Impact of low frequency neuromuscular electrical stimulation on glucose regulation in individuals with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of low-frequency neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on glucose regulation in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Eight individuals with type 2 diabetes between 41 to 65 years of age volunteered for this study. Participants completed two experimental sessions in a randomized order, a control session and an NMES session. During both sessions, an initial blood sample was collected at rest, a beverage containing 75 g of glucose was then consumed, and further blood samples were drawn at 60 and 120 minutes. On the NMES day, participants completed one hour of low frequency (8 Hz) NMES immediately following the glucose ingestion. Participants regulated the intensity of the NMES to their maximum tolerable level.