### What is Electrical Myostimulation? Electrical myostimulation (EMS) is a type of therapy that uses electric currents to enhance muscle function. Electrodes are attached to the skin over the muscles, and a current is run from a battery to the muscle, causing it to contract. Over time, this can help increase muscle strength and mass. ### Types of Currents Used There are three main types of electric currents used in EMS: direct current (galvanic), alternating current (biphasic), and pulsed current (pulsed AC and DC). Each type has slightly different applications in therapy. ### Benefits for Muscle Health EMS is particularly beneficial for athletes looking to boost muscle strength and power. It can also help in the recovery of muscles after an injury, promoting healing and increasing muscle mass by about 1% and muscle function by 10% to 15% within five to six weeks of regular therapy. ### Benefits for People with Diabetes For people with type 2 diabetes, EMS can increase the metabolism of glucose in the body, helping them to metabolize sugars more efficiently and enhance their functional performance. ### Benefits for Heart Failure Patients EMS can improve exercise capacity in people with chronic heart failure, serving as a replacement for physical exercise during heart failure management. ### Benefits for Older Adults As people age, muscle degeneration becomes a concern. EMS offers a safe and effective way to maintain muscle mass and function, especially for those with mobility issues or anabolic resistance. It poses no risk of joint injury, making it a good alternative to physical exercise for elderly people. ### Other Applications EMS is also useful for managing muscle mass and function loss in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart disease, or end-stage renal disease. ### Precautions EMS is not suitable for everyone. It should be avoided by pregnant women, individuals with medical implants like pacemakers, and those with certain medical conditions. It should also not be used on the eyes, damaged skin, or around the reproductive organs.