Can I Get Six-Pack Abs Using Electric Muscle Stimulation?
EMS (electronic muscle stimulation) is sometimes called electromyostimulation and employs electrical impulses to induce muscle contractions. These portable devices come with detachable electrode pads. The electrode pads convey the impulses to the skin. The electrode pads are generally lubricated to provide proper contact with the skin and to allow for good conduction of the current. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) devices has provided observable relief for those suffering from sprains, lower back pain and arthritis.
Electrical muscle stimulators are regulated by the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. As such, the FDA is responsible for regulating the sale of these devices throughout the United States. All manufacturers must comply with the FDA pre-market requirements before they can legally sell these devices. The majority of MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form reviewed by the FDA are for use in physical therapy under the supervision of a health care professional. If a company plans to sell MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form for home use, they would need to prove to the FDA that they can be used safely and effectively in that setting.
Several MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form have been approved by the FDA for prescription use in treating medical conditions. Physical therapists can use electronic muscle stimulation to treat patients who suffer from muscle spasms, require a increased range of motion or are in danger of muscle atrophy. These devices are primarily used to assist patients recovering from impaired muscle function caused by a medical condition, not to increase the size of specific muscles enough to affect actual appearance.
Electrical Muscle Stimulators which have not met FDA pre-market requirements are illegal. The FDA has not been able to determine their safety and effectiveness.
While EMS devices can strength, tone and firm muscles temporarily, at this time none are capable of providing weight loss, waist reduction or perfect abs.
An EMS device alone will not produce those "six-pack" abs. Nonetheless, applying a current to your muscles can cause them to contract. You can strengthen and tone your muscles by repeatedly stimulating them with an electrical current, however, given the current data, the only way to change your appearance is by also doing regular exercise and eating a sensible diet.
Report any medical device malfunctions to the manufacturer. You can also submit a report to MedWatch, the FDA's voluntary reporting program. There are several ways to submit a report to MedWatch: MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form online, by telephone at 1-800-FDA-1088; by FAX at 1-800-FDA-0178; or by mail to MedWatch, Food and Drug Administration, HF-2, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20857
