The role of neuromuscular electrical stimulation for rehabilitation in ICU acquired weakness

Objective: To provide an overview of the muscle weakness development in intensive care units (ICU), summarize clinical trials on the role of neuromuscular electrical stimulation for muscle weakness rehabilitation in ICU and highlight recent strategies that may prevent or minimize this condition. Methodology: Literature review. Results: Some recent studies have shown that an increasing number of survivors of critical illness develop significant functional impairment; one of the common impairments being ICU acquired muscle weakness. Prolonged immobilization and mechanical ventilation likely contribute to the development of ICU-acquired weakness. Several novel therapeutic strategies have been used to overcome the impairment, including neuromuscular electrical stimulation. This neuromuscular electrical stimulation, a kind of physical therapy, is known to stimulate the nerves and thus increase muscle contraction. Conclusion: Neuromuscular electrical stimulation for rehabilitation in ICU-related muscle weakness has shown some promise, but more efforts are needed to detect the development of ICU-acquired weakness as early as possible and rigorously evaluate novel rehabilitation interventions.