Biomechanics of sliding transfer: feasibility of FES assistance

Triceps stimulation can restore arm reaching function to individuals with C5/C6 SCI In this study, we investigate the feasibility of expanding the use of FES triceps stimulation to assist sliding transfers. The feasibility is based on comparisons made between moments used at the shoulder and elbow during a sliding transfer, and those known amounts of residual shoulder function and realizable FES stimulated elbow moment. Results of preliminary tests in able-bodied subjects show a common strategy of pulling with the leading limb and pushing with the trailing limb. The asymmetry was greater for weak transfers than for normal transfers. Able-bodied subjects used greater elbow extension moments than have been measured during triceps stimulation in individuals with SCI.