Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a form of canine rehabilitation and is offered at Valley
Veterinary Hospital and Squibnocket Animal Center. Also known as therapeutic (or threshold) electrical
stimulation (TES), is a form of electrical stimulation that attempts to strengthen muscles weakened by dis-use.
TES uses sub-contraction stimulus to promote muscle growth. In a pet with disuse atrophy, contracting muscles
use the strongest fibers; therefore weakened muscles do not respond and deteriorate further.
NMES increases blood flow to the muscles in which fibers are atrophied. NMES can also be used to treat muscle
atrophy and joint mobility problems, such as contractures; circulation inadequacies; disuse atrophy; spasticity
(tone abnormalities) and gait abnormalities. NMES has also been used for orthopedic rehabilitation for pets that
have musculoskeletal dysfunction (e.g., disuse weakness, joint restrictions, edema, and spasms). This therapy is used
to strengthen muscle tone and improve functional abilities. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) for the
prevention and/or treatment of disuse muscle atrophy following immobilization, injury, or surgery is considered
medically necessary if the medical appropriateness criteria are met.

for a video of neuromuscular electrical stimulation