The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of functional electrical stimulation(FES) of the wrist and finger flexors and extensors on the function of the hemiplegic upper extremity. Fine wire electrodes were implanted percutaneously into the extensor digitorum commun is, extensor carpi radialis, abductor pollicis longus, flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor carpi radialis and brachioradialis muscles of the affected upper extremity in a chronic hemiplegic stroke patient. Electrical stimlator unit was connected to the electrodes to stimulate the target muscles. Thirty minute FES session was given 4 times a day for 6 months. Improvement of the hemiplegic upper extremity was noted in gross motor function but not in fine motor function. This study suggests that the FES program can be one of the effective treatment methods to improve the function of upper extremity in the chronic hemiplegic stroke patients.
