NeuroMD is different because it utilizes clinically studied NMES parameters that relieves back pain by improving lower back health.
Often confused with other types of electrotherapy such as Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) which targets sensory nerves, NeuroMuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) targets motor nerves. The sensory and motor nerves are recruited with different electrical parameters, which is why NMES and TENS affect the body differently. Let’s take a look at the uses and differences between NMES and TENS.
It’s important to understand that not all TENS units are the same, nor are all NMES devices the same. The various parameters affect many aspects of the stimulation such as the electrical currents penetration depth into the body, comfort, muscle recruitment, and muscle fatigue.
It’s also important to understand how different parameters such as waveform and frequency can greatly affect treatment results.
Below are parameters used in electrotherapy:
- 1. Frequency - dictates the nerves recruited motor nerves vs sensory nerves and elicits a strong muscular contraction without excessive muscular fatigue. If you use too high a frequency, the muscles can become over fatigued and possibly weaken.
- 2. Waveform - improves patient comfort while delivering efficient muscle recruitment/contraction.
- 3. Pulse Duration - targets deep, secondary spinal stabilizing muscles.
- 4. Amplitude - Increases intensity of the stimulation.
- 5. On:OFF ratio (Duty Cycle) - A ratio of the ON time of each cycle to the OFF time (e.g., ON:OFF 10:30 s=1:3 ratio). Higher ratios (1:5) have more rest time between muscle contractions and cause less muscle fatigue.