It has been reported by a number of qualified researchers
that the treatment reverses muscle 
atrophy, cardiopulmonary deconditioning
and loss of heart mass, improves circulation and minimizes
reduction of range of motion in spinal cord injured
patients. It has also been demonstrated that there is
improved management of spasticity and a decrease in
infection- related illness.
FES in Connecticut
Clinical FES Training Programs
The NSCIA CT Chapter sponsors a growing number of
independant facilities in both clinical and community
settings that allow individuals to use Functional Electrical
Stimulation (FES)bikes. 
To be eligible, the individual must have
been trained in the proper use of FES in a clinical
environment, and must be able to utilize the apparatus
independently (either by themselves or with their own
assistant).
The following rehabilitation centers in CT currently have
FES equipment on premises. The programs offered to
in-patients and out-patients vary from location to location,
but they represent a clinical environment where a potential
SCI candidate can be evaluated and initially trained in the
use of the FES equipment. Please contact them for specific
details on the types of programs they offer.
- Gaylord Hospital - Wallingford, CT
-
Contact: Ingrid Marschner at 203-284-2876
- Hospital for Special Care, New Britain,
CT
-Contact: Cathie Feeney at
860-827-4816
- Uconn Medical Center, Storrs,
CT
-Contact: Dr. Pouran Faghri or Randy
Trumbower at 860-486-1773
Functional Electrical Stimulation
(commonly referred to as "FES") is a therapeutic treatment,
which uses transcutaneous electrical current to initiate
contractions of the paralyzed lower extremities of
individuals who have sustained spinal cord injury. The order
and strength of the contractions are sequenced by a computer
microprocessor to generate controlled and purposeful motion
of these segments. Using this system, an individual can
actually pedal a leg ergometer, or specially adapted
exercise bike. Some of the more recent applications include
therapies that allow an individual to accomplish limited
upright walking! 
