For a patient with severe foot drop after a tibia fracture, during which phase should functional electrical stimulation be applied to the appropriate muscles?

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a therapeutic intervention designed to enhance muscle function, especially in individuals with foot drop, which is characterized by difficulty in dorsiflexing the foot. In the context of gait, the timing of stimulation is crucial to assist the patient in achieving optimal movement patterns.

Applying FES during the mid swing phase of gait is appropriate for a patient with severe foot drop. During this phase, the foot is lifted off the ground and passes through the air in preparation for the next step. If the dorsiflexors are activated at this stage, the foot can maintain a neutral or slightly dorsiflexed position, preventing it from dragging on the ground and enhancing safety and efficiency during walking. This function is critical for clearing the foot during swing, thereby reducing the risk of tripping and improving overall gait mechanics.

In contrast, applying FES during other phases such as late stance at push-off, early stance at foot flat, or late stance at toe-off does not address the immediate need for dorsiflexion while the foot is in the air, which is essential for a functional gait cycle in patients with foot drop. These phases are primarily focused on weight bearing and propulsion rather than foot clearance, which diminishes the efficacy of