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Paraplegics standing up using multichannel FES and arm support
J Kuzelicki1, R Kamnik, T Bajd
1University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Laboratory of Robotics and Biomedical Engineering, Trzaska 25, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. jernej.kuzelicki@robo.fe.uni-lj.si
Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology
|September 28, 2002
Summary
Multichannel functional electrical stimulation (FES) aids faster standing for spinal cord-injured (SCI) individuals. Hip extensor stimulation, initiated pre-movement, improved sit-to-stand speed and repeatability in a small study.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a promising technology for restoring motor function in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
- The sit-to-stand (STS) movement is a critical daily activity that is often impaired following SCI.
- Optimizing FES parameters for home-based rehabilitation requires understanding its effects on different phases of the STS maneuver.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the suitability of multichannel FES for assisting the sit-to-stand maneuver in individuals with SCI for home use.
- To evaluate the impact of stimulating different muscle groups (ankle plantar flexors, knee extensors, hip extensors) on the STS process.
- To determine if FES can reduce the reliance on arm support during STS.
Main Methods:
- Two individuals with SCI participated in the study.
- Multichannel FES was applied to ankle plantar flexors, knee extensors, and hip extensors.
- Stimulation amplitude was adjusted based on the current phase of the STS movement.
- The STS process was segmented into three phases using characteristic events detected in vertical handle reaction force.
- Comparisons were made between multichannel FES and stimulation of knee extensors only.
Main Results:
- Multichannel FES did not significantly decrease the arm support force compared to stimulating knee extensors alone.
- Stimulation of hip extensors demonstrated a potential to accelerate the STS process.
- Initiating FES prior to the commencement of the sit-to-stand movement resulted in increased repeatability and faster execution of the maneuver.
Conclusions:
- While multichannel FES did not reduce arm support needs, stimulating hip extensors shows promise for improving STS speed in SCI individuals.
- Pre-movement FES initiation appears beneficial for enhancing sit-to-stand performance and consistency.
- Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to confirm the therapeutic potential of FES for home-based sit-to-stand assistance in SCI rehabilitation.