Electrical/magnetic stimulation in musculoskeletal tissue engineering and regenerative medicine

Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders (tendon, ligament, joint [cartilage], muscle, bone, etc.) are the biggest contribution to physical disabilities worldwide. With an aging population demographic, the prevalence of MSK disorders is increasing. Tissue engineering (TE) and regenerative medicine have been the subject of major focus over the past number of years and are proposed solutions for such disorders. Investigations and studies in this area have demonstrated the beneficial effects associated with TE strategies. Focus has shifted to the use of external stimuli including electrical and magnetic stimulation and their positive effects on cellular function. The use of external stimuli in conjunction with biomaterial scaffolds has the potential to play significant roles in TE strategies.