Abstract

Objectives: In this study we investigated the effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on shoulder subluxation in stroke patients.

Patients and Methods: We included 20 acute and chronic stroke patients (9 females, 11 males; mean age 58.32±11.07 years; range 42 to 78 years) into the study. The mean duration of disease was 5.47±3.17 months (range 2 to 12 months). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation was applied to the shoulders with subluxation for 25 minutes daily for four weeks. Evaluations were made before and after treatment with regard to range of motion of the shoulder, subluxation measured on radiographs, Brunnstrom levels, Ashworth scale, Functional Independence Measure, pain, and patient satisfaction.

Results: After the treatment, statistically significant improvements were achieved in active and passive flexion, abduction, external and internal rotation; however, the numeric decrease in subluxation was not statistically significant. Functional Independence Measure scores, personal care levels, Brunnstrom scale scores, and the severity of pain improved significantly.

Conclusion: Considering it favorable effects, NMES may be a part of rehabilitation process for shoulder subluxation in stroke patients.