FES rehabilitation platform with real-time control and performance feedback.

Zoulias, I. D.; Armengol, M.; Gibbons, R.; Poulton, A.; Andrews, B. and Holderbaum, W. (2017). FES rehabilitation platform with real-time control and performance feedback. In: International FES Society Annual Conference (IFESS 2017), 17-20 Jul 2017, London.

URL: http://fesreading.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FE...

Abstract

Osteoporosis after spinal cord injury is associated with low-trauma fractures, and consequently with increased risk of morbidity and mortality. The loss of bone mass density (BMD) due to paraplegia can be reduced through cyclical electrically-induced muscle contractions. Here we propose an FES control system based on posture switching, that induces transient loading of the lower limbs during a set of standing postures. This aims to produce an increased, evenly distributed BMD, whilst minimising FES-induced muscle fatigue. Here we describe the design and assessment of the FES exercising platform, comprising a controllable multi-channel electrical stimulator and an instrumented standing frame. The platform supports standing and postural shifting, provides real-time human-in-the-loop FES control with on-line feedback to the user. The platforms is used to investigate the effect of regular exercise on the distribution of BMD in people with paraplegia.

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