Recovering from a brachial plexus injury can take time, patience, and the right kind of support. When nerves are damaged, the muscles they control can stop working properly. This leads to weakness or even full loss of movement in the arm and hand. In some cases, even after surgery and therapy, progress can be slow. One promising tool in recovery is Functional Electrical Stimulation, or FES. This method is helping people rebuild strength, regain motion, and reconnect their brain to their muscles in new and powerful ways.
At Robobionics, we’ve seen firsthand how FES can support individuals on their path to recovery. Whether used alongside traditional therapy or as part of a broader rehabilitation plan, FES brings new hope to those dealing with long-term weakness. In this article, we’ll explore how FES works, how it helps people with brachial plexus injuries, and how it can be integrated with prosthetics and assistive devices for better outcomes.
What Is Functional Electrical Stimulation?
Functional Electrical Stimulation is a type of therapy that uses small electrical pulses to activate muscles. These pulses are delivered through electrodes placed on the skin, directly over the muscles that need help. The goal is to make the muscles contract in a way that mimics natural movement. Even if a person can’t move the arm or hand voluntarily, FES can trigger those muscles to move, helping them stay active and strong.
The stimulation doesn’t just affect the muscles. It also helps retrain the brain to recognize and rebuild the nerve-muscle connection. For people with brachial plexus injuries, where nerves are often damaged or disconnected, this feedback loop is essential. The brain begins to “remember” how to control the limb, even if the natural signals are still weak. Over time, this can lead to better control, reduced stiffness, and more coordinated movement.
At Robobionics, we see FES as a bridge between passive therapy and active recovery. It keeps the body involved in healing, even when the nerves are not fully ready. This approach reduces the chances of muscle wasting and joint stiffness, which are common problems in long-term nerve injuries. With the right protocol, FES can help turn passive limbs into responsive ones.
How FES Helps in Brachial Plexus Injuries
In brachial plexus injuries, the nerves that control the shoulder, arm, and hand are stretched, compressed, or torn. Depending on the severity, this can result in weakness, limited movement, or total loss of function in part of the limb. Traditional therapy focuses on maintaining flexibility, preventing stiffness, and strengthening the muscles that still work. But when movement is limited, it becomes harder to keep the muscles engaged.
FES steps in by activating muscles that no longer receive strong signals from the brain. These small electric pulses encourage the muscles to contract, which prevents atrophy and supports blood flow. Even when the person cannot move their limb on their own, their muscles are still doing real work. This keeps the body in motion, even in a small way, which is essential for long-term recovery.
Robobionics often works with clients who use FES as part of their rehab routine. We find it especially useful in the early months after an injury, when natural movement is limited but the body is still responsive. The key is regular, well-targeted stimulation, done under the guidance of a trained therapist or clinician. With the right settings and proper use, FES can be one of the most active parts of a passive recovery stage.
Reconnecting the Brain to the Arm
One of the hardest parts of a brachial plexus injury is the feeling of disconnection. The arm or hand may feel like it’s no longer a part of the body. This happens because the brain is no longer receiving feedback from those areas. When a muscle doesn’t move, the brain slowly reduces its control over it. This can make recovery more difficult, even if nerve healing eventually happens.
FES helps rebuild this communication pathway. Every time the muscle is stimulated and contracts, signals are sent back to the brain. Over time, the brain starts to recognize these movements and forms new pathways to regain control. This is especially helpful for children and young adults, whose brains are still highly adaptable. But even in older users, this process can improve the sense of awareness and control over the affected limb.
At Robobionics, we often combine FES with guided therapy and task-specific movement training. For example, while the stimulation is active, the user might practice gripping a soft ball, reaching for an object, or supporting their arm on a table. These tasks help link the muscle activity to real functions, making it easier for the brain to remember and rebuild the movement pattern. This is where recovery shifts from passive repetition to meaningful progress.
Integrating FES with Assistive Devices and Prosthetics
As recovery moves forward, some users may still need external support to complete tasks. This is where assistive devices and prosthetics come in. What’s important to understand is that FES and prosthetics are not separate paths — they can work together. In fact, combining stimulation therapy with prosthetic training often leads to better long-term outcomes.
For users who wear a prosthetic arm, especially one that is EMG-controlled, FES can help improve the remaining muscle signals. These signals are what drive the prosthetic’s movements. If the signals are weak or inconsistent, the device may not respond properly. FES helps by strengthening these signals, improving the prosthetic’s responsiveness, and reducing user frustration. It also helps the user feel more connected to their limb, which improves confidence and use.
At Robobionics, we support this integration by assessing muscle activity before and after FES therapy. We adjust prosthetic settings based on how well the signals improve and how comfortable the user feels. Our goal is not just to give someone a device — it’s to help them use it to its full potential. With stimulation strengthening the signals and the prosthetic amplifying the movement, the user gets the best of both worlds.
FES as a Step Toward Functional Use
It’s important to remember that FES is not just about getting muscles to move. It’s about getting muscles to work in the right way. Recovery after brachial plexus injury is not only about strength. It’s about coordination, timing, and smooth control. FES can be programmed to support these patterns, helping users practice specific motions in a controlled setting before trying them in real life.
For example, if a person is trying to regain the ability to bend their elbow or lift their hand, the stimulation can be timed to match these actions. With repeated practice, the brain learns the correct sequence, and the muscle starts to move more naturally. As strength builds, FES can be reduced, allowing the user to take over more of the effort on their own. This transition phase is critical, and it requires careful monitoring to get it right.
Robobionics works with trained rehabilitation professionals to build these protocols for each user. We see FES as part of a larger picture that includes therapy, assistive support, and patient motivation. When all of these elements work together, recovery becomes smoother and more sustainable. The ultimate goal is to help each person regain movement that matters — not just in the clinic, but in daily life.
When to Start and What to Expect
The best time to start FES is usually in the early weeks or months after a brachial plexus injury. During this time, the body is more responsive, and muscles can still react well to stimulation. However, it’s also helpful in later stages, especially if muscle tone has been lost or function has plateaued. The key is a thorough assessment to decide which muscles can benefit and how to begin safely.
Some users feel small tingling sensations at first. Others notice their muscles twitch slightly. Over time, these small actions become bigger, more coordinated, and more connected to function. Sessions may last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour and are often done multiple times a week. Consistency is crucial for results. It’s not a quick fix, but with time, users often begin to see real gains in strength, posture, and control.
Robobionics helps users get started by connecting them with FES-equipped centers or trained therapists. We also support home-based stimulation options for those who cannot travel regularly. Whether used in a clinic or at home, our focus is always on safe, effective, and meaningful application. We guide each step, making sure users and families understand what to expect and how to measure progress over time.
The Role of Motivation and Emotional Support
Physical recovery after nerve injury is only part of the journey. The emotional and mental aspects are just as important. Many users struggle with frustration, especially when results are slow or inconsistent. FES can be encouraging because it gives visible, real-time feedback. Seeing the arm move — even if it’s with help — reminds the person that their body is still active and capable of change.
Motivation improves when users see progress. FES sessions can be adjusted to match each person’s ability, so success is always possible. When combined with positive feedback from therapists or family, it becomes part of a hopeful routine. This emotional boost often leads to more effort in therapy, better engagement with assistive devices, and a more optimistic view of recovery.
At Robobionics, we believe emotional support is as critical as technical support. That’s why our team includes patient educators and counselors who understand the ups and downs of long-term rehabilitation. We also connect users with others who have used FES successfully, helping them learn from real stories and shared experiences. Because recovery is not just about muscles — it’s about mindset too.
Long-Term Use and Future Possibilities
As technology continues to grow, so do the possibilities with FES. Newer systems are becoming more compact, easier to use, and more connected with wearable devices. This means users may be able to continue stimulation during daily activities, not just during therapy. These developments make FES more practical for people who are working, traveling, or caring for others while still focusing on their recovery.
For people with brachial plexus injuries, this opens the door to long-term support. Even if full recovery isn’t possible, FES can help maintain muscle tone, improve posture, and keep the limb active. This is especially helpful when combined with adaptive tools like prosthetics, mobile grips, or custom supports. These combinations allow the user to build a lifestyle where independence is the focus, and daily movement is possible.
Robobionics is actively exploring how to bring more accessible FES systems to Indian users. We believe everyone deserves access to advanced rehab tools, no matter where they live or how much they can afford. By building partnerships and creating practical solutions, we aim to make FES a part of more people’s lives — and a regular part of rehab programs across the country.
Accessing FES Therapy in India: What You Need to Know
For many families in India, knowing that Functional Electrical Stimulation can help is only the first step. The next big question is: where can we access it, and how do we begin? While FES has been used in parts of the world for many years, it is now becoming more available across India, thanks to growing awareness and stronger rehabilitation networks. More therapy centers, hospitals, and even home care programs are starting to include FES as part of their treatment plans.
That said, not every hospital or clinic may offer FES yet, especially in smaller towns or rural areas. In such cases, families may need to travel to nearby cities or partner with home care providers who can guide FES sessions remotely. Some users choose to rent or buy small portable FES devices, which can be used under virtual supervision by trained professionals. These systems make it easier to stay consistent with therapy, even when visiting a center isn’t possible.
At Robobionics, we’ve partnered with physiotherapy clinics and prosthetic care providers across India to make FES more accessible. We also help families connect with licensed therapists who are trained in FES protocols. Whether you’re in a metro city or a smaller town, we’ll help you find options that work for your location, your budget, and your family’s schedule. Because access to advanced recovery tools like FES should never be limited by where you live.
Conclusion: A Smarter Way to Rebuild Function
Brachial plexus injuries can be tough — for the body, for the mind, and for the daily routines they affect. But with the right tools, recovery becomes possible, even in small steps. Functional Electrical Stimulation brings new energy to rehab, helping users reconnect to their limbs, rebuild muscle memory, and move forward with more confidence and control. It’s not magic. It’s science working with determination — and it’s changing lives.
At Robobionics, we believe in combining smart technology with real human care. We support FES not as a standalone solution, but as a bridge to better outcomes, especially when combined with the right therapy and assistive devices. Whether you are just starting your recovery or looking to unlock more progress, we’re here to guide you with knowledge, tools, and unwavering support.
If you or your loved one is recovering from a brachial plexus injury, reach out to Robobionics for a free consultation. Let’s explore whether Functional Electrical Stimulation can be part of your journey. We’ll help you take the next step — toward strength, movement, and a more confident future.