Kotz (Russian)

Kotz stimulation (also known as Russian stimulation) is a special electrical muscle stimulation technique originally developed by Soviet scientist Ja. M. Kotz. The method is applied in sports medicine and rehabilitation.

Its main purpose is to develop, strengthen muscles and promote regeneration. Electrical impulses artificially induce muscle contractions which help increase muscle strength and accelerate muscle recovery.

How does Kotz treatment work?

• Kotz treatment uses a special medium-frequency electrical current that penetrates deeply into the muscles. This electrical stimulation targets muscle fibers and stimulates contractions similar to natural muscle activity.
• The primary effect is increasing muscle strength. It also improves muscle endurance and speeds up recovery after injuries.
• Enhances communication between muscles and the nervous system, thereby improving motor control especially during post-injury rehabilitation.

What is it used for?

Kotz treatment is used in many areas:

• Muscle strengthening: An effective method for increasing muscle strength and endurance, especially for athletes and those performing physically demanding work.
• Rehabilitation: Aids regeneration of damaged or weakened muscles, for example after surgery or accidents.
• Pain relief: Although its primary goal is muscle development, it is also used for pain relief as electrical impulses stimulate nerve endings.
• Prevention of muscle atrophy: For immobilized or limited-mobility patients, Kotz treatment helps prevent muscle wasting (atrophy).

Contraindications

As with all medical or physiotherapy procedures, Kotz treatment has contraindications. These include:

• Pacemaker use: Electrical stimulation may interfere with the function of older pacemakers, so application near pacemakers is not recommended but can be conducted away from them under professional guidance.
• Acute inflammatory conditions: Not recommended on inflamed areas.
• Epilepsy: Electrical impulses can trigger seizures in epileptic patients.
• Pregnancy: Particularly discouraged on the abdomen and back during pregnancy.
• Cancer: Not recommended for active cancer patients, though it may be used on areas distant from tumors.
• Fresh fractures or severe injuries: Immediate electrical stimulation is not advised until proper healing has occurred.