Welcome to another blog post in the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest series! We’re here to bring you easy-to-understand and fascinating insights into the world of health and science. Today, we’ll explore a study that dives deep into how electrical stimulation (ES) can help maintain muscle strength, especially during periods of inactivity. This isn’t medical advice—just information to inspire curiosity!
Study Details
Research Title:
An Electrical Stimulation Intervention Protocol to Prevent Disuse Atrophy and Muscle Strength Decline: An Experimental Study in Rats
Authors:
Haiwang Shi, Fan Li, Fulong Zhang, Xiaobei Wei, Chengyi Liu, and Rui Duan.
Where and When?
This research was conducted at the Lab of Regenerative Medicine in Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China, a renowned institution for cutting-edge science in sports and health. The study was published in 2023 in the Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, a highly respected publication.
Who Funded It?
This study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Guangzhou Scientific Research Grant.
What’s the Study About?
The study investigates how different electrical stimulation methods can help prevent muscle weakening caused by extended periods of inactivity, like being bedridden or weightlessness in space. It tests combinations of low-frequency (LFES) and high-frequency (HFES) electrical stimulation to find the best way to maintain muscle strength and endurance.
Who Was Studied?
The researchers studied adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, a common animal model for muscle studies. The rats experienced muscle inactivity through a method called tail suspension, which mimics muscle disuse in humans.
What Did They Do?
- The researchers applied HFES and LFES to the rats in different combinations.
- HFES mimics resistance exercise and boosts muscle mass.
- LFES mimics aerobic exercise and improves endurance.
- The researchers measured changes in muscle mass, strength, endurance, and even the tiny structures inside the muscles.
Key Findings
-
Muscle Preservation:
- HFES before inactivity increased muscle mass by up to 62%.
- LFES during inactivity improved muscle endurance by 29%.
-
Strength Boost:
- Combining HFES and LFES increased muscle strength by 66% compared to no treatment.
-
Better Recovery:
- The combined approach restored muscle structure and strength better than using only one type of stimulation.
Why Is This Important?
This study suggests that EMS devices, like Oriems Fit, might help people who face muscle weakness from inactivity. For example:
- Older adults struggling with limited mobility.
- Those recovering from injuries or surgeries.
EMS can offer a non-invasive way to keep muscles active when regular exercise isn’t possible.
How This Can Help You
For users of EMS devices:
- Daily Use: Incorporating EMS regularly might help you maintain strength and stamina.
- Custom Programs: Adjusting EMS settings to include both HFES and LFES-like modes could optimize results.
Want to Learn More?
Original Study Title:
An Electrical Stimulation Intervention Protocol to Prevent Disuse Atrophy and Muscle Strength Decline: An Experimental Study in Rats
Simplified Title:
How Electrical Stimulation Protects Muscles
Study Link: Full Study Here
https://jneuroengrehab.biomedcentral.com/counter/pdf/10.1186/s12984-023-01208-6.pdf
This trusted source ensures accurate and well-reviewed information.
About ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST
At ORIEMS FIT, we love sharing the latest research to spark your curiosity. Each blog post aims to simplify complex topics so you can explore them further.
Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only. It does not replace professional advice. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance. Read our full disclaimer here: ORIEMS FIT Disclaimer
