A Study on the Effect of Functional Electrical Stimulation on Hand Function in Stroke Patients with Flexor Synergy in Upper Limb

Abstract

Background and Purpose: To determine whether Functional Electrical Stimulation can improve
motor function of hand in spastic hemiplegics and whether any improvements are maintained
Methods: 30 subjects of stroke with spastic hemiplegia with flexor synergy upper limb. 15 patients in
each group, Group A (Functional Electrical Stimulation group) & Group B (Control group). GroupA received Functional Electrical Stimulation plus standard inpatient/outpatient stroke rehabilitation
program. Group-B received only standard inpatient/outpatient stroke rehabilitation program.
Assessment data were recorded before treatment, at 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks. Outcome Measures were
Action Research Arm Test Score, Range Of Motion of Active Wrist extension, Functional independence
measure, Modified Ashworth Scale.
Results: Use of Functional Electrical Stimulation resulted in improvement of hand functions in patients.
There was decrease in wrist flexors muscle tone and subsequent improvement in activities of daily
livings observed. There was no significant improvement observed in Active Wrist extension.
Conclusion: Functional Electrical Stimulation is an important intervention in the treatment of stroke
with spastic hemiplegia. It can help in the improvement of hand functions when prescribed along with
exercises.