The effect of surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles on the interface pressure in seated people with spinal cord injury.
OBJECTIVE
To study effects of surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles on the interface pressure in seated persons with spinal cord injury (SCI).


METHODS
One session in which alternating and simultaneous surface electric stimulation protocols were applied in random order.


METHODS
Research laboratory of a rehabilitation center.


METHODS
Thirteen subjects with SCI.


METHODS
Surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles.


METHODS
Interface pressure, maximum pressure, pressure spread, and pressure gradient for the stimulation measurement. Variables were compared using 2-tailed paired t tests.


RESULTS
Alternating and simultaneous stimulation protocol caused a significant (P<.01) decrease in interface pressure (-17+/-12 mmHg, -19+/-14 mmHg) and pressure gradient (-12+/-11 mmHg, -14+/-12 mmHg) during stimulation periods compared with rest periods. There was no significant difference in effects between the 2 protocols.


CONCLUSIONS
Surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles in persons with SCI causes a decrease in interface pressure. This might restore blood flow in compressed tissue and help prevent pressure ulcers.
van Londen
Andrea
A
Research Institute MOVE, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Herwegh
Mariska
M
van der Zee
Carlijn H
CH
Daffertshofer
Andreas
A
Smit
Christof A
CA
Niezen
Annelieke
A
Janssen
Thomas W
TW