Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is used to address conditions where there is loss of muscle mass and/or muscle weakness. It helps in cases in which the dog needs assistance walking or is paralyzed. NMES can be used to treat orthopedic and spinal cord injuries, as well as accelerate tissue healing in patients with fractures and can help with muscle strengthening.

“Sticky” electrode pads are placed on specific muscles of your dog and a low-level electrical current is introduced. The low current causes a muscle contraction, mimicking weight-bearing activity. Also known as “e-stim,” this modality can help to decrease pain in your pet so that it may actively participate in its rehabilitation sessions. This can be critical during the first few weeks post-surgically when the goal is to get your pet weight-bearing and utilizing its body appropriately. At the Animal Rehabilitation Center of Michigan, patient benefits we see include:

• Prevention of additional loss of muscle mass/strength
• Improved muscle strength
• Muscle re-education
• Improved joint range of motion
• Pain management
• Decreased inflammation
• Decreased muscle spasms