Effect of functional electrical stimulation combined with stationary cycling and sit to stand training on mobility and balance performance in a patient with traumatic brain injury: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: This case study investigates the effects of functional electrical stimulation, stationary cycling, and sit-to-stand training in a patient with severe chronic traumatic brain injury. CASE PRESENTATION: The participant was a 24-year-old man with a traumatic brain injury two years prior to the intervention described in this case report. The accident caused right hemiplegia, right foot drop, aphasia, and poor coordination of movement in both upper and lower limbs. He was using a wheeled walker for functional mobility and was receiving routine rehabilitation before the initiation of treatment. A four week intervention in this study included functional electrical stimulation of the quadriceps and tibialis anterior muscles combined with stationary cycling and sit-to-stand training. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Active and passive range of motion of right ankle dorsiflexion, strength of ankle dorsiflexor, balance performance, and mobility were measured before and after the intervention. Active range of motion of right ankle dorsiflexion increased by 8°. In addition, manual muscle test and Brief-BESTest scores increased from 3+ to 5 and from 7 to 9, respectively. Walking speed over the 10-m distance and timed up and go test score improved. CONCLUSION: Functional electrical stimulation combined with stationary cycling and sit-to-stand training resulted in increased muscle strength and range of motion, improved balance performance, and improved mobility in an individual with a traumatic brain injury.