BROOKFIELD, CT - A community-based Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) bike is now available to the public at the Brookfield CT YMCA.
FES is a method of exercising paralyzed limbs. Using electrodes to stimulate leg muscles, the legs are able to pedal a stationary bike, thereby reversing the effects of muscle atrophy and providing a vital cardio-vascular benefit as well. (For more information on FES, visit our FES page.)
The bike was donated about 2 months ago on behalf of a local man who had sustained a spinal cord injury. Persons who wish to use the bike must first be clinically trained in the use of an FES ergometer, and the must join the YMCA for a nominal fee.
This brings the total number of community-based FES bikes available to CT residents with spinal injuries to 4; with other locations in Farmington, Storrs, and most recently, the Westbrook YMCA.
Like the Westbrook program, the Brookfield FES bike represents a true community integration, in that the FES rider is exercising in a common setting among their non-disabled peers.
For more information on the Brookfield YMCA FES program, you may contact Leticia at 203-775-4444, or the NSCIA CT Chapter office at 203-284-1045.