In addition to dorsiflexion during gait, FES can help with which function in the upper extremities for individuals with hemiparesis?

• A. Speech therapy
• B. Balance training
• C. Gait speed
• D. Grasp

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) can restore usable movement by electrically activating the muscles when voluntary control is weak, and it can be applied beyond just the legs. While FES is well known for helping with foot drop during walking, it also has applications in the upper extremity for people with hemiparesis. Grasp is a fundamental hand function needed for daily activities like holding objects, eating, and manipulating items. By selectively stimulating muscles involved in finger and hand action, FES can assist with opening and closing the hand, stabilizing the wrist, and coordinating a functional grasp. This makes grasp the best match for an upper-extremity function that FES can help with in addition to dorsiflexion during gait. Speech therapy and balance training are important rehabilitation areas but are not direct upper-limb functions enhanced by FES in this context, and gait speed relates to walking rather than hand function.