Comparative Effects of FES and Upper Limb Loading Exercises on Grip Strength and Dexterity in SCI Patients

Master's Thesis from the year 2023 in the subject Health - Physical Therapy / Occupational Therapy, grade: A, Virtual University of Pakistan (Hajvery university), language: English, abstract: Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) rehabilitation aims to activate functional neuronal systems post-injury, seeking enhanced restoration of impaired capabilities. Each SCI patient presents a distinctive set of challenges, with tetraplegics facing more profound impairments compared to paraplegics. This study chiefly investigated the impacts of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) versus Upper Limb Loading Exercises on grip strength, dexterity, and overall function among SCI patients. This research, registered under NCT0586398, took the form of a randomized clinical trial, where 28 participants, identified via a non-probability convenience sampling method, were divided into two groups. The selected participants spanned both genders, ages 20-50, and manifested incomplete SCI at ASIA scale levels C5-T1 in the sub-acute phase. Those on long-term steroids or with any hand or finger amputations were excluded. Group A underwent FES treatment, while Group B engaged in upper limb loading exercises. Both groups received treatments spanning 30 to 45 minutes, five times weekly, over an 8-week period. Outcomes were measured pre and post-intervention using tools such as the modified Action Research Arm Test, handheld dynamometry, and the Nine-Hole Peg Test. Data analysis was executed via the SPSS 25 software.

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