The Spinal Cord Injury Unit in Musgrave Park Hospital has benefitted greatly from a functional electrical stimulation (FES) bike funded by the MITRE Trust. FES cycling uses electrical current to stimulate peripheral motor units during a functional task such as cycling, with arms or legs. Its addition has allowed us to progress the rehabilitation of our patients, in particular those who have incomplete spinal cord injuries. This patient group has the potential to regain the ability to walk and have functional use of their arms. The FES bike allows use to strengthen key muscle groups in both the lower and upper limbs, thus achieving key functional goals.
The FES bike has contributed to incomplete SCI patients regaining the ability to walk indoors and outdoors. For patients with complete paralysis following a spinal cord injury the FES bike provides a form of aerobic exercise using electrical stimulation of the lower limb muscles. This is important in the promotion of physical activity and prevention of secondary medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The FES bike is a valuable addition to the SCI unit and ensures that we are providing up to date high quality rehabilitation.