Efeitos da estimulação elétrica funcional nos músculos do punho e dedos em indivíduos hemiparéticos: uma revisão sistemática da literatura

Abstract

Effects of functional electrical stimulation applied to the wrist and finger muscles of hemiparetic subjects: a systematic review of the literature Background: a systematization of the available evidence regarding the effects of electrical stimulation for hemiplegic patients following stroke is needed. Objective: to conduct a systematic review of the literature related to the effects of functional electrical stimulation for the wrist and finger muscles of adult hemiplegic patients. Method: a search for studies documenting the effects of electrical stimulation on neuromuscular, musculoskeletal and functional characteristics was carried out in Medline, Lilacs and PEDro databases between February and March 2006. Data were extracted in a standardized manner from each study, and methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: Eight randomized studies were reviewed. The scores on the methodological quality of revised studies were between 3/10 and 7/10 in the PEDro scale. Although the diversity of protocols, participants’ characteristics and instrumentation prevented pooling of results, a synthesis in levels of evidence demonstrated strong evidence for positive effects of electrical stimulation on muscle strength, tonus, motor function and use of the upper limb in daily life. Moderate evidence was found for effects on dexterity and limited evidence for effects on motor coordination and independence in self-care activities. There was no evidence for gains in range of active wrist extension. Conclusion: Despite methodological limitations, randomized studies reported positive effects of electrical stimulation on wrist and fingers, suggesting that this therapy might be effective for promoting function of the affected upper limb of hemiplegic individuals.