Electrical Stimulation 

Electrical stimulation involves the use of devices which produce a therapeutic electrical current.  This stimulation is used to generate specific muscle contractions, stimulate a nerve response, or to stimulate a cellular response. 

Neuromuscular Electrical Simulation (NMES), Functional Electrical stimulation (FES), Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator (TENS), Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation (TSCS), Micro-current Point Stimulation (MPS), and Auricular Vagus Nerve stimulation (aVNS) are all different electrical stimulation approaches. 

NMES is used for strengthening.  FES uses a functional movement pattern while strengthening. TENS is used for pain relief. TSCS stimulates the nerves using electrodes on the skin over the spine to promote neuroplasticity or to help manage spasticity.  MPS uses a weak direct current to assist in pain relief, stress management, scar tissue release, and autonomic nervous system regulation therapies.  aVNS uses an ear clip to stimulate a branch of the Vagus nerve; Vagus nerve stimulation is used to help with symptom management of Long COVID,  autoimmune disorders, and has been shown to promote neuroplasticity after stroke.