NMES

Medical abbreviation · Rehabilitation

NMES
Stands forNeuromuscular electrical stimulation
CategoriesMedical

NMES stands for Neuromuscular electrical stimulation, a rehabilitation abbreviation.

Electrical stimulation strong enough to contract muscles, used to strengthen weak muscles and prevent atrophy, for example the quadriceps after knee surgery or in critically ill patients.

Example: NMES to R quad with active contraction, 10 sec on, 50 sec off, 10 reps.

Usage notes

Differs from TENS, which targets sensory nerves for pain. Speech pathologists use a form of NMES on the neck for swallowing therapy. Evidence is strongest for quadriceps strengthening after ACL reconstruction and knee replacement.

More rehabilitation abbreviations

  • MMT – Manual muscle testing
  • Mod A – Moderate assist
  • Mod I – Modified independent
  • NDD – National Dysphagia Diet
  • NDI – Neck Disability Index
  • NDT – Neurodevelopmental treatment
  • NTL – Nectar-thick liquids
  • NWB – Non-weight bearing
  • ODI – Oswestry Disability Index
  • OKC – Open kinetic chain
  • OT – Occupational therapy
  • PLOF – Prior level of function

See all 98 rehabilitation abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.