Restoration of Upper Extremity Function

Functional neuromuscular stimulation has been shown to be a viable means of Providing controlled movements in paralyzed limbs. Low levels of electrical current are effective in eliciting impulses in nerves, which then propagate to and result in a contraction of the muscle. The FNS technique encompasses many aspects of the physical and biological sciences. When properly performed, electrical stimulation can be applied effectively for extended periods of time with no significant detrimental effects to the tissue. The muscle contractions that result can be graded in strength and will fatigue minimally with time. Several clinical applications of FNS to paralyzed patients have been investigated. The technique has demonstrated its viability in applications to both the upper and the lower limbs in patients sustaining a variety of neurological diseases, including stroke, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injury. This technique promises to be an important adjunct to clinical care in the future.