Strategies for Rapid Muscle Fatigue Reduction during FES Exercise in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review

PLoS ONE, 2016 · DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149024 · Published: February 9, 2016

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Musculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

This review examines methods to combat muscle fatigue during FES exercise for SCI individuals. Rapid fatigue limits the benefits of FES. The review synthesizes the effectiveness of fatigue-reduction strategies for SCI. The review looks into strategies that have been used to optimize FES therapeutic approaches by delaying the onset of muscle fatigue in persons with SCI. The review synthesizes the effectiveness of these strategies for persons with SCI in order to establish their functional impacts and clinical relevance.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

Evidence Level

Systematic Review

Key Findings

1
Optimizing electrode positioning can improve fatigue-resistance during FES.
2
Fine-tuning stimulation patterns and other FES parameters aids in fatigue reduction.
3
Adjustments to exercise mode and frequency, along with biofeedback, can reduce fatigue.

Research Summary

This systematic review assessed strategies to reduce muscle fatigue during FES exercise in individuals with SCI. It evaluated the methodological quality and effectiveness of various strategies. The review found that current evidence supports certain techniques for rapid fatigue-reduction to promote FES therapy as part of SCI rehabilitation. The information from this review will be valuable to clinicians and allied health professionals administering FES.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

The review's findings can help clinicians refine FES protocols to reduce muscle fatigue and improve therapy outcomes.

Rehabilitation Programs

The information can be used to develop more effective rehabilitation interventions for individuals with SCI.

Future Research

Highlights areas needing further investigation, such as the effectiveness of specific strategies during functional tasks.

Study Limitations

1
Most studies investigated isometric contractions, limiting functional and clinical relevance.
2
Some studies lacked randomization and had small sample sizes, reducing statistical power.
3
There was a lack of standardized protocols across studies, making comparisons difficult.

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