What is done with the forearm in the NMES setup for rotator cuff strengthening?

• A. Forearm blocked to avoid rotation
• B. Forearm taped to chest
• C. Forearm free to rotate
• D. Forearm on table pivot

Answer: (A)

Blocking the forearm to avoid rotation is used to keep the arm in a stable, fixed position during NMES for rotator cuff strengthening. When the forearm is immobilized, the force produced by the stimulated muscles comes from the rotator cuff and the surrounding stabilizers rather than from forearm or elbow movement. This helps maintain a consistent line of pull and electrode placement, reduces recruitment of unintended muscles (like elbow flexors or pronators/supinators), and minimizes compensatory movements that could alter the load on the glenohumeral joint. If the forearm were free to rotate, those unwanted movements could shift effort away from the targeted cuff muscles and make the training less specific and effective.