Abstract
ObjectiveTo compare maximal evoked torque, discomfort, and fatigue-related outcomes between multipath neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and conventional NMES of the quadriceps muscle in patients with total knee arthroplasty (TKA). DesignRandomized, single-blind, crossover study with 2 experimental sessions (multipath NMES, conventional NMES). SettingResearch laboratory. ParticipantsPatients (N=20; mean age, 68y) 6 to 12 months after TKA surgery. InterventionsNone. Main Outcome MeasuresWe quantified NMES-evoked knee extension torque at the maximally tolerated current intensity, self-reported discomfort, and fatigue induced by NMES intermittent contractions in both conditions. ResultsCompared with conventional NMES, multipath NMES resulted in higher evoked torque (33%, P<.001), lower discomfort scores (−39%, P<.001), and less quadriceps muscle fatigue (P=.034). ConclusionsThe use of multiple current pathways distributed to large electrodes allowed multipath NMES to generate stronger contractions and reduce discomfort and fatigue compared with conventional NMES. Therefore, multipath NMES has the potential to be more effective than conventional NMES.
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