Neurotechnology

Fesia Walk

Electrical Stimulation, Functional Electrical Stimulation
Bristol

FES devices support gait recovery by providing timed muscle stimulation that improves foot clearance and promotes more natural walking patterns.

What is it?

Fesia Walk, developed by Fesia Technology, is a wearable neurotechnology system designed to assist individuals with foot drop by stimulating the muscles responsible for ankle movement. Using a cuff-based electrode array and a Bluetooth-enabled foot sensor, the device delivers electrical stimulation at specific points in the gait cycle to support dorsiflexion during swing and calf activation during push-off. It is suitable for individuals with neurological conditions affecting the central nervous system, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, and brain injury. The system is designed to be adaptable and can be trialled in clinical settings or at home prior to purchase, allowing users and clinicians to assess suitability within real-world environments.

Who is most suitable for FES-based gait support, and what factors determine suitability?

FES-based gait support is typically suitable for individuals who have foot drop due to neurological conditions but retain some degree of intact peripheral nerve function that allows muscles to respond to electrical stimulation. Suitability is determined by factors such as the ability to initiate or participate in walking, skin integrity, muscle response to stimulation, cognitive ability to use the device safely, and overall rehabilitation goals. Clinical assessment is important to determine whether the device can effectively elicit the desired muscle contractions and integrate into the individual’s walking pattern. Trial use in clinic or at home helps evaluate comfort, usability, and functional benefit before longer-term adoption.

Fesia Walk for Foot Drop in Neurological Conditions

Fesia Walk is designed for individuals experiencing foot drop and reduced ankle control due to neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, or brain injury. It supports improvements in walking function by assisting foot clearance and ankle movement during gait. Real-life goals that may be targeted include:

Reducing tripping and improving safety during walking
Increasing walking confidence in community and home environments
Improving walking efficiency and symmetry
Supporting longer distances and reduced fatigue during ambulation
Enhancing independence in daily mobility tasks
The device is typically used as part of a broader rehabilitation programme that includes physiotherapy and gait training.

How Fesia Walk Is Used in Clinical and Home-Based Settings

Fesia Walk can be used in both clinical and home environments, allowing flexibility in rehabilitation. In clinic, clinicians assess gait pattern, muscle response, and device settings to ensure appropriate stimulation is delivered. At home, the device can be used during daily walking activities to reinforce functional movement patterns. The system includes a cuff with an electrode array placed on the lower leg and a foot-worn motion sensor that triggers stimulation based on gait events. This enables coordinated activation of ankle muscles during walking, supporting more natural movement. Trial options at Hobbs allow individuals to experience the device under supervision before deciding on longer-term use.

Using Fesia Walk at Hobbs Rehabilitation

At Hobbs Rehabilitation, Fesia Walk is offered as part of a personalised rehabilitation pathway. Clinicians guide users through assessment, setup, and training, ensuring the device is configured to meet individual needs and goals. Trial sessions are available both in the clinic and at home, allowing users to evaluate performance in different environments. The device is typically integrated alongside conventional physiotherapy and gait training interventions, with ongoing review to monitor progress and adjust settings. This approach supports functional improvements in walking ability to increase independence and confidence in mobility.

Let's Get Started

We accept self-referrals and referrals from Consultants, General Practitioners, other Health Care Professionals and Case Managers, with this service available at the following Hobbs Rehabilitation centres:

Alternatively, call us on 01962 779796 to talk with our team or fill out our enquiry form on our contact page.

Please note: While the locations listed show where each device is normally available, some smaller pieces of equipment are occasionally shared between centres. Larger devices remain at their designated locations. For specific requests, please contact us, and we will advise on availability or alternatives.