Electrodes train muscles
Background
If muscles are not used regularly, they shrink. Therefore, patients quickly lose muscle mass if they are bedridden, have had a stroke or are paralyzed after a spinal fracture. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a treatment that attempts to slow the loss through implanted electrodes that stimulate the nerves that normally activate the muscles.
Evidence
FES has been used for decades, but the efficacy depends on the quality of the equipment. It also matters how carefully patients are selected. The treatment works well when it comes to improving walking ability in patients after a stroke or with MS. It also helps to maintain muscle mass in bedridden patients, for example after major surgery. Home devices with electrodes on the skin work much less well.
Verdict of science
Works in some cases.
2024-03-15 17:26:46
#Verdict #Science #Electricity #Heal #Body
