What is a stroke? Stroke is a "brain attack", cutting off vital supplies of blood and oxygen to the cerebral cells controlling everything we do - speaking, walking, breathing. A stroke occurs when an artery becomes blocked (ischemic stroke) or ruptured (haemorrhagic stroke). Most strokes occur when arteries are blocked by blood clots or by the gradual build-up of plaque and other fatty deposits. Arteries can rupture when weak spots on the blood vessel wall break. What is a CVA? A stroke is often described as a Cerebral Vascular Accident. How is stroke rehabilitation accomplished? Most stroke rehabilitation is through by physical exercise, but the cognitive aspects of stroke rehabilitation are also very important. The intact nerves have the possibility to utilize new and different paths from the brain to build new functional synapses. Mental training is an important element in stroke rehab. What is EMG? ElectroMyoGraphic signals are called EMG. They are electrical activities originating in the brain and transported via nerve cells to the muscles. These signals cause the muscles to contract. Often EMG signals are disturbed after a brain attack leading to paralysis of muscles. What is NMES? NeuroMuscular Electrical nerve Stimulation (NMES) is the application of an electrical stimulus for muscle rehabilitation. During NMES an electrical impulse is passed from a device to electrodes placed on the skin over a targeted muscle or muscle group. The stimulation causes the muscle(s) to contract. What is the difference between NMES, NMS, FES and ES? NMES is NeuroMuscular Electrical Stimulation. NMS is NeuroMuscular Stimulation. FES is Functional Electrical Stimulation. ES is Electrical Stimulation. All these are NOT EMG triggered NMES! What is EMG triggered NMES? The combination of both modalities offer superior possibilities for re-learning of otherwise paralyzed muscles. This combination method is also called EMG controlled NMES. Is EMG triggered NMES, EMS and ETEM similar? All different terms for the same: EMS stands for Electromyographic triggered electric Muscle Stimulation. ETEM stands for Emg Triggered Electrical Myostimulation. What is the basic idea behind the Biomove? It is a state-of-the-art tool to assist in muscle rehabilitation after stroke. The re-learning process offers the possibility of utilizing new and different paths from the brain with the help of EMG triggered NMES. What has this method to do with biofeedback? If, with the help of the Biomove, the patient experiences control of previously paralyzed muscles, the cognitive re-learning process improves significantly. This "feedback" is the ultimate form of biofeedback. Why is it important to regain control of paralyzed muscles? It not only makes the patient more independent, but improves significantly the quality of life. Do I use the Biomove in addition to regular therapy? Yes, it is an important supplement to other home therapy.
