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What are ab stimulators?

The article discusses excitatory substances known as Electrical Muscle Stimulators (EMS). The first thing to understand about EMS is that they are a part of the broader family of muscle stimulators, recognized as electronic muscle stimulators or EMS devices.

EMS devices are often employed for physical therapy or rehabilitation purposes. Doctors prescribe or recommend them to patients for various reasons, such as treating muscle tension, improving range of motion, preventing muscle atrophy, or aiding in the recovery of muscles after significant injuries or surgeries. Lori Shemek, a certified nutrition consultant and author of “How to Fight Fatflammation,” based in Dallas, notes, “For decades, physical therapists have been using electronic muscle stimulators for the treatment of injured muscle tissues.”

Recently, a specific type of EMS device has been approved by the FDA to assist people in building strong abdominal muscles. These devices are commonly known as ab stimulators. Shemek explains that such devices use electrical pulses or stimulation to force muscles to contract, leading to the development of abdominal muscles. She states, “It’s the contraction that creates abdominal growth.”

Do ab stimulators work?

The first thing to learn about ab stimulators, or Electrical Muscle Stimulators (EMS), is that they are a part of the broad family of muscle stimulators, known as electronic muscle stimulators or EMS devices.

EMS devices are commonly used in physical therapy or rehabilitation. They are prescribed by doctors to patients for various purposes, such as treating muscle tension, improving range of motion, preventing muscle atrophy, or assisting in muscle recovery after significant injuries or surgeries. Dr. Lori Shemek, a certified nutrition consultant and author based in Dallas, notes that for decades, physical therapists have utilized electronic muscle stimulators for treating injured muscle tissues.

Recently, a specific type of EMS device, approved by the FDA, has been introduced to help people strengthen their abdominal muscles. These devices are popularly known as ab stimulators. Shemek explains that these devices use electrical pulses or stimulation to force muscles to contract, leading to the development of abdominal muscles. She states, “It’s the contraction that creates abdominal growth.”

However, it’s crucial to note that not all claims made by ab stimulators hold up under scientific scrutiny. According to Natalie Allen, MEd, RD, a Clinical Associate Professor and team nutrition specialist at Missouri State University’s Athletics Department, some ab stimulators claim to reduce waist size and improve posture, but studies are limited and do not show significant improvements in these areas. In fact, according to the FDA, several devices making such claims lack scientific evidence.

The Federal agency also highlights that when electrical currents are applied to muscles through ab stimulators, “the result is ultimately somewhat stronger and toned muscles, but based on currently available data, this won’t happen without incorporating a healthy diet and regular exercise into your routine.”

Apart from ab stimulators like Slendertone Flex, which uses electrical pulses, there are other FDA approved devices, such as Emsculpt Neo, that work in a slightly different way. Dr. Lisa Espinoza, a beauty doctor and medical director at La Chelé Medical Aesthetics in Pennsylvania, explains, “Unlike traditional ab stimulators, Emsculpt Neo uses a different form of stimulation known as radiofrequency with combined high intensity focused electromagnetic energy.”

It’s essential to approach these devices with a balanced perspective, understanding that while they may contribute to muscle stimulation, overall health and fitness involve a combination of proper nutrition and regular exercise.

What are the disadvantages of ab stimulators?

While both of these devices are FDA-approved, several available ab stimulators may pose risks. The FDA notes instances of interference, burns, shocks, skin irritation, pain, and interference with crucial medical devices (such as pacemakers) associated with the use of uncontrolled (ab stimulator) products. It emphasizes that irregular ab stimulator devices may also have safety issues related to cables and leads, potentially causing accidental shocks and electric shocks to users and other household members.

Even when such devices don’t cause severe harm, Espinoza advises that many irregular ab stimulator devices promise results that are often “too good to be true.” She suggests seeking physician monitored care or using doctor recommended devices when considering such devices. Shemek agrees that it’s essential not to overuse ab stimulator substances and recommends taking breaks during usage. She says, “Muscles need time to heal, which is a crucial and integral part of building strong and well-defined abs.”

Allen advocates for a holistic and more natural approach to achieving fitness goals. She advises incorporating overall health improvements, such as walking, running, long walks, or cycling, into one’s routine. Focusing on a nutritious diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins is crucial for overall health and weight management, including targeting the abdominal area. She emphasizes the importance of a more natural perspective towards becoming physically fit.