What is VitalStim therapy?
What is VitalStim therapy?
VitalStim Therapy is a non-invasive therapy that uses an electrical current to stimulate the muscles responsible for swallowing. It is the only FDA-cleared device for treatment of dysphagia (swallowing difficulty).
Is Vital Stim effective?
Multiple studies indicate that the VitalStim® Therapy System is safe and effective and that the addition of electrotherapy to traditional management of dysphagia significantly improves outcomes and reduces hospital time. Furthermore, the FDA has also shown positive results from treatment in most patients.
Can you use VitalStim with a pacemaker?
VitalStim is a Safe and Effective Solution In a study with about 900 patients, over 4,500 stimulations were administered, all with no negative side effects, even in patients with pacemakers.
What are the side effects of electrical stimulation?
Side effects include redness and irritation to the skin which typically clears with topical moisturizer in 24 to 48 hours. The electrical current may start off as a slight tingling sensation and build to a pulling sensation.
What are the side effects of electrotherapy?
The most common side effect with electrotherapy is skin irritation or rash, caused by the adhesives in the electrodes or the tape holding the electrodes in place. Overusing electrotherapy may cause a burning feeling in the skin. Directions about the duration of therapy should be followed closely to avoid a problem.
How long does VitalStim last?
VitalStim® NMES works to improve swallowing by strengthening the throat muscles. Treatment sessions are generally given 3 to 5 days per week and last for 30 to 60 minutes each. Patients will undergo treatment for at least a few weeks, sometimes longer, depending on the severity of their symptoms.
Is Vital Stim the same as estim?
VitalStim is a type of electrical stimulation (e-stim) that can stimulate the motor neurons of a muscle and facilitate a muscle contraction during functional exercise. Specifically, VitalStim is Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES), and “VitalStim” is just a brand name, like Kleenex.
What are the contraindications for electrical stimulation?
Contraindications to electrical stimulation include:
- Altered tissue sensation.
- Impaired mental status.
- Presence of an implanted electrical device (the e-stim could interfere with pacemakers or implanted pain stimulators)
- Over malignant tissue.
- Over wounds that are overly moist.
Is epilepsy a contraindication for electrical stimulation?
TENS manufacturers list cardiac pacemakers, pregnancy, and epilepsy as contraindications because it may be difficult to exclude TENS as a potential cause of a problem from a legal perspective. Many centres regard these as contraindications.
Can EMS damage nerves?
In addition, although short-term electrical stimulation is not damaging to nervous tissue, chronic electrical stimulation can damage nerve structure. After the ultrastructure of neurons is altered, neuronal function may be disturbed.
Can you build muscle with electrical stimulation?
EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) is a machine that delivers a stimulating pulse to your muscles. Many athletes seeking a competitive advantage use EMS to build muscle faster. Since EMS can contract a muscle far longer than what an athlete could do themselves, it can grow more muscle and enhance training sessions.
Can electro stimulation damage nerves?
When to use VitalStim in a pacemaker patient?
The clinician should proceed with caution when using VitalStim Therapy in patients who have an implanted ICD and/or pacemaker. Monitor the patient for any signs of possible interference, including syncope, dizziness, palpitations, slow or fast heart rate, or, in the case of an ICD, inappropriate defibrillation.
How does the VitalStim plus NMES work for dysphagia?
The VitalStim Plus NMES for Dysphagia Treatment is an electrotherapy and sEMG biofeedback system designed to help retrain the muscles associated with swallowing. The NMES treatment can be customized with adjustable parameters such as phase duration, frequency, and work/rest time.
How are the electrodes used in VitalStim therapy?
The electrodes provide excellent adhesion and gentle removal. The electrodes are reliable, conductive, and have no internal electrode separation. The unique construction of the VitalStim Electrodes allows them to safely transmit the high current load and density of the VitalStim therapy device.
How does the VitalStim start up kit work?
The Start Up Kit features the adult package plus an extra pair of lead wires and 100 additional electrodes. VitalStim Therapy kits are designed to help treat dysphagia by using external electrical stimulation to re-educate the throat muscles needed for swallowing.