QUADRICEPS ELECTRO STIMULATON PROGRAME

 The electrodes can be placed in various positions, depending on our objectives. If we want to stimulate the rectus femoris, place the proximal electrode pads approximately 8cms from the insertion, to the left and right, and the distal electrode pads over the quadriceps.
If we are trying to stimulate the vastus muscles, the electrodes are placed laterally and close to the vastus origin, and the distal electrodes laterally over the quadriceps muscle mass closer to vastus insertion.

The photograph shows a generic and useful quadriceps electro stimulation programme that can be used on a regular basis. Depending on the individual rehabilitation programme or the kind of sport we practice, alternative electrode pad positions exist.

Several factors contribute towards training; preparation, (which can be generic, for a particular sport or for competition), our physical condition, injuries etcetera. Pulse frequency and length can be adjusted to achieve optimal performance in all the electrical muscle stimulation programmes.

THE QUADRICEPS MUSCLE.

The quadriceps are made up of four muscles; Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis (Externus),Vastus Intermedius ,Vastus Medialis (Internus) which straighten the knee joint when extended.

It is an extremely powerful muscle group. Hugely important for static as well as dynamic; it ensures that the knees do not bend when we are standing whilst enabling the knee joint extension so that we can walk, run or jump. It is absolutely essential for performing sport, whilst at the same time being a muscle which we depend on in our daily lives as it stabilizes the knee joint. Injury sustained to the quadriceps leads to loss of muscle mass and affects the joint. The muscle’s elastic strength protects the joint and any weakening of it leads to atrophy which understandably affects more than muscle tissue.

The abdominal and quadriceps muscles should always be trained, and be in excellent condition if we practice sport particularly short and long jump, running, cyclic and acyclic sports, resistance and speed sports.