NEUROMUSCULAR ELECTROSTIM

What is Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation? 

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) uses electrical stimulation  to cause contraction of muscle. Electrical impulses are applied through  electrodes that are attached to the skin over the target muscle. Repeated  impulses increase muscle strength and patient awareness of the muscle 

Who can benefit from NMES? 

NMES helps increase muscle strength when the patient is unable or  unwilling to use the muscle normally. 

This is particularly useful in dogs with spinal injuries that can not walk, and  in dogs with post surgical orthopedic conditions that are not using the  affected leg. 

How often should it be done? 

NMES is usually used early in the recovery process. It is typically repeated  two or three times a week in the first few weeks after injury, but can be  applied multiple times daily in hospitalized patients. Treatment is  discontinued when the patient begins actively using the muscle. 

Are there any side effects? 

Involuntary muscle movement can be scary, especially for nervous dogs.  Most dogs tolerate treatment well, but it can be painful at higher intensity  settings. Once the unit has been properly adjusted to the correct level of  stimulus it does not hurt. NMES should not be used in dogs with an implanted pacemaker.