Effect of the Simultaneous Application of NMES and HVPC on Knee Extension Torque
Context:Electrical stimulation using simultaneous application of two current types for multiple effects is a current treatment option, but the effect of this treatment is not currently known.Objectives:To compare isometric knee extension torque when using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in combination with High Voltage Pulsed Current (HVPC) versus NMES alone during three contraction conditions of quadriceps.Design:Counterbalanced, within-subjects design to test independent variables, stimulation protocol, and contraction condition; ANOVA to analyze dependent variable, peak torque.Setting:Athletic Training Research Laboratory. Participants: 14 healthy subjects (7 male and 7 female, age = 21.9 ± 2.0 yr, height = 173.4 ± 10.1cm, weight = 76.1 ± 16.7 kg).Intervention:Participants performed three contraction conditions during two stimulation protocols.Main Outcome Measure:Peak isometric knee extension torque.Results:The main effect for Stimulation Protocol was not significant: F1,26 = .01, P = .94.Conclusion:Simultaneous application of HVPC with NMES does not facilitate the neuromuscular response but may provide an efficient treatment when managing atrophy, strength loss, pain, and edema associated with reconstructive surgery.