Nu-Tek EMG Biofeedback

Understanding EMG Biofeedb​ack

Application of EMG Biofeedback in Pelvic Floor Muscle Assessment and Training with Nu-Tek EMG ETS STIM Devices

Nu-Tek EMG ETS STIM Devices have been designed by Jim Oliver, formerly of Verity Medical - the makers of NeuroTrac brand of electrotherapy devices - and an expert in EMG and neuromuscular stimulation and all the applications of EMG and neuromuscular stimulation in continence therapy, pelvic floor assessment, pelvic floor rehabilitation, general muscle rehabilitation and pain relief. The aim of the Nu-Tek range is to provide clinicians with an advanced and reliable alternative brand of devices for clinics and for home use, thus, delivering quality, choice and affordability.

Background to EMG ETS STIM

Strong pelvic floor is crucial for prevention of stress incontinence and other types of urinary incontinence. 

EMG stands for "electromyography", which means the measurement of muscle activity. Nu-Tek EMG ETS STIM (i.e. Nu-Tek Levator Elite, Nu-Tek Maxi Plus1 and Nu-Tek Maxi Plus2) measure muscle activity in microvolts (µV), whilst measuring the duration of muscle contractions and muscle relaxations in seconds. Nu-Tek System Software for use with the Nu-Tek EMG ETS STIM devices enable data storage and analysis. Nu-Tek Software is capable of storing and analysing data of many thousands of patients. Nu-Tek Software ensures that clinics using Nu-Tek EMG ETS STIM devices utilise their Nu-Tek equipment to its highest potential.   

EMG machines can differ from machine to machine and therefore, their readings also can differ. This means that it is not possible to state 100% precisely, what the ‘normal’ measurement for a given muscle is.

However, based on the experience with the Nu-Tek EMG devices, expected measurements and readings are outlined as follows:

Muscle Rest/Work Measurements

Muscle begins to rest, when a reading of 4 µV is shown. The lower the reading - the more relaxed is the muscle state. At the beginning of treatment and often even some weeks later, it may not be possible to achieve such low readings. However, elevated measurements at this early point of the assessment should not give a reason for concern.
 
Point to consider: When performing the measurements it is important to remember that the body's positioning affects the readings. For instance, activities within the pelvic floor muscles as well as the measurements differ depending on the position – i.e. lying down, sitting or standing. Measurements taken, whilst standing are naturally a little higher than those achieved while sitting or lying down. This is because the muscles are most active, when standing.  

Pelvic Muscle readings that can be expected, when exercising Pelvic Floor Muscles in a sitting position:

  • Pelvic Muscle at Rest:  3 – 7 microvolts / graded Excellent when below 3 microvolts
  • Pelvic Muscle at Work: 12 – 20 microvolts / graded Very Good when higher than 20 microvolts
  • Pelvic Muscle Contraction Time: 0.6 – 1 second / graded Very Good when less than 0.6 second
  • Pelvic Muscle Release Time: 0.6 – 1 second / graded Very Good when less than 0.6 second

As indicated above, these values can be higher for exercises done while standing up and lower if lying down.

Muscle Contraction Times

Muscle contraction is measured in seconds. The faster the response - the more developed and the faster twitching muscle fibres are. When the onset of contraction is slow (i.e. 1.2 second or more) - most people will achieve a significant improvement with regular pelvic floor exercises. 

Muscle Release Times

Muscle release is also measured in seconds. Release time is similar to the muscle contraction time. Release time that is 1.2 second or more will improve with regular pelvic floor exercises.

How often should pelvic floor exercises be conducted?

Using EMG device, such as Nu-Tek Maxi Plus1, conduct 5 rapid contractions and releases - rest for 2 minutes - repeat 5 rapid contractions and releases. This exercise will improve fast twitch muscle fibres.

Rest for 5 minutes. Then set work/rest times for 5 seconds and repeat 5 times.

Rest for 5 minutes. Then repeat as in section 2 above.

Repeat the same as in 1 - 3 sections above later in the day (i.e. exercise pelvic muscles twice daily) for 4 weeks/1 month.

In the second month increase the work/rest times to 10 - 15 seconds with 5 repetitions. This regime will strengthen the muscles and increase endurance.

Continuous Pelvic Floor Exercise Regime

During the second month of exercising, the muscles should feel stronger. The strength should be confirmed by readings/measurements. If results are satisfactory - either continue with daily regime or reduce it to 3 - 4 times per week for 3 months. If subsequently good stable results are achieved, reduce the sessions to 2 - 3 times per week.

Pelvic Floor Health Recommendation

Pelvic floor is of paramount importance to overall health, lifetime continence and good sexual function. We urge everyone who has concerns to consult their healthcare professional for appropriate advice or for further specialist referral.

Back to top

 

UK Shipping Schedule and Costs

UK delivery speed and cost are selectable in the Checkout. All orders are shipped in plain discreet packaging.

  • UK Regular Delivery (£5.50 + VAT):
    Delivery in 2 - 3 working days. Orders must be received before 2 pm (Monday – Friday).
  • UK Next Day by Courier (£7.50 + VAT):
    Next Day Delivery by Courier for orders received before 2 pm on working days (Monday to Friday) - expect delivery on next working day (Monday to Friday).  
  • UK Free Delivery Option for online only orders of £75.00 excluding VAT or more:
    UK Free Delivery Option for online only orders of £75.00 excluding VAT or more is free and takes approximately 3 - 4 working days.
  • UK Saturday Delivery (£21.66 + VAT):
    Saturday Delivery applies only to the UK Mainland Only. Saturday Delivery Orders must be placed before 2 pm on the Friday. Orders received after 2 pm on Friday will be delivered on Saturday on following week.    

Overseas Shipping Schedule

  • Overseas deliveries take approximately 7 - 14 working days depending on destination.
  • Shipping costs depend on the type of goods and the delivery address.
  • Cost of shipping is shown in the Checkout prior to the completion of the purchase.
  • VAT is removed automatically from all purchases for deliveries outside the EU.
  • Goods of value below £135 (Euros 150) to be shipped to countries of the EU are charged VAT at the rate of relevant EU destination country and shipped uder the IOSS scheme. 
  • We do not currently ship the goods over £135 / Euros 150 value to the EU countries.      

 

 

  1. Nu-Tek Levator Elite kit consists of the main control unit, set of 4 self-adhesive skin electrodes 50 x 50 mm, set of 2 self-adhesive skin electrodes 50 x 100 mm, Nu-Tek vaginal probe, conductive lead, reference lead, 1.5V batteries (4 x AA batteries), holding cradle, User Manual in colour, skin electrodes positioning guide sheet and a carry case. Free copy of Women’s Waterworks Curing Incontinence by Dr Pauline Chiarelli. CE mark Medical Device (CE0197). 1 year warranty.
  2. Nu-Tek Maxi Plus1 Single Channel EMG Biofeedback kit consists of the control unit, set of 4 self-adhesive skin electrodes (50 x 50 mm), Nu-Tek vaginal probe, conductive lead, reference lead, 4 x 1.5V AA batteries, cradle stand, User Manual. Free copy of Women’s Waterworks Curing Incontinence by Dr Pauline Chiarelli. CE mark Medical Device (CE0197). 1 year warranty. 
  3. Nu-Tek Maxi Plus2 kit consists of the Nu-Tek Maxi Plus2 unit, 1 set of 4 self-adhesive skin electrodes (50 x 50 mm), 1 set of 2 self-adhesive skin electrodes (50 x 100 mm), Nu-Tek vaginal probe, 2 conductive leads, 1 reference lead, 4 x 1.5V AA batteries, holding cradle, colour illustrated User Manual with quick start guide, skin electrodes positioning guide sheet and carry case. (CE0197). 1 year warranty on the Nu-Tek Maxi Plus2 unit.
  4. Nu-Tek System Software kit is supplied complete with the software installation disc and license for 5 activations (i.e. use on 5 PCs), USB cable, User Manual with Quick Start instructions illustrated in colour. CE mark.

VAT exemption is available, when purchased for personal use by people with relevant chronic conditions. VAT relief declaration must be completed online at the time of purchase.