The now-available PoNS device may improve gait issues in MS.

As recently reported, multiple sclerosis patients in the U.S. (age 22+) can with a prescription now obtain the portable neuromodulation stimulator (PoNS) device, which could improve walking ability in individuals with mild to moderate disease activity.1

We wrote about the PoNS device last year when it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration, but until last month it was not as yet available commercially in this country, although it has been in use in Canada and Australia.
 
Developers Helius Technologies found that with short term therapy the device can enhance mobility, decrease the degree of disability, and additionally provide quality of life improvements through its neuromodulation and neuroplasticity mode of operation. Noninvasive and portable, the PoNS device has been tested in several clinical trials with no identified side effects to date. 
 
The opportunity to use neuromodulation to potentially encourage the creation of new neural connections is a significant boon to patient treatment options that could offer more hope in the fight against MS.

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Please read our previous article that fully details how the PoNS device works and learn more about its mechanisms: https://www.suzannegazdamd.com/blog---ms-in-the-news/scientific-advances-are-helping-to-heal-the-brain
 
And to find out more about neuroplasticity and how it affects brain health, see:
https://www.suzannegazdamd.com/blog/novelty-as-a-neuroplasticity-tool
 
If you have specific questions regarding whether this innovation may be appropriate for your condition, please talk to your healthcare provider and, of course, don’t hesitate to reach out to our offices if you’d like to schedule a visit. We are here to help!
 
In hope and healing,
Dr. Suzanne Gazda 

References:
 
1 Shapiro, L., PhD. PoNS Device for MS-associated Gait Problems Now Available in US. MS News Today. (April 29, 2022). https://multiplesclerosisnewstoday.com/news-posts/2022/04/29/pons-brain-stimulating-device-multiple-sclerosis-gait-problems-now-available-us/