Functional Electrical Stimulation

Treatments

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

LV Rehab therapists are highly specialised in the use of electrical stimulation.

We have extensive experience with different manufacturers and have provided training and teaching to health professionals and charitable organisations on FES in the UK and Internationally.

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) uses electrical current delivered via surface electrodes (applied to the skin) to activate muscles fully or partially paralysed due to a neurological event such as:

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) / Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Cerebral Palsy (CP) including post-Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR)
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Parkinson’s Disease (PD)
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
Stroke (CVA)

We are an outreach partner for Odstock Medical, so we can provide FES treatment to their patients as either a private patient or an NHS patient if funded in your area. If you have any questions please contact the clinic.

There are many neural pathways throughout the body. A healthy nerve transmits messages via electricity from the brain and spinal cord to muscles which produces a movement. When the nerve is injured due to conditions as above, the electrical signal is interrupted and the muscles activated by those nerves are unable to produce a normal movement. FES provides this missing electrical signal to the nerve allowing for a muscle contraction which assists movement.

FES For Gait/Walking

FES can be used to assist gait abnormalities such as:

Reduced ankle control (commonly known as drop foot)
Reduced knee control
Reduced hip control

Electrodes are placed on specific areas on the legs in order to stimulate the muscles that need assistance. A sensor, normally placed in the shoe under the foot, is used to time the stimulation with the gait pattern.

FES Bike

LV Rehab is fortunate to have an FES Bike (RTI300 arms and legs).

The FES bike can be used by those who have a complete Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) to those more mobile. The FES bike benefits from a multi-channel system allowing for multiple muscles to be stimulated in synchronisation with the pedals during rotation. This pattern also mirrors the activation of muscles during the gait cycle. This treatment may be used for upper and lower limb and trunk. The FES bike provides analytical data so your progress can be monitored.

Testimonials

Hear what our patients are saying about us

"Incredible team, I’ve been going to LV for 6/7 months now, they’ve made me achieve my goals and beyond after suffering a stroke I lost all movement in my left side. Thanks to roberto and other team members I’m walking unaided and now focusing on my hand and arm. Every week I discover a new ability that I never thought I’d ever be able to do again. I’ll forever be thankful to LV and the team for giving me my life back."

"LV rehab has been a warm and welcoming place to attend righ from the word go. Fresh out of hospital after a stroke I was left facing a very different looking world but Vicky and her team couldn't have been more accomodating and friendly. From session 1 I knew I had might the right choice for my recovery."

"Vicky and the team at LV Rehabilitation have been and are the most wonderful blend of professionalism, skill and kindness. Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, they have helped me take on the challenge of regaining lost movement and have given me the motivation to keep going. I believe that they are a very unique team, so full of enthusiasm and practical help and encouragement. They have helped me more than I can say and I cannot recommend them enough!"

"I’ve been going here every week for the last three years. Vicky Knight, who treats me is inspiring, encouraging and has improved my balance and core strength, she gives me the confidence to try new things to help me with my disability. The physiotherapists work with empathy and I always feel that I get the best from my sessions. The air conditioning, delicious cakes and coffee make it a lovely experience. I would recommend LV rehab to anyone."

FAQ's

Frequently asked questions about our treatments

If you have any other questions not answered here, feel free to contact us, a member of our team will be happy to help!

Can you manage individuals who cannot walk or stand?

Yes we have a range of equipment to help transfer clients with varying needs. We have a full overhead hoist system to aids that support individuals once in standing.

What is the benefit of coming to the clinic?

We have a lovely spacious gym area with a wide range of therapy, exercise equipment and rehabilitation technology to support each clients needs. This allows us to offer a wide range of treatment approaches. However, we are aware that for some activities it is key to get out and about into the community or undertake sessions at home.

How much treatment do I need?

This will depend on your clinical needs and what you would like to achieve. Following an initial assessment we will discuss treatment options and what you hope to achieve from attending therapy.

How do I access group sessions?

Check out our group exercise page which explains what each group focuses on and who it is aimed at. Some of our groups only require a short assessment whilst others require more input prior to attendance. Our aim is to make groups accessible to as many as possible and everybody can access their first session free of charge.