A Sensor-Based Multichannel FES System to Control Knee Joint and Reduce Stance Phase Asymmetry in Post-Stroke Gait.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is commonly used for drop foot correction in gait rehabilitation.
• Controlling knee joint movement with FES in individuals with central nervous system (CNS) disorders offers potential benefits like reduced spasticity and improved balance.
• Precise timing and parameter tuning are crucial for safe and effective FES knee control during the stance phase of gait.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of a sensor-based, multichannel FES system for knee joint control in post-stroke gait.
• To assess the impact of FES on gait quality, stance phase symmetry, and physiological cost in stroke survivors.

Main Methods:

• 11 participants with supratentorial ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke were enrolled.
• Participants used inertial measurement units (IMU) and foot pressure insoles to provide real-time feedback for FES adaptation during a 10m walking test.
• Gait parameters including stance time asymmetry, weight bearing, gait quality, and physiological cost were monitored.

Main Results:

• A significant reduction in vertical trunk motion was observed during gait with FES (p-value = 0.038).
• No significant improvement in stance phase asymmetry was found in this preliminary study.
• The sensor-based multichannel FES system demonstrated promising technical and rehabilitative potential.

Conclusions:

• Sensor-based multichannel FES shows potential for controlling the knee joint in post-stroke gait rehabilitation.
• While stance phase asymmetry was not significantly improved, the reduction in vertical trunk motion suggests benefits for gait quality.
• Further research is warranted to optimize FES parameters and explore its full rehabilitative capacity in stroke recovery.