Electrical Muscle Stimulation (often referred to by the short form EMS) is also known as neuromuscular electrical stimulation and works by using electrically induced impulses to produce muscle contractions. These portable devices come with detachable electrode pads. The electrode pads convey the impulses to the skin. Before applying the electrode pads to the skin they are usually lubricate in order to provide proper conduction of the current. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) devices has provided observable relief for those suffering from sprains, lower back pain and arthritis.
Electronic muscle stimulators fall under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. As such, the FDA is responsible for regulating the sale of these devices throughout the United States. Companies that wish to sell these devices, legally, need to adhere to the FDA’s pre-market regulatory requirements. Most EMS (electrical muscle stimulators) that have been reviewed by the FDA are for use by a health care professional for physical therapy and rehabilitation. Any company wanting to sell EMS or TENS devices directly to the public would have to show the FDA that it can be used safely and effectively in the home.
The FDA has approved a number of EMS and TENS devices for use in treating medical conditions. Physical therapists can use electric muscle stimulation to treat patients who suffer from muscle spasms, require a increased range of motion or are in danger of muscle atrophy. These devices are generally intended to help patients with impaired muscle function due to some medical condition and not to increase specific muscles enough to affect their appearance.
Any EMS or TENS units which have not met the FDA pre-market requirements are not legal for sale. The FDA has not been given the opportunity to determine their effectiveness and safety.
While it is possible for an EMS device to strengthen, tone and firm muscles, at this time none are capable of providing weight loss, k
Just using an EMS device on its own will not give you the “six-pack” abs you’re hoping for. However, applying an electric current to muscles may make them contract. Stimulating your muscles repeatedly with the aid of electricity may result in some strengthening and toning, but, based on information currently available, it will not change your appearance without regular exercise and dieting.
Report any medical device malfunctions to the manufacturer. The FDA also has a voluntary reporting program for medical device malfunctions – MedWatch. You have four options for submitting a report to MedWatch: MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form online, by telephone at 1-800-FDA-1088; by FAX at 1-800-FDA-0178; or by mail to MedWatch, Food and Drug Administration, HF-2, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857