Functional Electrical Stimulation is the clinical application of a small electric current to the intact nerves of the body, in order to trigger a muscle contraction. This contraction is then incorporated into a functional activity, for example walking. A clear distinction needs to be made between Therapeutic Stimulation and Functional Stimulation. The former being of an exercise orientation, where one would relax whilst the stimulation works on its own. Functional Electrical Stimulation on the other hand, incorporates this elicited muscle movement into an everyday activity, like standing, walking, reaching out etc.

Much work has been done in the field of FES world wide, but one of the largest clinical applications of FES is found in Salisbury District Hospital, Department of Medical Physics, England. They have up to now seen more than 1100 patients, trained more than 300 clinicians, and employ an active Research and Development programme. Their clinical service began in 1994, and they currently employ Clinical Engineers, Physiotherapists, Occupational therapists and technicians to this end.