Article

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is effective in assisting people
with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) with gait. Previous studies have investigated the
effects of FES in pwMS with slow self-selected walking speeds (SSWS). This study
reports on the effect of the Odstock Dropped Foot Stimulator (ODFS) on the speed
and oxygen (O2) cost of gait in pwMS walking at a range of SSWS. METHODS: Twenty
pwMS (mean age 50.4 +/- 7.3 years) currently using FES walked at their SSWS for 5
min with and without FES. O2 cost of gait was measured using a gas analysis
system, and gait speed was calculated. Data were analysed for all participants,
and comparisons were made between those with a SSWS < and >0.8 m/s (walking speed
required for community ambulation). RESULTS: Significant improvements in the
speed and O2 cost of gait were seen using FES in the group with SSWS <0.8 m/s (n
= 11, p = 0.005). When participants' SSWS >0.8 m/s, no difference in gait speed
was noted, and a significant increase in O2 cost of gait using FES (n = 9, p =
0.004) was noted. CONCLUSION: FES has a different effect on the speed and O2 cost
of gait dependent on the SSWS of pwMS. This requires further investigation.
Implications for Rehabilitation Functional electrical stimulation (FES) used for
foot drop is effective in improving the speed and oxygen cost of walking in pwMS
walking at SSWS <0.8 m/s. FES does not seem to have a beneficial effect on the
speed and oxygen cost of walking in pwMS walking at SSWS >0.8 m/s. Further
research is needed to understand the possible mechanisms involved so that FES for foot drop can be efficiently prescribed.
- Pied tombant

Langue : ANGLAIS