Part of the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest Series
At ORIEMS FIT, we are dedicated to sharing the latest research to inspire curiosity and help you explore the fascinating world of electrical muscle stimulation (EMS). Our blog series uncovers cutting-edge studies, keeping you informed and encouraging your own research journey.
This week, we dive into an intriguing study that looks at how direct electrical stimulation affects muscle and nerve connections, even on the opposite side of the body. While we won’t make medical claims, this research offers exciting possibilities for understanding how EMS works and why it may be useful for improving muscle health.
Research at a Glance
Original Research Title:
Direct Electrical Stimulation Impacts on Neuromuscular Junction Morphology on Both Stimulated and Unstimulated Contralateral Soleus
Authors:
Young il Lee, Nicola Cacciani, Ya Wen, Xiang Zhang, Yvette Hedström, Wesley Thompson, Lars Larsson
Where and When:
- Conducted by researchers from Texas A&M University (USA) and Karolinska Institutet (Sweden).
- Published in 2023 in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia, and Muscle.
- Both institutes are highly respected, with Karolinska Institutet being a world leader in medical research.
Who Funded It?
The research was funded by grants from the Swedish Research Council and the Erling-Persson Foundation.
What Was This Study About?
The researchers studied how direct electrical stimulation (DES) affects neuromuscular junctions, which are the connections between nerves and muscles. They focused on rats with one leg’s muscles stimulated for several days. Surprisingly, they discovered changes not only in the stimulated leg but also in the opposite leg that wasn’t stimulated. This phenomenon is called a cross-over effect.
Key Findings
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Reduced Overgrowth in Nerves and Supporting Cells:
- Direct stimulation decreased nerve overgrowth (sprouting) in the stimulated muscle by 35% compared to unstimulated muscles.
- Similar effects were seen in the opposite, non-stimulated leg.
-
Stronger Connections:
- Electrical stimulation helped muscles maintain stronger nerve connections, preventing excessive sprouting that could disrupt muscle recovery.
-
Systemic Effects:
- Proteins and molecules released from the stimulated muscle traveled through the bloodstream, influencing the opposite muscle.
-
Gene Activity Changes:
- Over 60 specific genes related to muscle and nerve health were positively affected by electrical stimulation, even in non-stimulated muscles.
Why Is This Important?
This study shows that electrical stimulation doesn’t just benefit the muscle it’s applied to—it can have effects throughout the body. This means EMS may help improve muscle health in unexpected ways, such as reducing overactive nerve growth or promoting balance between muscles.
How Could This Help EMS Users?
For EMS device users, this research suggests that:
- Regular use of EMS might help maintain healthier nerve connections.
- It could reduce unwanted changes in nerve growth, helping muscles recover better.
- EMS might have indirect benefits for areas of the body beyond the site of application.
Dive Deeper Into Research
Simplified Name of Study:
How Electrical Stimulation Affects Muscles on Both Sides of the Body
Original Study Link:
Click here to access the study
This link takes you to the publisher’s website, where the full study is available. Published in a reputable journal, this research follows strict scientific guidelines, ensuring trustworthy results.
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About ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST
At ORIEMS FIT, we bring you simplified insights from groundbreaking studies to inspire curiosity and help you explore new ways to improve health and fitness. Share this blog with anyone who might benefit from these findings!
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