Automated gait assessment reveals improvements in gait in adults with MS using a functional electrical stimulation sleeve
Valerie J Block, Jeannine Bradsby, Nikki Sisodia, Jaeleene Wijangco, Kyra Henderson, Shane Poole, Riley BoveIntroduction
Gait dysfunction is a common impairment in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), contributing to falls, reduced mobility, and lower quality of life. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) can address gait challenges but remains underutilized in MS care. This feasibility study evaluated the immediate effects of a novel multimuscle FES sleeve on spatiotemporal gait parameters in PwMS experiencing walking difficulties.
Methods
Twenty adults with MS participated completed preferred- and fast-speed walking trials on an instrumented walkway with and without a wearable lower-extremity FES sleeve in a single-session study. Usability rating was assessed via survey. Spatiotemporal gait metrics were compared between conditions.
Results
Responses indicated strong usability: 85% found the FES useful for self-management of walking symptoms; 95% agreed that FES would positively impact quality of life; 75% found it easy to use. FES use was associated with immediate improvements in gait stability, including reduced stride width variability and step length asymmetry, and increased walk ratio during preferred-speed walking. Reduced stride width variability was also observed during fast walking.
Conclusions
This multimuscle wearable FES sleeve was highly acceptable to PwMS and demonstrated immediate improvements in their gait stability. Longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate long-term effectiveness and impact on mobility and participation.