Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

Supporting movement, strength, and motor control through advanced therapy techniques.

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At Ribble Valley Children’s Physiotherapy, we offer Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) as part of our treatment options for children and young people with neuromuscular or motor control difficulties. FES is a clinically proven technique that uses gentle electrical impulses to stimulate muscle activity and support functional movement—enhancing both strength and coordination during physiotherapy sessions.

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What Is Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)?

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Functional Electrical Stimulation involves applying low-level electrical impulses to targeted muscles using surface electrodes. These impulses mimic the signals normally sent by the brain and spinal cord, causing the muscles to contract in a controlled and purposeful way.

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When combined with active movement or functional tasks (such as walking, reaching, or stepping), FES can help:

• Improve muscle strength and endurance

• Enhance movement control and coordination

• Support more natural movement patterns

• Facilitate neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new connections

• Reinforce motor learning during rehab exercises

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This makes FES an effective and valuable tool in paediatric physiotherapy, especially for children who may struggle to activate certain muscles independently.

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Who Can Benefit from FES?

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FES is suitable for a wide range of conditions that affect movement, posture, or muscle control, including:

• Cerebral palsy

• Spinal cord injury

• Neuromuscular disorders (e.g. muscular dystrophy, SMA)

• Stroke or acquired brain injury

• Foot drop or reduced limb function

• Delayed motor development

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Our physiotherapists will assess your child to determine whether FES is appropriate, and if so, tailor the stimulation settings and therapy plan to meet their unique needs.

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How Is FES Used in Therapy?

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During a session, your child’s physiotherapist will apply electrodes to the skin over specific muscle groups. These may include muscles used for walking, sitting, reaching, or transitioning between positions. The electrical impulses are synchronised with functional movements or exercises, helping your child achieve more effective and coordinated activation.

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We always prioritise your child’s comfort and engagement—FES is pain-free and can be adjusted to suit different levels of sensitivity or muscle response.

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FES is often used alongside other physiotherapy techniques such as:

• Proprioceptive and balance training

• Strength and conditioning exercises

• Manual therapy

• Gait training

• Neuromotor re-education

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Benefits of Functional Electrical Stimulation in Paediatric Physio

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• Encourages active participation in therapy

• Improves motor control and muscle activation

• Builds confidence in movement

• Supports improved walking patterns or functional mobility

• Reduces muscle imbalances or compensatory movement habits

• Can help delay or reduce secondary complications, such as muscle shortening or joint stiffness

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Why Choose RVCP for FES Treatment?

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Our team of experienced paediatric physiotherapists are trained in the safe and effective use of FES in children and young people. We integrate FES into holistic, child-centred treatment plans that focus on what matters most to each family—whether that’s improving mobility, independence, or confidence in daily life.

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We work closely with parents and carers, offering clear explanations and hands-on guidance to ensure exercises can also be supported at home if appropriate.

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Book an Assessment or Learn More

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If you think Functional Electrical Stimulation could benefit your child, we’d be happy to discuss the options with you. An initial assessment will help us determine whether FES is suitable and how it could be integrated into your child’s therapy plan.

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📍 Based in North Yorkshire, serving families all across the North West
📞 Contact us today to arrange an assessment or ask any questions
📆 Appointments available in our child-friendly clinic or selected outreach settings