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Published on: February 1, 2018
The effect of lower limb functional electrical stimulation on gait of children with cerebral palsy
Anja Seifart1, Marianne Unger, Marlette Burger
1Department of Physiotherapy, University of Stellenbosch, Parow, South Africa. anjaseifart@webmail.co.za
Insights
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) shows potential for improving gait in children with cerebral palsy. Targeting specific lower limb muscles like the gastrocnemius may yield better results than isolated muscle stimulation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rehabilitation
- Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) often affects motor function, impacting gait.
- Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a therapeutic modality explored for CP management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of lower limb FES in pediatric cerebral palsy patients.
- To synthesize current research on FES interventions for children with CP.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search identifying 37 relevant citations.
- Inclusion criteria: English articles, lower limb FES, subjects under 18, stimulator off during testing.
- Review included 5 studies: 3 case reports, 1 single-subject design, 1 crossover design.
Main Results:
- FES applied to the gastrocnemius, with or without the tibialis anterior, showed promising gait improvements.
- Stimulating the tibialis anterior muscle alone appeared less effective for gait enhancement.
- Varied stimulation protocols were observed across the included studies.
Conclusions:
- Further research is required to differentiate optimal FES and neuromuscular electrical stimulation protocols.
- More rigorous study designs are needed to establish clinically relevant outcomes for FES in pediatric CP.
- Investigating specific muscle targeting and stimulation parameters is crucial for maximizing therapeutic benefits.
Purpose:
To examine the effect of lower limb functional electrical stimulation (FES) in children with cerebral palsy.
Methods:
A comprehensive search yielded 37 citations. English articles included in the review applied either surface or percutaneous FES to the lower limb, if subjects were younger than 18 years old, and if the stimulator was removed or off at the time of testing.
Results:
Five articles were included in this review, including 3 case reports, 1 single subject, and 1 crossover design. Among the wide range of stimulation protocols, stimulation of the gastrocnemius with or without the tibialis anterior muscle may effect greater gait improvements than stimulating the tibialis anterior muscle alone.
Conclusions And Recommendations For Clinical Practice:
Future research differentiating between optimal FES and neuromuscular electrical stimulation protocols as well as more rigorous research designs are needed to provide clinically relevant results.
