What is the primary purpose of functional electrical stimulation (FES) in stroke rehabilitation?

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) plays a vital role in stroke rehabilitation primarily by stimulating muscle contraction in the affected limbs. This technique helps to facilitate voluntary movement, improve muscle strength, and enhance overall motor control, which are essential for regaining function after a stroke. By delivering electrical impulses to the muscles, FES activates motor neurons, leading to contractions that mimic natural movements.

This stimulation can be particularly beneficial in retraining the brain and body to work together more effectively, thus promoting neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize itself and form new neural connections. Improving movement through FES can contribute to better functional outcomes, such as enhanced mobility and independence in daily activities.

The approaches that focus on other aspects, such as sensory perception, cognitive functions, or psychological support, are important in a comprehensive rehabilitation program but do not represent the primary goal of FES, which specifically targets muscle activation and movement improvement.