For CP e-stim, which pair of muscles were reported to improve?

• A. Gastroc and Tibialis Anterior
• B. Quadriceps and Hamstrings
• C. Tibialis Posterior and Soleus
• D. Vastus Lateralis and Medialis

Answer: (A)

Targeting ankle muscles with electrical stimulation can improve gait in cerebral palsy by coordinating dorsiflexion and plantarflexion during the walking cycle. In CP, foot drop during swing and excessive plantarflexion during stance disrupt smoother steps. Stimulating the tibialis anterior helps lift the foot at mid to late swing, reducing toe drag, while stimulating the gastrocnemius enhances push-off by providing controlled plantarflexion at toe-off. When these two muscles are activated in a timed pattern, they work together to improve foot clearance and propulsion, leading to better overall gait. The other muscle pairs are less directly involved in this key ankle coordination during walking, which is why the combination of gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior is the best fit for reported improvements with CP e-stim.