Introduction to Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

Outline for Clinical Symposium
20 minutes

Historical Overview of FES

  • Historical overview covering breadth of topic

  • Definition and clinical application

  • Successes and failures

  • Literature highlights

  • Recent research – University of Alberta

  • Case presentation

 Dr. Richard Stein,
University of Alberta,
Edmonton, Alberta
5 minutes Questions and discussion
20 minutes

An Orthotic Perspective of FES

  • Medical history and screening

  • Observational gait assessment

  • Functional gains

  • Psychosocial considerations

  • Hybrid orthotic-FES applications

  • Case presentation

 Mary Kate Ennis,
MBA, CO Innovative Neurotronics,
Bethesda, MD
5 minutes Questions and discussion
20 minutes

Opportunities and Future Directions

  • Supported by evidence-based research

  • IN's current clinical trials

  • Creating the FES clinical team

  • New markets, new referrals

  • Current commercial market

  • Case presentation

 Deanna Fish,
MS, CPO Innovative Neurotronics,
Bethesda, MD
20 minutes Questions and discussion

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is one of the most rapidly growing areas in biomedical technology. A review of the literature reveals a myriad of evidencebased benefits relative to the use of electrical stimulation. These benefits include but are not limited to: reduced spasticity; carryover effect; reduced effort in walking; slowing of osteoporosis and/or bone mineral loss; reduced swelling, formation of blood clots (deep venous thrombosis); improved cardiovascular health with increased walking; increased walking speed, decreased synergistic patterns and improved proprioception.

FES is defined as a method of applying low levels electrical currents directly to the motor nerves of the body to restore functionality to an impaired limb and is effectively used for diagnostic procedures, therapeutic treatments and a variety of Myo-Orthotics™ programs. Undertaken by a knowledgeable team of health care professionals, the purpose of a structured FES program may include any of the following functional goals: increased mobility and independence; improved muscle coordination and power; maintained or regained range of joint motion; decreased need for personal assistance; and strengthened corticospinal pathways

Specifically, this presentation will focus on applications to the lower extremity for individuals with upper motor neuron involvements. Documented improvements in functional walking and the opportunities for combined orthotic/FES applications will also be discussed, along with a historical overview of FES, current applications and future directions relative to the fields of orthotics and prosthetics.