The effects of foot drop stimulation on lower limb motor function after stroke

Objective To observe the effects of treatment with a foot drop stimulator on the lower limb motor function of patients with foot drop after stroke. Methods Thirty stroke survivors with lower limb motor function problems received stimulation of the peroneal nerve and the tibialis anterior muscle while walking. They also received conventional drugs and rehabilitation therapy. Lower limb motor function was assessed on the basis of walking velocity, stair climbing velocity, the gait asymmetry index (GAI), swing time variability (STV), a physiologic cost index (PCI) and ankle range of motion (ROM). Each was compared with the value when the same patient was not given foot drop stimulation. Results No significant difference was found in ankle eversion whether stimulation was given or not, but all the other measures were significantly improved after stimulation with 10 meters walking velocity at (17.15±3.03)m/s, 10 stairs climbing velocity at (5.90±0.55)m/s, GAI of (32.70±6.75), STV of (60.50±16.09) and PCI of [(0.34±2.32)t/m], as well as ankle dorsiflexion of (15.00±13.03)°, plantarflexion of (35.67±9.04)° and varus of (41.10±11.11)° respectively. Conclusions Foot drop stimulation can effectively improve ankle dorsiflexion and reduce the varus while walking for stroke patients. This gives better lower limb motor function for patients with foot drop. Key words: Foot drop stimulator; Foot drop; Functional electrical stimulation; Lower limb motor function problem