What is the primary purpose of electrical stimulation in therapeutic applications?

The primary purpose of electrical stimulation in therapeutic applications is to stimulate muscle contraction. This technique is widely utilized in rehabilitation settings to address muscle atrophy, improve muscle strength, and enhance overall functional mobility. By applying electrical currents to the skin overlying the muscles, the stimulus prompts the muscles to contract, mimicking natural movement patterns and helping to restore strength, especially in patients who may have lost muscle use due to injury or illness.

While pain relief can be a secondary effect of such treatments, the main focus is on reactivating and toning the muscles. Other therapeutic benefits, like increased blood circulation resulting from muscle contractions, may occur, but these are not the primary goal of electrical stimulation. The focus remains primarily on the direct effects of eliciting muscle action to promote healing and recovery.