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Control strategies in FNS systems for the upper extremities
1Mechanical Engineering Department, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel.
Critical Reviews in Biomedical Engineering
|January 1, 1993
Summary
This review explores functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS) for paralyzed upper limbs, analyzing biomechanics and control strategies for spinal cord injuries and hemiplegia to restore function.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Paralysis, particularly from spinal cord injuries (SCI) at C4-C6 levels, causes significant upper limb dysfunction.
- Secondary physiological changes further impact upper limb abilities and disabilities.
- Hemiplegia is also considered in the context of upper limb function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS) for restoring upper limb function in paralyzed patients.
- To analyze the biomechanics of FNS-activated paralyzed upper limbs using different electrode types.
- To survey various control strategies for FNS systems.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on FNS for upper limb paralysis.
- Analysis of biomechanics for both implanted and surface electrode FNS activation.
- Survey of open-loop, closed-loop (analog and digital), and adaptive control strategies.
Main Results:
- FNS shows potential for muscle activation in paralyzed upper limbs.
- Biomechanics of FNS-activated limbs analyzed for different electrode configurations.
- Various control strategies, from open-loop to adaptive, have been developed for FNS systems.
Conclusions:
- FNS offers a promising avenue for improving upper limb function in individuals with paralysis.
- Understanding the biomechanics and control systems is crucial for effective FNS implementation.
- Further development in adaptive control strategies may enhance functional outcomes.
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