Perspectives on Barriers to Use and Benefits of Functional Electrical Stimulation From Australians and New Zealanders With SCI and Clinicians and Researchers in the Field

• DOI: 10.46292/sci24-00013
• Publication Date: 2025-02-20T16:39:52Z
• Authors: Anne E. Palermo; Edward Gorgon; Antonio Vecchio; Lisa Tedesco Triccas; Euan McCaughey; Maggie Donovan-Hall
• Keywords: Functional electrical stimulation

To document, through a survey, perceptions of functional electrical stimulation (FES) from people with spinal cord injury (SCI) and carers, clinicians, researchers (CCR). Online questionnaires were completed in Australia New Zealand December 1, 2021 to August 31, 2022. Subgroups included SCI who have used FES, not CCRs FES. Frequencies percentages subgroup data calculated for all questions. Open-ended responses analyzed inductive content analysis. Ninety-nine (70 SCI, 29 CCR) analyzed. Out the 99 responses, 47 27 had or currently use Muscle strength was most frequently reported benefit by use(d) Lack training barrier FES (85% question responders) (94%) People (95%) access as barrier. The leading priorities future research include improved ease (60% SCI) clinical guidelines (48% CCR). Qualitative findings supported quantitative findings. This survey identified echoed benefits (strength) barriers (training) previous research. Ameliorating investigating areas this study will ultimately improve uptake rehabilitation.