Functional Electrical Stimulation

Functional Electrical Stimulation

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a machine which uses electrical stimulation to cause a muscle contraction, it does this by stimulating the nerves which supply muscles and cause them to contract. The machine is a small device about the size of a pack of cards which can fit inside your pocket or on your waistband. Wires from the device attach electrodes which are placed on specific areas of skin. The electrodes allow electrical stimulation to pass through the skin and activate muscles producing contractions in weak or paralysed muscles. This acts like normal nerve and muscle action during activities such as walking. FES is most commonly used to help people with 'foot drop' by activating the muscles at the front of your child's leg such as tibialis anterior.

FES is used as an everyday device to assist with lifting your foot up while walking and can be used during treatment sessions.

FES machines can strengthen weak muscles, reduce spasticity and reduce pain.

FES can be used to help function in the upper or lower limb. FES is commonly used to treat a "dropped foot" following upper motor neurone damage (damage to the brain or spinal cord).

To book an assessment or for more information please email office@manchesterneurophysio.co.uk call 0161 883 0066 .