Electrical Stimulation to Strengthen Muscles in the Lower Legs in Patients Requiring Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation

Electrical Stimulation to Strengthen the Quadriceps Muscles in Patients Requiring Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation

The primary aim of this proposal is to test the effectiveness of NMES in improving functional status and muscle function in patients requirng prolonged mechanical ventilation

Inclusion Criteria:

• duration of mechanical ventilation for 14 days or more
• sufficiently awake
• able to speak and comprehend English

Exclusion Criteria:

• known primary neuromuscular disease
• lower extremities paresis or amputee
• patients with left-ventricular assist device (LVAD)
• cardiopulmonary instability