Effect of the Simultaneous Application of NMES and HVPC on Knee Extension Torque

Abstract

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 +/- 10.1 cm, 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.