Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) in Bartlett, TN
Gentle electrical pulses that calm sore muscles and support recovery between visits.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation That Helps Muscles Let Go
Dr. Jared Worthington, DC is a Logan University College of Chiropractic graduate with certifications in spinal, extremity and myofascial rehabilitation. He uses EMS as one part of a plan built from your exam, never as a stand-alone fix.
The Challenge
When Tight Muscles Need Electrical Muscle Stimulation
Pain and muscle tension feed each other. A strained back or a stiff neck makes the surrounding muscles guard the area, and that guarding keeps them tight long after the original irritation settles. Sitting at a desk, driving across Memphis or sleeping in an awkward position adds to it. Over time the muscles tire, knots form, and even simple moves like turning your head or bending to tie a shoe start to hurt.
EMS gives those muscles a different signal. Mild pulses cause gentle, repeated contractions and relaxations that can ease spasm, improve local circulation and dull pain signals for a while afterward. That window of relief often makes adjustments and exercise easier to tolerate. We use it alongside rehabilitation and therapeutic exercise so the muscles that were guarding learn to support you again.
What Is Electrical Muscle Stimulation?
How Mild Pulses Reach the Muscle
Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is a drug-free therapy that sends mild current through pads on the skin to make muscles contract and relax. Stimulation units are FDA-regulated medical devices, and NIAMS lists conservative care as a first step for back pain.
You rest while the unit pulses, felt as tingling or a light tapping. The contractions may relax spasm and boost blood flow. Relief often builds over several visits alongside cold laser therapy.
Treatment Timeline
What We Treat
EMS Therapy Treatment Areas
Muscle and Nerve Related Pain
Low Back Pain
Relaxes guarding muscles around a strained or irritated lower back
Neck Pain
Eases tight neck and upper shoulder muscles from posture or strain
Muscle Knots
Helps release trigger points that refer pain into nearby areas
Whiplash
Supports muscle recovery after a car accident neck injury
Sciatica
Calms tight hip and low back muscles that add to leg pain
Pinched Nerve
Reduces muscle spasm around an irritated nerve in the neck or back
Key Advantages
Benefits of EMS Therapy
Drug-Free and Comfortable
- 01
Drug-Free Pain Relief
May reduce pain without adding medication to your routine
- 02
Eases Muscle Spasm
Repeated contractions help tight, guarding muscles relax
- 03
Supports Circulation
Muscle pumping may bring more blood flow to sore tissue
- 04
Easier Adjustments
Relaxed muscles often make the adjustment more comfortable
- 05
Helps Rehab Progress
Less pain can make corrective exercise easier to keep up
- 06
No Downtime
Most patients drive home and return to work the same day
EMS Therapy vs. Alternatives
Not sure where to start, I was referred here by my physical therapist and was honestly pretty skeptical at first. But it’s been an overwhelmingly positive experience. Everyone is supportive and genuinely cares about your well-being. Dr. Worthington brings incredible energy and passion, and it’s clear he truly cares about helping you make real progress. I’ve had two back surgeries, and now on a third journey through back pain. After being adjusted and traction, I’m already noticing significant improvements. For the first time in a while, I feel like I’m starting to get my life back. A special shout out to Kayln, she’s incredibly friendly and takes customer service to a new level. Thank you for being so accommodating with my schedule.
Jamil Abdelfattah Absolutely amazing experience at this chiropractor office! From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming, professional, and made me feel comfortable. The office itself is clean, organized, and has such a positive atmosphere. A huge thank you to Dr. Jared for providing outstanding care and making the entire experience feel personal and professional. He took the time to listen, explain everything clearly, and made sure I was comfortable throughout the visit. You can truly tell he cares about his patients and wants the best for them. Also, Michelle and Kalyn at the front desk was incredible — so kind, helpful, and attentive from start to finish. She made scheduling and check-in easy and stress-free and always had a friendly attitude. If you’re looking for a chiropractor office with amazing staff, excellent care, and a welcoming environment, I highly recommend this place!
Alexander Graham I love every experience I have at Worthington Chiropractic. All of the staff work together to make sure every patient’s needs are met. I am especially thankful for Kalyn for her patience with my daughter when she comes with me. They are a family friendly business. 💗
Karina Morgan I was at my wits end with hip pain. I was informed about how great Dr. Worthington was, and that was absolutely true!! The ladies at the front desk Michelle and Kaylin, were so very sweet, kind, and very helpful. I had NEVER been to a chiropractor before but I trust Dr. Worthington and getting my hip corrected. I highly recommend the office!!!
Tammy Stevens Dr Worthington is amazing. He is so knowledgeable and explains everything so thoroughly. I instantly felt safe and comfortable in his care. I trust him and his staff. They are kind, patient and very accommodating with my schedule so i can get in and out before work. I’m so glad The Joint Clinic recommended me here!!!
Sharita Baker 
Who Is a Good Candidate for Electrical Muscle Stimulation?
Screening Comes First
Ideal Candidates for Electrical Muscle Stimulation 
-
Adults with back pain in Bartlett, TN from strain or poor posture - People with tight neck and shoulder muscles or ongoing neck pain
- Patients with trigger points and muscle knots
- Car accident patients recovering from whiplash
- Anyone who wants to limit pain medication while doing rehab
Who Should Wait or Avoid Electrical Muscle Stimulation
- A pacemaker, defibrillator or other implanted electrical device
- Pregnancy, for pads over the abdomen or low back
- Broken skin, rashes or reduced sensation where pads would go
- A known or suspected blood clot in the treatment area
- Active cancer in the area being treated
- Epilepsy, for pads near the head or neck
Your Experience
What Happens During EMS Therapy
Step-by-Step Process
- 01
Exam
Dr. Worthington reviews your history and exam findings to decide whether EMS fits your plan.
- 02
Pad Placement
Electrode pads are placed on the skin over the tight or painful muscles while you lie comfortably.
- 03
Stimulation
Dr. Worthington raises the intensity slowly to a comfortable tingle or pulse and checks in often.
- 04
Combined Care
Your session is often followed by an adjustment, cold laser or rehab exercises the same visit.
Safety Information
EMS Risks and Side Effects
What to Know
Common EMS Side Effects
Most reactions are mild and short-lived: muscle soreness similar to a light workout, temporary skin redness under the pads, and a tired feeling in the treated muscles. These usually fade within a day.
Less Common Reactions
Some people have skin irritation from the pad adhesive, and settings that are too strong can feel uncomfortable. Tell us right away if the sensation turns sharp or burning, and we will lower the intensity or stop.
Safety and Device Status
Muscle stimulators are FDA-regulated medical devices. Screening for implanted devices, pregnancy, skin problems and blood clots before your first session helps keep EMS safe. Dr. Worthington adjusts the settings to your comfort throughout.
Investment
EMS Therapy Cost in Bartlett, TN
Pricing and Payment Options
How Much Does EMS Therapy Cost in Bartlett?
EMS is usually one part of a visit rather than a separate appointment, so the cost depends on the full plan your exam calls for, how many visits you need and what other therapies are included. Dr. Worthington explains the plan and its cost before you begin, so there are no surprises.
Your First Visit
Your first visit includes a consultation, a full chiropractic exam, X-rays if needed and your first adjustment.
Flexible Payment Options
- Cherry: monthly payment plans for your care
- CareCredit: healthcare financing for treatment plans
Questions about payment? Contact our Bartlett, TN office and our team will walk you through your options.
The Worthington Difference
Why Choose Worthington Chiropractic for Electrical Muscle Stimulation in Bartlett, TN
Bartlett's Family-Style Clinic
Exam-Guided Plans
Pad placement and settings follow your exam, not a template
Combined Care
EMS pairs with adjustments, laser, dry needling and rehab
Award-Winning Clinic
Named best chiropractic clinic in the 2025 Memphis Most Award
Walk-Ins Welcome
Open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM on Stage Road
Trusted by Neighbors
Nearly 300 five-star Google reviews from Memphis-area patients
On-Site X-Ray
Imaging in our office when needed, so your plan starts with clear findings
Explore More
Related Services
Treatments that pair naturally with electrical muscle stimulation.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Precise, hands-on spinal adjustments that restore alignment, ease pain and help you move freely.
Learn More
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Gentle, computer-controlled traction on the Triton 6M to ease disc pressure and nerve pain.
Learn More 
Prenatal Chiropractic
Gentle, pregnancy-safe adjustments for back, hip and pelvic comfort as your body changes.
Learn More Common Questions
EMS Therapy FAQs
Your Questions Answered
How much does electrical muscle stimulation cost in Bartlett, TN?
EMS is usually included as part of a visit, so the cost depends on your full treatment plan. Your first visit includes a consultation, full exam, X-rays if needed and a first adjustment. We also offer Cherry and CareCredit financing.
How long does an EMS session take?
Most EMS sessions last about 10 to 20 minutes. The stimulation is often done before or after an adjustment or rehab exercises, so a full visit may run a little longer. You simply rest on the table while the unit runs.
Does electrical muscle stimulation hurt?
No, EMS should not hurt. Most people feel tingling, a light tapping or a gentle squeeze as the muscle contracts. We raise the intensity slowly and keep it at a level you find comfortable, and you can ask us to lower it at any time.
How soon will I feel results from EMS therapy?
Many patients feel looser and less sore right after the first session. That early relief may only last a few hours at first. With repeated visits combined with adjustments and exercise, the periods of relief often last longer. Results vary with the cause of your pain.
How often will I need EMS treatments?
It depends on your condition and plan. Patients with recent injuries may come in more often early on, then taper as they improve. Dr. Worthington sets a schedule based on your exam and adjusts it as your pain and function change, rather than using a fixed package.
What is the difference between EMS and a TENS unit?
EMS makes the muscle contract and relax, while TENS mainly targets the nerves to block pain signals. Both use pads on the skin. In our office, stimulation is set for your specific muscles and combined with hands-on care, while a home TENS unit is mostly for short-term pain control.
Who is a good candidate for EMS therapy?
Adults with muscle tension, spasm, knots or strain-related back and neck pain are often good candidates. EMS is not used for people with pacemakers or other implanted electrical devices, over the abdomen or low back during pregnancy, or over broken skin. We screen every patient first.
Is EMS the same as a body sculpting device?
No. Our EMS is a therapy for pain relief and muscle recovery, used alongside chiropractic and rehab. It is not a cosmetic body contouring treatment. The goal is to calm sore, guarded muscles so you can move more comfortably and progress with your care plan. If your goal is body contouring, Emsculpt Neo is the device built for building muscle and reducing fat.
Can I combine EMS with other treatments?
Yes, EMS works well alongside other care. Many patients receive it with adjustments, cold laser therapy, dry needling or rehabilitation exercises in the same visit. Relaxed muscles often make adjustments more comfortable, and less pain can make exercises easier to keep up with.
- Hours
- Monday to Friday, 8AM to 6PM
- Phone
- (901) 519-7777
Ready to Feel Better?
Schedule Your Appointment
References
- Wolfe et al., Frontiers in Pain Research. (2024). Systematic review and meta-analysis of EMS, interferential current and TENS on patient-reported outcomes for chronic low back pain. PMID: 38979440.
- Resende et al., European Journal of Pain. (2018). Meta-analysis finding transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation reduced spinal pain compared with placebo. PMID: 29282846.
- Hao et al., European Spine Journal. (2025). Network meta-analysis comparing six biophysical agents, including electrical stimulation, for neck pain rehabilitation. PMID: 40244434.
- Gibson et al., Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. (2019). Overview of Cochrane reviews on transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for chronic pain. PMID: 30941745.
- Maffiuletti, European Journal of Applied Physiology. (2010). Review of the physiological and practical considerations for using neuromuscular electrical stimulation. PMID: 20473619.