In this article we explain why functional electrical stimulation (FES) is an effective technique in enhancing functional recovery in patients with peripheral nerve injuries. The technique can improve muscle activation, prevent muscle atrophy, enhance muscular endurance and strength, and assist in nerve and axonal regeneration.

FES is a generally safe, non-pharmacologic intervention without significant side-effects, which adds an essential therapeutic option to neurological physiotherapy.

With muscle denervation the FES is designed to work directly with muscle fibre and not rely on the local nerve structure for success.

Further studies on FES are necessary to comprehend the scope, limitations, and best methodology. Programmes need to be customised for each user.

We are finding there is a growing interest in using electrotherapy to treat denervated muscle. There are many clinical benefits of doing this and given equipment like the Stimulator RISE, it is very easy to do. Clients can do this safely at home given guidance and support.
Denervated muscle refers to a muscle that has lost its nerve supply or connection to the nervous system. Nerves play a crucial role in controlling muscle movement and function by sending electrical impulses to the muscle fibers. When a muscle becomes denervated, it loses this connection, which can lead to muscle weakness, atrophy (shrinkage), and even loss of muscle function over time. The article features a video from Anatomical Concepts DIrector, Derek Jones, who describes the rationale and process of using the RISE Stimulator in some detail. You can review the video and the transcript is shown

If you or someone close to you is living with transverse myelitis, then you know how life-altering this neurological condition can be. It often results in sudden symptoms, such as muscle weakness, pain and bladder dysfunction. It has several possible causes. Some people recover from the symptoms and resulting complications of transverse myelitis, while others don’t.

With its sudden onset and potential for long-term impact, it's important that we have the best understanding of what causes transverse myelitis and what steps, if any, can be taken to minimise the chance of another episode occurring.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the underlying causes, transverse myelitis symptoms, as well as potential ways to reduce it's severity and increase quality of life through some of the technology we offer.

Carbonhand, a ground breaking assistive device, is set to transform the lives of individuals with weak grip and poor hand function in the United Kingdom.

Combining advanced technology and innovative design, this grip-strengthening, robotic glove offers newfound independence and enhanced quality of life to those who struggle with hand strength and dexterity. In this article, we will explore the product, who might benefit from Carbonhand, and describe the main features of this revolutionary medical device. The journey of Carbonhand began in the early 2000s with Hans von Holst, a neurologist at Karolinska Hospital, who often encountered patients with severely reduced strength and mobility in their hands. Teaming up with Jan Wikander, Professor of Mechatronics, they began developing a glove that could help strengthen hand grip. This collaboration led to the creation of the first Servoglove, the predecessor of Carbonhand.

We have known for a very long time that the delivery of certain forms of energy, including electrical, to the tissues of the body can bring about physiological and beneficial changes in those tissues. So called electrical stimulation devices are not all the same though, as we shall discuss below.

At Anatomical Concepts we have worked with various forms of electrical stimulation technology since the 1970’s and deal with leading products including the RISE Stimulator, and the RehaMove FES Cycling system and can offer advice and demostrations on request.

In earlier articles in this series, we have seen that motor training can induce constructive neuroplasticity providing that the tasks are practiced in a particular way and are challenging enough to stimulate positive adaptations. The human body is natural adaptive to the stimulus - or lack of it - that is provided.

Athletes learning new skills and training for peak performance in strength or endurance must draw on the same fundamental body resources as those individuals recovering from a neurological condition. There are many differences however in how to approach training due to the nature of the bodies energy systems and how these are influenced by disability.

When we are encouraged for rehabilitation purposes to train intensively, frequently etc we need to be aware of these energy systems and how they affect fatigue and the perception of effort.