The effect of participating in a functional electrical stimulation exercise program on affect in people with spinal cord injuries.

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) is a technology that is increasingly being used in the acute and post rehabilitation of people with spinal cord injuries. Though there has been considerable interest in the potential psychological effects of FES, little research has been done in this area. This study examined the effect of participation in an FES exercise program on affect in 37 persons with spinal cord injury. The effect of the subjects' expectations is also examined. Results indicate significant changes in negative affective status but no significant changes in positive affect. In particular, the results show increases in depression and hostility in subjects in the treatment group who had unrealistic expectations for the FES program. It is important to identify and monitor FES participants who have unrealistic expectations.