A subluxation is a partial dislocation of a joint that can lead to instability and further injury. When weakness occurs on one side of the body, such as after stroke, or bilaterally, such as after spinal cord injury, the muscles that hold together the shoulder socket can elongate and cause a subluxation of the shoulder. While shoulder subluxations by themselves are not painful, they put this joint at high risk of multiple other injuries that are painful and can lead to long term mobility issues. At Sheltering Arms Institute, we offer electrical stimulation therapy as a non-invasive, cost-effective treatment option for subluxation.
Electrical stimulation therapy uses a mild electrical current to stimulate the nerves and muscles, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Our trained therapists use transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), the two most common types of electrical stimulation used for subluxation. TENS uses low-voltage electrical impulses to reduce pain, while NMES uses higher-voltage electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contractions and improve circulation.
At Sheltering Arms Institute, our experienced therapists apply electrical stimulation to the affected area using small electrodes placed on the skin around the shoulder, specifically on the posterior deltoid and on the supraspinatus. The duration and frequency of treatment depend on the individual patient and the severity of their subluxation. A typical TENS session may last 15 to 30 minutes, while NMES may last up to 6 hours. Patients can use TENS or NMES machines at home, but our therapists will provide thorough instructions and monitor progress to ensure that the treatment is safe and effective. It is important to note that TENS will only address pain as it does not illicit a muscle contraction. Whereas NMES is highly researched and proven to reverse, pause, and/or slow down the amount of finger breadths of a subluxation, as shoulder subluxations are measured in “finger breadths”.
Our patients have successfully used electrical stimulation to treat subluxation. For instance, a 74 year old male presented to SAI after an incomplete spinal cord injury. He demonstrated a subluxation level of 1.5 fingerbreadths on his L shoulder and 2 finger breadths on his R shoulder. After receiving up to 6 hours of bilateral NMES shoulder subluxation electrical stimulation M-F for a total of 114.5 hours he discharged with no subluxation in either shoulder. He experienced decreased pain and increased mobility and strength.
Compared to other treatment methods, electrical stimulation offers a non-invasive and cost-effective way to manage subluxation. Physical therapy can be effective, but it requires more time and effort on the patient’s part. Medication may provide temporary relief but can have side effects and does not address the underlying cause of subluxation. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases, but it comes with risks and a longer recovery time. At Sheltering Arms Institute, our electrical stimulation therapy can be an effective alternative for patients who prefer a non-invasive treatment method or who cannot undergo surgery.
Researchers are exploring new ways to use electrical stimulation for the treatment of subluxation. Some studies have focused on using electrical stimulation in combination with other therapies, such as massage or acupuncture. Other studies are exploring the use of wireless, implantable devices for long-term electrical stimulation. At Sheltering Arms Institute, we will stay current with new developments to offer our patients the most advanced treatments available.
At Sheltering Arms Institute, electrical stimulation is a safe and effective treatment option for subluxation. Our experienced therapists use TENS and NMES to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Patients who use electrical stimulation for subluxation should be monitored for any potential side effects. While other treatment options exist, electrical stimulation therapy offered by Sheltering Arms Institute provides a non-invasive and cost-effective alternative for patients who want to manage subluxation without medication or surgery.
**While electrical stimulation is a highly researched modality deemed safe for most people, there are several contraindications including, but not limited to people with metastasized cancers, people with history of seizures, people with open wounds on or around the placement of electrodes, and people who are pregnant. The above information is not to be used as medical advice. SAI implores all individuals to consult their personal doctor or physical/occupational therapist before utilizing electrical stimulation.
