Functional electrostimulation for upper limbs after stroke: a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: a cerebrovascular accident or stroke is a cerebral circulatory disorder whose incidence in Spain is 186.9 cases/100,000 inhabitants each year. Stroke causes a sudden-onset focal neurological deficit that can cause hemiparesis with motor, cognitive and sensory alterations, among others. Functional electrostimulation (FES) is one of the physiotherapy techniques used. Objective: to analyse the scientific evidence on the effects of functional electrostimulation in the upper limbs after stroke. Methods: a bibliographic search was carried out in the PubMed, Medline and Cinahl databases using the Medical Subject Headings terms «Stroke», «Electric Stimulation» and «Upper Extremity» and the keyword «Electrical Stimulation, Functional». Results: after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 14 studies were obtained that applied the FES in the upper limb. Most studies focus on improving strength, range of motion, spasticity and muscle tone, the degree of disability, the development of activities of daily living, pain and the Fugl Meyer Assessment for Upper Limbs scale (FMA-UL). Conclusion: FES seems to achieve benefits compared to conventional rehabilitation, especially in the results of the FMA-UL scale. Regarding the rest of the variables, although some benefits seem to be observed, more research is needed with higher methodological quality and with common measurement criteria, both in an early phase and in a chronic phase after the stroke to establish a response trend.