Functional Electrical Stimulation

Following injury to the brain or spinal cord through disease such as stroke or MS, nerve impulses to the muscles may be delayed or even blocked. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) uses electrical impules from a specially designed unit to produce contractions in muscles. 

This can mimic the action of muscle to improve function and aid in retraining weak muscles and normal movement.

FES is commonly used in ‘foot-drop’ following stroke or MS, However it can be used to help retrain movement in the arms or legs.

Our paediatric physios are also now trained to use FES and this can be extremely helpful for our younger clients, especially following SDR surgery.

How Bristol neurophysio can help

The physiotherapists at Bristol neurophysio are experienced in use of FES, including:

  • Providing a full physical assessment to assess for suitability for FES
  • Arranging for supply and fitting for the appropriate FES unit
  • Arranging suitable training and exercise programmes for use with the FES unit
  • Loan of a unit if needed to allow clients to try before they buy

Some kind words

Our daughter’s renal failure means that she is delayed with standing and walking at 2 and half years of age. We first started seeing Jules a few months back for an intense block of physiotherapy to build the strength and skills needed for her to eventually stand and walk.  It was really important that the physiotherapist specialised in paediatrics and could work alongside the NHS physiotherapists we also see. Jules immediately put us at ease with her friendly and professional approach and has built a good, trusting relationship with our daughter.  She uses play as a way to get our daughter to engage with the therapy.  Our daughter has really enjoyed all her physio sessions to date and we have seen a notable improvement in her movement.  She has begun to pull herself up and can climb up small steps as well as shuffle down stairs in a controlled manner!

Ms S, Bristol