Evaluating the Effect of Functional Electrical Stimulation Used for Foot Drop on Aspects of Health-Related Quality of Life in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review.

backgroundMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a common degenerative neurologic condition resulting in walking difficulties. Foot drop is a common walking impairment in MS that can affect health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Functional electrical stimulation (FES) can improve walking in people with MS, but its effect on HRQOL is not well established. This review investigated the effect of FES used for foot drop on HRQOL in adults with MS.

methodsA systematic search was performed using CINAHL, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and PEDro online databases. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to select eligible studies. Data were extracted, and two reviewers independently rated the quality of the studies using the Effective Public Health Practice Project assessment tool.

resultsEight studies were eligible for review; seven were of moderate-to-strong methodological quality and one was weak. Seven studies demonstrated significant positive effects of FES on different aspects of HRQOL as measured by the 29-item Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale, 36-item Short Form Health Status Survey, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, and Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale.

conclusionsThis review provides preliminary evidence that FES has a positive effect on aspects of HRQOL in people with MS; however, the variety of HRQOL outcomes used makes it difficult to determine definitive conclusions. Future larger-scale randomized studies with long-term follow-up are recommended to better understand the effect of FES on HRQOL. This will inform prescribing decisions and support compliance with FES over the longer-term.