The benefits or harms of Electrical Muscle Stimulators (EMS) have been under the scanner for years now and contradictory reports have been published in this regard.
While some call it the elixir for supernatural strength, others term it as unnatural and harmful.
What these stimulators do is that they replicate the production of electric current inside body through a device which is attached to the electrodes in contact with our skin.
This electric current, stimulates the muscles in the applied area to contract and thereby strengthening them.
However, it is no substitute for exercising and ought to be used for injury recovery purposes.
Some of the common benefits and harms that come hand in hand with the use of Electrical Muscle Stimulators are as follows: Benefits Aids Athletes: High profile coaches have been known to use these stimulators for training the players at various levels.
The stimulation helps them to enhance their peak performances in around a fortnight's time and also ensures faster recovery from injuries.
Not only is it used for rehabilitation but is increasingly being used in training of runners, football players, body builders and other strenuous athletes.
Faster Recovery: Even a small injury can easily jeopardize the career of a sportsperson and Electrical Muscle Stimulation aids the injured players to recover faster and retain a fitter physique.
The results achieved with EMS's are such that the player is able to return to the field with a strengthened body despite being in rehabilitation.
Damage to bones, ligaments, tendon etc.
are greatly soothed by these.
Harms Faux Machines: Since it is a latest technological advancement, the market is thronging with machines which use the basic EMS formula for weight loss and calorie burning.
Although calories are burnt through their use yet it isn't as systematic as a traditional exercise routine would be.
One shouldn't be tempted to use EMS as weight reducing tactics while sitting on a sofa and relaxing.
It has to be complemented with other forms of physical training.
Others: If not used under proper guidance, the stimulator can also lead to muscle tear if it has been turned too high for one's endurance.
The electric current and adhesive on electrodes can also result in skin allergies and irritation.
Since the stimulator works on electric current generation, it may interfere with other implanted electrical medical devices.
For such users should always consult their doctors before resorting to use EMS.
If any of the so far mentioned cons occur, one should seek professional help at earnest.