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Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
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- Your dermatologist can help you build muscle far faster than you can on your own
Your dermatologist can help you build muscle far faster than you can on your own
Many of us are finding our COVID bodies do not match our ideal image of ourselves. While working out has long been the only way to increase our abdominal (and other) muscles, we now have new technology to help you gain muscle without hitting the gym or doing 100s of crunches. Two new types of devices induce supra-muscular contractions that build muscle of the abdomen, thighs or buttock far faster than we can on our own.
Electrical and electromagnetic stimulation devices deliver impulses to the muscles targeted and contract them much more strongly than we are capable of doing by ourselves. We place small pads over the muscles which you would like to work on and adjust the energy to your tolerance. While you stay on one of our procedure beds watching Netflix or working on your computer, the device works out your muscles in a 30 – 45 minute session. Studies have shown both a loss of fat and significant increase in muscle volume after as little as four sessions over a two-week period. Initial studies on the electromagnetic stimulation devices from Dr. Jacob, a former SkinCare Physicians fellow, demonstrated an average waist circumference loss of 4.37 cm and an abdominal muscle size increase of more than 20%. Additional studies confirmed these early results and also showed significant increase in the upper buttocks muscles when those were targeted.
Photos courtesy of Robert Heck, MD
In a study of the electrical stimulation device truSculpt Flex, done last year at SkinCare Physicians’ research department, we found that not only was muscle size increased, but functional strength was also dramatically improved after a series of treatments. When the abdomen was targeted, static “planking” times increased 43% and when thigh muscles were targeted, single leg wall sit times improved a shocking 119%. Anecdotally, we have been very impressed with the results to date as most of our patients and staff who have had the treatment notice significant improvement in all sorts of activities (golf, tennis, bicycling, etc.) as well as an improvement in lower back pain issues.
While results do not last forever, one study showed that significant improvement persisted for a full year. In order to maintain optimal results however, we recommend additional touch up treatment sessions roughly every three months.
These muscle-building devices may also be combined with fat reduction treatments such as CoolSculpting to really change the shape of one’s body. Reducing the overlying fat layer also helps highlight the new stronger muscles.
So, in addition to good diet and regular exercise, the dermatologists at SkinCare Physicians have a number of ways to help make your body something you want to show off rather than hide.
Is this stuff legit? Can you use it on the arms and shoulders?
Yes, the TrueSculpt Flex works well and on almost all muscle groups. We have used it on biceps with success. The triceps may be difficult as the muscle is short and I am not sure you would be able to get the two conducting plates on the same tricep. We would have to take a look at you and see.
Can this be used in a patient who has had a spinal fusion due to scoliosis (titanium rods, screws, cages, etc…).
The issue is the metal implants that are used in the fusion. While the risk is minimal, there is a chance some of the energy could go into the metal and heat it up. So we do not treat over any metal implants. So sorry, but best to be safe.
Is this a good option for people with medical conditions who cannot work out hard enough to gain muscle.
Yes, electrical muscle stimulation is a fantastic option for those who have certain issues with working out. It would certainly depend on what the medical condition is that is preventing the person from working out, but many would be fine with this type of treatment. We have a lot of people with back issues who have had difficulty doing many of the exercises that help build abdominal muscles and core strength. Many state their back gets worse with sit ups and crunches. The muscle stimulation procedures allow these patients to get in an incredible abdominal workout, build those core muscles that help stabilize the back, and actually improve their lower back issues.