Which type of waveform is typically used for muscle stimulation?

The square wave is commonly used for muscle stimulation due to its ability to deliver a consistent and defined pulse duration which can effectively activate muscle fibers. This waveform has a sharp transition from low to high voltage, providing a rapid rise and fall that can encourage more effective muscle contractions. The characteristics of a square wave, including its consistent frequency and amplitude, make it ideal for generating the repetitive electrical stimuli needed for therapeutic muscle engagement and strengthening.

Other waveform types, such as sine waves or triangular waves, typically have more gradual changes in voltage, which may not produce the rapid and efficient muscle contractions that a square wave can achieve. Rectangular waves, while similar to square waves, often differ in their duty cycles and rise/fall times which can influence the muscle response differently. Thus, the square wave remains the preferred choice for direct muscle stimulation in therapeutic and rehabilitative contexts.