Author/Editor		Maležič, M; Bogataj, U; Gros, N; Dečman, I; Vrtačnik, P; Kljajić, M; Aćimović-Janežič, R
Title		Application of a programmable dual-channel adaptive electrical stimulation system for the control and analysis of gait
Type		članek
Source		J Rehab Res Develop
Vol. and No.		Letnik 29, št. 4
Publication year		1992
Volume		str. 41-53
Language		eng
Abstract		A dual-channel electrical stimulation system with a stimulator and a programmer/stride analyzer was designed for clinical rehabilitation of gait and for subsequent daily use as an orthotic aid. The stimulator, with controls to adjust amplitude only (50 mA), adapts chosen stimulation sequences to the walking rate of a patient. Pulse duration (50-500 micro s), frequency (5-120 Hz), shape (symmetrical biphasic, monophasic), stimulation sequences (16 stride segments) and their cycle (2-12 sec), and right/left foot-switch choices are selected for each patient and programmed into a separate unit. The programming unit also statistically processes the footswitch data collected by the stimulator. The device was evaluated with regard to the programmable parameters, effectiveness during gait, and feasibility in clinical use. It was applied to 11 stroke patients and 10 brain injury patients during gait, stimulating 22 combinations of peroneal nerve and hamstring, quadriceps, triceps brachii, and gluteus maximus muscles. Forces on both feet, equinovarus, knee extension and hyperextension, elbow flexion, and hip extension were corrected. Selection of the stimulation sequences, their adaptation, range of pulse duration, and valid statistics were verified. Improved forces and joint angles were recorded together with significant changes in the stride time, length, and velocity by the stimulation.
Descriptors		BRAIN INJURIES CEREBROVASCULAR DISORDERS ELECTRIC STIMULATION GAIT ADULT AGED BRAIN INJURIES CEREBROVASCULAR DISORDERS ELECTRIC STIMULATION THERAPY EQUIPMENT DESIGN MIDDLE AGE