Restoring Movement with Electrical Stimulation
Electro Muscle Stimulation Therapy: Helping to Restore Movement After Spinal Cord Injury and Stroke
Before we get started, have a look at the journey of our amazing Vesna!
What is EMS?
Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) therapy is a ground breaking technique designed to help restore motor function in individuals affected by paralysis due to spinal cord injuries (SCI) or strokes.
By applying controlled electrical discharges to muscles, EMS can induce functional movements, enabling tasks such as grasping, standing, and walking.
How EMS Works
EMS uses electrical currents to stimulate muscle contractions, producing functional movements. Initially developed in the 1960s, this technology has evolved significantly, becoming a crucial therapeutic tool in neurorehabilitation. The therapy leverages neuroplasticity, the nervous system’s ability to reorganize itself, to help patients regain motor functions.
Applications in Rehabilitation
EMS is particularly beneficial for stroke and SCI patients. Stroke, a leading cause of disability, often results in hemiplegia, impairing movement on one side of the body. SCI, on the other hand, disrupts communication between the brain and body, leading to varying degrees of paralysis depending on the injury’s location.
Key Benefits
Restores Functional Movements: Enables patients to perform daily tasks such as grasping and walking.
Improves Muscle Strength: Enhances muscle function and reduces atrophy.
Reduces Spasticity: Alleviates muscle stiffness and improves range of motion.
Promotes Neuroplasticity: Facilitates the nervous system’s ability to adapt and recover.
Enhances Independence: Increases patients’ ability to perform activities of daily living independently.
How we do it at Fittech ?
At FitTech Studios, we utilize state-of-the-art Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) suits to assist individuals in regaining movement and functionality after a stroke or injury. Our innovative EMS technology provides targeted rehabilitation, ensuring effective and efficient recovery.
EMS suits work by delivering controlled electrical impulses to specific muscle groups. This targeted stimulation helps activate and strengthen muscles that may have weakened due to injury or lack of use. By focusing on precise muscle activation, EMS therapy aids in restoring essential functional movements, such as grasping objects and walking.
Additionally, EMS therapy helps alleviate muscle stiffness and improve range of motion, making movements smoother and more controlled. This is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing spasticity, a common issue after a stroke or injury.
The repeated stimulation provided by EMS suits also facilitates the nervous system’s ability to adapt and recover, promoting better coordination and motor skills. This aspect of neuroplasticity is crucial for long-term recovery and overall improvement in physical abilities.
At FitTech Studios, our expert team combines advanced EMS technology with personalized care to support your rehabilitation journey. Experience the benefits of EMS therapy and take a significant step towards restoring your movement and reclaiming your life.
Future Prospects
The future of EMS looks promising, with potential integrations with brain-computer interfaces and wearable technology, making it more effective and accessible.
As the aging population grows, advancements in EMS will likely lead to broader adoption and improved outcomes for individuals with paralysis.
EMS therapy represents a significant advancement in the rehabilitation of motor function following spinal cord injury and stroke. By harnessing the power of electrical stimulation and neuroplasticity, this therapy offers hope and improved quality of life for many individuals.
For a deeper dive into systematic reviews and detailed studies on functional electrical stimulation, readers are directed to additional sources here: Burridge JH, Swain ID, Taylor PN. Functional electrical stimulation: a review of the literature published on common peroneal nerve stimulation for the correction of dropped foot. Rev Clin Gerontol. 1998;8:155–161. [Google Scholar]
If you ever are interested in what we do or want to try EMS our contact details are below.
Call us on 02 4210 9660 or enquire below.
