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Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
- General Information
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!
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
Community FES Programs
The NSCIA Connecticut Chapter now offers 4 locations for
FES of it's own, where those previously evaluated and
trained in a clinical environment may utilize FES bikes
independently. The equipment has been donated from both
individuals and rehabilitation centers, and the CT Chapter
maintains the bikes through fundraising, grants and
donations.
- New Horizons Village, Farmington,
CT
-Contact NSCIA CT Chapter at
(203)284-1045
- Uconn Medical Center, Storrs,
CT
-Contact: Dr. Pouran Faghri or Randy
Trumbower at 860-486-1773
- Valley Shore YMCA, Westbrook,
CT
-Contact NSCIA CT Chapter at
(203)284-1045
- NEW! Brookfield YMCA,
Brookfield, CT
-Contact NSCIA CT Chapter at
(203)284-1045
Any users of equipment in any of the above 3
locations must be willing to assume complete risk of
injury and liability; much as you would in a normal gym or
healthclub. The CT Chapter stresses that these programs
are intended for use by experienced FES riders who can
provide their own assistance if needed, and who have been
instructed in a clinical environment by qualified
rehabilitation professionals in the safe and effective use
of Functional Electrical Stimulation
equipment.
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