EMS - muscle stimulation
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What is EMS?
Electrical muscle stimulation is a widely used and recognised method which has been part of sports and rehabilitation medicine for years. In sports and fitness, EMS is used to complement conventional muscle training, to increase the performance of muscle groups and to adjust physical proportions to achieve the desired aesthetic results, amongst other things. EMS training can be used to achieve two different goals. One is for targeted strengthening of the muscles (activating application), and the other is to achieve a relaxing, restful effect (relaxing application).
- Muscle training to increase endurance and/or
- Muscle training to support the strengthening of specific muscles or muscle groups, and to achieve desired changes to physical proportions
- Muscle relaxation for easing muscle tension
- Improving symptoms of muscular fatigue
- Accelerating muscle regeneration after intense exercise (e.g. after a marathon)
How does the EMS technology work?
The EMS technology works by transmitting electrical pulses to the muscles. The EMS device generates these pulses and transmits them via electrodes to the skin, where they are absorbed by the muscles and trigger a contraction. The intensity and frequency of the pulses can be individually adjusted to maximise the effect.
How do I use an EMS device correctly?
Before using an EMS device, please read the instructions for use for the device carefully and follow the instructions precisely. However, the following general rules apply:
- Using soap and water, thoroughly clean the skin in the treatment area.
- Position the electrode pads or the EMS belt.
- Set the EMS device to the desired intensity or program.
- Activate the EMS device and make sure that the muscles contract and relax again gently and rhythmically.
Placement of the electrodes
Proper placement of the electrodes is fundamental to the results of the treatment. Many of our devices off on-screen electrode placement guides or guides within the instruction booklet. However, if you are unsure, you should consult your doctor or physiotherapist for guidance.
The greater the distance between the electrodes, the larger is the stimulated tissue volume. This applies to the area and depth of the tissue volume. However, the tissue stimulation also becomes less intense the further apart the electrodes are. This means that if you position the electrodes far apart, you will stimulate a larger volume but at a lower intensity level. In such a case, you must increase the pulse intensity to boost the stimulation. The following guidelines apply when choosing the electrode distances:
- Recommended distance: approx. 5–15 cm
- At distances below 5 cm, the device primarily stimulates surface structures intensively
- At distances in excess of 15 cm, large areas and deep structures are stimulated very weakly
Adapt the current flow direction to the fibre structure of the muscle, according to the muscle layer you would like to treat. If you are targeting superficial muscles, position the electrodes parallel to the fibre structure (A–B/C–D). If you are targeting deeper layers of tissue, position the electrodes across the fibre structure. You can do this by cross-positioning the electrodes (i.e. diagonally), such as A–D/B–C.
On which parts of the body can an EMS device be used?
An EMS device can be used on various areas of the body to stimulate specific muscles. This includes increasing endurance and strengthening and accelerating the regeneration of certain muscle groups. It is therefore ideal for helping athletes to strengthen their muscles.
- Abdominal muscles
- Leg muscles (thighs, calves)
- Gluteal muscles
- Back muscles (upper and lower back)
- Chest muscles
- Shoulder muscles
- Arm and hand muscles
- Neck muscles
When should I talk to my doctor before using an EMS device?
Before using the device, consult your doctor if any of the following apply to you:
- If you suffer from an acute medical condition, particularly if you suspect or have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, a blood coagulation disorder, propensity to thrombo-embolic conditions or recurrent malignant growths
- If you have any skin conditions
- If you have unexplained chronic pain in any part of the body
- If you suffer from diabetes
- If you have any sensory impairment that reduces the feeling of pain (e.g. metabolic disorders)
- If you are receiving medical treatment
- In the event of complaints linked to the stimulation treatment
- If you suffer from persistently irritated skin due to long-term stimulation at the same electrode site
What is the difference between a TENS and an EMS device?
TENS and EMS are two different technologies used in electrotherapy.