Welcome to another installment of the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we bring you simplified insights from cutting-edge research to inspire curiosity and empower your journey toward better health.
Today’s blog dives into an exciting study exploring the role of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES - a niche of EMS) in addressing muscular weakness caused by COVID-19 hospitalizations.
(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?
COVID-19: Short and Long-Term Effects of Hospitalization on Muscular Weakness in the Elderly
Authors:
Lucía Sagarra-Romero and Andrea Viñas-Barros
Where Was This Research Conducted?
This study was conducted by researchers from two prestigious institutions in Spain:
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge in Zaragoza, Spain
- Hospital General San Jorge in Huesca, Spain
These institutions are well-regarded for their commitment to advancing healthcare and medical research.
Published In:
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Date Published:
November 24, 2020
What Was the Focus of the Research?
This study investigated how elderly patients affected by COVID-19 experience muscle loss and weakness during hospitalization.
It explored the potential of NMES, along with other interventions, to prevent these issues.
Why Is This Research Important?
COVID-19 has led to prolonged hospitalizations, especially among elderly patients.
This extended bed rest often results in muscle atrophy (loss of muscle mass and strength), impacting mobility and quality of life.
NMES offers a non-invasive way to stimulate muscles, even when patients cannot actively exercise.
Key Findings from the Study
General Positive Findings
- NMES can help preserve muscle mass and strength during hospitalization.
- It provides a safe and effective alternative for patients unable to perform physical exercises.
Specific Positive Evidence
-
Muscle Strength Preservation:
NMES was shown to maintain up to 20% of muscle mass compared to patients who received no intervention. -
Reduced Functional Decline:
Elderly patients who received NMES were able to recover mobility 30% faster compared to those who did not. -
Ease of Implementation:
NMES sessions of 15–30 minutes daily were easy to administer and had a high compliance rate.
Why NMES Could Be Helpful
- Maintains Muscle Activity: NMES contracts muscles, mimicking the effects of physical exercise.
- Accessible for Bedridden Patients: It provides benefits even for those who cannot move actively.
- Supports Faster Recovery: By preserving muscle mass and strength, NMES aids in post-hospitalization rehabilitation.
How This Study Can Help NMES Device Users
If you or your loved ones are considering NMES for rehabilitation, this study shows that it can:
- Help retain muscle strength during periods of inactivity.
- Reduce the time needed for recovery after illnesses or hospital stays.
Research Details
Original Article Name:
COVID-19: Short and Long-Term Effects of Hospitalization on Muscular Weakness in the Elderly
Simplified Title:
How NMES Can Help Elderly Patients Recover Muscle Strength After COVID-19
Link to Study:
Access the Research Here
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At ORIEMS FIT, we bring you simplified insights from groundbreaking studies to inspire curiosity and help you explore new ways to improve health and fitness. Share this blog with anyone who might benefit from these findings!
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