Are there restrictions or precautions for FES?
Author: SCIRE Community Team | Reviewer: Shannon Sproule | Published: 10 October 2017 | Updated: ~
There are some situations in which FES may be unsafe to use. This not a complete list, speak to a health provider about your health history and whether FES is safe for you.
FES should not be used in the following situations:
- Near implanted medical devices like heart pacemakers
- On areas of active cancer, or by people with bleeding disorders or other major medical conditions
- On areas with blood clots, bleeding, damaged skin, infection, or poor circulation
- By pregnant women
- Electrodes should not be placed over the eyes, through the head, through the chest or abdomen, or on the front of the neck or genitals
- By people with recent broken bones
- By people with damage to the nerves or muscles near the area where FES is used
FES should be used with caution in the following situations:
FES is often used with the following conditions after SCI but should be monitored closely. Speak to your health provider for more information.
- By people who have had seizures
- By people prone to severe autonomic dysreflexia (people with cervical and thoracic injuries)
- By people with uncontrolled spasticity
- By people with severe osteoporosis
- In areas where heterotopic ossification causes restricted movement
- In areas with reduced or absent sensation (below the level of injury)
- By people who are unable to follow instructions or provide accurate feedback
