Welcome to another post in the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we simplify groundbreaking research to inspire curiosity and empower your fitness and recovery journey.

Today, we’re exploring an exciting study on how Whole Body Electrical Muscle Stimulation (Whole Body EMS) could help manage fibromyalgia symptoms. This research sheds light on innovative ways to improve the quality of life for people living with chronic pain.

(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.)

What is this research about?

• Research Title: "Acute Effects of a Session with the EXOPULSE Mollii Suit in a Fibromyalgia Patient: A Case Report"
• Authors: Alejandro Rubio-Zarapuz, María Dolores Apolo-Arenas, Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez, Ana Rodrigues Costa, David Pardo-Caballero, and Jose A. Parraca.
• Published: 2023, in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

This study explored how a 60-minute session of Whole Body EMS using a specialized suit could affect pain perception, muscle oxygenation, and physical function in a fibromyalgia patient.

Who conducted this research, and where?

• Researchers: From institutions like Universidad Europea de Madrid (Established in 1995) and Universidad de Extremadura (Founded in 1973) in Spain, and University of Évora (Founded in 1559) in Portugal.
• Institution Highlights:
  • Universidad Europea de Madrid is renowned for its innovative approaches in sports sciences.
  • University of Évora has a strong reputation in health sciences and rehabilitation studies.
• Funding: Supported by various academic grants and research initiatives.

These researchers bring expertise from leading institutions dedicated to advancing health and sports science.

Who participated in this study?

The study focused on a 43-year-old female patient with fibromyalgia. She experienced chronic musculoskeletal pain and associated symptoms like fatigue and reduced physical function.

What methods were used?

The study was a case report that tested the effects of a 60-minute Whole Body EMS session on various health markers:

• Pain perception: Measured using a numeric rating scale (0–10).
• Muscle oxygenation: Measured with advanced sensors.
• Functional performance: Assessed using tests like chair stands and handgrip strength.
• Nervous system activity: Evaluated via salivary biomarkers and thermography.

What were the findings?

Positive General Explanation

The Whole Body EMS session showed promising results in reducing pain, improving muscle oxygenation, and enhancing physical performance.

These effects suggest that Whole Body EMS could offer a non-invasive way to manage fibromyalgia symptoms.

Specific Evidence and Data Supporting the Findings

1. Pain Reduction:

   • The patient’s pain score dropped from 7 to 5 (a 28.6% reduction) immediately after the session.

2. Muscle Oxygenation:

   • Muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) increased by 10.4% (from 41.8% to 52.2%).
   • Oxygenated hemoglobin levels rose from 4.79 g/dL to 5.97 g/dL, indicating better oxygen delivery to muscles.

3. Improved Physical Function:

   • Chair Stand Test: The patient completed 8 stands post-session, up from 5 before the session (a 60% improvement).
   • Handgrip Strength: Increased from 15.9 kg to 17.5 kg (a 10% improvement).
   • Balance Test: Balance time on the right leg improved dramatically, from 3 seconds to 30 seconds.

4. Nervous System Benefits:

   • Saliva production increased from 0.18 mL/min to 0.42 mL/min, suggesting better parasympathetic nervous system activity.
   • Hand temperatures decreased, indicating reduced stress-related sympathetic activity.

Why is Whole Body EMS promising for fibromyalgia patients?

Fibromyalgia often involves chronic pain, poor blood flow, and nervous system dysfunction. Whole Body EMS may help by:

• Improving blood circulation: Enhanced oxygen delivery to muscles can reduce fatigue and pain.
• Boosting strength and function: Better muscle activation can improve everyday movements.
• Supporting relaxation: Reduced stress responses can lead to a calmer nervous system.

How could this study help Whole Body EMS users?

If you use a Whole Body EMS device, this study highlights how even short sessions can:

• Relieve pain and improve comfort.
• Enhance physical function in tasks like standing or gripping.
• Calm the body through better nervous system regulation.

Where can you read the research?

• Research Paper Name: Acute Effects of a Session with the EXOPULSE Mollii Suit in a Fibromyalgia Patient: A Case Report
• Simplified Title: How Whole Body EMS Helps Fibromyalgia Patients
• Link to Study: Click here to read the full study

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

What do you think?

Have you tried  EMS to manage pain or improve strength? How has it worked for you? Would you like us to explore more research on Whole Body EMS and pain relief? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest

At ORIEMS FIT, we aim to inspire curiosity by simplifying cutting-edge research. Each post is designed to help you explore new ways to enhance your fitness and recovery. Share this post with anyone who could benefit from learning about EMS technology!

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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and recreational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. For full details on our disclaimer, visit here.