The Importance of Electrical Stimulation Machines in Stroke Recovery

Following a neurological injury or disease, it is common for clients to experience impaired arm and hand function resulting in decreased sensation and/or strength. If the arm has limited use, this may lead to impaired communication to the brain, which includes sense of touch, feel, or awareness of movement.

The SaeboStim Micro provides low-level sensory stimulation to the arm and hand to improve motor and sensory recovery and help cortical reorganization. Although the SaeboStim Micro does not produce a muscle contraction, it still provides stimulation to the arm and hand, which increases the signals to the brain and help to improve recovery.

The SaeboStim Micro provides sensory electrical stimulation (SES) to the arm and hand using a specialized Electro-Mesh Garment. The unique Electro-Mesh material is not only soft and comfortable to wear at rest, but also during activities.

The Garments consist of an elbow sleeve (arm stimulation) and glove (hand stimulation). The material is highly conductive and is made of silver treated nylon fibers blended with Dacron®. The stimulation is delivered into the elbow sleeve and glove by a uniquely designed stimulator.

What are the other treatment options?

There are other electro mesh conductive garments on the market, however, the SaeboStim Micro is the world’s smallest device and has been widely used in research. The stimulation unit has advanced programs specifically tailored for the neurologically impaired client.

Why does Saebo provide this product?

By providing low-level stimulation (i.e., without producing a muscle contraction) to the hand and arm, increased signals are delivered to the brain. This form of treatment primes the cortex so that more activation appears during therapy or when performing a functional task. This new increase in activation can lead to improved sensory/motor recovery, function and cortical reorganization.

The problem is that patients do not receive adequate stimulation or use on a daily basis. By adding the SaeboStim Micro to the overall Saebo program, clients are receiving added stimulation throughout the day.

Why would OT’s and PT’s prefer working with the SaeboStim Micro over similar products?

It is easy to apply and quick to set up and offers evidenced based results. In addition, Saebo has a reputation of offering very good clinical support as well as providing detailed resources on best practices.

What benefits does the SaeboStim Micro give to stroke survivors recovering at home?

A patient can order the SaeboStim Micro directly, however, they will need a script from their physician. It is is easy to apply and use, therefore patients can provide their own treatment at home using the different program settings outlined in the manual.

Because the SaeboStim Micro is user friendly, patients can use this technology outside of the clinic making it more convenient. This will assist in healing and improving areas such as spasticity, pain, function, sensation, edema, skin temperature just to name a few.

What symptoms should I look for to know I need the SaeboStim Micro? When should I get it?

Patients should get the SaeboStim Micro as soon as they notice any difficulty with the above listed problems and after they have discussed it with their doctor. Patients do not need a therapist to order or obtain the SaeboStim Micro but they will need a doctor’s script.