The therapy takes place primarily at the structural level.
When is electrical stimulation non-functional (NMES)?
Stimulation is referred to as non-functional electrical stimulation if it is not designed for active or function- or task-oriented patient cooperation.
Application
Atrophy prophylaxis, muscle strengthening, toning, detonation
e.g. the pure build-up or preservation of muscle tissue on the buttocks, e.g. to prevent pressure sores. [1]
NMES uses weak electrical impulses to activate the muscles that supply the motor nerves. Unlike functional electrical stimulation (FES), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is usually used to activate nerves and muscles to increase strength, rather than for a functionally useful task such as grasping or walking. NMES is often used to increase the strength of weak or paralyzed muscles prior to FES treatment.