Top 5 Ways to Use FES with Task-Specific Training in Stroke Rehab

NeuroRehab Team
Tuesday, June 17th, 2025

Electrical Stimulation

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) and task-specific training are both proven approaches to improving outcomes after stroke. When used together, they provide a powerful framework for motor recovery, neuroplasticity, and functional independence.

Combining FES with activity-based rehab helps reinforce movement patterns, activate weak muscles, and promote brain rewiring. This approach can be applied across various levels of stroke severity and across both upper and lower extremity rehabilitation.

Key Benefits of FES + Task-Specific Training

• Enhanced motor recovery
• Increased neuroplasticity
• Improved functional independence
• Strengthening of atrophied muscles
• Greater repetition and task mastery

1. FES-Assisted Gait Training

Applying FES to the tibialis anterior and other leg muscles can improve foot clearance and stride symmetry during walking. This is especially effective for stroke survivors with foot drop or poor dorsiflexion control.

Incorporate FES into treadmill or overground gait training to increase safety, quality, and endurance.

2. FES-Enhanced Hand Grasp Training

FES can be applied to the forearm and hand muscles to support grasp-and-release activities. This is beneficial for patients working on hand function for self-care, feeding, and object manipulation.

Use during task-specific upper limb therapy to increase active engagement and promote functional hand use.

3. FES-Supported Reaching and Shoulder Stability

Stimulating shoulder and scapular muscles enhances joint stability and control during reach tasks. This is key for rebuilding functional upper extremity skills in dressing, grooming, and feeding.

Integrate FES into reach training to improve range, coordination, and proximal control.

4. FES-Augmented Cycling Therapy

Combining FES with cycling promotes coordinated, rhythmic movement in the lower limbs. This improves strength, symmetry, and endurance, especially when paired with motorized or recumbent cycles.

Use this modality to improve gait-related outcomes and reduce muscle fatigue in early or late-stage rehab.

5. FES-Assisted Sit-to-Stand Training

FES applied to the quadriceps and gluteal muscles can enhance power and stability during the sit-to-stand transition—one of the most essential movements in daily life and fall prevention.

Incorporate FES into repetitive sit-to-stand drills to increase safety, independence, and carryover to home tasks.

Research Supporting This Approach

• Meta-analysis on FES improving motor function in stroke patients
• Task-specific training with FES enhances upper limb function post-stroke
• Combined FES and cycling therapy improves strength and gait

Free CEU: Learn How to Use FES in Clinical Practice

If you’re ready to implement FES in your practice, sign up for our free AOTA-approved CEU. You’ll learn practical applications, protocols, and the latest research in using FES for stroke recovery.

Register here for free access to the CEU course.