Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a non-invasive treatment using a small battery powered machine, which is attached to electrodes that are placed on a person’s skin. An electrical stimulation is applied to the nerve or muscle. This can feel like a ‘pins and needles’ sensation. This causes the muscle to contract (or work) producing movement and lifting the foot when worn during walking. If FES is helpful, a device may be given on loan for the person to use at home.
Healthcare Professionals can use the questions on this webpage to support their clinical assessment to confirm a patient’s suitability for a trial with FES.
Useful links
Functional electrical stimulation (FES) | MS Trust
Treating drop foot using electrical stimulation – Understanding NICE guidance | NICE.org.uk
FES General Information for Patients
FES Things you need to know before your first appointment
Skin and electrode care for FES users
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Who is the FES Service for?
The FES Service is for people who:
• Have a confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Are over 16
• AND are at risk of tripping and falling when walking due to difficulty
controlling the movement of the foot/ankle. -
Who is unsuitable for the FES Service?
FES is not suitable for people with:
- A cardiac pacemaker in situ
- Unstable epilepsy
- Receptive dysphasia (difficulty understanding language)
FES needs a high level of commitment from patients to make sure it is set up as well as possible, learn how to use it and care for their skin and the device. This may take time and will require repeat appointments.
FES may not be appropriate for everyone who meets the criteria for assessment. People who meet the eligibility criteria will be offered a clinical assessment to confirm their suitability for a trial with FES.
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What are the key points to consider when assessing suitability for FES?
Is the person you are referring…
- Able to walk 20m without a rest (with or without aids)?
- Experiencing trips or falls due to their MS?
- Have they seen a physiotherapist for this problem?
- Do they have enough passive movement at the ankle to make walking possible?
- Able to fit the device each day themselves?
- Able to attend follow up sessions to check on progress?
- Able to engage with the process of learning and problem solving in relation to FES use?
If no, please re-consider whether this is an appropriate referral.
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Who can make a FES referral?
Referrals are only accepted from consultant led neurology clinics, MS specialist nurses and NHS physiotherapists with expertise in treating neurological conditions.
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How can I make a referral?
To make a referral via encompass, please search for REF FES or use code REF5250 to find Referral to Physiotherapy – FES Service (Neuro).
For Trusts not on encompass, please complete the Online Referral Form.
- Where can I get more information?