpose of increasing muscle volume does not remove the athlete’s usual nutritional requirements for bodybuilding. Proper and balanced nutrition combined with electrical stimulation is the key to rapid muscle growth. The use of electrical stimulation to reduce the fat layer requires some dietary restrictions. Nutritional recommendations are not the scope of this manual; this issue is fairly well covered in sports and popular science literature.

Here is a quick video on using the seebee butterfly or bee electrical stimulator:

Security measures

PROHIBITED:
– moving the electrodes during electrical stimulation without turning off the power of the device;
– break the electrical stimulator-electrode circuit during the session;
– start an electrical stimulation session without reducing the signal amplitude to zero;
– exercise in a state of extreme fatigue.

There are no absolute contraindications to the use of electrical stimulation.

Electrical stimulation is relatively contraindicated in the following diseases: hemophilia, hereditary-familial diseases of the nervous system (progressive muscular dystrophy, myotonia, myasthenia gravis, amytrophic lateral sclerosis, epilepsy, syrigomyelia, multiple sclerosis (in the acute phase), syphilitic tabes, infectious chorea, all infectious and non-infectious diseases in the acute stage, fever, cerebrovascular disorders, severe forms of hypertension, skin diseases, rupture of muscles and ligaments, bone fractures. Do not apply pressure to the vocal cords, as closure of the airways may occur. Do not perform electrical stimulation of the abdominal and lumbar areas in pregnant women.
It should be borne in mind that electrical stimulation can suppress chronic pain, which is a symptom of a pathological process of unknown causes.
In all cases, the question of the advisability of electrical stimulation should be discussed with a medical specialist.

I hope you found the article useful!

Quite a large number of people suffer from various back diseases. In particular, doctors detect scoliosis in children, which, if left untreated, can have the most adverse effect on health.

There are many drugs that can help eliminate back pain for a certain period of time, but the pathology remains.

To effectively combat spinal diseases, medicine suggests using electrical stimulation of the back muscles - a new treatment method that has many advantages.

Indications and advantages of the method

Electrical stimulation of the back muscles is a unique treatment method. During the procedure, even those areas that were inaccessible using other methods are affected.

Thanks to electrical stimulation, positive changes occur in the body:

• bone nutrition improves;
• destructive processes in cartilage tissue disappear;
• salt accumulations are eliminated;
• regeneration of damaged nerves is observed.

Interstitial electrical stimulation using the method of scientist A. Gerasimov has helped many patients cope with pathology and unpleasant discomfort in the back.

The essence of the procedure is that with the help of a needle-electrode, which is inserted under the patient’s skin, the affected areas of the back muscles are affected.

This method of physiotherapy is prescribed for:

• , scoliosis;
• osteoarthritis of the joints, pain in the upper and lower extremities;
• headaches, migraines;
• pain and discomfort and,;

Electrical stimulation of the back muscles is carried out as prescribed by a specialist for both adult patients and children.

This procedure has advantages that other methods do not have:

1. High performance: even after the first use of the device, improvements are noted.
2. No pain.
3. Carrying out manipulations without the use of medications allows you to avoid allergic manifestations.
4. Recovery occurs in a shorter period of time, while the likelihood of relapse is reduced by almost three times.
5. Possibility to use the device independently at home.

Since the patient can use the devices while at home, he must first obtain permission from a specialist.

When the procedure is prohibited

In some cases it is prohibited to use this method. You should avoid the procedure if you have:

• inflammatory foci in the joints;
• pacemaker;
• cancer;
• tuberculosis of the kidneys or lungs, if the active stage is present;
• disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular system;
• pregnancy at any stage.

The method is contraindicated for pregnant women for the reason that it is possible to increase uterine tone, which can lead to a miscarriage or premature birth.

It is always necessary to consult a doctor regarding treatment with an electrical stimulator, because the method also has negative aspects:

1. For patients with severe neurological damage, the procedure may not be effective.
2. The device only combats the consequences, so treatment is prescribed in combination with other procedures.

Treatment of scoliotic disease in children

Electrical stimulation is often used for scoliosis, which affects many children.

Treatment is prescribed in order to strengthen the patient’s muscular-ligamentous apparatus, thereby preventing further deformation processes in the spinal column from developing.

Muscles are trained using special devices, for example, “Stimulus”.

Electrical stimulation of the back muscles for children with scoliosis is carried out with a gradual increase in load.

With each session, the voltage increases. When the treatment of scoliotic curvature involves an integrated approach, indicators improve over time, and the degree of scoliosis does not matter much.

The procedure shows the best results when the angle of curvature of the spinal column does not exceed 25 degrees, that is, with scoliosis of 1 and 2 degrees.

The child should undergo a treatment course every 3-4 months. In order for the therapy to be as effective as possible, the doctor prescribes a set of exercises simultaneously with electrical stimulation. It is recommended to visit a massage therapist after completing the course.

To reduce the arc of curvature, electrical stimulation of the child’s back is prescribed only to those muscles that are located on the convex side. If the procedure is performed on the concave side of the curvature, the arc will increase by almost 10 degrees.

An effective physiotherapeutic method will help restore normal muscle function. But since the device can cause complications in some patients, you should definitely consult a doctor before the procedure.

Denial of responsibility

The information in the articles is for general information purposes only and should not be used for self-diagnosis of health problems or for therapeutic purposes. This article is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor (neurologist, therapist). Please consult your doctor first to know the exact cause of your health problem.

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Update: October 2018

Electrical stimulation (physiostimulation, electromyostimulation, myostimulation, myolifting) is a physiotherapeutic method related to rehabilitation treatment, which is based on electrical stimulation of muscle and nervous tissue. It is carried out by transmitting current with certain characteristics from the myostimulator to a certain area of ​​the body through electrodes.

The electrical stimulation technique is widely used to restore patients after injuries, with pathologies of the nervous system (peripheral and central), muscle hypotonicity, in cosmetology and professional sports.

Myostimulation means the use of stationary, fixed electrodes and current, the intensity of which makes it possible to obtain visible contractions of muscle tissue. Myolifting involves exposure to the skin of movable electrodes, which do not lead to visible contractions of muscle fibers, but are felt as the passage of current.

Mechanism of action

The action of pulsed current is mainly aimed at the tone and speed of response of muscle tissue.

When an electric current is applied to muscles or nerves, their bioactivity changes and spike responses are formed. Thus, electrical stimulation with a frequency of more than 10 imp-1 leads to 2 effects: depolarization and strong, prolonged muscle contraction or serrated tetanus. When the frequency of the current increases, due to very frequent impulses, the muscle tissue does not relax and complete tetanus occurs, which, with a subsequent increase in frequency, changes to complete inexcitability of the muscle tissue.

The most intense excitation is realized when the frequency ranges of impulses and electrical stimulation coincide in the nerve conductors. Against the background of electrical stimulation of the nerve with impulses of more than 50 imp-1, excitation of motor nerve conductors and passive contraction of muscle fibers are formed.

Besides:

• In the cytoplasm of cells, the amount of high-energy compounds (creatine phosphate, ATP) increases, their enzymatic activity is activated, oxygen utilization is accelerated and energy costs for stimulated muscle contraction are reduced compared to voluntary;
• Blood supply and lymph drainage are activated, which leads to increased trophism;
• Dilatation of peripheral vessels, occurring in parallel with passive muscle contraction, leads to activation of blood flow.

As you know, nerve cells regulate the activity of other cells. Signals coming from nerve endings cause myocyte contractions. When both muscle and nerve cells are active, ions quickly move across the cell membrane. The current generated during this is called the “action potential”, and it can be recorded using intracellular electrodes.

Impulses that are as close in shape as possible to the “action potentials” of muscle and nerve cells are called neuroimpulses. Drugs that generate neuroimpulses are especially popular in cosmetology, since the procedures are carried out with the greatest comfort, and the result is more effective and noticeable.

Indications for electrical stimulation and effects of procedures

The procedures allow:

• Prevent muscle tissue atrophy thanks to special “training” of muscles during stimulation, namely, contraction and relaxation;
• Restore nervous regulation of muscle tissue contraction;
• Increase muscle volume and strength without shortening muscle fibers;
• Increase adaptation and fatigue limit of muscle tissue;
• Reduce pain in any localization;
• Utilize energy reserves (thus activating lipolysis);
• Provide lymphatic drainage and accelerate the elimination of metabolic products.

The most popular indications for stimulation:

• Weakening of muscle tone;
• Weakening of skin turgor;
• Modeling the oval shape of the face and neck, restoring muscle tone in this area.

Devices for electromyostimulation

Modern computerized equipment allows you to set the required procedure parameters that will be most effective in each case:

• pulse shape;
• pulse repetition rate. Most often, low pulse frequencies are used, from 10 to 1000 Hz.

The low-frequency range used in physiotherapeutic practice is preferable due to the fact that skeletal muscle fibers can respond by contracting to current stimulation with a frequency of no more than 1000 Hz. Higher current frequencies are no longer perceived by the nervous and muscle tissue as separate stimuli, and this leads to a sharp decrease in the effectiveness of the effect.

To influence skeletal, smooth muscles and nerve conductors, it is necessary to use different pulse frequencies. If the device allows you to change the frequency of the generated pulses, this significantly expands the scope of its application. Different classes of devices operate at different pulse frequencies:

• High-end electrical stimulation devices - high-frequency pulse filling with a recommended frequency in the range of 400-600 Hz.
• Middle-class devices - low-frequency pulse filling with a recommended myostimulation frequency in the range of 10-230 Hz.

The devices are also classified into professional ones, which are installed in physical rooms and cosmetology rooms of beauty salons, and low-power home ones (belts, bowties, shorts, etc.), which can be used independently.

The pulse duration is 0.1-1000 ms. Close to natural neuroimpulses and most preferable for myostimulation are short impulses, from 0.1 to 0.5 ms.

The current strength of the equipment varies depending on the area of ​​the body: for exposure to the face - up to 10 mA, for exposure to the body - up to 50 mA. During the procedures, the intensity of the current varies depending on the person’s sensations: muscle contractions should be strong, but not cause pain.

Impulses are classified into mono- and bipolar.

• Monopolar pulses separate substances into ions and can propel particles with an electrical charge deep into tissue. Monopolar pulsed current can also be used for electrophoresis. The same substances are used as in electrophoresis with galvanic current.
• Bipolar pulses result in oscillatory movements of electrically charged particles on biological membranes. Pulses on symmetrical zones compensate for electrolysis, and skin irritation does not occur under the electrodes. Such impulses more effectively overcome skin resistance, and procedures are more comfortable for patients.

Treatment with electrical stimulation is carried out 2-3 times every 7 days (every other day is possible), 20-40 minutes per session. The course includes 15-20 procedures. The minimum break between courses is 1 month.

Scheme of procedures

1. Electrodes, well moistened in water, are installed on active motor points of muscle tissue in the affected area and secured with bandages.
2. Connect the wires, observing polarity.
3. Launch the appropriate program on the device.
4. The current strength is increased gradually, 3-4 minutes after the start of exposure, until active muscle contractions appear. There should be no pain during muscle contraction. It is best to increase the intensity of exposure simultaneously in symmetrical zones.
5. After the procedure is completed, turn off the device and remove the electrodes.
6. The skin at the procedure site is treated with a moisturizing tonic or milk.

Contraindications

Contraindications to electrical stimulation are quite extensive and must be taken into account when prescribing treatment. The fact is that electric current can accelerate the progression of a number of diseases and lead to the most undesirable effects.

• Oncological diseases (however, some types of electrical stimulation are used to relieve pain).
• Blood pathologies.
• Pregnancy (in exceptional cases can be used for toxicosis).
• Diseases of an infectious nature.
• Hyperthermia.
• Artificial pacemaker.
• Pulmonary and heart failure above grade 2.
• Severe heart rhythm disturbances.
• Hyperthyroidism.
• Arterial hypertension (upper pressure more than 180).
• Epilepsy.
• Parkinson's disease.
• Individual intolerance to electric current.

There are also local contraindications that relate to the area of ​​the procedure:

• injuries, abrasions, cuts, and other violations of the integrity of the dermis;
• metal implants, for example, “golden threads” on the face, an intrauterine device with metal elements, if the electrodes are applied to the lower abdomen;
• benign neoplasms, including nevi;
• phlebitis, thrombophlebitis;
• phlebeurysm.

Electrical stimulation methods

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation

It is successfully used in medical rehabilitation, as well as as a supplement to professional athletic training, and is suitable for stimulating all muscles of the body.

The procedures help eliminate sagging muscles and skin, fight cellulite, help with excess weight, impaired peripheral circulation (venous and arterial) and venous-lymphatic insufficiency. Indicated for restoring muscle strength after surgery, fractures, and improving mobility. They are also recommended after a stroke, as they help restore fine movements of the hands and gait.

We must not forget about the individual sensitivity of patients to the action of current, and begin the procedure at the lowest levels, increasing them gradually. With prolonged electrotherapy, addiction may develop. Therefore, it is very important to correctly draw up a treatment program and include other methods for the greatest effect. If we are talking about trained people, athletes, then it should be taken into account that this group of patients initially has stronger muscles, so the electrical load should be more intense.

Electrical stimulation of muscles goes well with lymphatic drainage, deep thermal effects, electrophoresis, ultrasound therapy, pressotherapy, and endermology.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

In other words, exposure to the lesion through the skin. It is effective for acute and chronic pain of various origins and is used in everyday physiotherapeutic practice.

High-frequency exposure activates pain inhibition mechanisms: electrical current pulses block pain signals that travel along the nerves from the source of pain to the brain. Low frequency exposure activates the release of endorphins, which act as natural pain inhibitors.

Unlike pain-relieving drug therapy, TENS has no side effects. Can be used as monotherapy or as an addition to other methods.

Transcranial electrical stimulation

It involves the impact of pulsed bipolar currents with given characteristics on the brain. The main indications for electrical stimulation of the brain: post-stroke and post-infarction condition, stage 1-2 hypertension, rehabilitation after damage to the peripheral nervous system, pain syndrome in oncological and neurological patients, after injuries, depression, anxiety, toxicosis of pregnancy in the 1-2 trimesters, menopause, sleep disorders, itchy dermatitis.

• Activation of opioid structures and release of beta-endorphin, which relieves pain syndromes, reduces the drug load when pain relief is needed;
• Beta-endorphin relieves anxiety and has an antidepressant effect, improves stress resistance and mood, which in itself helps in the treatment of any disease;
• The effect on the vasomotor center of the medulla oblongata normalizes blood pressure;
• Activation of lymphocytes by beta-endorphin leads to increased defenses of the body;

The method is also used in the treatment of addictions and relieves symptoms of withdrawal symptoms. Cravings for alcohol and drugs are reduced by stimulating the opiate system. Helps in the recovery period for severe burn patients. It has an analgesic effect, relieves stress spasm of the vascular wall and improves blood circulation.

Interstitial electrical stimulation

The second name is electrical stimulation according to Gerasimov, since the method was developed under the leadership of this scientist. Main indications: spinal osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernias, pain syndrome after spinal surgery for truncation of hernias, scoliosis, arthrosis deformans, VSD, peripheral nerve dysfunction, bronchial asthma, migraine, tension headache, dizziness, heel spur.

For the procedure, special disposable needles are used, which are connected via wires to a device that generates a pulsed low-frequency current. The needles are placed directly into the painful areas.

As a result of the procedure, blood microcirculation improves, swelling decreases, muscle spasm is eliminated and nutrition in the area where the needles are installed improves. Already after the first procedure there is a significant improvement and reduction in pain.

Very often practiced for osteochondrosis localized in any part of the spine. Improves blood circulation, helps stop the breakdown of cartilage tissue, restores innervation and, most importantly for patients, eliminates pain in 95% of cases.

Electrical stimulation of the eyes

It is realized through the influence of pulsed current on the muscular apparatus of the eye, optic nerve, and retina. Main indications: ptosis, strabismus, retinal dystrophy, optic nerve, myopia, amblyopia, paresis and paralysis of the oculomotor muscles.

The impact on the motor muscles of the eyelid and eye leads to improved neuromuscular transmission, normalization of muscle tone and more efficient functioning. After a course of procedures, friendly eye movements and eyelid lifting improve. The effect on the sensory apparatus (optic nerve, retina) allows you to increase the number of connections with the central nervous system and create greater feedback, which means improving vision.

Electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerves

It is an alternative, official method of treating fecal and urinary incontinence. It works both for stress incontinence and dysfunction due to decreased tone of the pelvic floor muscles and anal sphincter.

• When treating stress incontinence, the goal of treatment is to eliminate dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles.
• For urinary incontinence, the procedure aims to inhibit involuntary contraction of the bladder wall by stimulating the nerves of the pelvic floor.

Electrical stimulation in children

In pediatrics, this treatment method is used quite widely, from birth, for the following pathologies: intestinal atony, pelvic dysfunction, hypotonia of the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall, organic damage to the central nervous system, cerebral palsy, flat feet, scoliosis, hip dysplasia, consequences of head injury, incl. ., in children in a state of medicated sleep, consequences of infectious lesions of the spinal cord and brain, autism, hyperactivity, speech and hearing disorders, joint pathologies.

In children, all methods of electrical stimulation are used, including interstitial and transcranial. The current strength, shape and frequency of the pulse and duration of exposure are selected individually. In any case, stimulation is carried out in gentle modes and with a shorter duration of exposure than in adults.

In cosmetology

The procedure is actively used in cosmetology to correct the figure, cellulite, give the oval of the face clearer contours, reduce sagging skin and wrinkles, strengthen and improve the tone of the muscles of the neck and face, abdominal muscles (especially after childbirth), weight loss, acceleration of lymphatic drainage (elimination of edema) .

During the procedure, different muscle groups are exposed to pulsed current of various frequencies. Myostimulation allows you to use even deep muscles.

Improves the condition of small blood vessels, accelerates metabolism, activates lymph flow, causes muscles to actively contract, eliminates stagnant processes in the skin and intensively removes excess moisture (this is why even after the first procedure you can see a decrease in body volume).

• When changing the oval of the face, the muscles localized in the cheek area are affected.
• For neck laxity, the broad subcutaneous muscle, the platysma, is stimulated by applying self-adhesive skin electrodes.
• To reduce the appearance of a double chin, pulsed current is used.
• It is possible to achieve noticeable positive results with the drooping of the upper eyelid using movable electrodes on a gel base.

Side effects and complications

Muscle discomfort may be felt during and after the procedure. An inflammatory reaction may develop at the site of contact between the skin and the electrodes.

To prevent these undesirable effects, the patient should monitor his/her well-being during the procedure and notify the doctor if discomfort or pain occurs.

Possible complications include:

• skin hyperemia up to burns. Possible due to incorrect placement of electrodes;
• increased menstrual flow, especially if the procedure is carried out in the first days of menstruation. Therefore, during menstruation it is recommended to refuse treatment;
• Nausea, indigestion. This is possible if the procedure in the abdominal area was performed immediately after eating.