NICE Issues Guidance On FES For Dropped Foot

Main Category: Neurology / Neuroscience
Also Included In: Multiple Sclerosis
Article Date: 29 Jan 2009 - 2:00 PDT

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NICE (the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) has issued guidance that says FES (functional electrical stimulation) is safe and can be considered for use in the NHS as a treatment for dropped foot.

Dropped foot can occur when nerve messages to the leg are interrupted by damage to the brain or spinal cord. The foot or toes don't lift properly leading to problems walking and the risk of stumbling or falling. Existing treatments include physiotherapy or an ankle-foot splint.

FES uses electrodes attached to the skin to trigger the nerves causing the foot to lift properly. Research supported by the MS Trust showed that using FES can help improve walking speed and confidence and reduce fatigue.

The NICE guidance says that FES can be "offered routinely as a treatment option for people with drop foot caused by damage to the brain or spinal cord" if the doctor feels it is appropriate.

Pam Macfarlane, Chief Executive of the MS Trust said, "We welcome NICE's guidance on the use of FES, although it is disappointing that they haven't referred more specifically to MS. We would really encourage anyone who thinks they may benefit, to talk to their health professionals as this guidance should ensure devices will be funded by the NHS where they are needed and therefore many more people with MS who experience dropped foot will be able to benefit from this treatment."

MS Trust

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