Files and links (1)
Free to read and download, Open Access
Background: Functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling has become a popular intervention in physical therapy neurological rehabilitation because of its ability to generate reciprocal, repetitive movement patterns. However, despite historic evidence for FES cycling in patients with spinal cord injury, literature has only recently emerged regarding its effects in patients with stroke. The purpose of this case report is to describe the use of FES cycling in combination with standard care using an example of a patient with ischemic stroke and subsequent hemiparesis. Case Description: The patient is a 44-year-old male admitted to an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital following an ischemic stroke of the left central cerebrum as well as internal evolution of a right thalamic infarct. He presented with significant right sided weakness, impaired speech, and severe functional mobility limitations. Intervention: During his 21-day inpatient rehabilitation stay, the patient received standard physical therapy care in addition to a biweekly FES cycle protocol to the right lower extremity. Outcomes: The patient was assessed at both initial evaluation and discharge using the Quality Indicator scoring system. Upon discharge, the patient demonstrated significant improvement in ability to complete bed mobility, transfers, and gait. Discussion: This report highlights motor recovery gained through combined standard physical therapy care and FES cycle interventions. No definitive conclusions can be made regarding the relative contributions of each towards the patient’s improvements in Quality Indicator scores. Further research is warranted regarding the implementation of FES cycle in various phases following stroke, a standard protocol to optimize outcomes, and the impact of this intervention on functional outcome measures including the Quality Indicator scoring system.