Functional Electrical Stimulation
To Strengthen Muscles
Functional Electrical Stimulation / Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation
What is Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)?
A Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) machine is a small, battery-operated device that connects to self-adhesive sticky pads called electrodes. These electrodes are placed on the muscle motor point / muscle belly of the target muscle. This allows a visible muscle twitch with the least amount of electrical impulse. When the machine is switched on, small electrical impulses are delivered to the motor nerves, which cause the muscle to contract. This is felt as a tingling sensation. This electrical stimulation has been shown to increase the strength of the muscle. It is often used to re-train a muscle to function and to build strength after a period of disuse. The term FES is used to refer to the use of electrical stimulation during a task (eg: walking).
(FES) Electrical Stimulation during Functional Activities (Walking)
At what age can a child start FES?
FES has been used in children as young as 6 months old. Although, it is more commonly used in older children, from 5 years old.
Ref: Motavalli G, McElroy JJ, Alon G. An Exploratory Electrical Stimulation Protocol in the Management of an Infant With Spina Bifida: A Case Report. Child Neurol Open. 2019;6:2329048X19835656. Published 2019 Mar 29. doi:10.1177/2329048X19835656
Electrical Stimulation to Strengthen Muscles (Leg)
Who can benefit from FES?
Children who need to gain strength in certain muscles (e.g. post-surgery or general muscle weakness).
Children who have nerve damage of certain muscles or due to conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy, brain injury, traumatic brain injury, or incomplete spinal cord injury.
Difference between TENS and FES:
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is different from Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), although both units look quite similar.
TENS and FES target different nerve groups of the body. TENS stimulates the sensory nerves and reduces the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain. It also stimulates the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. These help to relieve pain and relax muscles. FES, on the other hand, stimulates the motor nerves, which strengthens the muscle itself.
If you would like to know how FES may benefit your child, please feel free to reach out to us.
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