Functional electrical stimulation for improving motor function in elderly patients with cerebral apoplexy hemiplegia

Objective Electric stimulation functional observation statistics (FES) were collected for elderly patients with cerebral apoplexy in search of any curative effect. Methods A total of 40 patients with cerebral apoplexy were divided randomly into a FES group of 20 cases and a control group of 20 cases. Both groups received the same routine rehabilitation training and basic drugs. The FES group was also treated using FES therapeutic apparatus for 30 min daily over 3 weeks (15 sessions). The control group received no electrical stimulation. Upper limb motor function, lower limb motor function, balanceand Barthel's index were evaluated. Results In the FES group, upper limb motor function was significantly improved after treatment, and significantly better compared with the control group. Lower limb motor function showed the same significant differences. Balance was also significantly better after treatment and significantly better than in the control group. Similar significant improvements were seen in terms of Barthel's index. Conclusions FES can improve the functional capacity of elderly patients with cerebral apoplexy hemiplegia and improve their ability in daily activities. Key words: Functional electrical stimulation; Cerebrovascular accidents; Hemiplegia