Efficacy of WB-EMS in Frail Older People

The Efficacy of Whole-Body Electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) in Frail Older People: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Exercise in general and resistance training (RT) in particular have demonstrated positive effects on frailty outcomes, including physical functioning. However, frail older people with functional impairments are among the least physically active and have problems reaching high-intensity levels. Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) allows the simultaneous innervation of all large muscle groups by external electrical stimulation, inducing a high-intensity RT at a low subjective effort level. The efficacy of WB-EMS in frail older people has yet to be determined.

The primary objective of this study is to investigate the efficacy of WB-EMS in frail older people.

Inclusion Criteria:

• aged 65 years and older
• frail according to Tilburg Frailty Indicator
• residing in assisted living facility or nursing home
• able to walk 4m w/o walking aid but without personal assistance
• no prior WB-EMS exposure

Exclusion Criteria:

• severe visual or hearing impairments
• major cognitive impairment (MMSE <10)
• medications with muscle-anabolic effects
• medical conditions affecting trainability of muscles (e.g. Myasthenia gravis, Cushing syndrome, Morbus McArdle)
• surgery within past two months
• history of rhabdomyolysis
• medical conditions affecting sensation of electrical stimuli (e.g. severe polyneuropathy)
• severe renal insufficiency (eGFR<30 ml/min/1.73m²)
• electronic implants
• acute or untreated abdominal wall or inguinal hernia
• Ventricular arrhythmias requiring therapy