Does Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) Improve Recovery Following Acute Ankle Sprain? A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial.

Study Description: 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. Participants presented with oedema were randomised to either the current standard of care, or the current standard of care plus NMES use. More details here.

Primary Outcomes: Comparison of ankle oedema reduction and functional recovery (using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM)) between the two treatment groups.

Secondary Outcomes: Compare patient-reported pain scores. Feasibility of a future, larger trial. Safety of participants was monitored through the recordings of adverse events. Ankle proprioception and balance.

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.

Publications: 

Does Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Improve Recovery Following Acute Ankle Sprain? A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial – PMC (nih.gov) Wainwright TW, Burgess LC, Middleton RG. Does neuromuscular electrical stimulation improve recovery following acute ankle sprain? A pilot randomised controlled trial. Clinical Medicine Insights: Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2019;12:1-6. doi:10.1177/1179544119849024.