Functional electrical stimulation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized controlled pilot study

This study demonstrates the feasibility of applying quadriceps FES during walking as a new method to overcome quadriceps muscle weakness during early rehabilitation post-ACLR. Compared to NMES, patients who received FES achieved better results in quadriceps strength and symmetry. While both interventions were effective for the recovery of gait speed and symmetry, further investigations should evaluate the effects of quadriceps FES on kinetic and kinematic aspects of gait and other functional performance. In addition, the results of this preliminary study may encourage future research that will test the effectiveness of FES during gait for the rehabilitation of other relevant musculoskeletal conditions.