Effect of the simultaneous application of NMES and HVPC on knee extension torque.
BACKGROUND
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.


OBJECTIVE
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.


METHODS
Counterbalanced, within-subjects design to test independent variables, stimulation protocol, and contraction condition; ANOVA to analyze dependent variable, peak torque.


METHODS
Athletic Training Research Laboratory.


METHODS
14 healthy subjects (7 male and 7 female, age = 21.9 +/- 2.0 yr, height = 173.4 +/- 10.1 cm, weight = 76.1 +/- 16.7 kg).


METHODS
Participants performed three contraction conditions during two stimulation protocols.


METHODS
Peak isometric knee extension torque.


RESULTS
The main effect for Stimulation Protocol was not significant: F1,26 = .01, P = .94.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Holcomb
William
W
Department of Kinesiology, UNLV, USA. wholcomb@nevada.edu
Rubley
Mack D
MD
Girouard
Tedd J
TJ
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007537:Isometric Contraction / Q000502:physiology*; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D007719:Knee Joint / Q000502:physiology*; D008297:Male; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology; D019415:Torque; D016896:Treatment Outcome