Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on Individuals With Chronic Stroke in Patients With Chronic Stroke

Stroke is commonly associated with increased spasticity that affects patients' function and increased risk of fall. Interventional approaches have been used to decrease spasticity including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. However, Limited research has examined non-pharmacological interventions such as neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES) on spasticity and health outcomes in people with stroke. So, The primary purpose of this study is to establish a protocol for a randomized clinical trial to examine using NMES on spasticity, muscle strength, physical functions, and self-reported health outcomes in people with chronic stroke in Saudi Arabia. This randomized clinical trial will be double blinded for both participants and assessors to enroll 40 participants with chronic stroke to either interventional group or control shame group. The intervention will be 3 times a week for 4 weeks for both groups. Outcomes will include calf muscle spasticity, pretibial muscle strength, ankle range of motion, gait speed, balance, functional mobility, walking endurance, and self-reported health measures such as quality of life, physical activity, fatigue, and risk of fall. Independent t-test will be utilized to examine the effect of intervention on change score means for outcome measures. Using 4 weeks of NMES will provide information about its effect in improving spasticity, physical functions, and other self-reported health outcomes in people with chronic stroke when compared to control shame NMES. We assume this electrical stimulation will reduce leg muscle spasticity and improve muscle strength. Therefore, this study will help individuals with chronic stoke in improve walking function, balance, and quality of life.