A review of the functional electrical stimulation equipment market.

Abstract

The market for functional electrical stimulation (FES) equipment for use in rehabilitation is growing as increasingly sophisticated products enter the market each year. Factors that impact the availability of FES equipment include technological limitations, government regulation, reimbursement status, and clinician training. New products have become available in the last decade with many innovative applications available under investigational status. The current availability of FES equipment for selected applications such as therapeutic muscle stimulation, cardiovascular exercise, restoration of function in the lower and upper extremities, respiratory assist, restoration of bladder function, electroejaculation, and scoliosis correction is reviewed. A review of FES equipment for nonneuromuscular applications such as control of epilepsy, cochlear implants, electrotactile stimulation, and systems to enhance wound healing and bone growth is also included. Key manufacturers are identified.