Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in Foot and Ankle Surgery: A Pilot Study
NYU Langone Health
Summary
This is a pilot randomized controlled trial, wherein the intervention group will undergo NMES five days a week beginning three weeks postoperative and lasting for ten weeks. Both the control and intervention groups will start standard physical therapy six weeks postoperative. Primary outcome measure will be the isometric strength of the gastrocnemius muscle. The secondary outcomes will comprise subjective clinical evaluations (using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale \[LEFS\]), functional assessments such as the sit-to-stand test, 2-minute walk test, stair climb test and objective clinical evaluation using contralateral comparison of calf circumference.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–70 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Capable and willing to provide informed consent * Undergoing a procedure that involves repairing an ankle fracture. Exclusion Criteria: Patients with medical histories that include: * Rheumatoid arthritis * Connective tissue disorders * Chronic corticosteroid use * Implanted electrical devices * Neurological disorders * Non-ambulatory status * Recent surgery (within the last 3 months) that is not related to the study * Scheduled to undergo surgery in the near future * Epilepsy * Diagnosed with cancer * Have suffered acute trauma or recently have had a surgical procedu…
Interventions
- ProcedureVPOD Wireless Tens Unit
The VPOD unit will deliver NMES to participants in the Intervention Group.
- ProcedurePhysical Therapy
Physical therapy as per standard of care.
- DeviceBiodex
Used to assess strength, endurance, power, and range of motion.
Location
- NYU Langone HealthNew York, New York