At Atlas Chiropractic & Wellness, we offer Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) as a therapeutic tool to assist in pain relief, injury recovery, and muscle rehabilitation. EMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate muscle contractions, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural healing process.
Why it’s done
Electrical Muscle Stimulation is commonly used when muscles are weak, atrophied, or not functioning properly due to injury, surgery, or disuse. By causing the muscles to contract and relax repeatedly, EMS mimics natural movement and helps re-educate the muscles. This technique is especially helpful in cases where movement is limited or too painful to perform actively.
EMS is also effective in managing acute and chronic pain by stimulating nerves and blocking pain signals to the brain, much like a TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit. It’s often used in combination with chiropractic care, massage therapy, or physical rehabilitation programs.
How electrical muscle stimulation helps
Electrical stimulation therapy offers a wide range of benefits, making it a valuable addition to many treatment plans. These include:
- Muscle Strengthening and Re-education: Particularly after injury or surgery, EMS helps restore strength and function in weakened muscles.
- Pain Management: EMS reduces pain by interrupting pain signals and stimulating the release of natural endorphins.
- Increased Blood Circulation: Muscle contractions improve blood flow, helping reduce inflammation and speed up the healing of soft tissues.
- Reduction of Muscle Spasms: EMS relaxes tense or spastic muscles, providing relief for conditions like sciatica or fibromyalgia.
- Prevention of Muscle Atrophy: For patients with limited mobility, EMS can help prevent muscle loss by maintaining tone.
What to expect during treatment
During an EMS session, small electrode pads are placed on the skin over the targeted muscles. A controlled electrical current is delivered to the area, causing involuntary muscle contractions. The sensation can feel like a gentle tingling or tapping, and the intensity can be adjusted for your comfort.
Sessions typically last 10–20 minutes and may be part of a larger treatment plan that includes chiropractic adjustments or physical therapy exercises. Many patients experience immediate relief and improved mobility after treatment.
Is electrical muscle stimulation beneficial?
EMS is a safe, proven, and drug-free therapy that benefits a wide range of patients, from athletes recovering from injury to individuals managing chronic pain. It is particularly effective for:
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Sports injury recovery
- Lower back pain
- Neck pain and tension headaches
- Joint inflammation
- Muscle recovery after physical strain
When used as part of a personalized wellness plan at Atlas Chiropractic & Wellness, EMS enhances outcomes and accelerates healing.
Are there alternatives?
While EMS is highly effective, there are alternative therapies that may be recommended depending on your condition and goals. These include:
- TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) – A similar therapy used primarily for pain relief rather than muscle stimulation.
- Myofascial Release Therapy – Manual therapy that targets muscle tightness and fascial restrictions.
- Chiropractic Adjustments – Restore joint alignment and relieve nerve pressure, often used in conjunction with EMS.
- Massage Therapy – Promotes relaxation, blood flow, and muscle recovery through hands-on techniques.
- Cold Laser Therapy – A non-invasive treatment using light to reduce inflammation and pain.
Our care team will evaluate your specific needs and design a customized treatment plan that may include EMS, other therapies, or a combination of both to help you heal faster and feel your best.