The Bioness System
Imagine technology so advanced that stroke and other neurological patients can potentially regain the ability to perform independent tasks and improve mobility. This sophisticated technology is now available for the first time in Western New York through the medical rehabilitation program at Buffalo General Medical Center (BGMC).
BGMC physical therapists are trained in the FES device NESS H200 for inpatients. Patients who have experienced the frustration of being unable to move effortlessly, or perform tasks like tying shoes, brushing teeth or feeding themselves, quickly see the value of this therapy.
Combined with a comprehensive rehabilitation program, our team uses these devices to help patients retrain muscles, regain control of their bodies and achieve greater mobility and independence than was possible just a few years ago.
What is Bioness FES Therapy?
Bioness Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) therapy uses advanced wearable technology to help patients recovering from stroke, brain injury or incomplete spinal cord injury regain hand, forearm and arm function. By stimulating muscles with targeted electrical pulses, it retrains the brain and muscles to restore movement, improve coordination and prevent muscle loss.
The NESS H200 fits on your forearm and hand, while the NESS L300 supports your lower leg and foot. Small electrodes send pulses to stimulate muscles, and your therapist guides exercises built on neuromuscular re-education, where repetition helps healthy brain regions take over lost function.
Who We Serve
Bioness FES therapy may help:
People recovering from stroke
Patients with brain injuries
Individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries
Patients seeking to regain independence in daily activities such as eating, grooming and dressing
NESS H200®
The Care We Provide
This device supports lower-leg and foot function to improve walking, balance and mobility for patients with neurological conditions. It is often used alongside physical therapy to retrain muscles and enhance independence.
What Are the Benefits of Bioness H200®?
With gentle electrical stimulation, therapy can help you:
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Open and close your hand, reach and grasp objects
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Improve walking and leg movement
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Increase blood circulation
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Reduce Muscle Tension
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Prevent Muscle Atrophy
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Gain independence and improve daily function
Even after weakness or paralysis from injury or illness, Bioness FES therapy can help restore function and make daily tasks easier.
How Does NESS H200® Work?
After a stroke, brain injury or spinal cord injury, you may lose partial or full hand, arm or leg function. NESS devices help you perform tasks that were once difficult.
The NESS H200® fits on your forearm and hand, while NESS L300™ supports your lower leg and foot. Small electrodes send pulses to stimulate muscles. Your therapist guides exercises to:
- Retrain muscles and restore function
- Improve blood flow and reduce spasticity
- Prevent muscle loss
Therapy is based on neuromuscular re-education. Repetition helps healthy brain regions take over lost function.
Important: Not everyone is a candidate. Conditions that may limit use include:
- Pacemakers, ICDs, insulin pumps or baclofen pumps
- Tumors in the treatment area
- Fractures or dislocations
- High-frequency surgical equipment nearby
- Pregnancy
- Broken, blistered, infected or irritated skin
What to Expect from Your Care
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Our rehabilitation team assesses your needs, reviews your history and determines whether FES therapy is appropriate.
A Personalized Care Plan
Therapists create exercises tailored to your abilities, goals and recovery progress.
Therapy and Recovery
FES therapy is combined with physical and occupational therapy to maximize movement, coordination and independence.
Important: Eligibility is carefully assessed. Some medical conditions may prevent use.
Why Choose Kaleida Health?
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Experienced specialists working together as one care team
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State-of-the-art FES technology and advanced rehabilitation program
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Coordinated care across Kaleida Health hospitals
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Focus on safety, comfort and long-term outcomes
Where You Can Receive Care
Buffalo General Medical Center
100 High Street, Buffalo, NY
Phone: (716) 859-2562
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have lost hand or arm function after a stroke or injury, or experience difficulty performing daily tasks, a specialist can evaluate your options.
Not necessarily. Many patients improve with therapy alone, including FES, before surgery is considered.
Take the next step toward independence
Our rehabilitation team is here to help you retrain muscles, restore movement and regain confidence in daily life. To learn whether Bioness FES therapy is right for you, reach the team at Buffalo General Medical Center at (716) 859-2562.