NMES Flashcards
What is the range for Pulse Frequency?
35-80 pps
(Feels very pokey/tappy at lower pulse frequencies, higher is more tingly and feels butter)
What pulse duration is recommended for small muscles?
150-200 microseconds
What pulse duration is recommended for large muscles?
200-350 microseconds
What is Amplitude and how to prescribe for an initial treatment?
Amplitude = Intensity
- Start at about 10% MVC
- Can go up to > 50% MVC later on as a progression
On:Off Time, what to start off initially
1:5 ratio ; 10:50 seconds
With repeated treatments how can ON:OFF time be altered?
Reduce off time with repeated treatments
- Lower ratio of on:off is more fatiguing
What is Ramp time?
Time it takes to reach the max amplitude
What is more comfortable a short or long ramp time?
Longer Ramp Time
Typical Treatment Times for NMES?
10-20 minutes
How many times a day should this be utilized?
Every 2-3 hours when awake
Easiest way to increase patient comfort?
Decrease Amplitude; Intensity
Ways to increase patient comfort: Ramp Time
Increase Ramp Time
Ways to increase patient comfort: Pulse Duration
Decrease Pulse Duration, to increase patient comfort
Ways to increase patient comfort: Electrode Size and Quality
- Increase Size
- Change pads if old, make sure they have sticky backing
Ways to increase patient comfort: Pulse Frequency
Increase Pulse Frequency to get more of the tingly sensation rather than pokey sensation
