BACKGROUND: Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are life-changing, with over 50% affecting upper limb function. Loss of upper limb function can significantly affect independence and quality of life, and restoration is a high priority for many. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) can be applied to intact lower motor neurons in cases of upper motor neuron damage from the SCI, with varying research regarding its effectiveness for improving upper limb function following SCI. OBJECTIVE: This literature review aims to answer the question: Is FES effective for improving upper limb function following SCI? METHOD: A systematic literature search of Academic Search Ultimate, CINAHL Ultimate, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus with full text was conducted between October 2014 and January 2024 to identify relevant studies. Key characteristics of the selected studies were extracted, and methodological quality was assessed using the modified Downs and Black critical appraisal tool. RESULTS: The search strategy identified 134 articles with seven satisfying the inclusion criteria following screening. All studies involved FES intervention, with varying session frequency and duration but insufficient evidence to determine the most beneficial combination. Six studies found statistically significant and/or clinically meaningful impacts on outcomes following FES, with some studies combining FES and another intervention, finding further benefits. In contrast, one study found FES to be as effective as conventional therapy, implying a suitable alternative. CONCLUSION: Overall, moderate evidence supports using FES for SCI upper limb function improvements but conflicting evidence remains. Future research into combination FES therapy and classification differences would be beneficial as would outcome measure standardization.

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