A Multi-channel Computer Controlled Electric Stimulator to Improve Peripheral Muscle Strength in Diseased Populations

Abstract

<p>Muscle atrophy is a common problem among patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This is, in part, due to low exercise capacity and inactivity. Therefore, neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES) is proposed to alleviate this problem. NMES has been shown to elicit strength gains in other diseased populations. Muscle stimulators on the market today are unable to provide the required control and channels necessary to test the above hypotheses. Thus, a multi-channel, computer controlled muscle stimulator was developed. The system was tested through a series of three pilot studies. First, the safety of NMES was verified. Secondly, the system underwent clinical testing to determine if it is possible to increase muscle strength within the ESRD population. Finally, the idea of incorporating depolarizing pulses to the stimulus pulse train was investigated in an attempt to minimize perceived pain.</p> <p>Results show that NMES is a safe and well tolerated form of rehabilitation. The system was shown to be capable of enduring the rigors of testing. Clinically, NMES showed an increase in peripheral muscle strength within the ESRD population that are comparable to the results shown by previous NMES studies involving other diseased populations. Also, the incorporation of prepulses proved to be an effective method of reducing the perceived pain of NMES.</p> <p>The effectiveness of NMES on ESRD patients should be evaluated further. This includes the addition of more subjects to the study in order to show a significant increase in strength.</p>