EFFECTS OF FUNCTIONAL ELECTROSTIMULATION (FES) IN THE GLUTEAL REGION ON MOTOR CONTROL AND FUNCTIONALITY IN CHILDREN DIAGNOSED WITH CHRONIC NON-PROGRESSIVE ENCEPHALOPATHY

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.01596726040610

• Palavras-chave: Cerebral Palsy. Functional Electrical Stimulation. Physical Therapy. Motor Function.

• Keywords: Cerebral Palsy. Functional Electrical Stimulation. Physical Therapy. Motor Function.

• Abstract:

  Chronic Non-Progressive Encephalopathy, also known as cerebral palsy (CP), is defined as a group of neurological disorders that affect motor control, posture, cognitive function, body movements, and muscle coordination. Its characteristics include alterations in muscle tone, balance, and muscle strength, which influence functional performance. This study aims to analyze the benefits of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) applied to the gluteal region on motor function in 4-year-old children diagnosed with chronic non-progressive encephalopathy. The study included one 5-year-old female child diagnosed with chronic non-progressive encephalopathy and was conducted at the Teaching Clinic of Iguaçu University – Campus V in Itaperuna, Rio de Janeiro, from August 2025 to May 2026. The research data were presented and analyzed descriptively. In the present study, the application of FES to the gluteal region was combined with therapeutic exercises targeting the limitations identified in the participant’s kinetic-functional assessment, including passive joint mobilization, abdominal exercises, pelvic elevation, and functional training for sitting and standing. The results regarding muscle strength demonstrated improvement in muscle groups important for functionality and motor control. An improvement from grade 3 to grade 4 on the MRC scale was observed in the left biceps brachii, bilateral iliopsoas, bilateral quadriceps femoris, and bilateral hamstrings. These findings indicate progression from the ability to perform movements against gravity to movements against moderate resistance, suggesting an improvement in the participant’s functional muscle performance. In the goniometric assessment, a 10° increase in left hip flexion was observed, progressing from 65° to 75°, in addition to a 10° gain in right hip flexion, increasing from 90° to 100°. A 5° increase in right plantar flexion was also identified, progressing from 25° to 30°. These findings demonstrate improved joint mobility, particularly in movements related to motor function and pelvic control. It is concluded that the use of functional electrical stimulation (FES) applied to the gluteal region, combined with therapeutic exercises aimed at muscle strengthening, postural control, and functional training, proved to be a relevant strategy in the physical therapy management of the participant diagnosed with non-progressive encephalopathy. The intervention facilitated improvements in important motor components related to functionality, especially those associated with proximal stability, joint mobility, and performance during functional activities.