Improved ankle and knee control with a dual-channel functional electrical stimulation system in chronic hemiplegia

The aim of this report is to describe the effects of a dual-channel functional electrical stimulation (FES) system applied daily as an orthotic device to the dorsiflexors and hamstrings muscles in a subject with chronic hemiparesis. Prior to the application of FES, the patients gait was characterized by a footdrop and knee hyperextension during stance. Measurements of gait performance were collected before FES application, after a conditioning period of six weeks, and following ten months of daily use. Outcomes included lower limb kinematics and temporal gait measures. The kinematic assessments indicated significant benefits for gait with the dorsiflexors and hamstrings FES, as compared to no stimulation and peroneal FES alone. In addition to improved ankle control, knee hyperextension was reduced during stance, and the self-selected comfortable gait velocity increased following ten months of daily use. The results of this report suggest that dual-channel FES for the dorsiflexors and hamstrings muscles may affect ankle and knee control beyond that which can be attributed to peroneal stimulation alone. The positive effects observed in this case study point to the potential of dual-channel FES as a viable treatment option in the rehabilitation of patients with similar impairments.