Why Muscle Health Matters & How Muscle Building Devices Help

Your muscle health is more than just strength – it’s the foundation of staying active, resilient and healthy. Maintaining it is one of the most valuable investments you can make for your overall well-being. But here’s the challenge: as we age, muscle mass naturally decreases through a process called sarcopenia. This loss can begin as early as your 40s, accelerating through your 50s and 60s.

So, what does this mean? Losing muscle doesn’t just affect strength, it can lead to fatigue, frailty, an increased risk of falls and a cascade of other health issues. Skeletal muscle makes up a whopping 30-40% of our body mass, playing a crucial role in balance, posture, mobility, and even protecting vital organs. Reduced muscle mass is also linked to a shorter lifespan and poorer recovery after injuries or surgery. Pretty alarming, right?

How to Build and Maintain Muscle

Resistance Exercise:

Regular resistance training is a game-changer for maintaining muscle strength. Research shows that even people in their 80s can build stronger muscles through weight training. It’s never too late to start!

Muscle Stimulation Devices:

Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) devices offer a cutting-edge solution for those who can’t train like they used to or are able to. These devices are an effective way to build muscle, increase strength, and improve muscle health, especially for those over 50.

truSculpt Flex

The Mayfield Clinic by Dr Nestor in Edinburgh is proud to offer truSculpt® flex. It’s a non-invasive, personalised muscle-building treatment which uses advanced Multi-Directional Stimulation (MDS) technology to tone, build and strengthen muscles. Essentially, it stimulates specific muscle groups and induces muscle contractions, similar to the effects of intense exercise such as sit-ups, squats and crunches – without all that hard work!

During a truSculpt flex treatment, muscle fibres experience microscopic tears. The body responds by repairing this damage, triggering a process called hypertrophy. This repair process, which begins after each session, involves the release of hormones such as testosterone to promote cell recovery, build new blood capillaries, and repair muscle fibres. This ultimately increases muscle size and strength.

The body continues to repair and build muscle over several weeks. Noticeable improvements in muscle definition, size, and strength typically take 4-16 weeks to appear.

Why Muscle Stimulation Devices Are Great for Older Adults

Muscle stimulation devices aren’t just for fitness buffs – they’re great for anyone over 50. Here are some key benefits:

• Increased strength and muscle mass to stay active and strong.
• Improved mobility and balance to reduce the risk of falls.
• Pain relief: While TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) excels here, EMS devices like truSculpt® flex have been shown to manage chronic pain by strengthening core muscles, improving posture and strength.
• Rehabilitation support: Prevent muscle loss and aid recovery after injuries or surgery.
• Better metabolic health: Help manage insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

The Science Backs It Up

Studies show muscle stimulation devices deliver real results. EMS systems such as truSculpt Flex boost strength and endurance in people with chronic low back pain. It can also prevent muscle loss during recovery from injuries like knee surgery.

Pairing Muscle Stimulation with Lifestyle Changes

While muscle stimulation devices are powerful on their own, they’re most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle habits. So, keep moving! Use these devices alongside regular exercise. Choose a protein-rich diet to support muscle growth and repair. Try supplements. Creatine, omega-3s and NAD+ boosters (such as Nuchido TIME+, available at our clinic) can amplify results and support cellular health.

Muscle Building Devices at The Mayfield Clinic

Ready to take action? Let us help you on your muscle health journey to a stronger, healthier you at The Mayfield Clinic by Dr Nestor in Edinburgh.

In addition to muscle stimulation devices, our clinic provides a variety of services including a Private GP, mole screening, lesion removal and varicose vein treatments. We also offer aesthetic enhancements, including BOTOX (subject to consultation and whether this is an appropriate treatment for your concerns) and dermal fillers, to complement your skin care regimen and enhance your overall appearance. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care in a warm and welcoming environment.

You’ll find our Edinburgh clinic at 169 Mayfield Road, Newington, EH9 3AZ. Call 0131 467 1450 or email hello@themayfieldclinic.co.uk to learn more.