The influence of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on the heart rate variability in healthy subjects

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on heart rate variability (HRV). [Subjects and Methods] Ten healthy subjects participated in the study. All subjects received NMES with a pulse duration of 300 us and frequency of 30 Hz at the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis for 15 minutes. The stimulation intensity was adjusted in the range of 20 to 30 mA. HRV using a pulse oximeter was measured in the sitting position before and after NMES. [Results] After the NMES, all HRV data slightly increased, but there was no significance between before and after data. [Conclusion] We suggest that strengthening exercises using NMES may be undertaken safely.