Effects of NMES on Muscle Function of Patients With FSHD: a Double-blind Randomized Controled Clinical Trial

Overview

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by progressive weakness and atrophy of specific skeletal muscles. One of the major problems of patients affected by FSHD is the limitation in performing daily activities induced by the progressive muscle weakness. This sedentary lifestyle can cause a "debilitative cycle," and neuromuscular deconditioning can even aggravate the muscular deficiencies. Recent studies have indicated the safety and the effectiveness of moderate aerobic training programs in patients with FSHD. However, these training programs have limited applicability in patients with more severe muscular weakness. Artificial strength training by means of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) appears to be a promising rehabilitation strategy for FSHD patients suffering from neuromuscular disorders. Therefore we propose to investigate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of NMES strength training to counteract quadriceps muscle weakness in patients affected by FSHD.

NMES will be delivered to both quadriceps by means of a Kneehab® XP device, which is an innovative and clinically-proven garment-based product designed specifically to treat quadriceps muscle atrophy. The main NMES current parameters are: 50-Hz frequency, 100-400 µs pulse duration, 5:10-second on:off time. Each session will last approximately 20 minutes and will be repeated 5 days/week for a total duration of the treatment program of 3 months.

Conditions