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Updated: Oct 29, 2025
Kinematic Analysis Using 3D Motion Capture of Drinking Task in People With and Without Upper-extremity Impairments
Published on: March 28, 2018
Optimal multi-field functional electrical stimulation parameters for the "drinking task - reaching phase" and related
Andreia S P Sousa1, Cláudia Isabel Costa da Silva1, Inês Albuquerque Mesquita2
1Center for Rehabilitation Research - Human Movement System (Re)habilitation Area, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200 - 072, Porto, Portugal.
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) parameter optimization for the reaching phase of drinking tasks in stroke survivors shows high repeatability. This consistency aids clinical implementation for improved upper limb function.
Area of Science:
- Neurorehabilitation
- Biomechanics
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is frequently used in post-stroke rehabilitation, yet specific parameter guidelines are lacking.
- Upper limb (UL) dysfunction is common after stroke, impacting daily activities like drinking.
- Optimizing FES parameters is crucial for effective motor recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine optimal FES parameters for the reaching phase of the drinking task in post-stroke subjects.
- To analyze the repeatability of upper limb movement quality indicators with optimized FES parameters.
Main Methods:
- Observational study with a test-retest design involving ten post-stroke subjects.
- Assessment of endpoint and joint kinematics of the contralesional UL during the drinking task's reaching phase with FES.
- FES parameter adjustment based on consensus between physiotherapists and patients.
Main Results:
- Reliable FES parameters were established for assisting the drinking task's reaching phase.
- High to very high repeatability was observed for all FES parameters.
- Moderate to very high repeatability was achieved for most UL movement quality indicators.
Conclusions:
- Optimized FES parameters for improving patient-perceived change are stable.
- The consistency of these FES parameters facilitates clinical practice and intervention session reliability.
- This study provides a foundation for standardized FES application in stroke rehabilitation.
