Comparison of isometric exercise and high volt galvanic stimulation on quadriceps femoris muscle strength

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of both high volt galvanic current (HVG) and isometric exercise to strengthen the quadriceps femoris muscles in 17 healthy subjects. The subjects were divided into three groups. The Control Group (n = 6) received no exercise or stimulation. The Isometric Exercise Group (n = 5) performed 15 sessions of maximum isometric contractions, and the Electrical Stimulation Group (n = 6) engaged in 15 sessions of electrically stimulated isometric contractions. The Isometric Exercise Group was found to have an increase in strength significantly greater (p less than .05) than either the Control or Electrical Stimulation Group. No increase in strength was observed in either the Control or Electrical Stimulation Group. This study indicates that HVG stimulation is not as effective as isometric exercise in increasing strength in muscle.