Moses Cone Health System Rehabilitation Services now uses electrical stimulation to help patients recover more quickly after a stroke, brain injury or other disorders that impact the movement of their arms and legs.

Bioness Rehabilitation Systems use electrodes on the skin’s surface to help muscles move in useful ways. For instance, the electrodes might stimulate the hand to open and close to grasp and release objects, or they might lift the foot or toes to help in walking. The goal is to retrain the brain through repeated movements so that other areas of the brain "learn" to perform the functions of the damaged areas. 

The technology is being used in both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation settings. Experts believe using these units may improve movement, increase blood circulation, reduce spasms and stiffness, maintain or increase range of motion, and prevent or slow muscle weakness.

Rehabilitation patients are evaluated to determine if this kind of electrical stimulation is right for them. The technology can be easily combined with traditional occupational and physical therapy techniques to ensure the best possible outcome for patients. 

For more information, call 271-4840.