Effects of Electrical Stimulation on the Wrist of Hemiplegic Subjects

Abstract

Following a stroke many people are left with a motor deficit associated with flexion contractures in their upper limb. It has been claimed that electrical stimulation can benefit these patients. This individual case study has documented the effects of electrical stimulation on the wrist of two hemiplegic subjects. Each patient acted as his own control. At the end of treatment with electrical stimulation, it was observed that active range of motion at the wrist had increased, the resting wrist angle had decreased and tone was reduced. Hand oedema appeared to be reduced and one subject claimed an improvement in arm function. Following a stroke many people are left with a motor deficit associated with flexion contractures in their upper limb. It has been claimed that electrical stimulation can benefit these patients. This individual case study has documented the effects of electrical stimulation on the wrist of two hemiplegic subjects. Each patient acted as his own control. At the end of treatment with electrical stimulation, it was observed that active range of motion at the wrist had increased, the resting wrist angle had decreased and tone was reduced. Hand oedema appeared to be reduced and one subject claimed an improvement in arm function.