Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) For Spinal Cord Injury at Helen Hayes Hospital

This high-tech bicycle provides patterned electrical stimulation to the surface of muscles, which stimulates nerves and evokes muscle contractions and activity. FES enables the individual who may have lost voluntary control over their muscles due to spinal cord injury to cycle or walk, helping many patients regain their strength and cardiovascular fitness. FES exercise can relax spasms, improve circulation, maintain or increases range of motion, and prevent muscle atrophy that often accompanies lack of use. Once patients leave the hospital to return home, they can access FES as an outpatient, in the HHH Wellness Center, or even obtain the equipment for home use.