5 Benefits of Using a Functional Electrical Stimulation Device for Foot Drop

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a non-invasive and effective therapy for the management of foot drop, a condition characterized by weakness or paralysis of the muscles responsible for lifting the foot while walking. 

Here are the top five benefits of using FES to treat foot drop:

1. Muscle Re-education 

   Foot drop can be associated with muscle weakness and atrophy, making it difficult to regain normal muscle function even after the underlying cause is treated. FES can help in re-educating the correct muscles, promoting muscle growth, and improving the effectiveness of physical therapy.

2. Improved Gait

   Foot drop can result in an abnormal gait pattern, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. FES can help to improve gait by stimulating the muscles responsible for lifting the foot, enabling a more natural and efficient walking pattern. This, in turn, can improve walking balance and stability, and overall mobility.

3. Reduced Fatigue 

   Walking with foot drop can be exhausting, as the individual has to exert more energy to lift the foot and compensate for the weakened muscles by using muscles not typically used for walking. FES can help to reduce fatigue by activating the correct muscles, reducing the effort required to lift the foot and therefore making walking less tiring.

4. Increased Independence 

   Fear of falling can have a significant impact on one’s independence. As mentioned above, foot drop can make simple activities like walking challenging. By improving gait and reducing fall risk, FES can help to increase independence and quality of life for individuals with foot drop. 

5. Improved Mental State

   In addition to the physical benefits of using FES, it can also provide a wide range of psychological benefits. Many people find FES devices to be more comfortable and effective than larger, bulkier AFOs1. In general, FES users feel that it has a positive impact on their lives2. Additionally, by eliminating some foot drop symptoms and improving gait, FES has the ability to improve one’s confidence in walking, mood, and overall quality of life.

FES has many benefits in improving walking and quality of life. It is important to note that FES may not be suitable for everyone, and a healthcare professional should be consulted before starting any new treatment regimen. Maybe as an FES user, you have realized some of these benefits for yourself?

References

1. Bulley, C., Shiels, J., Wilkie, K., & Salisbury, L. (2011). User experiences, preferences and choices relating to functional electrical stimulation and ankle foot orthoses for foot-drop after stroke. Physiotherapy, 97(3), 226–233. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physio.2010.11.001 

2. Johnston TE, Keller S, Denzer-Weiler C, Brown L. A Clinical Practice Guideline for the Use of Ankle-Foot Orthoses and Functional Electrical Stimulation Post-Stroke. J Neurol Phys Ther. 2021 Apr 1;45(2):112-196. doi: 10.1097/NPT.0000000000000347. PMID: 33675603.