The major findings of this study are as follows: 1) the lowest stimulation frequency (1 Hz) most effectively increased energy expenditure in human paralyzed muscle, when normalized across a fixed number of stimulus pulses; 2) energy expenditure during electrical stimulation is not modulated by a systemic sympathetic response (HR), 3) the highest stimulation intensity (100 mA) most effectively increased energy expenditure, and 4) individual factors such as increased BMI and VAT attenuate energy expenditure response to electrical …show more content…
For example, strategic neuromuscular electrical stimulation of muscles allows people with SCI to cycle or row. However, the high cost and typical absence of insurance coverage for FES systems make them an unfeasible option for at-home use for most people with SCI. Training at a rehabilitation facility equipped with an FES system is an alternative, but engaging in routine training outside of the home adds logistical challenges with transportation and scheduling. An added difficulty with training via FES is that high muscle forces may carry a risk for fracture in individuals with post-SCI osteoporosis. FES approaches that generate high forces must be carefully monitored to avoid this possibility. By contrast, training with low-frequency, low-force stimulation may offer a path to mitigate the metabolic consequences of SCI without exposing participants to the risks of traditional FES.
Current research in sedentary adults supports that this type of long-duration training may be of particular metabolic value. Regular low-intensity physical activity throughout the day has been shown to have greater systemic health benefits compared with performing short-duration, high-intensity exercise. Insulin sensitivity and plasma lipid levels improved more with frequent low-intensity activity compared with shorter duration exercise of high intensity.
6. Chen, Henson,