FES Adapted Bike

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a rehabilitation technique where stimulation (in the form of an electrical current) is applied to a child for the purpose of enhancing his or her ability to perform functions and activate muscles.

An FES Adapted bike is an adapted stationary bike which utilizes FES to stimulate nerves that evoke muscle response. Electrical impulses are delivered through electrodes on your skin to stimulate your lower peripheral nerves which evoke a muscle contraction.

The unique benefit of an FES bike and FES technology is that it stimulates the nerves that evoke patterned movements of the arms or legs. This is how FES enables a child to engage in movement patterns and use muscles even if they have difficulty coordinating those movements on their own. This allows a child who has difficulty with the strength and/or coordination required to ride a bike, to engage in a cycling training program and enjoy the benefits of cardiovascular exercise and muscle strengthening.

There are many benefits to engaging in a cycling training program. Regular exercise is associated with reduced illness and complications of immobility, improved fitness and function, and overall improved health. It also increases the child’s metabolic rate which decreases the risk of type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia and obesity. Increased muscle mass is associated with a reduction in osteoporosis. FES increases bone density in the areas of stimulated muscle and it decreases spasticity and increases or maintains range of motion.  It can also assist with standing pivot transfers which makes life easier in terms of daily activities.

As with all physical activity, there are some risks associated with engaging in a cycling training program. Prior to engaging in a cycling training program using an FES adapted bike, a risk assessment should be undertaken by the child’s physiotherapist which should include strategies to reduce risks of injury. Also, all training should be undertaken under the supervision of a trained physiotherapist.

Access to an FES Adapted bike is a challenge for many families especially since this is the type of therapy that should be done regularly, meaning two or three times a week.

One option is for in-home therapy by purchasing an FES Adapted Bike for your child to use at home. FES stimulators and bikes can be purchased from Altas Medic in Quebec, or from a variety of suppliers in the USA including Myolyn or Restorative Therapies.