A 12-Week, Prospective, Non-Comparative, Non-Randomized Study of Magnetic Muscle Stimulation for Improvement of Body Satisfaction With the Abdomen and Buttocks

Feasibility and Safety of an Eight-Week Exercise Program with the Additional Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation of the Abdominal Muscles

Peripheral magnetic stimulation has recently been introduced as a non-invasive but effective physical agent to improve muscle strength and everyday function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of an exercise program focusing on the abdominal muscles in combination with the peripheral magnetic stimulation of the abdominal muscles. Male and female overweight and obese adults (n = 19) participated in an eight-week exercise program with the additional peripheral magnetic stimulation of the abdominal muscles. Outcome measures included changes in abdominal subcutaneous fat thickness, trunk muscle strength, body composition, and self-reported body satisfaction. Subcutaneous fat thickness was significantly reduced after the intervention (p < 0.01-p < 0.001). Trunk flexion and left side flexion strength increased significantly after the intervention, although no significant changes were observed for trunk extension (p = 0.07) and right side flexion strength (p = 0.13). The body satisfaction self-assessment score significantly increased (p < 0.01), while body mass, body mass index, and fat mass significantly decreased after the intervention (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that an exercise program with the additional peripheral magnetic stimulation is feasible and safe for overweight and obese participants. These results support the use of peripheral magnetic stimulation as a safe adjunct to the voluntary abdominal muscle contraction. Future studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of the additional peripheral magnetic stimulation of the abdominal muscles compared to the voluntary contraction of the abdominal muscles alone.

Prospective study to assess the efficacy and safety of a noninvasive electro-muscular stimulation for improvement of muscle strength and muscle toning of the extremities

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) device in the improvement of muscle strength and toning of the upper extremities. This device, which is FDA-cleared as a two-channel muscle stimulator, provides up to eight electrodes with waveforms inducing muscle stimulation. Although a prior study demonstrated it is safe and effective for use in the abdomen, this system, which has electrodes specifically designed for the extremities, has not previously been evaluated in the upper extremities.

METHODS

Forty-five subjects enrolled in the study to assess improvement in arm (i.e., bicep and tricep muscle) strength, and appearance following a protocol of treatments with this bioelectric muscle activation (BMA) device. All subjects received four 30-min EMS treatment sessions in Arm mode-twice weekly for 2 weeks and at least 48 h apart. Follow up visits were also scheduled 30- and 90-days after treatment. Strength was measured with a dynamometer device at baseline, at the final treatment session, and at the posttreatment 30- and 90-day assessment. Subject satisfaction was assessed gauging overall comfort of the treatment and satisfaction including willingness to recommend to others. The changes in strength between initial treatment and final treatment, as well as 30 and 90-day assessment were evaluated. Clinical photography at these visits was also assessed for each patient. Patients were instructed to not modify their normal exercise routine while participating in this study.

RESULTS

All 45 subjects completed the treatment protocol. Most patients showed an improvement in muscle strength from the initial to final treatment (i.e., the fourth treatment). Specifically, the maximum bicep strength increased by a mean of 7.5 lbs (22.83%, p = 0.006), while the average increased by a mean of 8.2 lbs (25.76%, p = 0.001) during this period. Similarly, the maximum tricep strength from initial to final treatment increased by a mean of 10.0 lbs (23.16%, p = 0.000), while the average increased by a mean of 9.6 lbs (27.12%, p = 0.000). Thirty days after the last treatment, the maximum bicep strength increased by a mean of 13.3 lbs (34.13%, p = 0.001) while the average increased by a mean of 13.6 lbs (37.05%, p = 0.000) during this period. Similarly, the maximum tricep strength from initial to 30 days postfinal treatment increased by a mean of 10.9 lbs (24.37%, p = 0.000), while the average increased by a mean of 10.5 lbs (29.37%, p = 0.000). Finally, 90 days after the last treatment, the maximum bicep strength increased by a mean of 19.4 lbs (48.4%, p = 0.000), while the average increased by a mean of 17.4 lbs (46.53%, p = 0.000) during this period. Similarly, the maximum tricep strength from initial to 90 days postfinal treatment increased by a mean of 10.8 lbs (27.12%, p = 0.000), while the average increased by a mean of 10.0 lbs (30.94%, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This device was well tolerated and resulted in increased strength measurements in the upper extremities, as assessed by a dynamometer, which were sustained at 30 and 90 days.

A Prospective, Open-Label Study to Evaluate Functional Changes Following Electromagnetic Muscle Stimulation of Abdominal Muscle

Background

Electromagnetic muscle stimulation (EMMS) is an effective, well-tolerated noninvasive body contouring treatment for strengthening, toning, and firming the abdomen.

Objectives

In this study, functional changes following abdominal EMMS treatment wereevaluated.

Methods

In this prospective, open-label study, adults received 8 abdominal EMMS treatments (2 treatments on nonconsecutive days/week over 4 weeks). Follow-ups occurred 1 month (primary endpoint), 2, and 3 months postfinal treatment. Effectiveness endpoints included improvements from baseline on Body Satisfaction Questionnaire (BSQ; primary endpoint), core strength (timed plank test), abdominal endurance (curl-up test), and Subject Experience Questionnaire (SEQ). Safety was evaluated throughout.

Results

Sixteen participants (68.8% female) were enrolled, with a mean age of 39.3 years and a mean BMI of 24.4 kg/m²; 14 participants completed the study per protocol. Mean BSQ scores were significantly improved from baseline (27.9) to the 1-month follow-up (36.6; P < .05). Core strength and abdominal endurance were significantly greater at the 1-, 2-, and 3-month posttreatment time points than at baseline (P < .05). Frequently cited reasons for seeking EMMS treatment included a desire to feel stronger (100%; n = 14/14) and to improve athletic performance (100%; n = 14/14). SEQ responses 3 months posttreatment showed that most participants reported feeling stronger (92.9%) and motivated to receive additional EMMS treatments (100%) and work out to maintain treatment results (100%). The majority of participants (>78%) reported being "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with abdominal treatment 1 month posttreatment. One device- and/or procedure-related adverse event of menstrual cycle irregularity was reported in 1 participant and was mild in severity.

Conclusions

EMMS treatment of the abdomen is associated with functional strength improvements and high patient satisfaction.

Level of Evidence 4

Direct and Indirect Roles of Men in Determining Women Decision to Use Laser Procedures for Skin Care

Laser procedures for skin care is becoming increasingly popular and used by the global community and affect many aspects of human life. However, there is very little research on the role of men in women's decision to follow this dermatological procedure. This study aimed to identify the role of men in motivating women to choose laser-based procedure. A systematic literature review research design was applied in this study. A total of 27 papers were obtained by searching PubMed Central for the 2013-2022 editions. The extraction of samples and the motivation of patients or research respondents in choosing laser procedures for cosmetic treatments were conducted to obtain clues about the role of men in making these decisions. Only six studies explicitly reveal the role of men as motivators of women to perform laser-based dermatological procedures. Four of these six studies were conducted in Asia in countries with a high degree of collectivism. The remaining two studies reveal a minor role for men in women's motivation to choose dermatological procedures. Other studies only indirectly implicate the role of men through intrasexual competition, increased self-esteem, and the needs of the world of work. Limitations of the study lies in the non-specificity of the study sample in the female population, laser-based treatments, and the role of men in motivating women. The role of men in motivating women to perform laser-based skin care procedures is stated explicitly in collectivist cultures while only implicitly in individualist cultures. These findings indicate that the strategy of utilizing the added value of men to laser treatment procedures should be directed at the relationship between men and women in real terms in collective cultured countries.

Combination of monopolar 2 MHz radiofrequency and electrical multidirectional stimulation for reducing abdominal circumference and enhancing the muscle definition in subjects with overweight range body mass index

BACKGROUND

The popularity of noninvasive body contouring procedures has been steadily increasing in recent years, however, studies evaluating its effectiveness in individuals with overweight range body mass index (BMI) are limited.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined 2 MHz radiofrequency (RF) and electrical multidirectional stimulation (EMDS) for the improvement of the abdominal contour in subjects with overweight range BMI.

METHODS

Twelve participants with overweight range BMI (23.6-24.9 kg/m² ) underwent a single RF treatment, followed by a series of six EMDS treatments. Follow-up assessments (abdominal circumference [AC] and skinfold thickness measurements) were scheduled 1, 2, and 3 months after the final session.

RESULTS

At 1 month after the final treatment, a 3.1% (2.6 ± 0.47 cm, mean ± SD) significant reduction in mean AC was observed (p ˂ 0.001) and a maximal skinfold thickness reduction of 14% (4.6 ± 1.1 mm) was also noted (p = 0.032). Transient dysesthesia lasting 2-3 hours after EMDS treatment was the most common adverse effect reported by 5 of 12 subjects (41.7%), with no other serious side effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined RF and EMDS treatments are safe and effective, yielding significant reductions in both AC and skinfold thickness in patients with overweight range BMI, causing only minimal and transient adverse effects.

Muscle Stimulation for Aesthetic Body Shaping: A Comprehensive and Critical Review

BACKGROUND

Aesthetic muscle stimulation (AMS) using high-intensity electromagnetic field (HIFEM) targets skeletal muscle neurons, causing muscle hypertrophy and loss of adipose tissue, thereby cultivating a sculpted physique. Many studies have evaluated AMS for noninvasive body contouring; however, the efficacy, safety, and long-term data remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To critically evaluate the current literature on the use of electromagnetic muscle stimulation for body contouring and provide a consensus on patient selection and long-term efficacy of AMS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed and Embase were searched using the terms: "HIFEM," "Electromagnetic therapy," and "muscle" or "Electrical stimulation muscle treatments" and "aesthetics." Studies involving the use of muscle stimulation for nonaesthetic/dermatologic, in vitro studies or studies involving animals were excluded.

RESULTS

Twenty studies in total were included [9 moderate-quality, 8 low-quality, and 3 very low‒quality studies] based on the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation scale, representing 521 patients. Body sites evaluated included the abdomen (378 patients), buttock (156 patients), arms (22 patients), and calves (15 patients).

CONCLUSION

Electromagnetic muscle stimulation represents an effective therapeutic intervention for abdominal contouring that yields increased muscle thickness, and reduced abdominal fat thickness, for up to 1 year after treatment. Larger, controlled studies are needed to determine the efficacy of electromagnetic muscle stimulation alone for contouring of buttocks, thighs, arms, and calves.

Is It Possible to Reshape the Body and Tone It at the Same Time? Schwarzy: The New Technology for Body Sculpting

Background and Objective: In recent years, a strong desire for slimmer and healthier-looking bodies has grown in the population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safeness of the new technology Flat Magnetic Stimulation for buttock and abdomen remodeling in athletic subjects. Methods: A total of 49 patients (31 females and 18 males) were enrolled. Patients’ digital photos and buttocks/abdomen circumference measurements were taken to assess and monitor the effectiveness of treatment on muscle firming. The level of patient satisfaction was evaluated by a questionnaire based on a seven point Likert scale. Average scores were calculated at a 1-month follow-up (FU). Results: A significant increase in the buttocks’ mean circumference from 85.5 ± 0.7 cm to 88.5 ± 0.7 cm (p < 0.05) and in the abdomens’ mean circumference from 76.5 ± 9.19 cm to 78 ± 9.89 cm (p < 0.05) was observed 1 month after the last treatment. All subjects reported that their buttocks and abdomens felt more lift and toned. The average abdomen and buttocks satisfaction scores improve significantly at 1-month FU. Conclusions: Our data show that FMS treatment could be used as an effective mechanism for muscle toning.

Muscle Energy Technique plus Neurac Method in Stroke Patients with Hemiplegia Complicated by Diabetes Mellitus and Assessment of Quality of Life

Objective

To analyze the role of muscle energy technique (MET) plus Neurac method in stroke patients with hemiplegia complicated by diabetes mellitus and the impact on quality of life.

Methods

From January 2021 to December 2021, 100 stroke patients with hemiplegia complicated by diabetes mellitus treated in our institution and assessed for eligibility were recruited and randomly assigned (1 : 3) via the random sampling method to either the conventional rehabilitation group or the experimental group. The patients in the experimental group were randomized (1 : 1 : 1) into either the MET group (receives MET), the Neurac group (receives Neurac), or the joint group (receives MET plus Neurac). The primary endpoint is the clinical efficacy, and the second endpoint is the quality of life.

Results

The eligible patients had similar pretreatment Barthel index scores, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, Berg balance scale (BBS) scores, Tinetti scores, Fugl-Meyer scores, and quality of life (QoL) scores (P > 0.05). The treatment herein achieved significant improvements in Barthel index scores, VAS scores (2.71 ± 0.28), BBS scores, Tinetti scores, Fugl-Meyer scores, and QoL scores (99.67 ± 10.62), and MET plus Neurac method obtained the best results versus both the conventional rehabilitation and monotherapy of either MET or Neurac (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Neurac method plus MET improves the independent mobility of stroke patients with hemiplegia and diabetes, relieves pain, enhances balance and stability, mitigates limb dysfunction, and boosts patients' quality of life, so it is worthy of clinical application.

Abdominal body shaping using StarFormer high intensity magnetic stimulation – a case series

Background

Magnetic stimulation of muscles has become a popular method for muscle toning and strengthening.

Aims

The aim of this case series was to investigate safety and effectiveness of a novel magnetic stimulation device.

Methods

The patients received 10 sessions of high‐intensity magnetic stimulation of their abdominal muscles. Change in muscle tone was determined by anonymous evaluation of photographs and using patient satisfaction questionnaires before treatment and 10 weeks following the last treatment session. Weight and waist circumference were also measured before treatment and at the 10‐week follow‐up.

Results

Blinded evaluation of photographs has shown improvement of the appearance of abdominal muscles. Patient satisfaction was high. The patients also experienced a reduction in their waist circumference, while their weight did not significantly change.

Conclusions

The treatment using the StarFormer^® high‐intensity magnetic stimulation is an effective and noninvasive method for abdominal body shaping, which is safe and comfortable to the patients and results in high patient satisfaction and an objective improvement in abdominal body shape appearance.

Electromagnetic muscle stimulation: A retrospective study of patient experience

Background

Electromagnetic muscle stimulation (EMMS) is a non‐invasive body contouring technology for strengthening, firming, and toning the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs that is associated with high patient satisfaction.

Aims

To gain a greater understanding of factors contributing to patient satisfaction with EMMS.

Methods

This was a retrospective, non‐comparative study of patient information and questionnaires regarding EMMS treatments to abdomen and/or buttocks collected July 1 to December 1, 2019 from clinical practices in the United States. Questionnaires collected and included for study analysis were the Subject Experience Questionnaire (SEQ), the Body Satisfaction Questionnaire (BSQ), and the Subject‐rated Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (SGAIS).

Results

Responses from 146 treated patients were analyzed (abdomen only: n = 94; buttocks only, n = 30; abdomen and buttocks: n = 22). Patients were 79% female with mean age of 41.3 years (range: 19–73). Frequently cited reasons for seeking EMMS treatment were a desire to appear more toned (89%) or slimmer (42%), and to feel stronger (38%). BSQ and SGAIS scores were improved 4 weeks after treatment. On post‐treatment SEQ, most patients reported being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with abdomen (83.2%; n = 89/107) or buttocks (57.4%; n = 27/47) treatment. Most patients reported feeling stronger after abdomen treatment, and across both body areas, patients were more confident, happier with their overall appearance, and motivated to work out and maintain treatment results.

Conclusion

This retrospective study of patient questionnaires provides important information on aesthetic and functional factors that can contribute to high patient satisfaction following EMMS treatment of the abdomen and/or buttocks.