Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) uses electrical pulses (small shocks to activate nerves) to improve or mend function of paralyzed muscles. FES can be used to treat multiple conditions, including stroke, and help with multiple areas of the body such as the arm, leg, and more. The electrical shocks that come from the FES can range from a "mild tingling sensation to almost a burning sensation" depending on what intensity works best for the patient. The goal of FES is to help "exercise" weak or paralyzed muscles and retrain the brain into recognizing daily functions with the hopes in the future of restoring complete movement after months of FES use.