Does Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Improve Recovery Following Acute Ankle Sprain? A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial
Purpose
The device tested (firefly™) stimulates the common peroneal nerve and causes the foot to twitch, and has been shown to increase blood flow. The device is also indicated for the treatment of oedema. In this study, the investigators assessed the use of the device as an adjunctive therapy for people recovering from grade 1 and 2 ankle sprains.
Primary Outcome Measures:
- Oedema lower leg
- FAAM ankle function measure
Secondary Outcome Measures:
- Ankle proprioception
- VAS Pain score
- Adverse event rate
Site:
Poole NHS Trust Hospital
Results: In this pilot, randomised controlled trial, NMES was well tolerated by patients following ankle sprain and demonstrated statistically significant improvements in oedema reduction as measured by fluid displacement. No other changes were observed. Further work will need to confirm the clinical significance and effect on longer term recovery post-ankle sprain.
The full study can be accessed here.
Clinicaltrial.gov link: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02307955?term=Firefly&rank=1
