Use of electrical or magnetic stimulation for generating hip flexion torque.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the most suitable site and method to effectively generate isometric hip flexion torque (torque value) using transcutaneous electrical or magnetic stimulation. DESIGN: Eleven healthy volunteers underwent torque value and pain degree measurements during magnetic stimulation of the iliopsoas using three coil placements. After that, the peak torque values generated under three conditions of electrical stimulation of the sartorius, the tensor fasciae latae, and the rectus femoris or that generated by magnetic stimulation of the iliopsoas were recorded at maximum tolerance intensity. RESULTS: No significant differences in torque values were observed among the three coil placements. Magnetic stimulation of the point below the inguinal ligament caused significantly more pain than the other points. Magnetic stimulation of the iliopsoas generated significantly higher torque values than did the electrical stimulation of the two hip flexor muscles together. CONCLUSIONS: The hip joint was one of the most suitable regions for application of magnetic stimulation as an alternative method to electrical stimulation.