FES
Pronunciation: F-E-S
Also written as: FES — Functional Electrical Stimulation
Functional Electrical Stimulation - therapeutic use of electrical current to activate paralyzed muscles.
Full Definition
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a rehabilitation technique that applies electrical stimulation to paralyzed or weakened muscles to produce functional movements or maintain muscle health. Unlike TENS units used for pain management, FES delivers stronger currents designed to elicit muscle contractions that can assist with walking, grasping, or other functional activities. Common applications include FES cycling for spinal cord injury patients, drop-foot stimulators for stroke patients, and upper extremity systems for improving hand function. The therapy can help prevent muscle atrophy, improve circulation, and restore some voluntary motor control through neural plasticity mechanisms.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out on first use: 'Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)'; distinguish from TENS or generic electrical stimulation.
In Context
- "The patient demonstrated improved gait pattern with the FES foot-drop stimulator during overground walking." — Physical therapy progress note
- "FES cycling was prescribed three times weekly to maintain lower extremity muscle mass." — Treatment prescription