Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) Cycling Program
The Functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling program is designed for persons
with spinal cord injury as a method of getting aerobic exercise. Benefits may
include:
increased muscle mass
decreased frequency of muscle spasms
increased circulation
maintaining range of motion
increased cardiovascular endurance
decreased frequency of pressure sores and edema
a method of exercise that does not contribute to overuse injuries of the
arms
improved sense of well-being
To participate in FES cycling, an order from a physician is required. An evaluation
is then performed by a qualified physical therapist. If determined to be an appropriate
candidate, the participant is then assessed using the FES erogometer
and monitored closely for an adverse reaction to exercise and/or stimulus.
If the initial FES session is tolerated well by the participant, he or she will
take part in up tosix weeks of training by the physical therapy
staff in use of the equipment and progression of exercise. If assistance will
be required to participate, the patient's caregiver will be trained as well.
When the six-week training period is completed, the participant is discharged
from physical therapy and provided with information on how to schedule independent
sessions using the FES ergometer. Participants will also receive information
on how to purchase a home FES bike.
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The Functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling program is designed for persons
with spinal cord injury as a method of getting aerobic exercise. Benefits may
include:
