Today I used functional electrical stimulation (FES), which uses small electrical impulses to activate the nerves and muscles in my legs. Because of my spinal cord injury, my brain isn’t currently able to voluntarily send the signals needed to move my legs, so the stimulation creates that movement for me. Watching my legs move after six years of being completely still was honestly such an emotional experience. 🥹 And this isn’t just about seeing my legs move. FES can be used as a form of exercise and rehabilitation for people with paralysis. By repeatedly activating muscles that otherwise aren’t being used, it can help with things like maintaining muscle mass and strength, improving circulation, supporting cardiovascular fitness, and helping maintain bone health. Researchers are also studying how combining electrical stimulation with repetitive movement and rehabilitation may contribute to longer-term functional improvements. So no, this video doesn’t mean I can suddenly move my leg...