Effect of transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation on glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity of rats

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) on glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity of normal rats. [Subjects] Male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned to a control group, a single EMS group (1dEMS), and a 7-day EMS group (7dEMS). [Method] Bilateral rectus femoris muscles were electrically stimulated under anesthesia for 30 min/day. On day 7, an intravenous glucose tolerance test IVGTT was performed after the EMS. On day 8, an euglycemic clamp was placed 20 - 24 h after the last electrical stimulation. [Results] The glucose disappearance constant (KG) was significantly higher in the 7dEMS than in the control and 1dEMS groups. GIR (Glucose insulin resistance?) during euglycemic clamping was significantly higher in the 7dEMS than in the control group. [Conclusion] The daily application of transcutaneous EMS can improve the glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity of normal rats. © 2012, The Society of Physical Therapy Science. All rights reserved.