Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 20, 2026
07:53
Assessment of Neuromuscular Function Using Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
Published on: September 13, 2015
Functional electrical stimulation using microstimulators to correct foot drop: a case study
D J Weber1, R B Stein, K M Chan
1Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation, Centre for Neuroscience, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2H9, Canada. doug.weber@ualberta.ca
Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology
|November 4, 2004
Summary
Injectable microstimulators (BIONs) offer a more selective functional electrical stimulation (FES) for foot drop, improving toe clearance and walking efficiency. This technology provides a viable alternative to surface stimulation for better muscle control.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neurorehabilitation
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Foot drop, often caused by neurological conditions, impairs walking ability.
- Traditional functional electrical stimulation (FES) using surface electrodes can lack selectivity.
- Injectable microstimulators (BIONs) offer a potential for more precise nerve and muscle activation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of using BIONs for functional electrical stimulation (FES) to correct foot drop.
- To compare the selectivity and effectiveness of BIONs versus surface stimulation for foot drop correction.
Main Methods:
- A case study involving the implantation of BIONs for FES.
- 3D motion analysis to assess ankle and foot trajectories during walking.
- Measurement of the physiological cost index (PCI) to quantify walking effort.
Main Results:
- BION stimulation achieved selective activation of the tibialis anterior (TA) and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles, resulting in balanced ankle flexion.
- BION FES increased toe clearance to 3 cm, matching the unaffected leg, and significantly reduced the physiological cost index (PCI).
- Walking speed increased substantially with BION FES compared to no stimulation.
Conclusions:
- BION-delivered FES is a feasible and effective alternative to surface stimulation for correcting foot drop.
- BIONs provide superior selectivity in muscle activation, leading to improved gait parameters and reduced walking effort.
- This technology holds promise for enhancing mobility and quality of life for individuals with foot drop.
