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Updated: Jul 28, 2025
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Assessment of Neuromuscular Function Using Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
Published on: September 13, 2015
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Neuromuscular electrical stimulation during maximal voluntary contraction: a Delphi survey with expert consensus
J O Osborne1, J Tallent2,3, O Girard4
1School of Sport Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Medisin- Og Helsebygget, UiT, 9037, Tromsø, Norway. john.osborne@uqconnect.edu.au.
European Journal of Applied Physiology
|May 29, 2023
Summary
Electrical stimulation is a valid method for assessing muscle voluntary activation. Experts recommend specific techniques, including doublet stimuli and supramaximal current, for best practice in research settings.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Science
- Human Physiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Electrical stimulation is widely used to measure voluntary muscle activation in research.
- Standardized protocols are needed for reliable assessment.
- Expert consensus is crucial for establishing best practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To gather expert opinions on the best practices for using electrical stimulation.
- To develop recommendations for assessing muscle voluntary activation during maximal contractions.
- To inform researchers on technical parameters for electrical stimulation studies.
Main Methods:
- A two-round Delphi study involving 30 experts.
- A 62-item questionnaire was used to gather expert opinions.
- Consensus was defined as ≥70% agreement among experts.
Main Results:
- 16 out of 62 items reached expert consensus.
- Electrical stimulation is a valid assessment tool under specific conditions (e.g., maximal contraction).
- Experts recommended doublet stimuli, self-adhesive electrodes, familiarization, real-time feedback, ≥20% current increase for supramaximal stimulation, and manual triggering.
Conclusions:
- This Delphi study provides expert-driven recommendations for electrical stimulation protocols.
- Findings aid researchers in optimizing study design for voluntary activation assessment.
- Standardized methods enhance the reliability and validity of electrical stimulation research.
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