Static balance adaptations after neuromuscular electrical stimulation on quadriceps and lumbar paraspinal muscles in healthy elderly

Abstract

Background Strength training as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is effective in counteracting age-related postural impairments in elderly. However, it remains unknown whether training different muscle groups would entail in different adaptations. Aim To evaluate the effect of NMES training on balance function in healthy inactive elderly, targeting paravertebral muscles, in addition to thigh muscles. Methods Eleven healthy elderly were trained with NMES for 8 week allocated to combined training (CT: quadriceps and lumbar paraspinal muscles) or to quadriceps training (QT), after completing lifestyle questionnaire and spine morphology measurements. Functional balance, static stabilometry, and isometric strength tests were assessed before and after the training period. Results and conclusion The CT group showed a greater improve in static balance control, i.e., reducing the CEA of the CoP displacement from 99 ± 38 to 76 ± 42 mm2 (Cohen’s d = 0.947). Benefits for improving static balance through CT might be due to NMES training, which increases spinal stabilization.

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation in the intensive care unit prevents muscle atrophy in critically ill older patients: A retrospective cohort study

“…[15] The effects of NMES on older people have been reported, including an increase in cross-sectional areas of muscle tissue and muscle strength [16] and improvements promoting postural control. [17,18] However, there are no reports on its effects on older patients admitted to the ICU, and such effects are unclear. In addition to quantitative assessment, qualitative assessment of muscle mass is also attracting attention.…”

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation of Abdominal Muscles to Improve Standing Balance

“…And Acheche et al [27] showed a 29.3% improvement in balance after applying NMES combined with VMC to the quadriceps and calf muscles. Furthermore, Bondi et al [28] have reported that static balance improved by 30.3% after 8 weeks of application of NMES to the quadriceps and lumbar paraspinal muscles. Furthermore, Another purpose of this study was to examine how the effect of NMES on balance performance was affected by vision.…”

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation effect on mRNA expression of skeletal muscle in elderly

“…Research by Bondi et al (16) investigated the shortterm effect of NMES on static balance performance in elderly with chronic stroke and healthy people. The results showed that 20-minute stimulation with 1.5 mA improves static balance.…”