Task-specific electrical stimulation (TASES) is an evidence-based FES used on children and adults with cerebral palsy and other movement disorders. TASES is an active intervention and requires participation. Task Specific Electrical Stimulation (TASES) activates muscles and provides sensory input and awareness to the user. This increased muscle awareness and muscle contraction ability improves movement patterns and function. TASES improves joint range of motion and also decreases spasticity. During treatment, motor learning occurs with the repetition of movement in proper alignment and participation in age-appropriate motivating tasks. TASES requires a skilled and trained therapist to administer it properly. The tricky part is deciding which muscles are needed. We provide classes to teach how electrical stimulation, when given to the appropriate muscles, can improve alignment and muscle function and also facilitate skill development ES has many names, neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), functional electrical stimulation (FES), and task-specific electrical stimulation (TASES). All these methods want to improve muscle function, range of motion, and muscle strength. The repetition and specificity of TASES performed during motivating tasks in conjunction with the sensory input, combined with your traditional therapy expertise, will allow you to improve your outcomes. This approach supports the need for muscles to be strengthened, not weakened, and for sensory input to be optimized for the child to enhance active independent movement and activation with proper timing.
Dr. Mirav Newman, PT, DPT
Mirav Newman PT, DPT is a Pediatric Physical Therapist with 25 years of experience. She practices in Brooklyn, NY and is the founder and owner of Dynamic Solutions Pediatric Physical & Occupational Therapy. Mirav has joined with Judy Carmick, in the effort to teach and spread the word about the many ways to help children with disabilities benefit from functional electrical stimulation. She is using TASES in her practice and is offering virtual courses and in person courses focusing on the use of TASES/functional electrical stimulation in pediatric physical therapy practice.
Judy Carmick
Judy Carmick, M.A., PT is a Pediatric Physical Therapist with over 40 years of experience in pediatrics. She is world-renowned for her work with electrical stimulation and has written numerous publications and received awards for her innovative and evidence-based approach.
Her interests are in helping children achieve motor learning, motor control, muscle strength, and range of motion by using Task-Specific Electrical Stimulation (TASES) together with movement science and motor learning ideas.
Judy has taught classes and workshops in use of TASES in pediatrics for years. She is currently available for consultations with therapists and their clients and is teaching classes virtually.