Quick Overview
A 2022 review by scientists at Kyung Hee University in Seoul examined functional electrical stimulation (EMS) for older adults after stroke. Researchers analysed multiple trials measuring ankle strength, gait speed, foot clearance, and both static and dynamic balance.
One key finding showed EMS plus rehab raised dorsiflexor ankle strength by 56.6%, compared with 27.7% from rehab alone. Other studies recorded better walking symmetry, greater propulsive force, and improved balance scores.
These measured results suggest EMS may help support weaker leg muscles, steadier movement, and safer walking patterns. The work comes from a respected Korean medical centre and appears in a peer-reviewed geriatric journal, giving it strong scientific grounding.
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Older adults who survive a stroke often face a tough new reality.
Walking becomes hard. Balance feels shaky. Muscles weaken fast.
A careful review from South Korea looked at one promising tool. It examined functional electrical stimulation, also known as EMS technology.
Researchers at Kyung Hee University in Seoul led the work. They work in family medicine, rehabilitation, and biomedical science. Their paper appeared in the Annals of Geriatric Medicine and Research. That journal is published by the Korean Geriatrics Society.
The team reviewed many studies on post-stroke patients. Most were middle-aged or older. They wanted to know if EMS could help physical performance and muscle strength.
Here is what the evidence showed.
In one key study, people received EMS plus normal rehab. Their ankle strength (dorsiflexor muscles) rose by 56.6 percent. The group that did only rehab gained just 27.7 percent.
EMS helped the front of the lower leg lift the foot during walking. This reduced foot drop. It made the swing phase of each step smoother.
Other trials targeted the hip muscles too. EMS on the hip abductors supported the pelvis in the stance phase. This improved weight-bearing and upright posture.
Patients showed better static balance. They also improved dynamic balance. Gait speed and walking symmetry got better in several studies.
In chronic stroke cases, EMS combined with training boosted functional walking scores. Some people walked farther on timed tests. Others needed less help with daily movement.
In the earlier, subacute stage after stroke, EMS plus gait training also helped. Gains appeared in balance scales and walking ability. Some benefits lasted months later.
The review noted that EMS may support muscle strength. Stronger muscles can help protect against further loss. Direct proof on muscle mass in older stroke survivors remains limited. Yet the strength gains were clear and repeated across studies.
Scientists explained how EMS works. It can send signals that help the brain reorganise movement patterns. It also strengthens the muscles themselves through regular contractions.
South Korea has a strong record in medical research and technology. The authors come from respected university hospitals and research centres. Their review brings together real measured results from controlled trials.
This gives a solid foundation. People interested in EMS technology can see the measured progress for themselves. The data point to better ankle power, steadier balance, and smoother walking patterns after stroke.
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The bright side is practical. EMS offers a way to support weakened muscles and movement skills. When used with proper rehabilitation, it may help older adults regain more independence in daily life.
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Research Summary
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Title | Therapeutic Effects of Functional Electrical Stimulation on Physical Performance and Muscle Strength in Post-stroke Older Adults: A Review |
| Lead Authors | Hyung Eun Shin, Miji Kim, Daehyun Lee, Jae Young Jang, Yunsoo Soh, Dong Hwan Yun, Sunyoung Kim, Jisoo Yang, Maeng Kyu Kim, Hooman Lee, Chang Won Won |
| Corresponding Author | Chang Won Won, MD, PhD, Department of Family Medicine, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea |
| Research Institutions | Kyung Hee University (Seoul), Kyungpook National University (Daegu), EXOSYSTEMS Inc. (Seongnam), Korea |
| Journal | Annals of Geriatric Medicine and Research |
| Publication Details | 2022; Volume 26, Issue 1, Pages 16–24 |
| Study Type | Narrative review of existing clinical trials and pilot studies |
| Target Population | Post-stroke older adults with impaired physical performance and muscle weakness |
| Intervention Reviewed | Functional electrical stimulation (EMS) applied to lower-limb muscles, often combined with rehabilitation or gait training |
| Key Strength Evidence | One analysed study showed dorsiflexor (ankle) strength increased 56.6% with EMS plus conventional rehab versus 27.7% with rehab alone |
| Balance Findings | EMS improved both static and dynamic balance scores when combined with balance or gait training |
| Gait Performance Results | Trials reported better gait speed, improved foot clearance, reduced foot drop, greater propulsive force, and enhanced walking symmetry |
| Muscle Mass Observation | Direct evidence on muscle mass remains limited; the review notes potential benefits for counteracting atrophy via strength gains and myokine pathways |
| Proposed Mechanisms | Peripheral effects on muscle strength and spasticity plus central effects supporting motor cortex reorganisation and neural plasticity |
| Original Study Link | https://doi.org/10.4235/agmr.22.0006 |
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