WHOLE-BODY ELECTRICAL STIMULATION: IMPLICATIONS AND ADVANCES IN CARDIOVASCULAR REHABILITATION

Abstract

Introduction: Whole-body electrical stimulation (WB-EMS) has been described as a technology capable of inducing simultaneous muscle contractions through electrical impulses applied to large muscle groups, promoting relevant neuromuscular and metabolic adaptations. In the context of cardiovascular rehabilitation, it has been considered a complementary strategy to conventional exercise, especially in individuals with heart failure, coronary artery disease, and significant functional limitations, including women with low functional capacity and associated sarcopenia. Objective: To analyze the clinical implications, technological advances, and therapeutic effects of whole-body electrical stimulation in cardiovascular rehabilitation, considering hemodynamic, functional, and safety outcomes. Methodology: The review followed the PRISMA checklist recommendations and used the PubMed, SciELO, and Web of Science databases, including articles published in the last 10 years. The following descriptors were used: "Whole-body electrostimulation," "cardiovascular rehabilitation," "heart failure," "muscle strength," and "exercise therapy." Controlled clinical trials, randomized studies, and observational research with adult heart patients were included; investigations with clear WB-EMS protocols; and publications in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. Studies with localized electrostimulation, exclusively athletic samples, and research without defined cardiovascular outcomes were excluded. Results: Significant improvements in functional capacity, increased peak oxygen consumption, increased peripheral muscle strength, and reduced fatigue were observed. Positive adaptations in heart rate variability and quality of life were also reported, with low rates of adverse events when intensity parameters and multidisciplinary supervision were respected. Conclusion: It was concluded that EMS-WB represented a promising and safe approach in cardiovascular rehabilitation, especially for patients with limitations to conventional exercise, favoring functional and hemodynamic gains and quality of life when applied in an individualized manner and based on scientific evidence.