Therapeutic Electrical Stimulation (TES) is a fairly new therapy for children with cerebral palsy (CP). It is a therapeutic process through which electrical impulses cause muscle contractions and help build muscle bulk.
Neurostimulation vs. Therapeutic Electrical Stimulation (TES) Therapy
Neurostimulation cannot be used in children because of discomfort and the risk of damage to growing muscles, tendons, and bones. Therapeutic electrical stimulation (TES) therapy is similar to neurostimulation, but it uses a low-level impulse that is not enough to cause a contraction. The low-level impulse is, however, strong enough to increase blood flow and promote muscle growth. The treatment is performed by attaching electrodes from the TES unit onto the skin over certain muscles while the child sleeps. A physical therapist specifically trained to use TES sets up criteria for each individual child. It usually takes three to six months to see the results of therapeutic electrical stimulation.
Therapeutic Electrical Stimulation (TES) Therapy as a Form of Complementary Therapy
Therapeutic electrical stimulation is a type of complementary therapy, and not a substitute for more conventional treatments. By promoting muscle growth and strength, however, the child can obtain faster and better progress than with traditional therapy alone.
Some controlled trials show subjective improvements with TES. One study found an improvement in gross motor function measure (GMFM) score at 1 year, and a recent review of 12 studies noted improvements in muscle function and/or strength.
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