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Upper limb functional electrical stimulation for walker ambulation in hemiplegia: a case report
H P Weingarden1, R Kizony, R Nathan
1Department of Neurologic Rehabilitation, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel.
American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) enabled a 16-year survivor of head injury to achieve independent ambulation. This new upper limb function was facilitated by a novel FES device providing grasp and release capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Electrical stimulation is used for hemiplegia, aiding range of motion, strength, and blood flow.
- Functional gains in the hemiplegic upper limb are reported, but achieving new activities is rare.
Observation:
- A head injury patient, 16 years post-injury, used a new electrical stimulation device (Handmaster).
- The device provided therapeutic and functional electrical stimulation for grasp and release.
Findings:
- The Handmaster device enabled reliable grasp and release, facilitating new functional capabilities.
- The patient achieved independent ambulation with a walker for the first time since injury.
- The device's ease of home use and microprocessor control were key.
Implications:
- Neuromuscular stimulation can restore previously impossible upper limb functions in chronic hemiplegia.
- This case highlights the potential of advanced FES devices for significant functional recovery.
- Home-based FES offers a promising avenue for improving independence in individuals with severe neurological deficits.