Welcome to ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST, where we explore the latest research to inspire curiosity and empower you with simplified insights.
Today’s feature delves into how Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) combined with chewing exercises can enhance bite force and muscle thickness in older adults.
(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 Paper Name:
Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Synchronized with Chewing Exercises on Bite Force and Masseter Muscle Thickness in Community-Dwelling Older Adults in South Korea: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Who Conducted This Research?
The research team includes Ji-Su Park, Young-Jin Jung, and Min-Ji Kim, representing prestigious South Korean institutions:
- Dongseo University, Busan: Known for its advanced research in aging-friendly healthcare.
- Department of Radiological Science, Dongseo University: A leading center in health technology innovation.
The study was conducted in 2020 and published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, a globally trusted, peer-reviewed journal.
Why Was This Study Conducted?
Chewing is critical for healthy digestion and nutrition, especially for older adults prone to muscle weakness or sarcopenia.
By combining NMES with traditional chewing exercises, researchers sought to investigate if this synergy could deliver better results in improving bite strength and muscle health.
Who Participated in This Study?
The study involved 35 older adults aged 70 and above. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups:
- Experimental Group: Performed chewing exercises while receiving NMES.
- Control Group: Only performed chewing exercises.
Both groups completed 20-minute sessions, 5 days a week, for 6 weeks.
What Did the Study Find?
General Positive Findings
NMES synchronized with chewing exercises significantly improved:
- Masseter Muscle Thickness
- Maximum Bite Force
Specific Findings with Evidence
-
Muscle Thickness Increased
- The experimental group showed a 29% improvement in muscle thickness (from 6.78 mm to 8.76 mm).
- In contrast, the control group only saw a 3% increase.
-
Bite Force Enhanced
- Participants receiving NMES had a 13% improvement in bite force, measured as a jump from 254.85 N to 287.62 N.
- The control group only improved by 6.6%.
-
Synergistic Effect
- NMES activated Type 2 muscle fibers (fast-twitch fibers responsible for strength), complementing chewing exercises, which naturally engage Type 1 fibers (endurance-focused fibers).
Why is This Important?
Stronger chewing muscles improve not only oral health but also enhance digestion and nutritional absorption.
NMES offers a non-invasive, safe, and efficient solution to combat muscle loss in aging populations.
How Can This Help EMS Device Users?
- Targeted Strengthening: NMES can specifically target muscle fibers that regular exercises might miss.
- Accessible and Convenient: Short, structured sessions make it easy to integrate into daily routines.
- Holistic Benefits: Improved oral function leads to better overall health and quality of life.
What Do You Think?
Could this technology make a difference for someone you know?
Would you consider EMS for oral health improvement? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Research Details
Original Research Paper Name:
Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Synchronized with Chewing Exercises on Bite Force and Masseter Muscle Thickness in Community-Dwelling Older Adults in South Korea: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Simplified Name:
How NMES and Chewing Exercises Improve Jaw Strength in Older Adults
Link to Study:
Read the Full Study Here
This source is published by MDPI, ensuring a peer-reviewed and credible foundation for its findings.
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