In physical rehabilitation, it is often the case that intensive effort is applied to exploit the natural ability of the body to adapt to the consequences of injury. This property, known as neuroplasticity is not yet fully understood but it at least represents hope that some functional recovery is possible in many cases. In many cases there will remain a functional deficit and ultimately we find ways to compensate for function that cannot be recovered.

The nervous system is a very complex, adaptable structure, that can be disrupted by illness or injury. Rehabilitation strategies to apply in a particular case obviously depend on the nature and extent of injury.

Clinicians might refer to an "upper motor" or "lower motor" lesion when discussing a particular case. What do these terms mean? In this article we review the meaning of these statements and the consequences for rehabilitation. Some of our electrical stimulation products relate to problems with the nervous system and may help to restore or compensate for loss of function following injury or illness. Which products are relevant to these types of lesions?

Let's start by reviewing some aspects of the nervous system.

At Anatomical Concepts, we specialise in treating denervation - a condition where muscles lose their nerve supply. This can result from peripheral nerve injuries or certain spinal cord injuries affecting lower motor neurons. Untreated denervation leads to muscle atrophy, weakening muscles, and reduced ability to contract. However, RISE Stimulator, a device we use, can effectively treat denervation. By transmitting electrical signals directly to the muscle fibers, it bypasses the damaged nerve, preventing atrophy and muscle structural changes. This treatment method can normalize muscle tissue and increase muscle bulk over time. It's best to start soon after injury but can also help those with long-term injuries.

Functional Electrical Stimulation, commonly known as FES, has many practical applications. FES is a widely used, non-invasive treatment technique that applies electrical impulses to weak or paralysed muscles. The idea of using electricity to have a beneficial effect on the body is not new, but it is only with advances in technology in recent years are we starting to see the true potential of this approach for neurorehabilitation and healthcare in general.
The purpose of functional electrical stimulation is usually to generate a useful (functional) muscle contraction; often with the aim of improving function and movement but, depending on the type of stimulation used, an FES device can do much more than that.

In this article we review the topic of FES, some of it's applications and point to some of the devices offered by Anatomical Concepts.

In this article we explain why functional electrical stimulation (FES) is an effective technique in enhancing functional recovery in patients with peripheral nerve injuries. The technique can improve muscle activation, prevent muscle atrophy, enhance muscular endurance and strength, and assist in nerve and axonal regeneration.

FES is a generally safe, non-pharmacologic intervention without significant side-effects, which adds an essential therapeutic option to neurological physiotherapy.

With muscle denervation the FES is designed to work directly with muscle fibre and not rely on the local nerve structure for success.

Further studies on FES are necessary to comprehend the scope, limitations, and best methodology. Programmes need to be customised for each user.

We are finding there is a growing interest in using electrotherapy to treat denervated muscle. There are many clinical benefits of doing this and given equipment like the Stimulator RISE, it is very easy to do. Clients can do this safely at home given guidance and support.
Denervated muscle refers to a muscle that has lost its nerve supply or connection to the nervous system. Nerves play a crucial role in controlling muscle movement and function by sending electrical impulses to the muscle fibers. When a muscle becomes denervated, it loses this connection, which can lead to muscle weakness, atrophy (shrinkage), and even loss of muscle function over time. The article features a video from Anatomical Concepts DIrector, Derek Jones, who describes the rationale and process of using the RISE Stimulator in some detail. You can review the video and the transcript is shown

Lower motor neuron lesions can have a profound effect on the nerves responsible for controlling movement in the body, leading to a range of symptoms, including muscle weakness and atrophy (loss of muscle bulk). These conditions can be caused by various factors, such as injury, disease, and even genetic disorders.

In our work we mostly meet individuals who have experienced a spinal cord injury that has resulted in damage to the Lower Motor Neurons resulting in denervation of muscle. We also see nerve injuries such as a Brachial Plexus injury to the shoulder.

In this guide, we will explore some of the causes, the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for lower motor neuron lesions, highlighting the importance of early intervention and appropriate care.