Welcome to another entry in the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest!

This time, we're diving into fascinating research on Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES), a therapy designed to help people regain movement in their arms and hands after a stroke or spinal cord injury.

This groundbreaking study reveals how FES could be a game-changer for recovery and independence.

What Is the Research About?

The research focuses on how Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) can retrain arm and hand movements in people recovering from strokes or spinal cord injuries.

It explores how electrical pulses are used to "wake up" muscles and nerves, allowing them to perform natural movements during therapy sessions.

Who Conducted This Research and When?

• Authors: Naaz Kapadia, Bastien Moineau, and Milos R. Popovic.
• Institutions: University of Toronto and the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Canada. These institutions are leaders in rehabilitation sciences.
• Published In: Frontiers in Neuroscience in 2020.
• Funding: Supported by organizations like the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation and the Toronto Rehab Foundation.

What Are the Positive Findings?

1. Significant Recovery in Independence Scores:

   • Patients with subacute spinal cord injuries who underwent 40 hours of Funtional ES therapy showed major improvements in the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) compared to those receiving conventional therapy.
   • Example: Their SCIM self-care scores increased by an average of 10–20 points compared to control groups.

2. Stroke Recovery Data:

   • For individuals recovering from acute severe strokes, Functional ES therapy led to significant enhancements in:
     • Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) scores: Motor recovery improved by 15–30% after 12–16 weeks of therapy.
     • Barthel Index: This measure of daily living independence increased by 20–25% in FES recipients compared to conventional therapy participants.
     • Chedoke McMaster Stages of Motor Recovery: Participants advanced by one or more stages, showcasing better recovery of hand and arm functions.

3. Time Frame and Repetitions:

   • These gains were achieved after 8–16 weeks, with 40 one-hour sessions. Each session included 10–15 repetitions of functional tasks (e.g., grasping, reaching).

4. Restoration of Specific Movements:

   • The study showed that two-finger precision grips (e.g., holding a credit card) and power grasps (e.g., holding larger objects) were restored in over 85% of participants.
   • Activities like holding a mug, pouring water, and using utensils were initially performed with assistance but later became independent tasks.

5. Sustained Improvements:

   • These improvements remained or even increased during a 6-month follow-up, proving the long-term benefits of FES therapy.

6. Physical Evidence of Neuroplasticity:

   • FES therapy promotes cortical plasticity, helping the brain and muscles communicate better. The therapy activates Ia muscle fibers, enhancing motor recovery and independence.

Why Is Functional ES Important for Recovery?

When someone has a stroke or spinal cord injury, their muscles often lose strength and coordination. Functional ES helps by:

• Stimulating the muscles to mimic natural movements.
• Retraining the brain and nerves to communicate with the body.
• Improving strength and reducing dependency on caregivers.

How Can This Study Help EMS Device Users?

If you use an EMS device, understanding therapies like Functional ES highlights how electrical stimulation can support recovery. For example, Funtional ES shows how specific, targeted muscle stimulation can lead to remarkable gains in mobility and independence.

Full Study Details

Original Title: Functional Electrical Stimulation Therapy for Retraining Reaching and Grasping After Spinal Cord Injury and Stroke
Simplified Title: How FES Helps Arms and Hands Recover After Stroke or Injury
Source Link: Read the full research here

This research is a trustworthy source because it’s peer-reviewed, backed by top scientists, and funded by reputable organizations.

What Do You Think?

• Have you or someone you know tried FES or EMS therapy?
• Do you believe this technology could help more people regain independence?
• What other recovery therapies would you like us to explore?

This blog is part of the ORIEMS FIT Research Digest, where we bring you the latest discoveries in EMS, rehabilitation, and beyond. Share this with friends or family who might benefit, and let’s spark curiosity and conversation about cutting-edge science!
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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational and recreational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. For full details, visit ORIEMS FIT Disclaimer.

Hashtags: functional electrical stimulation, stroke recovery, spinal cord injury, FES therapy, rehabilitation technology, muscle stimulation, arm and hand therapy, neuroscience insights, recovery independence, EMS research