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What is an Electronic Muscle Stimulator?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

An electronic muscle stimulator is a medical device that is used to treat various muscle conditions. Some versions of the device are designed for home use, and claim that they will promote weight loss, although this has not been scientifically proven. It uses electrical signals to tense and release muscles, through the employment of small electrodes on either side of the muscle area. A stimulator can improve muscle tone, but it will not create muscles where none existed before, and it certainly will not result in “rock hard abs,” as many manufacturers would have consumers believe.

Medically, a medical professional may prescribe an electronic muscle stimulator to a stroke patient to aid in muscle retraining, to an individual experiencing painful muscle spasms, or to a patient who needs to increase his or her range of motion. The patient is trained in the correct use of the device, and given specific directions about when and where it should be used. Some healthcare professionals may prescribe this device or a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit to treat migraines and muscle pain, although this usage has not been extensively studied.

A neurologist may use electronic muscle stimulation to mitigate migraines and muscle pain.
A neurologist may use electronic muscle stimulation to mitigate migraines and muscle pain.

Many countries regulate the manufacture of electronic muscle stimulator units, because improper use can result in problems. Skin irritation is not uncommon, but there have been reports of burns and heart events associated with the use of such devices as well. A medical professional should be consulted before using any electronic muscle stimulator, in case the user has an underlying medical condition that it could aggravate. He or she may also be able to make recommendations about brands and usage, or provide alternative treatments for the issue that is driving the patient to use the device.

An electronic muscle stimulator may be useful to someone experiencing a sore or painful muscle.
An electronic muscle stimulator may be useful to someone experiencing a sore or painful muscle.

When purchasing an electronic muscle stimulator, consumers should make sure it is electrically safe. Many safety organizations, including the National Safety Foundation and Underwriters Laboratories, certify electronic devices, which will be stamped with the seal of the organization. If the nation in which the device is being purchased has a government regulatory agency, like the US Food and Drug Administration, consumers should find out if it has an approved list of devices safe for use. The approved list will typically also feature more information about the medical value of claims that manufacturers will make.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Georgesplane

@ Framemaker- My friend decided to buy an electronic muscle stimulator and he was disappointed. He could not get used to the feeling of something causing his muscles to tighten, and he saw very little results. We all had a good laugh about how much of a sucker he is for the "new things with flashy advertising".

FrameMaker

I always wondered about those electronic muscle stimulator belts advertised on television, but I was never going to be the only fool I knew who bought one. I also thought they would be a little weird to use, and probably no more motivating than a regular workout. They seem like bulky contraptions that would take a serious amount of use to see any noticeable results. I would rather spend that time hitting a gym or playing sports. I will get just as toned, but have more fun while doing it.

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    • A neurologist may use electronic muscle stimulation to mitigate migraines and muscle pain.
      By: MediablitzImages
      A neurologist may use electronic muscle stimulation to mitigate migraines and muscle pain.
    • An electronic muscle stimulator may be useful to someone experiencing a sore or painful muscle.
      By: Maridav
      An electronic muscle stimulator may be useful to someone experiencing a sore or painful muscle.
    • A medical professional should be consulted before using an electronic muscle stimulator.
      By: Rido
      A medical professional should be consulted before using an electronic muscle stimulator.