Welcome to the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest!
Here at ORIEMS FIT, we love sharing interesting studies from around the world about health and technology. In this blog, we dive into a fascinating study about how Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) can align with our natural body movements, making it feel less like a machine is controlling us.

Let’s break it down into the simplest terms for you.

Original Study Title:
Perceptual Simultaneity and Its Modulation During EMG-Triggered Motion Induction with Electrical Muscle Stimulation

Authors:
Seito Matsubara, Sohei Wakisaka, Kazuma Aoyama, Katie Seaborn, Atsushi Hiyama, Masahiko Inami

Who Did This Research and Where?
This research was carried out by a group of scientists from the University of Tokyo in Japan, including their prestigious Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology. The University of Tokyo is one of the most well-respected universities in the world for cutting-edge research.

Funding Source:
The study was funded by two programs from Japan: the JST CREST program and the ERATO JIZAI Body Project.

What Was the Study About?

The researchers wanted to find out how to make EMS feel like a natural part of your body. Often, when machines like EMS are used to assist movement, people feel a bit uncomfortable because the timing of the machine’s stimulation doesn’t match their own movements.

This study looked at ways to adjust EMS timing so it feels “in sync” with your body.

Who Was in the Study?

They worked with 23 healthy adults who didn’t have any conditions that would affect their muscles.

How Was the Study Done?

• Devices Used: They attached EMS machines to people’s arms and used a device called EMG to detect when the muscles were about to move.
• Testing Process: They tested different delays between when the muscle naturally moved and when the EMS kicked in.

What Did They Find?

1. Natural Timing is Key: When EMS activates within 80-160 milliseconds of your natural muscle movement, it feels synchronized.
2. Your Body Can Adapt: If the timing is slightly off, your brain can adjust over time, making it feel more natural with repeated use.

Why is This Important?

For EMS users, this means devices can be designed to work with your body rather than against it. Whether you’re using EMS for recovery, training, or just to explore new tech, understanding timing can make the experience more enjoyable.

How Can This Help You?
This research shows that EMS can be used in a way that feels natural. If you’re new to EMS, give your body time to adapt. Using devices with well-designed timing can make your sessions more comfortable.

Where to Learn More:
The full study is available here: Read the Study
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0236497&type=printable

Why This Study is Trustworthy:
This study was published in PLOS ONE, a journal known for its rigorous review process. The authors are experts from a top university, and the research was funded by reputable programs.

About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest
We simplify exciting research for everyone to enjoy and learn. Each blog post is meant to inspire you to explore more about technology and health.

Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational and recreational purposes only. It’s not medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before trying new treatments. See our full disclaimer here.

Stay tuned for more insights from the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest!