Repetitive magnetic stimulation of the phrenic nerves for diaphragm conditioning: a normative study of feasibility and optimal settings

Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2011 Dec;36(6):1001-8. doi: 10.1139/h11-095. Epub 2011 Oct 20.

Abstract

Electrical stimulation can enhance muscle function. We applied repetitive cervical magnetic phrenic stimulation (rCMS) to induce diaphragm contractions in 7 healthy subjects (800 ms trains; transdiaphragmatic pressure (Pdi) measurements; tolerance ratings). Each rCMS train produced a sustained diaphragm contraction. Sixty-five percent of the maximal available output at 15 Hz proved the best compromise between Pdi and discomfort with nonfatiguing contractions. rCMS appears feasible and should be investigated for diaphragm conditioning in appropriate clinical populations.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / prevention & control
  • Adult
  • Diaphragm / innervation*
  • Diaphragm / physiology
  • Diaphragm / physiopathology
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kinetics
  • Magnetic Field Therapy / adverse effects
  • Magnetic Field Therapy / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle Contraction*
  • Muscle Fatigue
  • Muscular Atrophy / prevention & control
  • Neck Muscles / innervation*
  • Phrenic Nerve / physiology*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Pressure
  • Respiration, Artificial / adverse effects