Abstract
Background:
Few studies have examined the long-term consequences of using peroneal nerve functional electrical stimulation (FES) for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study examines orthotic effects on a longitudinal cohort and explores additional benefits of FES on self-reported measures such as joint pain.
Methods:
One hundred forty-five people with foot drop and MS were included (mean age, 52 [range, 28–74] years). Orthotic effects, unassisted walking speed, and clinically important differences (ie, ≥0.05 and ≥0.10 m/s) were derived from walking speed over 10 m. Visual analogue scales examined joint pain, walking effort, trips, confidence, and quality of life. Measures were taken on day 1, after 6 months, and at 2, 3, 4, and 5 years.
Results:
A significant difference was found overall for walking with FES compared with walking without FES for the 5-year period (P < .001). Despite a significant decline in overall unassisted walking speed at baseline (0.58 m/s) compared with 5 years later (0.46 m/s) (P < .001), participants achieved an orthotic effect with (0.52 m/s) versus without (0.46 m/s) FES after 5 years (P < .001). A significant decrease in joint pain was found after 6 months compared with day 1 (P = .004), which was maintained after 5 years (P < .001).
Conclusions:
Despite progression of MS, long-term users of FES still benefit from an orthotic effect after using FES for 5 years. The study highlights the need for further work to assess the perceived benefits of FES regarding the experience of joint pain.
An exploration of the experiences and utility of functional electrical stimulation for foot drop in people with multiple sclerosis