For FES aimed at improving hemiplegic hand function, what outcome has been reported?

• A. Decreased range of motion only
• B. No functional change
• C. Kinesthetic data worsened
• D. Kinematic data improved

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that using functional electrical stimulation to aid the hemiplegic hand tends to improve the quality of movement, not just how far the hand can move. When the stimulation is timed to assist grasp and release, the hand’s movements become more coordinated, smoother, and more consistent during tasks. These changes show up in kinematic data, which are measurements of motion—joint angles, finger and wrist trajectories, speed, and movement smoothness. So you’d see improved trajectory accuracy and more natural movement patterns on motion analysis after FES practice.

The other options don’t fit as well because decreased range of motion focuses on quantity of movement, not quality; no functional change would contradict the observed improvements in movement patterns; and worsened kinesthetic data would not align with better-controlled, more coordinated actions that FES aims to produce.