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Published on: November 11, 2022
Low-intensity functional electrical stimulation can increase multidirectional trunk stiffness in able-bodied
Albert H Vette1, Noel Wu2, Kei Masani2
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Alberta, 4-9 Mechanical Engineering Building, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2G8, Canada; Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital, Alberta Health Services, 10230 111 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta T5G 0B7, Canada.
Low-intensity functional electrical stimulation (FES) can increase trunk stiffness on demand in healthy individuals. This method shows promise for improving postural control and stability without affecting trunk damping.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Spinal cord injury often results in impaired trunk muscle control, impacting functional independence and leading to secondary complications.
- Functional electrical stimulation (FES) neuroprostheses offer potential for restoring trunk control during postural tasks.
- Existing FES research has not explored using low-intensity stimulation to enhance multidirectional trunk stiffness and damping for stability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of low-intensity functional electrical stimulation (FES) on multidirectional trunk stiffness.
- To determine if FES can enhance trunk stability during sitting by modulating stiffness and damping.
Main Methods:
- Fifteen healthy participants were subjected to random horizontal perturbations in eight directions while sitting.
- Trunk stiffness and damping were quantified using force and kinematic data during natural and FES-supported sitting.
- A mass-spring-damper system model was employed to analyze trunk dynamics.
Main Results:
- Low-intensity FES significantly increased trunk stiffness in healthy individuals.
- The increase in stiffness was direction-specific, corresponding to the stimulated trunk muscles.
- Trunk damping was not significantly altered by the application of low-intensity FES.
Conclusions:
- Low-intensity FES is an effective and straightforward method for augmenting trunk stiffness on demand.
- This approach may offer a novel strategy for improving postural stability in individuals with impaired trunk control.
- Further research could explore the application of this FES technique in clinical populations.
