Community FES Program comes to Connecticut
Community FES Program comes to Connecticut
We are pleased to announce a community adaptive fitness program featuring Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES). Through a community partnership between the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Connecticut and the Valley Shore YMCA in Westbrook, CT, we are able to offer this beneficial, ground-breaking therapeutic exercise to individuals with spinal cord injuries and other neurological impairments. We have obtained a RT300 FES unit through grants and donations to the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Connecticut, and it is now available at the Valley Shore YMCA of Westbrook, CT, giving community members access to this evidence-based therapy through a YMCA membership.
What is FES and what are the Benefits?
Functional Electrical Stimulation is a rehabilitative therapy that uses carefully controlled, low-level electrical impulses delivered through surface electrodes placed on the skin. These impulses stimulate the nerves and muscles that can no longer receive adequate signals from the brain due to spinal cord damage — causing muscles to contract and, in doing so, enabling controlled movement. Think of it as a “bridge” that bypasses the injury site to reawaken muscles that would otherwise remain dormant.
FES can be applied in many forms, including leg cycling (the most widely studied application), arm cycling, rowing, walking assistance, and upper limb functional training for grasping and reaching. Sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes and can be customized to each individual’s injury level, physical condition, and therapeutic goals.
As a peer-reviewed study published in PMC (PubMed Central) summarizes: “Systematic application of FES in patients with SCI provides a mechanism for optimizing neural activity below the injury level, while reducing secondary complications and improving overall health.” (Functional Electrical Stimulation in Spinal Cord Injury: From Theory to Practice, PMC, 2013)
FES is not a cure. But the research is clear: it is a powerful tool that meaningfully improves the health, function, and quality of life of those living with SCI and other neurological impairments. Based on the evidence reviewed above, regular FES therapy has the potential to deliver the following outcomes to our community members:
- Restored and maintained muscle mass, reducing atrophy and improving appearance and function
- Slowed bone density loss, lowering the risk of dangerous fractures
- Improved cardiovascular fitness, reducing heart disease risk
- Better metabolic health, including blood sugar regulation
- Reduced risk of life-threatening pressure sores
- Potential neurological improvements, supporting recovery of function
- Meaningfully improved mental health, well-being, and quality of life
These are not abstract outcomes. They represent fewer hospitalizations, reduced medical costs, greater independence, and richer, longer lives for real people in our community.
While the cost of therapeutic FES systems falls well outside the means of many individuals and families living with neurological impairments, a program such as the partnership with CTSCIA and the Valley Shore YMCA provides the opportunity to use this beneficial, state-of-the-art therapeutic exercise equipment in an affordable, sustainable community setting.
How do I get involved in the FES Community Program?
Participation in the Community FES program requires a membership to the Valley Shore YMCA, and special memberships will be offered to participants. For the first year, membership is free to Community FES participants. After that affordable membership options and scholarships will be provided for those who qualify.
- Participants must:
- Have medical clearance from their physician
- be trained in the proper use of FES by a clinical provider (see below)
- have an RTI Link patient account set up by the clinical provider
- be able to utilize the apparatus independently (either by themselves or with their own assistant).
- Clinical providers in Connecticut include:
- Hospital for Special Care
2150 Corbin Ave, New Britain, CT 06053
- Gaylord Hospital
50 Gaylord Farm Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492
- UConn Medical Center
263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030
- Hartford Healthcare Rehabilitation Network
5 Dayton Rd #101, Waterford, CT 06385
- Alternatively, training and profiles can be set up at the Valley Shore YMCA in Westbrook, CT by a Regional Clinical Rep from RTI. Please use the contact information below to schedule a profile setup session.
To sign up or request more information on the Community Program please fill out our online FES sign up form or contact:
Geoff Matesky
Community FES Program Coordinator
E: geoff@sciact.org
P: 860-227-6493
FES Community Program Media Day November 21, 2026
On Saturday November 21, 2026 from 12:30 – 2:30 pm the Valley Shore YMCA in Westbrook, Connecticut will host a Media Day, which will announce the Community Program, provide information on the program to the public and media outlets, and provide the opportunity for those interested in the program to see and experience the RT300 firsthand.
Valley Shore YMCA Address:
201 Spencer Plains Road
PO Box 694
Westbrook, CT 06498
P: (860) 399-9622
W: https://vsymca.org/