Welcome to another fascinating post in the ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST Series, where we simplify exciting research to help you explore new ideas.

Today, we dive into a study that examines how Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) could improve blood flow to the brain.

Conducted in Japan, this research opens the door to understanding how EMS might help brain health in innovative ways.

What’s This Research About?

Research Paper Name:
Effects of Electrical Muscle Stimulation on Cerebral Blood Flow

Who Did This Research and Where?

• Authors: Soichi Ando, Yoko Takagi, Hikaru Watanabe, Kodai Mochizuki, Mizuki Sudo, Mami Fujibayashi, Shinobu Tsurugano, and Kohei Sato.
• Institutions: The research was conducted at the University of Electro-Communications in Tokyo, Japan.
• Funding: Supported by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science.

This university is renowned for its advanced research in engineering, neuroscience, and health sciences. The authors are experts in their fields, focusing on human physiology and brain health.

What Is This Research About?

The study aimed to see how EMS impacts cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the brain.

Blood flow to the brain is vital for its health and function. Poor blood flow can lead to cognitive issues, especially in older adults or those who are less active.

Who Was Studied?

• Participants: 9 healthy young men (average age: 22.7 years).
• Condition: No history of heart, brain, or lung problems.

How Was the Study Done?

1. EMS Application:

   • EMS was applied to the abdomen, thighs, and legs using low-frequency electrical pulses (4 Hz).
   • Each session lasted 20 minutes.

2. Comparison:

   • In one session, participants received EMS.
   • In another session, they just rested for 20 minutes (control).

3. Measurement:

   • Blood flow was measured in two major brain arteries:
     • Internal Carotid Artery (ICA), which supplies most of the brain.
     • Vertebral Artery (VA), which supplies the brainstem and cerebellum.

What Did They Discover?

General Findings

EMS increased blood flow to the brain, specifically through the Internal Carotid Artery (ICA). This suggests EMS could help improve oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain.

Specific Positive Findings with Evidence

1. Increased ICA Blood Flow:

   • Before EMS: Blood flow in the ICA was 330 mL/min.
   • During EMS: It increased to 371 mL/min (a 12.4% rise, p = 0.001).

2. No Change in VA Blood Flow:

   • Blood flow in the VA remained steady, ensuring stable blood supply to critical brain areas like the brainstem.

3. Improved Global Brain Blood Flow:

   • Total brain blood flow increased from 910 mL/min to 1,002 mL/min (a 10% improvement).

4. CO2 and Blood Flow Link:

   • The rise in blood flow was strongly linked to higher CO2 levels in the blood (R = 0.74), which helps open blood vessels and improve circulation.

Why EMS Could Be Helpful

• For Brain Health: Better blood flow can support cognitive function and potentially prevent brain aging.
• For Sedentary Individuals: EMS could be an alternative to exercise for improving brain blood flow in people unable to stay active.
• For Recovery: Increased blood flow can aid in post-injury recovery by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the brain.

How Could EMS Help You?

If you’re using an EMS device, these findings suggest it may:

• Enhance circulation, especially to the brain.
• Offer a potential boost to mental clarity and focus.
• Provide health benefits even if you're unable to exercise regularly.

What Do You Think?

Would you try EMS for better brain health?

Have you noticed any mental clarity improvements with EMS? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments!

Research Details

Original Research Name: Effects of Electrical Muscle Stimulation on Cerebral Blood Flow
Simplified Name: How EMS Improves Blood Flow to the Brain
Link to Study: BMC Neuroscience

This source is a trusted, peer-reviewed journal, ensuring the research meets rigorous scientific standards.

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Disclaimer

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EMS benefits, brain health, cerebral blood flow, electrical muscle stimulation research, Japanese neuroscience research, brain blood flow boost, alternative exercise methods, ORIEMS FIT blog, EMS brain oxygenation