A patient status post open knee meniscectomy is referred for neuromuscular electrical stimulation. What frequency of treatment is MOST beneficial to promote strengthening?

The most beneficial frequency of treatment to promote strengthening after an open knee meniscectomy using neuromuscular electrical stimulation is three times per week. This frequency strikes a balance between allowing for muscle recovery and providing sufficient stimulation for muscle strengthening.

Engaging in neuromuscular electrical stimulation three times weekly ensures that the muscles receive consistent, frequent activation, which is necessary for improving strength and function. This schedule supports muscle adaptation and promotes the desired physiological changes that come with strength training.

In comparison, more infrequent treatment options, such as one time per week or once every two weeks, would not provide enough stimulus to the muscle fibers to elicit the necessary strengthening response. Meanwhile, treating two times per day could lead to fatigue and overtraining, especially in the early stages of rehabilitation after surgery. Thus, three times per week represents the optimal frequency for achieving significant gains in strength.