Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on Flexor Spasticity and Function in Stroke Patients

NMES was performed using the Enraf Nonius Myomed 632X device. Both applications were performed 5 days/week for 4 weeks. NMES was performed with the patients in a sitting position and the affected arm resting on a table with the forearm supinated (Agonist group) / forearm pronated (Antagonist group). Surface electrodes (50x50 mm self-adhesive) were placed on the wrist and finger flexor/extensor muscle group. NMES parameters; Symmetric biphasic, pulse width 200 μs, on time 6 seconds (ramp up 1 second, ramp down 2 seconds), off time 12 seconds, stimulation intensity according to the patient's tolerance (not exceeding 90 mA), frequency 50 Hz and was adjusted to elicit contraction in the flexor and extensor muscles of the wrist and fingers.

In addition to conventional treatment, participants were included in an occupational rehabilitation program for 20 minutes to improve upper extremity functions.