This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two rehabilitation techniques- Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) and Mirror Therapy (MT)-in improving motor recovery among stroke survivors. Stroke often results in long-term impairments, particularly in foot clearance, which is critical for daily activities. Although current rehabilitation strategies help, more effective solutions are needed to enhance recovery. Participants, aged 18- 85 years old with subacute stroke and foot clearance impairments, will be randomized into two groups: Group A will receive functional electrical stimulation (FES) with routine physical therapy; and Group B will receive mirror therapy (MT) with routine physical therapy. The interventions will take place three times a week for 4 weeks, and participants will undergo motor function assessments, including the Fugl-Meyer Assessment and Functional Independence Measure, before and after the intervention. The study will compare the effects of each intervention on motor recovery, specifically focusing on tibialis anterior function and motor control. The findings could lead to improved rehabilitation protocols, offering stroke survivors better therapeutic options and enhancing their quality of life.
Patient aged 18-85 years of age, who experienced stroke within ≤6 months.
The Fugl-Meyer motor assessment of lower extremity (FMA-LE) was conducted by physiotherapist in the hospital, and score required to be ≥ 20 points.
Participants possessed healthy nerves, neuromuscular junctions, muscles tissues, and a sufficient range of motion in dorsiflexor and plantarflexion.
The subjects could walk independently on a treadmill for at least 2 min without without experiencing adverse reaction to FES.
Patients with cardiac pacemaker, those with skin lesions, who could not be treated due to spasticity within the last three months, and vestibular and cerebellar lesions or deaf- blindness were excluded.
Patients with past or current epilepsy, uncontrolled seizure disorder, mental disorders and all neurological disorders except stroke.
Patients with severe edema of lower extremities or patients of vascular disorders like deep vein thrombosis or thromboembolisms and severe atheroscelerosis of lower extremities.
Subjects with any musculoskeletal dysfunction that would potentially affect gait and causes risk of falls.