Electric Muscle Stimulation (EMS): Benefits, Uses & What to Expect

The use of electric muscle stimulation to shape your body keeps increasing in popularity across the nation. But the public's craving for a quick-fix solution has yet again proven ineffective.

Definition

• The electric muscle stimulation machine sends electric currents through electrodes into your muscles, which forces the muscle to contract repeatedly.

Uses

• EMS is not intended for over-the-counter use. Approved uses include muscle re-education, range-of-motion training, local blood circulation increase, relaxing muscles spasms and reduction of swelling.

Muscle Growth

• While muscles will experience some growth from electric currents, it will not result in a significant change.

Side Effects

• The American Council of Exercise commissioned a study conducted by the University of Wisconsin, La Cross, in May, 2002, to determine the effectiveness of EMS. The study found that not only was it ineffective for muscle growth, but it was also painful and time-consuming.

Warning

• Beware any time a company puts forth any of the following claims as a result of electric stimulation: girth reduction, loss of inches, weight reduction, cellulite removal, bust development, body shaping and contouring, and spot reducing.