Benefits Of Fes

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Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a treatment modality used by neurological physiotherapists to improve muscle strength and everyday functional ability following a neurological injury. The FES unit can be used as an exercise tool to increase strength or whilst carrying out a functional task. The benefits of using FES are:

It can be worn whilst carrying out an activity or whilst resting
Pain free tingling sensation
Discrete electrodes and pocket size FES unit
Portable unit that can be taken anywhere
Improved ability to eat and drink using weaker upper limb
Improved ability to get washed and dressed using weaker upper limb
Improved ability to reach and carry objects with weaker upper limb
Increased muscle strength in the target area
Increased independence and quality of life

Above: Use of functional electrical stimulation by a neurological physiotherapist to aid mobility

FES is commonly used in the treatment of dropped foot. Electrical stimulation is used to pull the toes up towards the individual whilst walking therefore improving heel strike and the safety and efficiency of walking. The benefits of wearing FES whilst walking are:

Reduced risk of falls as a result of catching toes on the ground
Reduced ‘hip hitching’
Reduced effort of walking
Improved pattern of walking
Increased heel strike during walking
Increased distance able to walk
Increased speed of walk
Increased exercise tolerance and fitness
Increased confidence
Increased independence
Increased social interaction
Increased quality of life

If you would like to find out more about Functional electrical stimulation please contact us today on 0330 088 7800 in order to speak to one of our specialist neurological physiotherapist or to book an appointment with us today.

Alternatively, you can make an appointment online and use the following links to find out more about functional electrical stimulation: