The effect of surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles on the interface pressure in seated people with spinal cord injury

van Londen A, Herwegh M, van der Zee CH, Daffertshofer A, Smit CA, Niezen A, Janssen TW. The effect of surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles on the interface pressure in seated people with spinal cord injury. Objective: To study effects of surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles on the interface pressure in seated persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Design: One session in which alternating and simultaneous surface electric stimulation protocols were applied in random order. Setting: Research laboratory of a rehabilitation center. Participants: Thirteen subjects with SCI. Intervention: Surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles. Main Outcome Measures: Interface pressure, maximum pressure, pressure spread, and pressure gradient for the stimulation measurement. Variables were compared using 2-tailed paired t tests. Results: Alternating and simultaneous stimulation protocol caused a significant (P<.01) decrease in interface pressure (-17±12mmHg, -19±14mmHg) and pressure gradient (-12±11mmHg, -14±12mmHg) during stimulation periods compared with rest periods. There was no significant difference in effects between the 2 protocols. Conclusions: Surface electric stimulation of the gluteal muscles in persons with SCI causes a decrease in interface pressure. This might restore blood flow in compressed tissue and help prevent pressure ulcers. © 2008 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.