Usage Frequency, Barriers, And Effectiveness of Functional Electrical Stimulation as An Intervention for Stroke Patients

Objective:  To determine the frequency of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) use in stroke rehabilitation and to identify the barriers and effectiveness of its usage as an intervention for stroke patients. Materials & Methods:  This prospective observational study was performed in different clinics and hospitals in Hyderabad. Physical therapists actively practicing in healthcare facilities within Hyderabad, with a minimum of one year of clinical experience in stroke rehabilitation of either gender were included. A questionnaire was structured to collect data on the usage frequency, perceived barriers, and effectiveness related to the utilization of FES in stroke rehabilitation. Results:  Most of the participants were using FES frequently and sometimes for shoulder subluxation, improving arm function, enhancing walking function, improving muscle strength and endurance, addressing hypertonia and spasticity, and improving sensation. Respondents when asked about having sufficient time to apply FES, lack of evidence justifying FES use, and regards to workplace support most of the cases >50% agreed strongly agreed, while <50% of study subjects’ believed that does not provide advantages for individuals having a chronic stroke. FES utilization among healthcare professionals in stroke patient rehabilitation, highlighting its potential benefits in improving arm function, shoulder subluxation, walking performance, and hemiplegic shoulder pain. However, there were no significant barriers identified. Conclusion:  There was a significant use of FES by physical therapists in Hyderabad to address various aspects of stroke rehabilitation. The study overall highlights its potential for improving arm function, preventing shoulder subluxation, enhancing walking, and reducing hemiplegic shoulder pain, without significant identified barriers.