FES and exoskeleton

Question 1

examples of lower limb exoskeletons

Answer 1

• modular
• REWalk
• Hocoma Lokomat

Question 2

rehabilitation and health benefits of exoskeleton devices

Answer 2

• greater heart rate and increased oxygen intake
• increase in joint ROM
• many of your bodily systems are stimulated
• increased blood flow and circulation
• improved self-reported quality of life, motivation to exercise, and overall health and wellness

Question 3

applying low levels of electrical currents to stimulate a physiological response

Answer 3

electrical stimulation

Question 4

types of electrical stimulation: (3)

Answer 4

• transcutaneous - attached to the surface of the skin
• percutaneous - below the skin (needle) or implanted
• subcutaneous - implantable receiver, externally worn and implanted electrodes

Question 5

effects of muscle contraction

Answer 5

• increase muscle metabolism, oxygen demanded by muscles, output of waste product and metabolic, blood flow, local temp., venous and lymphatic drainage, joint ROM
• dilation of capillaries
• changes in muscle structure

Question 6

applies small electrical pulses to paralyzed muscles to restore or improve function

Answer 6

functional electrical stimulation (FES)

Question 7

benefits of FES (8)

Answer 7

• reduced spasticity
• carryover effect
• reduced effort in walking
• slowing of osteoporosis/ bone mineral loss
• reduced swelling, blood clots
• improved walking/walking speed
• improved proprioception
• reduced frequency of pressure sores and urinary tract infections

Question 8

how does FES help with foot drop?

Answer 8

• a cuff with electrodes and a foot switch
• stimulate peroneal nerve and TA muscle; lifts foot during swing phase

Question 9

pros of AFOs for foot drop

Answer 9

improve functional ambulation, low tech, inexpensive, simple to don/doff

Question 10

cons of AFOs for foot drop

Answer 10

cumbersome in weight, size, poor cosmesis, uncomfortable, limit ankle mobility

Question 11

pros of FES for foot drop

Answer 11

cosmesis, variable models, reduce self awareness during gait, greater perceived safety and independence, greater ankle free movement

Question 12

cons of FES for foot drop

Answer 12

skin irritation due to electrodes, difficulty donning, unsuitable near water, and for some travel, expensive

Question 13

in what sports is FES used to help athletes?

Answer 13

rowing, cycling

Question 14

what does CCFES stand for?

Answer 14

contra-laterally controlled functional electrical stimulation