A Case of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for Childhood Stroke Hyperkinesis: A Brief Report

Aim Some conditions within specific populations are so rare rigorous evidence is unavailable. Childhood hyperkinesis is one example, yet presents an opportunity to examine sensation's contribution to motor function. Methods The patient experienced functional difficulty from hyperkinesis as a result of childhood stroke. Home-based passive neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) was implemented an hour/day, six days/week, over 6 weeks (36 hours). Clinical and robotic measures (Assisting Hand Assessment, Box and Block Test, Jebsen Taylor Test of Hand Function, Kinarm) were administered before and after the intervention and at 9 months. Results NMES was feasible and well tolerated. Clinically important gains of arm function were maintained at 9 months. Robotic measures showed improved hyperkinesis, namely reduced movement segmentation and improved target approximation, in addition to improved proprioceptive function after NMES. Conclusion This case study illustrates the use of NMES within a previously unexplored population and highlights the potential importance of sensory systems to motor gains.