Garments for functional electrical stimulation: Design and proofs of concept

Journal of Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies Engineering, 2019 · DOI: 10.1177/2055668319854340 · Published: January 1, 2019

Assistive Technology Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

The study introduces specially designed shirts and pants with built-in electrodes to deliver functional electrical stimulation (FES). These garments aim to improve the ease, comfort, and versatility of FES, which is used to promote functional recovery in individuals with neurological paralysis. The garments were tested on an able-bodied subject, comparing the effectiveness and comfort of the fabric electrodes against conventional gel electrodes. The tests measured stimulation intensity thresholds, comfort levels, and electrical properties. The results showed that fabric electrodes offer a promising alternative to gel electrodes but have challenges such as inconsistent water content affecting stimulation intensity and discomfort as electrodes dry. Further design improvements and testing with people with paralysis are needed.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One able-bodied subject

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Fabric electrodes had a lower sensory threshold on forearm muscles but a higher maximal stimulation threshold for all tested muscles compared to gel electrodes.
2
Consistent moisture is crucial for comfort; stimulation became unpleasant as the garment electrodes dried (within 9 to 18 minutes).
3
The garments' tightness and impractical electrode lead placement necessitate further design improvements for better usability.

Research Summary

This study presents the design and proof of concept for FES garments (shirts and pants) intended to deliver functional electrical stimulation, offering potential improvements in ease of use, comfort, and versatility compared to traditional methods. The FES garments demonstrated comparable performance to standard gel electrodes in terms of comfort and muscle contraction efficacy, provided the fabric electrodes were adequately moistened. Identified limitations include the garment's compression, lead management, the need for repeated water application to the electrodes, and relatively basic open-loop stimulation, highlighting areas for future development.

Practical Implications

Alternative to Gel Electrodes

Fabric electrodes offer a viable alternative to traditional gel electrodes, potentially increasing accessibility and ease of use for FES therapy.

Home-Based Rehabilitation

The garment design allows for potential independent use, making FES therapy more accessible in home-based settings, reducing the need for specialized therapists.

Improved Design

Further design modifications are needed to address issues like garment tightness, lead management, and moisture retention to enhance usability and comfort.

Study Limitations

1
Tests were conducted with a single able-bodied participant, which may introduce bias.
2
Inconsistent water content in fabric electrodes caused inconsistent intensity thresholds.
3
Garments’ tightness and impracticality of electrode lead necessitate further design improvement.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Assistive Technology