Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a therapy technique that uses electrical stimulation to generate body movement.

At Ranken Jordan, we use FES cycles as well as the XCITE, which are customized to the needs of each patient. Safe, low-current electrical impulses are delivered through electrodes on the skin to stimulate nerves to cause a muscle contraction in the targeted area such as the arms, legs, and core. FES activates paralyzed or weakened muscles.

For example, this technology allows a patient with little or no voluntary leg movement to pedal a stationary leg cycle. The electrical impulses cause coordinated contractions and the pedaling motion. The XCITE system uses the same mechanism to assist patients in completing functional activities such as standing up from a chair.

FES is a proven therapy with a wide range of uses for positive results.

FES can help as part of an overall treatment plan for several neurological diseases and conditions.

• Spinal cord injury
• Stroke
• Traumatic brain injury
• Spina bifida
• Cerebral palsy
• Acute flaccid myelitis
• Gait and postural abnormalities
• Generalized deconditioning

FES can re-educate muscles; relax muscle spasms or spasticity; reduce or prevent muscle atrophy (loss of muscle and tone); increase blood circulation in the affected area; and maintain or increase range of motion.

For patients with traumatic brain injury, FES also can increase nervous system activity, improve alertness, and facilitate gains in functional recovery.

To help patients with spinal cord injury, FES has been shown to increase respiration and circulation, which can reduce secondary medical conditions such as pressure sores and pneumonia.

After using FES, patients with cerebral palsy also achieve cardiovascular fitness and better postural control and gait training. In addition, FES is beneficial for muscle strengthening and motor and coordination control for other neurological diseases.

Using FES is part of an activity-based restorative treatment. Occupational therapists and physical therapists at Ranken Jordan use FES bikes and the XCITE system in addition to traditional therapy interventions.

Ranken Jordan has three different FES cycles as well as an XCITE system on-site to build muscle mass and promote physical and functional recovery. Electrodes are placed on the target muscle groups to stimulate muscle contractions. Physical therapists and occupational therapists conduct muscle testing to ensure optimal response.

In addition, sometimes FES therapy is provided through home units as appropriate.