New thesis on neuromuscular electrical stimulation

What's the main focus of your thesis?

“My dissertation focuses on how to optimize neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), for example, by using so-called motor points, to make NMES as comfortable and accessible as possible for patients and the general public. NMES has, among other things, the potential to reduce the risk of blood clots by increasing blood flow”, says Robin Juthberg, PhD student at the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery

Which are the most important results?

“My studies have shown that a significantly increased blood flow can be achieved even with the slightest visible plantar flexion of the ankle, which can be accomplished with a relatively low intensity of NMES if stimulation is applied via the motor points. This is important because low intensity results in less pain/discomfort, which increases the willingness to use NMES. Other important findings are that local pressure over the stimulation electrodes and a lower stimulation frequency also contribute to significantly lower pain/discomfort, as well as reduced energy consumption to achieve plantar flexion of the ankle”.

How can this new knowledge contribute to the improvement of people’s health?

“The results of the thesis can potentially be used to enhance the comfort and user-friendliness of future NMES treatments. This may improve adherence to NMES therapy, thereby leading to a better treatment effect, which in the long term could reduce the risk of venous blood clots and provide other positive therapeutic effects”.

What are your future ambitions? 

“After my dissertation, I aim to complete the remaining clinical parts of my research internship”.

Dissertation

Friday May 16th, 2025 at 09:00, venue Rolf Luft Auditorium

Thesis

Advancing neuromuscular electrical stimulation optimizing comfort and hemodynamic efficiency