Article

Functional electrical stimulation (FES), for dropped foot, has been
shown to have positive benefits in chronic stroke. It has been suggested that
similar benefits may be seen earlier after stroke.
The aim of this feasibility
study was to evaluate the trial methodology of undertaking a randomized
controlled trial (RCT) of FES in sub-acute stroke. METHOD:
This was a randomized
feasibility study with non-blinded outcomes at 6 and 12 weeks. Sixteen sub-acute
stroke in-patients with dropped foot were randomized into two groups (control, n
= 7; intervention, n = 9). Both groups received routine gait re-education and an
orthotic device, the control group used an ankle foot orthosis and the
intervention group used FES. Outcome measures included gait velocity and cadence,
Functional Ambulation Classification, Visual Analogue Scale of perception of
walking, and the Stroke Impact Scale. RESULTS: Eligibility criteria developed for
inclusion of participants in the trial were appropriate. Set-up of FES during
sub-acute stroke was feasible but more challenging than with chronic patients.
Outcome measures were suitable and have informed the choice of measures for
future work. CONCLUSIONS: It is feasible to undertake a trial evaluating FES
during the sub-acute phase of recovery after stroke.
A larger RCT is required.

Langue : ANGLAIS