Introduction: Stroke is one of the leading causes of long-term disability. Common impairments that contribute to reduced upper limb function include hemiparesis, altered somatosensory sensations, pain and subluxation of the shoulder joint. Neuromuscular and functional electrical stimulation are used as additional techniques to strengthen muscles and practice functional movements. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to review the literature on the effectiveness of neuromuscular and functional electrical stimulation on the functional recovery of the shoulder joint in patients after stroke. Methods: We used a descriptive method with a literature review. Randomized controlled trials were searched in the PubMed, PEDro, and DiKUL databases. The review included studies published in English up to and including January 2025. Results: Nine studies were included in the review, with a total of 514 participants who had severe upper limb impairment following a stroke. Most patients were in the acute phase after a stroke, while one study also included participants in the chronic phase. The results of subluxation measurements were statistically significantly better (p < 0.05) compared to sham electrostimulation and standard physiotherapy in subjects in the acute phase, while there were no changes in those in the chronic phase. The Fugl-Meyer assessment showed a statistically significant improvement (p < 0,05) in motor functions of the proximal upper limb in the intervention groups. The Action research arm test showed a statistically significant improvement (p < 0,05) in both intervention groups in one out of two studies. A statistically significant improvement (p < 0,05) on the Functional Independence Measure was observed in the intervention group in one out of three studies. The Extended Barthel Index did not show any improvement. The Numerical pain rating scale showed a statistically significant improvement (p < 0,05) in the control group in two studies. Measurement of passive range of motion showed a deterioration from the initial measurement in two studies. Discussion and conclusion: We concluded that neuromuscular and functional electrical stimulation are effective in reducing subluxation of glenohumeral joint in acute stroke patients with severe upper limb impairment. They are also effective in improving motor function as an adjunct to standard physical therapy. However, due to the heterogeneity of the studies, the results regarding their effect on improving upper limb functional abilities and activities of daily living are inconsistent.
|
