I Background - CefarCompex Physio 5 Guia Practica

I Background

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NMES
NMES (NeuroMuscular Electrical Stimulation) is used successfully both in medical
rehabilitation as well as a complement to athletic training at all levels.
The goal of electrical muscle stimulation is to achieve contractions or twitches of the
muscles. Normal muscular activity is controlled by the central and peripheral nervous
systems, which transmit electrical signals to the muscles. NMES works similarly but uses
an external source (the stimulator) with electrodes attached to the skin for transmitting
electrical impulses into the body. The impulses stimulate the nerves to send signals to
a specifically targeted muscle, which reacts by contracting, just as it does with normal
muscular activity.
Electrical muscle stimulation is suitable for all the muscles in the body. It can be used to
strengthen muscles weakened by surgery, a fracture, etc., and improve mobility. It is also
an excellent tool for stroke rehabilitation, helping patients in handgrip and gait training.
TENS
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) produces good results in acute
and chronic pain conditions of many kinds. It is clinically proven and used daily by
physiotherapists, other caregivers and top athletes around the world.
TENS activates the pain-inhibiting mechanisms of the nervous system. Electrical impulses
from electrodes, placed on the skin over or near the painful area, stimulate the nerves to
block the pain signals that are sent to the brain, and the pain is less perceived.
TENS is a safe treatment method and has, in contrast to oral painkillers and other pain
relief methods, no known side effects. It may be sufficient as the only treatment form, but
it is also a valuable complement to other pharmacological and/or physical treatments.
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