United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I would like to know where i could get a e-stim machine that will contract the muscles in my arm. All I have is a TENS/EMS unit that my Dad thinks will contract muscles in my arm(BPI paralisys) because it will move muscles in his arm(normal). If anyone knows any other machines that will help please let me know.

Thanks for your help.

Allen

Hi Allen! The type of electrical stim you're thinking of is called NMES: Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation. It produces an electrical stimulus that activates targeted muscles or muscle groups. The TES unit you already use is very different because it only increases blood flow to the targeted muscle(s) and provides growth hormones to the muscle(s) to make a healthier muscle. It doesn't cause a contraction of the muscle.

The type of NMES unit that we use for my daughter (obpi) is the Empi FOCUS. It has: 8 custom preprogrammed regimens, two independent intensity controls, continuous or cycled stimulation capability, several rate settings, and adjustable ON and OFF time controls. [I took this info. from the FOCUS manual that comes with the machine.]

This is how it works: "The device produces a mild electrical current that is transmitted via leads to electrodes placed on the skin over the motor point or the targeted muscle. Stimulation of motor end plates cause nerve depolarization and activation of muscle fibers which results in a muscle contraction."

This unit also has the capability for use as TENS: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator that is used to manage pain.

The Empi FOCUS NMES unit can only be obtained with a prescription by a physician. You need a therapist or physician who understands how it operates.

Here's a phone number: 1-800-328-2536.

The physician that we see for NMES treatment is in Columbus, OH. If you're interested in contacting her, let me know!

My daughter also does TES at night with a Mayatek unit. We have a different therapist for that. The two units are for different purposes.