Electrical Stimulation Services
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
We provide two types of Electrical Stimulation at Neurological Physiotherapy. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) and Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES).
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
NMES is a therapeutic technique that uses controlled electrical impulses to activate motor nerves, producing muscle contractions. Stimulation is delivered via electrodes placed on the skin over targeted muscles.
There are contraindications to some patients accessing NMES, which would be discussed at the initial assessment.
NMES may be used to support rehabilitation or performance for:
- Muscle strengthening (post-injury, post-surgery, disuse)
- Muscle re-education (stroke, spinal cord injury, peripheral nerve injury)
- Prevention of disuse atrophy
- Maintenance or increase of range of motion
- Reduction of muscle spasm
- Improvement of local circulation and edema reduction
- Adjunct for sports performance
- Preparation of sensory pathways for activity
- Boosting muscle activity during exercise
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
FES is similar to NMES but is delivered in a timed, task-specific way to support the activation of motor nerves during a functional activity, such as walking or grasping an object. It is a National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommended treatment.
FES is suitable for people whose brain or spinal cord have been damaged by the following conditions:
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- Stroke
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Head injury
- Cerebral palsy
- Incomplete spinal cord injury (T12 and above)
- Or any other neurological condition that affects the brain or spinal cord above T12
There are contraindications to some patients accessing FES, which would be discussed at the initial assessment.
FES for Foot Drop
FES is particularly useful for those suffering foot drop as it stimulates the muscle that lifts your foot up as you step, making walking easier and safer through preventing your foot catching on the floor. Clinical trials have demonstrated that patients who have FES for foot drop are able to walk faster, with less effort, and more confidence.
We accept both adult and paediatric referrals.
Following an initial assessment to identify that FES will be appropriate and beneficial, we purchase an FES device and provide follow up sessions to monitor it’s efficacy.
In some instances, the FES device and follow up sessions can be funded by the NHS. This would be discussed at the initial assessment, and if applicable, we will make a referral to the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board (ICB) for funding.
FES for Upper Limb Weakness
There are instances where FES can be used to treat upper limb weakness, particularly for some patients who have suffered a stroke. It can be used to help strengthen other muscles, for example in the hand or shoulder and can also be used to reduce pain if you are suffering with a shoulder subluxation.
Treatment and funding are discussed with patients on an individual basis at the initial assessment.
For enquiries about any of our electrical stimulation services please click here:
Neurological Physiotherapy
Oak House
2 Gatley Road
Cheadle
Stockport
Cheshire
SK8 1PY
Email: reception@neurologicalphysiotherapy.co.uk
Tel: 0161 491 4151
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