Welcome to another post in the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we explore fascinating research to inspire curiosity about fitness and recovery technologies.

Today, we delve into a study that reveals how Microcurrent Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation (MENS - a niche of EMS) can enhance exercise performance and recovery.

(Scroll to the end of each post to find a link to the original study, often with full PDFs—perfect for building your research collection.)

Research Title

Effects of Acute Microcurrent Electrical Stimulation on Muscle Function and Subsequent Recovery Strategy

Authors

Alessandro Piras, Lorenzo Zini, Aurelio Trofè, Francesco Campa, and Milena Raffi.

Who Conducted This Research and Where?

This study was conducted in Italy by researchers from:

• University of Bologna (established in 1088), Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, and Department for Life Quality Studies.
• City: Bologna and Rimini, Italy.
• Reputation: The University of Bologna is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, renowned for health and sports science research.

What Was the Research About?

This study investigated how microcurrent electrical stimulation (a form of EMS with very low electrical intensity) affects oxygen use during exercise and aids recovery afterward.

Who Participated in This Study?

• Participants: 10 healthy recreationally active adults (2 women and 8 men).
• Ages: 27.2 years on average.
• These individuals were not elite athletes, making the findings relatable for everyday users.

How Was the Research Conducted?

The participants underwent:

1. Baseline assessment to measure oxygen use and muscle function.
2. A cycling exercise preceded or followed by MENS or a placebo treatment.
3. Continuous monitoring of oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood lactate.
4. Recovery evaluation to measure how quickly their bodies returned to normal after exercise.

Findings: Why Is This Research Exciting?

General Explanation

The study showed that MENS improved muscle oxygen use during exercise and helped the body recover faster afterward.

This technology could benefit anyone looking to enhance fitness or reduce fatigue after physical activity.

Specific Evidence Supporting These Findings

1. Better Oxygen Use During Exercise:

   • Participants who received MENS before cycling showed a 23.6% faster oxygen uptake in muscles (measured as muscle deoxygenation time).

2. Improved Recovery:

   • MENS after exercise led to a 5.9% faster heart rate recovery, indicating quicker relaxation of the nervous system.
   • Lactate levels (a marker of muscle stress) were reduced by 16.7% faster during recovery with MENS compared to placebo.

3. Enhanced Blood Flow:

   • Increased blood flow and vasodilation in muscles stimulated quicker removal of toxins and improved oxygen delivery.

Why Is MENS Useful for Recovery?

Microcurrent stimulation works at a cellular level, helping muscles recover by:

• Increasing ATP (cellular energy) production, which fuels muscle repair.
• Boosting oxygen availability, reducing muscle fatigue.
• Promoting relaxation of the nervous system for quicker recovery.

How Can This Study Help EMS Device Users?

If you use an EMS device, this study suggests:

• Use EMS before exercise to improve muscle oxygenation.
• Use EMS after workouts for quicker recovery and reduced soreness.
• Consider EMS for low-impact fitness, especially if traditional workouts are challenging.

Read the Research Yourself

Original Title: Effects of Acute Microcurrent Electrical Stimulation on Muscle Function and Subsequent Recovery Strategy
Simplified Title: How MENS Boosts Recovery and Oxygen Use
Link to Study: Click here to access the full research

This research was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, a peer-reviewed, trustworthy source for health studies.

What Do You Think?

Have you tried EMS for recovery or performance improvement? How did it help you? Would you like us to explore more research like this? Let us know in the comments!

About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest

At ORIEMS FIT, we simplify scientific research to inspire curiosity and empower you with knowledge. Share this post with friends or family who might benefit from EMS technology, and explore more on our blog.

Explore how EMS is being studied for strength, recovery, mobility & more! See Global Research by Top Scientists, Click Here 

Disclaimer: This blog 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 full details, visit our disclaimer.