What is the primary goal of using functional electrical stimulation (FES) in neurorehabilitation?

• A. To train the efferent pathways through the afferent pathways
• B. To increase skin sensation
• C. To enhance visual feedback
• D. To strengthen bones

Answer: (A)

Functional electrical stimulation in neurorehabilitation aims to evoke functional muscle contractions to enable purposeful movement, while using the resulting sensory feedback to drive motor learning and neuroplastic change. By activating the motor (efferent) pathways and providing real-time sensory input (afferent feedback) during task practice, the nervous system relearns movement patterns and strengthens the connections needed for voluntary control. The other options don’t capture the main goal: increasing skin sensation isn’t the target of FES, visual feedback isn’t the primary aim, and while movement can indirectly influence bone health, that’s not the primary purpose of FES.