Welcome to another post in the ORIEMS Fit Research Digest! Every time, we bring you fascinating research to inspire curiosity and help you discover how technology can enhance well-being in unique ways. This time, weβre talking about a study that explores how Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) can be used for respiratory muscles.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and recreational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. Read our full disclaimer here: ORIEMS Fit Disclaimer.
About This Research
- Original Study Title: Proof-of-Concept Study Using Non-Invasive Electrical Muscle Stimulation for Engagement of Respiratory Muscles
- Researchers: M. Sheth & M. Malik
- Where & When: Conducted in 2022 by Inspiritus Health, Oxford, UK, and Hillingdon Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
- Why It Matters: This study is one of the first to explore how EMS could help people who face muscle weakening due to being on a ventilator for too long.
What Did They Study?
The researchers wanted to know if EMS could help engage and strengthen breathing muscles, like the diaphragm and intercostal muscles (the muscles between your ribs). These muscles often weaken in patients who rely on mechanical ventilators, leading to a condition called Ventilator-Induced Diaphragm Dysfunction (VIDD).
How Did They Test It?
- They used non-invasive EMS electrodes (no needles or surgeries!) on the chest area of a healthy volunteer.
- By adjusting the EMS settings like frequency and strength, they observed how muscles moved using ultrasound and visual checks.
What Did They Find?
The study had some exciting results:
- 79% of ventilator patients develop muscle weakening within 6 days. EMS could help prevent this.
- EMS made the breathing muscles move and engage effectively.
- By changing the EMS settings, they could even control the type of muscle contractions, which is a promising step toward personalized therapies.
This is just a proof-of-concept study, meaning it's an early-stage trial. But the results show potential for EMS to strengthen breathing muscles and shorten recovery times for people on ventilators.
Why Is This Important for EMS Users?
While this study focused on breathing muscles, it shows how EMS could be applied in new ways:
- For strengthening: EMS is already used for arms, legs, and abs, and now, it might also help with breathing.
- For recovery: If youβre recovering from an illness or injury, EMS could one day be part of your journey to rebuilding muscle strength.
Whatβs Next?
The researchers suggest that larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and to develop special EMS systems for ventilator patients. This is just the beginning!
Trusted Source for the Study
This research was published in the prestigious Thorax Journal. With experts from leading UK institutions like Oxford and London, you can trust the study's credibility.
A Word from ORIEMS Fit
At ORIEMS Fit, we love sharing innovative ideas like these to keep you informed and inspired. Whether you're curious about EMS or exploring new ways to stay fit, weβre here to support your journey.
Stay curious, and check out more posts in our ORIEMS Fit Research Digest!
For the full study, visit: Thorax Journal.
