Effect of functional electrical stimulation on changes in muscle mass following stroke and functional abilities in hemiplegic subjects

Introduction: Stroke frequently causes hemiplegia associated with muscle atrophy. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is proposed to limit this muscle loss and support recovery.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of FES on quadriceps and hamstring muscle thickness, as well as on the functional abilities of post-stroke hemiplegic subjects.

Methods: This prospective observational study included 31 post-stroke hemiplegic patients, evaluated on day 0 and day 30. Quadriceps and hamstring muscle thickness was measured by ultrasound, and functional performance was assessed using the NIHSS, muscle strength, and the ABILICO scale.

Results: After 4 weeks of FES applied to the paretic limb, no significant change in muscle thickness was observed in the stimulated quadriceps and hamstrings. However, a significant increase in quadriceps thickness was found in the non-paretic limb. No significant changes were noted in NIHSS, muscle strength, or functional performance, and no correlation emerged between muscle trophicity and neurological severity.

Conclusion: These results indicate that short-term FES is not sufficient to influence muscle mass or functional recovery, highlighting the need for longer-term protocols integrated into.