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+/-12 mmHg, -19+/-14 mmHg) and pressure gradient (-12+/-11 mmHg, -14+/-12 mmHg) 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.