Best Muscle Stimulators for Athletic and Therapeutic Purposes

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 29, 2024
Improving performance is an important target for any athlete. A muscle stimulation has astonishing athletic and therapeutic benefits! Integrating muscle stimulation into your day-to-day workout routine is an excellent way to warm-up muscles and get explosive strength at a faster pace without exhaustion. Also, a muscle stimulator helps speed up recovery after your high-intensity training. No feeling of knotted muscles, making you feel weakened and fatigued! Prioritize which muscle group to target and use your time efficiently to perform at your peak level! Look through our review and try out for yourself! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Operating Principle
Use For
Construction
Targeted Areas
Number of Modes
Functionality & Usability
Accessories
Power Source
Warranty
 
PROS

A warming up feature helps properly warm muscles to make them ready for physical activity and reduce the risk of muscle strain and injury during your workout.

CONS

The cords can get tangled up during your workout.

OUR VERDICT

If you play sport regularly and want to pump up the efficiency of your training, then the Compex  Edge Electronic Muscle Stimulator Kit is what you really need. With 3 programs to choose from, you'll be able to reach your peak training performance!

detailed parameters
Operating Principle

EMS only

Use For

Muscle strengthening and toning

Construction

8 small and 4 large pads (4 channels)

Targeted Areas

Neck, Shoulders, Back, Lower back, Belly, Arms, Legs, Feet

Number of Modes

3

Functionality & Usability

Animated backlit LCD display, Battery-status indicator, 5 Difficulty levels, Warming up feature, Muscle group selection, Adjustable timer, Adjustable frequency, FDA cleared

Accessories

Travel pouch

Belt clip
Power Source

Rechargeable Ni-Mh battery (AC adapter included)

Warranty

2 years (1 more year for product registration)

PROS

4 extra-long cords allow for several muscle groups to be stimulated simultaneously, so it can be used by multiple people at once.

CONS

You need to get the hang of using the device.

OUR VERDICT

The HealthmateForever Electric Muscle Stimulator boasts a large number of stimulation modes, that allows you to activate different muscle groups. Try this excellent stimulator and you'll be completely satisfied with the results!

detailed parameters
Operating Principle

TENS and EMS

Use For

Muscle strengthening and toning, Muscle pain relief, Arthritis, Sciatica

Construction

8 pads (4 channels)

Targeted Areas

Neck, Shoulders, Back, Lower back, Belly, Arms, Legs, Feet

Number of Modes

15

Functionality & Usability

Animated backlit LCD display, Battery-status indicator, Default 80 minute timer, Adjustable intensity (20 levels), FDA cleared

Accessories

Pad holder

Belt clip
Power Source

3 AAA batteries

Warranty

Lifetime

PROS
An inbuilt memory function allows you to maintain a record of 60 muscle stimulation sessions that can be of great use for your doctor.

CONS
Replacing 9V batteries is rather expensive.
OUR VERDICT

The effectiveness of TENS has been proven by clinical studies. An electric current stimulates nerves to block pain signals to the brain. This will help you get rid of sore muscles quickly and naturally!

detailed parameters
Operating Principle

TENS only

Use For

Muscle pain relief, Arthritis, Sciatica

Construction

4 pads (2 channels)

Targeted Areas

Neck, Shoulders, Back, Lower back, Belly, Arms, Legs, Feet

Number of Modes

5

Functionality & Usability

LCD Display, Battery-status indicator, Adjustable pulse width and pulse rate, Adjustable intensity (8 levels), Adjustable 5-60-minute timer, Memory function, FDA approved

Accessories

Storage Case

Belt Clip

Power Source

1 PP3 (9V) battery

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The pads are incredibly durable. They will not lose their stickness even if you use them on a daily basis. They are also washable so you can keep them clean with ease.

CONS

Intensity roller is too sensitive.

OUR VERDICT

If your muscles are sore and in pain after an intense day, this EMS + TENS stimulator will help you relax. The unit is adjustable, so you choose the massage option that best suits your needs.

detailed parameters
Operating Principle

TENS and EMS

Use For

Muscle strengthening and toning, Muscle Pain Relief, Arthritis, Sciatica

Construction

4 pads (2 channels)

Targeted Areas

Neck, Shoulders, Back, Lower back, Belly, Arms, Legs, Feet

Number of Modes

16

Functionality & Usability

Animated backlit LCD Display, Battery-status indicator, Adjustable 10-60 minute timer, Adjustable intensity (20 levels), FDA approved

Accessories

Pad holder

Power Source

Rechargeable Li-Ion battery (USB cable and AC adapter included)

Warranty

1 year

PROS

You can charge the Li-ion battery via mains or USB cable that could be particularly helpful for office workers who use a muscle stimulator during their working day.

CONS

Some preset massage modes barely differ from each other.

OUR VERDICT

If you are feeling pain or discomfort in any part of your body, the NURSAL muscle stimulator will help alleviate muscle pain and other unpleasant sensations in no time. Just choose the right electrode pad to be applied to the targeted area.

detailed parameters
Operating Principle

TENS and EMS

Use For

Muscle strengthening and toning, Muscle pain relief, Arthritis, Sciatica

Construction

8 different size pads (2 channels)

Targeted Areas

Neck, Shoulders, Back, Lower back, Belly, Arms, Legs, Feet

Number of Modes

16

Functionality & Usability

Animated backlit LCD display, Battery-status indicator, Adjustable 10-60 minute timer, Adjustable intensity (20 levels), FDA approved

Accessories

Pad holder

Additional wires for 2 pads
Power Source

Rechargeable Li-Ion battery (USB cable and AC adapter included)

Warranty

2 years

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Compex Edge Electronic

Achieve Optimum Health and Fitness

The Compex Edge Electronic Muscle Stimulator Kit is designed to make your workouts more effective and achieve peak physical performance in a short while! It has 3 preset massage programs, enabling you to reach different goals from increasing strength to speeding up muscle recovery. 

-    Endurance program lasts 40 minutes. It targets slow-twitch muscle fibers, improves blood circulation, and increases muscle capillarization to boost athletic endurance. Regular endurance exercises will help increase your metabolism and stamina. It’s recommended for track and field athletics, triathlon, bike racing, calisthenic training, and etc.

-    Resistance program is optimal for building muscle strength. It provides a short-term effect of maximal-intensity resistance training (12 minutes). It’s perfect to get prepared for a short-distance race or swim when you need to go all out for a win. This program is the best for gaining muscle mass.

-    Active Recovery program runs at the lowest frequency, allowing for lactic acid cleaning, relaxation, and quick muscle recovery. It’s best suitable for reducing muscle aches after a vigorous training session or competition.

Also, you can choose from 5 progression levels according to your physical fitness and the level of stimulation intensity for each of 4 channels. Besides, 8 small and 4 large pads are included in the package.

Review of Compex Edge Electronic Muscle Stimulator Kit

Importance of Warming Up Before Exercising

Every professional athlete knows that warm-up is one of the most essential parts of any training program that helps get muscles ready for high-intensity exercises. With this in mind, the muscle stimulator has a warming-up sequence designed to help athletes quickly warm-up. This preliminary activity will help enhance your physical performance and avoid sports-related injuries.

Compex Edge Electronic Muscle Stimulator Kit in the use

Informative LCD Display

A large LCD display with backlight shows all the necessary information. You can adjust the backlight brightness to make it more comfortable to read it in various lighting conditions. The stimulator has an autonomous backlight intensity control, which means that the backlight turns on when a key is pressed and turns off when there is no keyboard activity. If you go out for a run on a sunny day, you can also adjust the screen contrast to improve screen readability.

Detailed review of Compex Edge Electronic Muscle Stimulator Kit

How to Gain Muscle Mass

For getting a slim and trim body you need two things: a well-developed training plan and a healthy diet. To gain muscle mass quickly you should eat food rich in proteins and carbs. Try a weight gainer - a natural food supplement with a high energy value that allows for healthy weight gain and provides your body with the right fuel for training.

Compex Edge Electronic Muscle Stimulator Kit application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B007V42I0S

 

HealthmateForever Electronic Pulse Massager

Complex Effect of Stimulation

A distinctive feature of the HealthmateForever Electric Muscle Stimulator is that both muscle fibres and nerves respond to electric current. The 8 electrodes cause stimulation not only to the targeted area but a large area around it. The current runs at a specific frequency, that helps reduce chronic upper and low back pain, restore muscle strength and give you relaxation. Besides, extra-long cords allow for different muscle groups to be stimulated at a time, thus making this appliance suitable for multiple people use. For example, you can place 4 electrodes on your legs and 4 electrodes on your belly and select the current intensity. Also, you can set a pulse frequency according to your skin sensitivity or personal preferences. And a default 80-minute timer will show you the remaining time for each therapy session. The multiple applications of this muscle stimulator are tremendous, so you need time to get acquainted with all the programs.

Review of HealthmateForever Electronic Pulse Massager for Electrotherapy Pain Management -- Pain Relief Therapy

Find Your Optimal Stimulation Mode

The HealthmateForever Electric Muscle Stimulator boasts 15 auto-stimulation programs. The 9 modes are designed to target specific body areas, namely neck, shoulder, back, elbow, hip, ankle, knee, foot/hand, and wrist. And 6 other massage settings allow you to choose the massage type - knead, acupuncture, tapping, cupping, scraping, or random. A large backlit LCD display allows you to see the information you need for your targeted area even in the dark. The settings are easily seen through the animated display, which allows you to choose the right button for your preferred therapy. The buttons are clearly labeled with words and graphic images to remind you of a current therapeutic method.

HealthmateForever Electronic Pulse Massager for Electrotherapy Pain Management -- Pain Relief Therapy in the use

How to Extend the Useful Lifetime of Adhesive Pads

The muscle stimulator kit includes one set of adhesive pads that can be applied to different targeted areas. The pads are sticky and stay in place even during your hardest workouts. Taking a little care with an application will pay off, extending the lifetime of pads, so you won’t have to replace them very often. After use, place pads on a pad holder with the adhesive side down. And finally, make sure to thoroughly clean and dry the skin area before applying the electrode pads to keep them sticky.

Detailed review of HealthmateForever Electronic Pulse Massager for Electrotherapy Pain Management -- Pain Relief Therapy

UV Exposure Health Benefits

A red light device is undoubtedly the best solution for relaxing muscles, calming your nervous system, and relieving stress. It emits infrared radiation that improves blood flow, stabilizes heart rate and blood pressure as well as speeds up recovery of sore muscles. What is more, you will have smoother, healthier, and younger looking skin!

HealthmateForever Electronic Pulse Massager for Electrotherapy Pain Management -- Pain Relief Therapy application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $29.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00O7CM12W

 

United Surgical Electro

TENS Unit With Medically Proven Treatment Modes

A number of clinical studies have shown the effectiveness of TENS for muscle and nerve pain. It’s widely used by physical therapists for rehabilitation and pain management. The simulator has a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) function. The electrical impulses created by the TENS block pain signals sent from the nerves to the brain, thus ensuring pain relief, muscle fatigue reduction, and energy boost. You can choose from 5 preset therapy programs: Burst, Normal, Modulation, Strength Duration 1 and 2. The therapy modes have proven themselves effective in many clinical studies. So, no matter which mode you choose, you’ll definitely get health benefits. During the treatment session, choose the optimal settings to feel your muscles contract comfortably: a pulse rate from 2-150(Hz ), a pulse width from 50-300(uS), and a threshold intensity up to 100mA. The current treatment parameters and the time remaining for each therapy session will be displayed on the screen. The control unit has 4 easy-to-read buttons and easily adjustable settings, so you won’t have any problems when using the device. Also, there are 4 individual electrodes that can be placed on any skin surface. And a double channel system allows you to use only 2 pads, so you can effectively target any small problem areas.

Review of United Surgical Electro Muscle Stimulation for Pain Management and Rehabilitation

A Clear Record of Your Muscle Stimulation Sessions

As an added benefit, this model of muscle stimulator lets you maintain a record of your muscle stimulation sessions. It remembers the time of your last therapy and the mode selected. This feature is particularly useful when the TENS unit is recommended by your doctor. The collected data can help identify the optimal therapy for your condition.

United Surgical Electro Muscle Stimulation for Pain Management and Rehabilitation in the use

A Reliable Carrying Case for Storage

The unit includes a carrying case made from durable plastic for safe storage of the muscle stimulator itself and all the cords and pads. The case has foam padding, so everything comes neatly packed for transportation. And storing pads in the carrying case after each use will let you keep their surface sticky for a longer time.

Detailed review of United Surgical Electro Muscle Stimulation for Pain Management and Rehabilitation

Don't Forget to Care About Your Health

A human body is intelligent and always sends us signals when our health is in trouble. If you ignore these warning physical signs from your body, this may lead to serious health problems. With a good blood pressure monitor, you can keep tabs on your blood pressure that helps reduce the risk of heart disease. Not only does the device measure your heart rate and blood pressure but it can also alert you about any drop or rise in your heart rate.

United Surgical Electro Muscle Stimulation for Pain Management and Rehabilitation application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $28.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00NCRE4GO

 

Easy@Home EHE029N

Adjust According to Your Needs

If you suffer from chronic pain in your muscles or diseases (arthritis, sciatica, etc.), or you often feel sore after a rough day, there is no need to take painkillers to feel better. The Easy@Home TENS Unit + EMS Muscle Stimulator will help you forget about the pain and relax. This muscle stimulator operates with both EMS and TENS. It comes with 16 auto modes and 8 message types. Apart from massage, you can use it for acupuncture and kneading. The device is easy to adjust. It has 20 different intensity levels to satisfy your individual needs. That’s why it is suitable not only for relieving muscle pain but also for toning your body and promoting the blood circulation. Also, thanks to the timer feature, you can set the working time from 10 to 60 minutes.

Review of Easy@Home EHE029N Electronic Pulse Massager (FDA Approved for OTC Use)

Take It With You

Like most muscle stimulators, this device is rechargeable. The model is fitted with a lithium-ion battery that can work for up to 10 hours on one full charge. The set includes both a USB charger and an AC adapter. You can check the battery charge in the right corner of the screen to always keep your device ready to work. This model is a decent option to take with you on a long trip. The stimulator will allow you to rest and forget about muscle pain even after a long ride.

Easy@Home EHE029N Electronic Pulse Massager (FDA Approved for OTC Use) in the use

Durable Pads

As for the construction, the Easy@Home stimulator has an average of 4 pads with 2 channels. You can select a different intensity level for each channel as well. You can place the pads on your neck, shoulders, back, lower back, belly, arms, legs, and feet. The pads are reusable and very durable. They will securely stick to your body even after long use. It is also worth mentioning that the pads are washable. That’s why you will have no trouble with maintenance and always keeping them clean. To make the controls hassle-free, the manufacturer equipped the unit with a big backlit LCD screen and clear buttons.

The only problem is that some users complain about the intensity roller. They point out that it is a bit too sensitive, so you can accidentally change the setting. So try to be extra careful in order not to press anything.

Detailed review of Easy@Home EHE029N Electronic Pulse Massager (FDA Approved for OTC Use)

Safe to Use

This muscle stimulator is a perfect option for home use. Its safety is FDA approved, which makes it completely safe for your health. Its significant benefit is that it reduces pain so you don’t have to take synthetic medication. The durability of this unit is supported by a 1-year warranty which guarantees product replacement during this period of time or you get your money back.

So, if you look for a decent EMS and TENS muscle stimulator, this model from Easy@Home is a good option to consider. It is easy to use and adjust which makes it suitable for various needs.

Easy@Home EHE029N Electronic Pulse Massager (FDA Approved for OTC Use) application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07MDN5BC4

 

NURSAL Pain Relief Massager

Both Pain Relief and Muscle Stimulation

Despite its small size (3.5 x 2 inches), this muscle stimulator has proved its positive effect on overall well-being and health of customers who've already used it. To start with, you can choose a suitable mode from as many as 16 massage modes to target any specific area of your body. If you have a sensitive skin, it is recommended to reduce the time of a session as well as select the lower current intensity to avoid skin irritation and/or over-stimulation.

A unique combination of EMS and TENS technologies provides an efficient treatment of problem areas, ensuring quick pain relief and soothing nervous system. This therapy method helps ease pain in the shoulders, spinal cord, back, and lower back caused by prolonged sitting at a computer. On the contrary, if you lead an active lifestyle and walk a lot during the day, the leg/foot stimulation will help soothe your tired, aching legs. A large, animated LCD display with easily adjustable settings and soft backlight shows the charge status and the time left for the session.

Review of NURSAL Pain Relief Massager Muscle Stimulator

The Package Includes Everything You Need

The package includes 2 long electric wires, 4 electrodes, and, as an extra bonus, 2 large pads. The device has a simultaneous dual output design that allows 4, 6, or 8 adhesive pads to be applied to two different targeted areas at the same time. The pads come in a variety of sizes. Large pads are suitable for back, lower back, and belly, while small ones are perfect for leg/foot stimulation. Indeed, it’s your powerful weapon in the fight against pain!

NURSAL Pain Relief Massager Muscle Stimulator in the use

Convenient Battery Charging

Powered by a rechargeable Li-Ion battery, the muscle stimulator provides up to 10 hours of continuous operation. The battery can be charged via mains or USB cable, which is especially handy if you plan to use the device during breaks from work at the office. 

Detailed review of NURSAL Pain Relief Massager Muscle Stimulator

How to Get Rid of a Headache?

Stimulation shouldn’t be applied to the head, face, and throat. But how to relieve severe headaches and migraines? In this regard, a head massager will come in handy. Head massage will promote blood circulation of the head, relieve emotional stress, mental fatigue, and headaches in a matter of minutes without medication. There are also waterproof models that can be used in the shower while shampooing hair.

NURSAL Pain Relief Massager Muscle Stimulator application
Last updated price $29.99
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01F798R0S

 

What Is a Muscle Stimulator?

Modern lifestyle puts us under constant stress and makes us sacrifice our rest. Sleep deprivation leads to muscles and nervous system fatigue which may cause serious health conditions that can't be ignored - a chronic fatigue syndrome, severe pains, nervous exhaustion, and etc. A muscle stimulator is an electronic device used to deliver electrical impulses to the body, making muscles contract. It helps accelerate muscle recovery after a hard working day or intense workout sessions. Moreover, a stimulator relaxes muscles, calms the nervous system, and restores muscle strength.

Massage is a great way to relieve stress at the end of your long busy day. Try one of our massage chairs to achieve ultimate relaxation and recharge your body. And a foot bath will help relieve sore feet after a long walk.

What Features to Compare

The Operating Principle

When it comes to choosing a muscle stimulator, first you should find out its operating principle. There are TENS, EMS and the models that combine TENS and EMS in one unit:

- TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) is a therapy that uses low-voltage electrical current for nerve and muscle stimulation. TENS units help relieve acute pain caused by tense muscles, improve blood flow, treat arthritis, sciatica, and other nervous system disorders.

- EMS (Electrical muscle stimulation) makes the muscles contract that allows them to warm up and speeds up their growth. EMS is a great addition to your regular regimen that allows for faster recovery from your workouts. So, you can expect your peak performance in the shortest possible time.

- A combination of TENS and EMS can be used for nerve and muscle stimulation at once.

Construction

Next, you should pay particular attention to the construction of the unit. All modern muscle stimulators come with 2-8 adhesive pads to be applied to different targeted areas. The number of pads you need depends on the size of the pads and the treated area. The pads are made of special material to avoid skin irritation, so they can be applied to any skin area: neck, shoulders, back, lower back, belly, arms, legs, and feet. However, don’t use them on your face, head, throat or near your heart. The number of channels in muscle stimulator plays a key role. For instance, a two channel unit allows you to target with different sensitivity levels distant skin areas such as legs and belly. Also, you can choose one of the preset massage modes, to meet your therapeutic needs and goals better.

Convenience of Use

Then, make sure to consider the functionality and usability of the product. An easy-to-use LCD display shows the operating state of the device, therapeutic modes, treatment time remaining, battery status, and other important information about your massage session and the area you are targeting. The muscle stimulator has different levels of variable intensity, so you can choose the healing strength for your condition and skin type. The stimulator comes with a convenient storage bag for taking the device for work, gym, or long trips. As for the power source, the unit is powered by AAA batteries or rechargeable batteries.

If a stimulator is FDA cleared or FDA approved, it means that the device is totally safe to use. Yet, we strongly recommend you to consult your doctor before using a muscle stimulator so as to decide, which form of electrotherapy is right for your condition.

FAQ:

Q: How do muscle stimulators work?
A: Electrical muscle stimulators imitate the brain, delivering a mild electrical pulse to the brain to make muscles contract and then relax. The body increases oxygen and blood flow to the targeted area, this way significantly speeding up the healing process.

Q: Are muscle stimulators safe to use?
A: When used according to its intended purpose, muscle stimulators are absolutely safe. In fact, TENS units are prescribed by many physical therapists for treating different medical conditions. This technology is extensively used in physical therapy clinics, hospital settings, health clubs, and spas. Doctors recommend patients to use muscle stimulators in order to prevent muscle atrophy, relax muscle spasms, and increase the range of movements after serious injuries, strokes or major surgeries.

Q: How do the muscles feel after being stimulated?
A: The muscles contract and relax in a similar way to exercising. Some users describe it as a mild tingling sensation. Anyway, you can control the intensity and frequency of the impulses, adjusting the settings to your comfort level.

Q: When will I see the results?
A: The the first results will be seen within 3-4 weeks, yet you will feel much better after a few therapy sessions only. The electronic muscle stimulation is suitable for our modern busy lifestyle and can be used regardless of place, time, weather and available facilities. For instance, you can watch TV or read a book with a stimulator doing the job!

Q: Who isn't recommended to use a muscle stimulator?
A: Electrical muscle stimulators are not recommended for people with heart disease, pacemakers, epileptics, and pregnant women. Also, the current shouldn't pass through your brain, heart, or throat. Actually, prior to using a stimulator, consult your physician.

Q: How should I take care of electrode massage pads?
A: If you use a skin cream or your skin is dirty, thoroughly clean the area of application. You can use a hand sanitizer gel or clean your pads with water. The pads can last from one to several months, depending on how frequently you use them. If the pads are worn out or not adhesiveness anymore, change them by unsnapping the button on the back of the pads and clipping on the new ones.

Sources:


1. Natalie Gingerich Mackenzie How Muscle Stimulators Can Increase Muscle Strength And Recovery, Muscle & Fitness.

2. Josh Baum What Are the Benefits of Electrical Muscle Stimulation? LIVESTRONG.COM. January 28, 2015.

3. Melinda Ratini TENS for Back Pain, WebMD. September 16, 2015.

4. What are the Advantages of using a TENS Machine? PhysioWorks.

5. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, Wikipedia. April 28, 2017.

6. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Devices, My VMC. May 15, 2015.

7. Jeffrey S. Mannheimer TENS Unit Pad Placement: 10 Tips for Effective Use, Omron Healthcare. January 2, 2014.

8. Electrical Muscle Stimulation, Wikipedia. May 1, 2017.

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Publish Date: 2017-06-27 10:21:24