Overview
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a therapy that uses electrical currents to stimulate nerves in the body and make muscles work. This therapy can help people with neurological conditions or injuries regain movement or sensation that they have lost. FES can be used to strengthen the muscles, increase joint flexibility, and improve coordination and range of motion. It can also be used to improve balance, cardiovascular fitness, and speech. FES has been found to be effective in improving activities of daily living and quality of life in people with paralysis from stroke, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury. It can reduce spasticity and improve walking ability. The use of FES is continuing to evolve and can help people with a wide range of impaired functions.