This paper reviews the therapeutic and neuroprosthetic applications of functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS), also known as functional electrical stimulation (FES), for lower extremity rehabilitation after spinal cord injury and summarizes the important clinical and technical issues involved in its use. The therapeutic effects of electrical stimulation on disuse atrophy, muscle strength and endurance, cardiopulmonary status, and tissue viability in terms of risk of pressure sore development are summarized. Neuroprosthetic uses of surface and implanted technologies for standing, ambulation, and personal mobility are also described. Health and functional benefits, contraindications, and other clinical considerations are discussed, along with the potential of the technology to be an important component in the overall rehabilitation of persons with spinal cord injuries.

ambulation, exercise, functional electrical stimulation, mobility, neuroprostheses, paraplegia, pressure, spinal cord injury, standing
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