Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2022 · DOI: 10.46292/sci21-00004 · Published: July 1, 2022
This study investigated whether a new type of electrical stimulation, called wide pulse/high frequency functional electrical stimulation (WPHF-FES), combined with regular arm and hand exercises, could help people with spinal cord injuries improve their arm strength, hand function, and balance. Participants received an intensive outpatient therapy program focused on UE training augmented with wide pulse/high frequency functional electrical stimulation (WPHF-FES). The results showed that this combined approach led to significant improvements in these areas, especially for individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries.
Integrating WPHF-FES with task-specific training can be considered as a valuable approach to enhance upper extremity rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with SCI, particularly those with motor incomplete injuries.
Future studies should focus on randomized controlled trials to compare the effectiveness of WPHF-FES against traditional FES methods and task-specific training alone.
Continued development and refinement of FES technology, including optimizing stimulation parameters and delivery methods, are warranted to maximize therapeutic benefits for individuals with SCI.