Parameter mapping of hemiplegic shoulder electrical stimulation for motor function: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Biomedical Engineering
• Physical Medicine

Background:

• Electrical stimulation (ES) is recognized for treating shoulder subluxation and pain.
• Limited research exists on ES for hemiplegic shoulder motor function recovery post-stroke.
• Current ES methods for hemiplegic shoulders lack standardized protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and map existing evidence on ES for hemiplegic shoulder motor function.
• To identify and analyze key parameters used in ES interventions for stroke patients.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a comprehensive literature search of PubMed and Scopus (1975-March 2023).
• Included studies on ES for hemiplegic shoulders post-stroke with described parameters and motor function outcomes.
• Extracted data on study design, electrode placement, ES parameters, intervention details, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• 25 studies met inclusion criteria from 449 identified titles; 19 were randomized controlled trials.
• Common electrode placements: posterior deltoid and supraspinatus (upper trapezius).
• Frequently used parameters: 30 Hz frequency, 250 μs pulse width; typical intervention: 30-60 min/day, 5-7 days/week, 4-5 weeks.

Conclusions:

• Significant inconsistencies exist in ES electrode placement and parameter settings for hemiplegic shoulders.
• The definitive efficacy of ES as a treatment for improving hemiplegic shoulder motor function remains uncertain.
• Development of standardized ES protocols is crucial for optimizing motor function recovery in stroke survivors.