Efficacy of Surface Electrical Stimulation in treatment of cerebral Palsy Children: ASystemic Review

Background and Objectives: To conduct a systemic review to summarize the effect of surface electrical stimulation (SES) in treatment of problems that affects the motor performance of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Data Sources: 50 cerebral palsy and electrical stimulation studies were identified and only 25 studies were accepted. Data extraction: Studies were classified according to the level of intensity of electrical stimulation into motor level including; neuromuscular (NMES) and functional (FES) and sensory level including; therapeutic electrical stimulation (TES), microcurrent and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). The aim of the studies and the measured variables were extracted and its effects were analyzed. Data Analysis: surface electrical stimulation was highly effective in increasing both active and passive ROM and in improving upper limb function. It was effective in decreasing spasticity, improving gait, strength, gross motor function in lower limb and increasing trunk control and sitting balance. Conclusion: In conclusion, SES is considered a beneficial treatment tool in rehabilitation of subjects with CP. It has a significant result in improve gait, gross motor function in lower limb and upper limb and to improve trunk control and sitting balance. From the literature, there is more evidence to use motor level than sensory level of stimulation and in motor the evidence to use NMES more than FES.