Can Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) Help in the ICU? Surprising Research Findings from Leading Experts
Welcome to the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest!
We’re back with another easy-to-understand research post, part of our series that brings you interesting and helpful findings from experts worldwide. Today’s research looks at how Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) might benefit people who are critically ill and staying in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit).
Please note: This post is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always check with your doctor before trying any new treatments.
Research Article Details
- Research Name: Interventions for Preventing Critical Illness Polyneuropathy and Critical Illness Myopathy
- Authors: G. Hermans, B. De Jonghe, F. Bruyninckx, and G. Van den Berghe
- Published by: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2014
Who Did This Research and Where?
This study was done by experts from KU Leuven, a top university in Belgium, and other leading medical centers in France. Cochrane Library published this study, known for its trustworthy, thorough research on healthcare topics.
What Is This Research About?
This research looks into critical illness polyneuropathy and myopathy (CIP/CIM)—a condition that causes muscle weakness and can make recovery tough for people in the ICU. The researchers wanted to see if using EMS, which gently stimulates muscles with electrical pulses, could help prevent this condition or reduce its effects. CIP/CIM can make it hard for people to breathe on their own and extend their hospital stay.
Who Was This Study Done On?
The study reviewed 140 critically ill adults in the ICU who were receiving different treatments, including EMS and physical therapy, to find the best methods to support muscle strength.
Method Used in This Study
The researchers reviewed multiple clinical trials, testing different approaches to help prevent CIP/CIM. EMS was one of these interventions, and they analyzed if it could help ICU patients maintain some muscle strength.
What Did They Find?
The findings showed mixed results, but here’s a summary:
- EMS Had Some Positive Impact: Some patients who received EMS showed slight improvements in muscle function. However, the effect wasn’t strong enough to be conclusive.
- Other Benefits: Patients receiving EMS didn’t experience negative effects, meaning it’s generally safe.
These findings suggest EMS might help a little, but more research is needed to be sure.
Why Could EMS Be Helpful for Muscle Problems?
For critically ill people in the ICU, EMS might help gently activate and preserve muscle strength, especially if they’re unable to move on their own.
How This Might Help EMS Users
While the study doesn’t make any strong promises, it hints that EMS could help keep muscles active, even during long periods of limited movement. If you’re using an EMS device, talk to your doctor about how EMS might fit into your health routine.
Research Paper Original Name:
Interventions for Preventing Critical Illness Polyneuropathy and Myopathy
Simplified Name:
Does EMS Help Muscles Stay Strong in the ICU?
Link to Study:
Cochrane Library Study — The Cochrane Library is a trusted source for health research, making it a reliable place to learn more about this study.
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD006832.pub3/epdf/full
About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest
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Disclaimer: This post is for informational and recreational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. For more details, visit our full disclaimer.
