At ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, we bring you the latest and most fascinating research about EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation).

Today, we explore a groundbreaking study that investigates how Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES - a niche of EMS) can help improve physical performance and muscle strength in older adults recovering from stroke.

Let’s break this down into simple terms and understand why this study matters.

Who Conducted This Research and Where?

This study was carried out by a team of highly esteemed researchers from Kyung Hee University in Seoul, Korea, along with contributions from other academic and medical institutions.

Kyung Hee University is known for its excellence in medical and rehabilitation research.

This work was also supported by the Korean government, highlighting its reliability and importance.

What Is This Study About?

This research focuses on Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)—a method of using mild electrical currents to stimulate muscles and improve movement in people who have experienced a stroke.

Functional ES has been applied to help patients regain muscle strength, improve walking ability, and even prevent muscle loss caused by inactivity.

Who Was Studied?

The research mainly targeted older adults who had suffered from chronic or subacute strokes.

These individuals often face difficulty walking, maintaining balance, and using their muscles due to stroke-related muscle damage.

How Did the Researchers Study It?

The team reviewed a variety of studies where Functional ES was applied to muscles such as the dorsiflexors (muscles that help lift the foot) and hip abductors (muscles that stabilize the pelvis). They examined how Functional ES influenced walking patterns, muscle strength, and balance.

What Did They Find?

1. Improved Muscle Strength
Functional ES significantly increased the strength of muscles, particularly the dorsiflexors, by 56% when combined with conventional rehabilitation methods. This improvement helped patients lift their feet properly while walking.

2. Better Balance and Gait Performance
Functional ES enhanced both static and dynamic balance, which reduced the risk of falls. It also helped patients walk more naturally, correcting issues like foot drop.

3. Prevented Muscle Loss
For older adults, Functional ES prevented muscle atrophy by triggering muscle contractions that mimicked natural movement, even in paralyzed muscles.

Why Is This Important for EMS Device Users?

If you or someone you know uses an EMS device, this research highlights its potential in stroke recovery. EMS could be a valuable tool not just for fitness but for rebuilding strength, improving balance, and enhancing mobility after neurological conditions like stroke.

Think About This:
What would life be like if Functional ES or EMS could help someone you know regain their strength and independence? Have you ever considered how technology could be a game-changer in rehabilitation? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments!

Learn More About This Research

Original Research Paper:
Therapeutic Effects of Functional Electrical Stimulation on Physical Performance and Muscle Strength in Post-stroke Older Adults: A Review
By Hyung Eun Shin et al., published in the Annals of Geriatric Medicine and Research in 2022.
Click Here to Read the Full Study

About ORIEMS FIT Research Digest

Our mission at ORIEMS FIT Research Digest is to inspire curiosity and empower you with knowledge about EMS and its many benefits. Whether you're interested in fitness, recovery, or rehabilitation, we aim to make science simple, relatable, and useful for everyone.

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Disclaimer: This blog is for informational and recreational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. For full details, visit our disclaimer page at ORIEMS FIT Disclaimer.