Electrotherapy devices, or electrical stimulation, is used for many reasons when recovering from an injury or surgery. Electrical stimulation is used to contract muscles that are weak or not functioning well. E-Stim may also be used to help decrease pain or spasm.
There is some evidence where e-stim can also be used to help treat stubborn wounds.
The most significant gains from electrical stimulation are typically seen in a rehabilitation setting among post-operative patient or someone recovering from an injury dealing with severe muscle atrophy and lack of coordination; it can help to supercharge your recovery time. But it’s not for the everyday athlete interested in bench pressing more weight or shaving time off their 5K race. Also, if you’re looking to gain muscle mass, stick to heavy lifting and protein shakes.
Most of these sessions will run 5-10 minutes in duration and may be coupled with ice or heat. Dr. Petersen will know the best application for your injury.