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Electrical stimulation 

Electrical stimulation is a modality often used for muscle rehabilitation and strengthening. It is a therapeutic treatment that applies electrodes to the surface of the skin, treating muscle spasms and pain. Electrical stimulation helps to prevent atrophy and build or maintain muscular strength, reduces inflammation, and improves range of motion. Different types of electrical stimulation are used in treating sprains, arthritis, chronic pain, and sciatica.  

The physical therapists at 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness are expertly trained in each of the electrical stimulation modes listed further below. Electrical stimulation provides a variety of healing benefits including:

Electrical stimulation can help improve range of motion

Electrical stimulation can help improve range of motion

  • Reduced chronic pain

  • Decreased inflammation and swelling

  • Improved range of motion

  • Reduced muscle spasms

  • Increased circulation

  • Improved neuromuscular rehabilitation

Based on your individual needs, your therapist may identify that electrical stimulation will aid in your healing process. Contact our office in Fulton, MD to discuss your injury or area of pain to determine if electrical stimulation is right for you. 

There are multiple types of electrical stimulation, each of which focuses on specific improvements of muscular tissues or neurological disorders, including:

  • EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation): EMS is the stimulation of muscular tissues via electrical impulses. Electrical stimulation for shoulder pain is an effective treatment in improving range of motion and reducing pain.

  • NMES (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation): NMES is the common term used for electrical stimulation therapy for stroke survivors to regain the use of paralyzed body parts and improve voluntary muscle activity. There are a few subtypes of NMES including: FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation), ETS (EMG Triggered Stimulation) and RETS (Reciprocal EMG Triggered Stimulation). RETS aids in the relaxation of spastic muscles.

  • TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Predominately used for pain relief, pain management, and nerve-related pain conditions, TENS sends electronic stimulating pulses across the surface of the skin through the nerves. It aids in the production of endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller. The stimulating pulses also help prevent pain signals from ever reaching the brain. TENS electrical stimulation for fibromyalgia is an effective therapy in pain management.

If you are interested in trying electrical stimulation for management of your pain or injury, contact a physical therapist at 360 Physical Therapy & Wellness today. We will discuss the best treatment option for you and will work with you to get you living your life pain-free!