How EMS Physiotherapy Machines May Support Modern Rehabilitation

In the evolving field of physical rehabilitation, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is being explored as a complementary method alongside traditional physiotherapy. EMS physiotherapy machines, when used by trained professionals, may provide additional support to patients undergoing recovery. In some clinics across Australia and New Zealand, EMS is being integrated into treatment protocols as part of a broader rehabilitation strategy.

What Is Electrical Muscle Stimulation in Physiotherapy?

Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) involves low-level electrical impulses that stimulate muscle contractions. These impulses mimic the body's natural neural signals and are used by physiotherapists to support patient care in specific circumstances NEUFIT Australia supplies the NEUBIE device—a direct current (DC) neurostimulation system designed to enhance recovery by promoting neuroplasticity. Unlike standard EMS tools, NEUBIE’s DC technology interacts more directly with the nervous system, helping practitioners accelerate healing. NEUFIT does not deliver treatment services but empowers providers with this cutting-edge technology.

Clinical Uses of EMS in Rehabilitation

EMS is not a standalone therapy, but in appropriate cases, it may serve as a helpful adjunct to physiotherapy or allied health care plans. Some potential applications include:

1. Support for Post-Injury or Post-Surgical Recovery

EMS may help stimulate muscles when voluntary movement is limited. This can be especially useful in early-stage rehab to assist with maintaining muscle activity and supporting range of motion goals.

2. Pain Modulation Support

Some practitioners may use EMS to activate sensory nerves, which can help support non-pharmacological pain management strategies. This is usually done in conjunction with other treatments.

3. Complement to Exercise Therapy

EMS can sometimes be used to support neuromuscular re-education, especially in conditions where traditional exercise may be initially difficult. It should always be prescribed based on a thorough clinical assessment.

For more on how EMS fits into integrated rehab models, see NEUFIT's page on how it works.

EMS for Different Patient Needs

EMS may be considered as part of treatment plans for:

• Sports Injury Management – To maintain muscle engagement during rest phases or aid with performance recovery. View how athletes use NEUFIT.
  

• Neurological Conditions – EMS may assist with motor pattern retraining in patients managing stroke, spinal cord injuries, or other neuromuscular disorders.

  
  

• Post-Surgery Rehab – EMS may support circulation, swelling reduction, or muscle conditioning during early stages of recovery, as clinically indicated Before using EMS, it is essential that practitioners assess whether the approach aligns with a patient’s individual condition and goals.
  

  Regulatory Considerations for EMS Devices in Australia
  

  All EMS devices used in clinical practice must comply with Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) standards. This includes:
  

• TGA Registration – Devices must be included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).
  

• Approved Use Only – Any therapeutic claims must match the device’s TGA-approved intended purpose.
  

• Qualified Application – EMS should only be administered by trained professionals under clinical supervision.
  

  NEUFIT’s NEUBIE device is designed for professional use and may be suitable for integration in rehabilitation settings. For device-specific information, please refer to NEUBIE product information.

  
  

Modality	Indication	Waveform	Pulse Frequency	Pulse Duration	Intensity	Treatment Duration
NMES	Muscle strengthening, edema management	AC, Russian	50-80; 20-80	200-800; 100-600	To 60-70% and max voluntary contraction; to tetanic muscle contraction	10-20 strong contractions; 3 secs on, 3 secs off x 10-20 mins
FES	Contraction for function	AC, Russian	20-60	200-800	To the desired effect	Task specific; isometric
High frequency TENS	Pain modulation	Pulsed AC	>50; generally 80-110	50-100	To perception of stimulus; no motor response	20-30+ minutes
Low frequency TENS	Pain modulation	Pulsed AC	<10	>150	To point of visible muscle twitch	20-45 minutes
Hi-Volt stimulation	Pain modulation	DC or Pulsed DC	100	250 up to 1 second	To highest tolerated painful stimulus	30-60 seconds each area
The Neubie	All of the above and more!	Pulsed DC	0-500	460	To productively uncomfortable sensory threshold	Task specific

Is EMS a Fit for Your Clinic?

EMS may offer added value when used as part of an evidence-based, patient-centred rehabilitation plan. For clinics looking to implement this approach, NEUFIT provides:

• Professional training and support

• Guidance on integration into clinical workflows

• Resources for staying compliant with regulatory and therapeutic standards
  

EMS is not suitable for every patient or condition, and clinical decision-making should always be based on professional assessment and up-to-date research.

Final Thoughts

The integration of EMS into physiotherapy clinics may provide a supportive option for certain patient presentations. As with all therapeutic interventions, its use must be grounded in clinical evidence, practitioner training, and patient safety.

To learn more about EMS technology and NEUFIT’s provider resources, visit the NEUFIT website..