Programmed Six-Channel Electrical Stimulator for Complex Stimulation of Leg Muscles During Walking

Recent trends in the field of functional electrical stimulation (FES) of stroke patients are presented together with a short history of the development of the field. The methodical steps which led towards the construction of a six-channel electrical stimulator are given. The criteria for detennining the number of stimulation channels are highlighted and FES problems of stance phase active stimulation are discussed. The stimulator described is intended for FES assistance of a patient's gait. Stimulation is synchronized with the gait by means of a shoe-insole heel switch. A review of design principles and functions employed is presented in detail, together with a discussion emphasizing problems of multi-site FES in swing and stance phases during locomotion. A discussion of preliminary experience obtained by using the stimulator clinicaly is also presented and ideas for future work are given.