FES-Assisted Upper Extremity Ergometer Training in Subacute Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and often results in impaired upper extremity function and reduced aerobic capacity. Improving both cardiovascular and function is an important goal in stroke rehabilitation. This study aims to compare the effects of conventional rehabilitation combined with upper extremity ergometer training versus conventional rehabilitation combined with functional electrical stimulation (FES)-assisted upper extremity ergometer training in patients with subacute stroke. A total of 24 patients with subacute stroke will be randomly assigned to one of two groups using the sealed envelope method. Both groups will receive conventional rehabilitation. In addition, one group will perform upper extremity ergometer training, while the other group will perform FES-assisted upper extremity ergometer training. The interventions will be applied for 30 minutes per session, for a total of 10 sessions completed over approximately four weeks. Participants will be evaluated before and after the intervention period. Primary outcomes include aerobic capacity assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing and upper extremity motor function. Secondary outcomes include upper extremity strength, sensory function, functional status, and activities of daily living. The results of this study may help determine whether adding FES-assisted upper extremity ergometer training to conventional rehabilitation provides additional benefits in improving aerobic capacity and upper extremity function in patients with subacute stroke.