Conceptual Design of an Isokinetic Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) Leg Stepping Trainer for Individuals with Neurological Disability
Abstract
People with neurological disabilities that affect their lower limbs are usually less active and have reduced aerobic fitness compared to their able-bodied cohorts. For this population to increase their functional capacity, proper training regimes have to be prescribed, which suit the nature of their injury and maximize their exercise capacity. One popular technique is to use functional electrical stimulation (FES) leg exercise for the weak or paralysed muscles. This paper describes the conceptual design of a new isokinetic FES leg stepping trainer for individuals with neurological disability. The combination of seated elliptical-motion stepping, FES and isokinetic exercise has the potential to improve rehabilitation outcomes in persons with lower limb paresis or paralysis. The proposed exercise machine can offer safe and intense training that is relevant to walking.
Keywords
Rehabilitation Neurological Disability Functional Electrical Stimulation Leg Stepping Trainer IsokineticPreview
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