Efficacy of functional electrical stimulation alone and as an adjunct to exercise for improving respiratory function and aerobic capacity in spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To systematically evaluate the efficacy of functional electrical stimulation (FES), used either alone or as an adjunct to exercise (rowing/cycling), for improving respiratory function and aerobic capacity in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

We conducted a PRISMA-compliant meta-analysis, searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science through January 2025. We included 23 randomized controlled trials and self-controlled studies (N = 314) that assessed outcomes such as forced vital capacity (FVC), peak expiratory flow (PEF), maximal expiratory/inspiratory pressure (MEP/MIP), and peak oxygen uptake (VO₂peak).

Results

When used as a standalone intervention, FES significantly improved expiratory function, with notable increases

SUBMITTER: Xiangli J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12350409 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature