NMES, FES, and IFT are used to prevent which condition?

• A. Joint stiffness
• B. Edema
• C. Muscle atrophy
• D. Nausea

Answer: (C)

Keeping muscles active prevents disuse atrophy. NMES and FES deliver electrical impulses that depolarize motor nerves to produce a controlled contraction, even when a patient can’t actively move. This external muscle activity helps maintain muscle protein synthesis, fiber size, and neuromuscular connections during periods of immobilization or reduced activity. Interferential therapy mainly aids pain relief and edema reduction, and while it can improve circulation, its primary role isn’t to prevent muscle wasting. Together, these modalities support ongoing muscle activity and thus best address preventing muscle atrophy.