Electrical Stimulation

Electrical stimulation is a treatment that uses electrical impulses to stimulate muscles, nerves, or other tissues, in order to improve strength, reduce pain, or promote healing. There are different types of electrical stimulation, including transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), and functional electrical stimulation (FES).

There is some research available on the benefits and effectiveness of electrical stimulation. A review of the literature published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy in 2012 found that electrical stimulation was effective in improving muscle strength and reducing pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The review also found that electrical stimulation was effective in improving muscle strength in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Another review of the literature published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science in 2018 found that electrical stimulation was effective in reducing pain and improving muscle function in patients with low back pain. The review also found that electrical stimulation was effective in improving muscle function in patients with stroke.

There have also been some studies that have suggested that electrical stimulation may be effective in promoting healing in patients with wounds and other tissue injuries. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology in 2008 found that electrical stimulation was effective in promoting wound healing in patients with chronic ulcers.