http://www.jneuroengrehab.com/content/9/1/66/abstract
Abstract (provisional)
Background
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) applied via transcutaneous electrodes is a
common rehabilitation technique for assisting grasp in patients with central nervous
system lesions. To improve the stimulation effectiveness of conventional FES, we introduce
multi-pad electrodes and a new stimulation paradigm.
Methods
The new FES system comprises an electrode composed of small pads that can be activated
individually. This electrode allows the targeting of motoneurons that activate synergistic
muscles and produce a functional movement. The new stimulation paradigm allows asynchronous
activation of motoneurons and provides controlled spatial distribution of the electrical
charge that is delivered to the motoneurons. We developed an automated technique for
the determination of the preferred electrode based on a cost function that considers
the required movement of the fingers and the stabilization of the wrist joint. The
data used within the cost function come from a sensorized garment that is easy to
implement and does not require calibration. The design of the system also includes
the possibility for fine-tuning and adaptation with a manually controllable interface.
Results
The device was tested on three stroke patients. The results show that the multi-pad
electrodes provide the desired level of selectivity and can be used for generating
a functional grasp. The results also show that the procedure, when performed on a
specific user, results in the preferred electrode configuration characteristics for
that patient. The findings from this study are of importance for the application of
transcutaneous stimulation in the clinical and home environments.
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