Functional Wellness in Atlanta, GA with Emsculpt NeoNeuromuscular Therapy for Recovery, Circulation and Range of Motion

Treatment Time:
About 30 minutes
Downtime:
None
Onset:
Within a few sessions
FDA Status:
FDA-cleared HIFEM devices
Adult patient lying on a treatment bed with the Emsculpt Neo applicator over the core during a functional wellness session at SOCAH Center in Atlanta, GA

Neuromuscular Therapy

Functional wellness in Atlanta, GA at SOCAH Center uses HIFEM technology to trigger deep muscle contractions in the core, glutes, thighs or arms. Sessions take about 30 minutes with no downtime, and support recovery alongside therapy and exercise.

Functional Wellness is part of our SOCAH Suite wellness clinic and runs under the supervision of Dr. Nikki D. Hill, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist who reviews each patient before a plan begins. Sessions are delivered by our trained SOCAH Suite staff. Patients visit our Northlake office from Atlanta, Chamblee, Doraville and Stone Mountain.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikki D. Hill, MD, FAAD. Last updated: October 2026.

Adult stretching a stiff lower back at home in Atlanta, GA, before starting functional wellness neuromuscular therapy

The Challenge

Why Functional Wellness Starts With Muscle Activation

Weakness, Stiffness and Slow Recovery

After surgery, pregnancy, an injury or months of sitting, muscles can switch off. The core stops supporting the spine, glutes and thighs weaken, and stiffness makes stairs, lifting and long walks harder. Some people cannot yet exercise hard enough to rebuild strength, while others train regularly but still feel a weak link. Circulation slows when muscles are inactive, and recovery can feel stalled even with good intentions.

Neuromuscular stimulation reaches muscles that are hard to activate on your own. HIFEM contractions reconnect the brain-to-muscle signal, build endurance without loading the joints, and the muscle pump moves blood through the area. Paired with your therapist's exercises and daily movement, many patients find it easier to engage the core, stand taller and move with more confidence. It is support for your rehab plan, not a shortcut around it.

Understanding Your Treatment

What Is SOCAH Functional Wellness?

Emsculpt Neo HIFEM Muscle Stimulation Explained

SOCAH Functional Wellness is our Emsculpt Neo application for strength and recovery. Emsculpt Neo, made by BTL, is an FDA-cleared HIFEM device for strengthening and toning the abdomen, buttocks, arms, calves and thighs. Here we use that technology to support muscle re-education, circulation and recovery rather than body shaping. BTL Aesthetics describes the HIFEM technology. Pelvic floor strengthening uses a different device, the Emsella chair, covered on our pelvic floor therapy page.

An applicator over the target muscle creates a focused electromagnetic field that stimulates motor nerves, producing strong contractions you feel as deep tightening. Over a series of sessions, the muscle relearns how to fire and builds endurance, while each contraction pumps blood through the area.

Treatment Timeline:

First Signs:
Within a few sessions
Full Effect:
Weeks after your series
Treatment Time:
About 30 minutes
Recovery:
None

Where It Helps

What Functional Wellness Supports

Strength, Recovery and Movement

Muscle Re-Education
Helps weak or inhibited muscles relearn how to contract
Post-Surgical Support
Supports strength once your surgeon clears you for activity
Core and Diastasis Recti
Strengthens abdominal muscles that support the midline
Circulation
Muscle contractions pump blood through inactive areas
Range of Motion
Stronger, more responsive muscles make movement easier
Posture and Back Support
Builds core and glute strength that steadies the spine

Benefits of Functional Wellness Therapy

Why Patients Choose It

Deep ActivationReaches muscles exercise alone cannotJoint-FriendlyStrength without heavy loads on jointsTime-EfficientAbout 30 minutes while you sit or lie backNo DowntimeStraight back to work, therapy or trainingSupports RehabFits alongside physical therapy plans

Functional Wellness vs Other Recovery Options

Each option has a role. Functional wellness adds deep muscle activation to, not instead of, guided rehab and exercise.

OptionHow It WorksEffort RequiredGuided ByDowntimeBest ForLimitations
SOCAH Functional WellnessHIFEM triggers deep, controlled muscle contractionsRest while the device worksSupervised SOCAH Suite staffNoneMuscle activation, core support, recovery boostDoes not teach movement patterns
Traditional Physical TherapyTargeted exercise, manual therapy and educationActive participationLicensed physical therapistNoneInjury and post-surgical rehabilitationRequires consistent visits and home work
Massage TherapyHands-on work on muscle and soft tissuePassiveMassage therapistNoneMuscle tension and relaxationDoes not build strength
Home Exercise ProgramPrescribed exercises done on your ownDaily self-disciplineYou, with a planNoneMaintaining gains between visitsHard to activate weak muscles alone
Personal TrainingProgressive strength and conditioningHigh effortFitness trainerSorenessBuilding fitness once clearedNot designed for medical recovery

Candidacy

Who Is a Good Candidate for Functional Wellness?

Recovery, Strength and Mobility Goals

Functional wellness suits healthy adults who want to strengthen weak muscles, support recovery or move more comfortably, ideally alongside an exercise or therapy plan.

Ideal Candidates for SOCAH Functional Wellness

  • Adults rebuilding strength after surgery, once cleared by their surgeon
  • Postpartum patients with core weakness or abdominal separation
  • People with stiffness or weak core and glute muscles from long periods of sitting
  • Active adults who want help activating a lagging muscle group
  • Older adults who want joint-friendly strength support

Who Should Wait or Avoid SOCAH Functional Wellness

  • Pregnancy
  • A pacemaker, defibrillator, neurostimulator or other implanted electronic device
  • Metal implants, such as joint replacements or plates, in the area to be treated
  • Unhealed incisions, recent surgery without clearance, hernia or fever
  • Active cancer, bleeding disorders or acute injury that has not been evaluated

Abdominal separation after pregnancy is covered in our guide to diastasis recti treatment without surgery, and our article on is it too late to fix diastasis recti explains why core and pelvic work belong together. MedlinePlus explains rehabilitation and the role of licensed therapists.

SOCAH Suite staff member positioning a HIFEM applicator over a patient's thigh during functional wellness, Atlanta

Your Visit

Your Functional Wellness Session Step by Step

Supervised and Comfortable

  1. Consultation

    Dr. Hill reviews your history, surgeries, implants and goals, and requests clearance when needed.

  2. Positioning

    Our SOCAH Suite staff place the applicator over the target muscle group with you lying or seated.

  3. Treatment

    About 30 minutes of HIFEM contractions, with intensity raised gradually to your tolerance.

  4. Progress Check

    We note strength and comfort at each visit and share updates with your therapist if you wish.

Functional Wellness Side Effects and Safety

HIFEM therapy is non-invasive and generally well tolerated.

Common, Short-Lived Effects

The most common effect is muscle soreness or fatigue similar to a hard workout, which usually resolves within one to two days. Some people notice mild tingling or warmth during treatment.

Who Should Not Be Treated

Because the device uses a strong electromagnetic field, it is not used over pacemakers, implanted electronics or metal implants, during pregnancy, or over unhealed surgical sites. Post-surgical patients start only after their surgeon clears them.

Limits and Device Safety

Functional wellness is not a substitute for physical therapy or medical rehabilitation and does not diagnose or treat injuries. Report sharp pain, swelling or new numbness right away. The devices reached the market through the FDA 510(k) clearance process, which reviews safety and intended use.

Investment

Functional Wellness Cost in Atlanta

Pricing and Payment Options

How Much Does SOCAH Functional Wellness Cost in Atlanta?

Your cost depends on the muscle groups treated, the number of sessions in your series and how often you return for maintenance. Combining functional wellness with other SOCAH Suite care also shapes the plan. Exact pricing is discussed during your consultation, after Dr. Hill reviews your goals and history.

Insurance and SOCAH Functional Wellness

Functional wellness is a self-pay wellness service and is not billed to health insurance. Physical therapy prescribed by your physician may be covered separately by your plan.

Financing and Payment Options

CareCredit and Cherry let you spread the cost of a series over time. See how to apply on our financing options for wellness care page.

Why Choose SOCAH Center for Functional Wellness in Atlanta, GA

Supervised, Honest and Coordinated

Dr. Hill reviews every patient first, including surgeries and implants, and asks for clearance when needed. Our trained staff adjust the Emsculpt Neo intensity each visit. Many patients pair functional wellness with Emsculpt Neo body contouring, and those with bladder control goals add Emsella pelvic floor therapy.

Book Appointment

  • Physician Supervision

    Board-certified dermatologist reviews every plan

  • Clearance First

    We coordinate with your surgeon and therapist

  • Honest Scope

    Positioned as support for rehab, never a replacement

  • Whole SOCAH Suite

    Core, pelvic floor and body care under one roof

  • Same-Day Activity

    Normal routine and therapy continue the same day, with only mild soreness

  • Intensity Adjusted

    Trained staff tune each session to your comfort and progress

SOCAH Suite core, body and wellness treatments related to functional wellness at SOCAH Center in Atlanta, GA

Related Treatment

Body Contouring with Emsculpt Neo

Noninvasive muscle building and fat reduction, with no surgery, needles or downtime.

  1. Fat and Muscle
  2. No Surgery
  3. No Downtime
Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions About Functional Wellness

How much does functional wellness cost in Atlanta?
Functional wellness cost depends on the muscle groups treated and the length of your series, so it is set at your consultation. It is a self-pay wellness service. CareCredit and Cherry financing let you spread the cost over time, and our team explains every option first.
How long is a functional wellness session?
A functional wellness session takes about 30 minutes. You lie or sit comfortably while the applicator works, and there is no recovery time. Many patients schedule sessions on the same day as their therapy or workouts.
Does neuromuscular therapy hurt?
No, neuromuscular therapy should not hurt. You feel strong, rhythmic muscle contractions and sometimes gentle warmth. Our staff start at a low intensity and raise it gradually to your comfort, and you can ask to lower it at any time.
When will I notice results?
Many patients feel muscles engage more easily within a few sessions. Gains in strength, endurance and comfort with movement typically build over several weeks after a series. Results vary, and they are strongest when you keep up with exercise or therapy.
How many sessions will I need?
Most plans use a short series of sessions spaced over two to three weeks, then maintenance a few times a year. The exact plan depends on your goals, the muscles treated and where you are in recovery, and Dr. Hill adjusts it as you progress.
Is functional wellness a substitute for physical therapy?
No, functional wellness is not a substitute for physical therapy. A licensed physical therapist diagnoses movement problems and teaches you how to move safely. Our neuromuscular therapy supports that work by helping weak muscles activate, and we coordinate with your therapist when you would like us to.
Can I use it after surgery?
Yes, once your surgeon clears you for activity and incisions have healed. The device is not used over metal implants or unhealed sites, so some areas may be off limits. We ask about your procedure and timeline before planning any sessions.
Who is functional wellness for?
Functional wellness is for adults of every age and fitness level who want stronger, more responsive muscles. Patients include postpartum mothers, people recovering from surgery, desk workers with weak cores and active adults. Men and women both use it, and it is not offered during pregnancy.
Is SOCAH Functional Wellness the same as SOCAH Kinetix?
Yes, SOCAH Functional Wellness was formerly known as SOCAH Kinetix. The program, the technology and the supervised approach are the same, and the new name better describes what the therapy does. Patients who started under the old name can continue their plan.
Location2296 Henderson Mill Rd, Suite 300Atlanta, GA, 30345
Emailinfo@socahcenter.com
Phone(404) 474-2301

Schedule Your SOCAH Functional Wellness Consultation

References

  1. Hauger et al., Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. (2018). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation is effective in strengthening the quadriceps muscle after anterior cruciate ligament surgery. PMID: 28819679.
  2. Stevens-Lapsley et al., Phys Ther. (2012). Early neuromuscular electrical stimulation to improve quadriceps muscle strength after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial. PMID: 22095207.
  3. Labanca et al., Med Sci Sports Exerc. (2018). Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Superimposed on Movement Early after ACL Surgery. PMID: 29059108.
  4. Cheuy et al., J Orthop Res. (2023). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation preserves muscle strength early after total knee arthroplasty: Effects on muscle fiber size. PMID: 35856287.
  5. Kurt et al., World J Urol. (2024). Effects of external neuromuscular electrical stimulation in women with urgency urinary incontinence: a randomized sham-controlled study. PMID: 39033475.