TERMINOLOGIES AND PARAMETERS OF ELECTROSTIMULATION-ASSISTED CYCLING FOR POST-STROKE INDIVIDUALS: A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS.

Introduction: Electrostimulation-assisted cycling is a promising therapy in neurological rehabilitation. However, the lack of consensus on the terminology and parameters prevents its clinical use and advancement in this field. In 2020, this therapy was updated to Functional Electrical Stimulation Therapy (FEST). Bibliometric analysis can contribute to a greater understanding of its scientific production. Objective: (i) To analyze the terminology and parameters of electrostimulation-assisted cycling used for post-stroke individuals, and (ii) To describe the publication years, authors, countries, institutions, journals, references, and keywords. Methods: A bibliometric analysis in Web of Science until June 2023 was carried out. Criteria FEST include active lower limb cycling assisted by functional electrical stimulation, which the therapist can adjust. Rayann tool and Volviwer software were used. Results: 141 articles were obtained, and seven articles presented the FEST criteria. Different terminologies were used such as FES-cycling and FES-assisted active cycling. The articles differed about electrostimulation in the unaffected limb and cycling cadence. Since 2008, there has been an increase in the number of publications, especially in the USA. The most frequent keywords were "stroke", "functional electrical stimulation" and "rehabilitation". Conclusion: The use of FEST terminology can contribute to standardizing the parameters and disseminating its use throughout the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]