After witnessing the progress and gains made using this device, I don’t know if I can use traditional NMES!

I recently demoed the Saebo MyoTrac Infiniti on a patient who suffered a stroke in June 2018. He has been suffering from right shoulder pain, limiting his range of motion and overall function. The patient demonstrates difficulty activating his scapular depressors and retractors during functional movement patterns. Additionally, the patient was reporting significant pain with 8/10 consistently with movement and 6/10 at rest.

Initially, a basic NMES unit was used to simulate the retractors and depressors in sideline with scapular patterns and active assist range of motion exercises with good + contraction noted. However, there was limited carryover within the session and to the next session.

I trialed the ETS program of the Saebo MyoTrac Infiniti to combine EMG (biofeedback) and stimulation. It was based on this “reward” system and feedback for the patient where the breakthrough occurred. The patient was more aware of the volitional movements and demonstrated carryover within and from session to session.

Prior to this patient, I assumed the Saebo MyoTrac Infiniti was difficult to set up and I didn’t appreciate the various programs vs. traditional NMES. However, after witnessing the progress and gains made using this device, I don’t know if I can use traditional NMES. This product allows for more dynamic and productive sessions. It is user-friendly and easy to set up. I also appreciate the automatic adjustment of the thresholds to how the patient is performing. Also, that feedback is so valuable to the patient. My patient stated “Wow, I can’t feel it moving, but I can see it on the screen. That is nice!”
 
Nikki Sinclair, MOT OTR/L
HonorHealth John C. Lincoln Medical Center Outpatient Therapy Services