Electrostimulation devices for muscles and nerves in physiotherapy: which ones to choose?

How does electrostimulation of muscles and nerves work?

For the procedure, the specialist uses electrostimulation devices that generate electrical impulses. The duration, frequency, and intensity of the impulses are tailored to each individual patient. These electrical impulses stimulate the cells in the body. The effect on the muscles enhances blood circulation and accelerates metabolic processes. As a result, the synthesis of nucleic acids is effectively promoted. The procedure activates the tissues, muscles, and nervous system.

Before starting treatment, the patient should undergo diagnostics and consult with a doctor. It is important to conduct trial electrodiagnostics on the affected area, which allows the specialist to assess the muscle's reaction. The electrostimulation device generates impulses with a frequency range of 10-150 Hz. The therapy is carried out in several stages:

1. Placing the patient in a supine position.

2. Cleansing of the skin.

3. Application of a composition to improve electrical conductivity.

4. Application of electrodes.

5. Fixation of hydrophilic pads to the extremities with special elastic bandages.

Electrostimulation is performed in two ways: monopolar and bipolar. The monopolar method is suitable for small lesions, while the bipolar method is used for treating limited mobility and severe pain. In this case, one electrode is placed on the active point, and the second is positioned at the transition point of the muscle to the tendon. It is important to ensure that there is muscle contraction in areas with impaired functionality.

One session of electrostimulation takes from 5 to 15 minutes. The duration of the full course is 10-15 procedures. The number is determined by a specialist. The break between courses should be less than a month. During therapy, the doctor is often asked to move the limb that is damaged. The technique is applied until a persistent remission is achieved.

Types of devices for electrostimulation

To conduct sessions of electrostimulation, different types of equipment are used such as:

1. Devices with manual control — professional models for medical institutions.

2. Myostimulators for face and body.

3. Combined models.

4. Programmable devices.

5. Professional devices for cosmetology.

6. Portable stimulators that are suitable for home use.

Equipment is classified based on the type of electrostimulation: electromuscular, TENS therapy, and neuromuscular. Electromuscular stimulation involves applying electrodes to a group of muscles. TENS therapy is an analgesic treatment that stimulates nerves with a high-frequency signal applied to the painful area. This technique is effective for joint pain, back pain, neuralgia, osteoarthritis, and to alleviate contractures. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation is used to treat damaged and

In physiotherapy, there is a technique using galvanic current. It involves immersing the hands and feet in a tub of water. A galvanic current is passed through it. The technique is important for combating hyperhidrosis.

Key features and characteristics of electrostimulation devices

Electrostimulation, provided by specialized devices, activates nerves and muscles. The transmission of electrical impulses aids in recovery from injuries, rehabilitation, reduction of muscle fatigue, treatment of nervous system diseases, and management of urinary incontinence. Muscle contractions enhance the transmission of impulses along the nerves. These devices are used as part of a comprehensive treatment for various pathologies caused by injuries and diseases, including:

• peripheral, central paresis, paralysis;

• impaired sensitivity of the skin;

• neuritis;

• muscle hypotrophy;

• loss of muscle tone;

• skin aging.

Electrostimulators are used for disorders of the cardiovascular system, digestive organs, dermatological conditions, and prostatitis therapy. The devices have a rejuvenating effect, improve muscle health, normalize blood circulation, accelerate recovery, reduce pain, and promote body toning.

Most physiotherapy devices for electrostimulation consist of a main unit, electrode plates (channels) and wires. Professional versions are more often stationary type and work from the network. A channel is a pair of electrodes that stimulate the corresponding muscle group. The more channels the electrostimulator has, the more programs it can perform.

How to choose an electrostimulation device?

During the selection of equipment, attention should be given to the technical specifications, type of current, portability of the device, and battery life. Before purchasing electrostimulators for muscles, it is important to consider the main features of the equipment:

• purposes of use;

• type of stimulation: synchronous, asynchronous, mixed;

• range of current change;

• number of channels;

• programming and convenience of settings;

• battery life;

• dimensions and weight;

• additional features.

The materials from which the elements of the device are made must be durable and resistant to aggressive substances. The electrodes of most devices are made of carbon fabric, which can be processed. The device for electrostimulation, equipped with a monitor, electrodes of different shapes, provides maximum comfort.

The equipment comes with different types of power sources: batteries, rechargeable batteries, mains power, and fast-charging batteries. Battery-powered devices are more affordable and are typically equipped with two channels. Devices with rechargeable batteries are more expensive but support regular intensive use. Models that operate from mains power or fast-charging batteries are designed for professional use.

Safety rules and care of the device

The safety and effectiveness of electrostimulation equipment depends on compliance with the rules of operation. For this purpose, it is necessary to follow the recommendations including:

1. Correct placement of electrodes.

2. Compliance with the requirements for use from the manufacturer.

3. Regular replacement of electrodes in accordance with the instructions.

4. Disinfection of elements that come into contact with the skin of patients.

5. Avoiding the placement of electrodes on the throat, chest, head.

The specialist begins the therapy gradually with low intensity, increasing it based on the patient's tolerance. It is important to monitor the patient's response during electrostimulation. The therapy should be avoided on unhealthy or damaged skin areas. If pain or discomfort occurs, the session should be stopped immediately. Additionally, it is essential to maintain proper hydration throughout the procedure.

Medical or cosmetology personnel must regularly check the equipment for signs of wear and tear or damage. It is necessary to follow the requirements for maintenance and storage of devices.

Conclusion

The course of most neurological diseases and the post-traumatic period are often accompanied by pain, reduced motor activity, and deterioration in the conduction of nerve fibers. To restore normal functionality to the body's systems and organs, specialists recommend a comprehensive rehabilitation program that includes physiotherapeutic techniques utilizing specialized equipment.

Electrostimulator of muscles has positive feedback from specialists around the world. During the procedure, pulse currents with characteristics close to the membrane impulses of cells are applied. The effect is achieved due to the body's natural response to irritation. It is important to use quality certified devices for the therapy. Bimedis Marketplace offers physiotherapy equipment from leading manufacturers. The site has a wide range of devices for different treatment programs. To get professional advice, you should contact the site managers.