Studies
| Study Title: | Translingual Stimulation (PoNS) combined with physiotherapy to improve walking and balance in MS |
| Rationale: | This study is being done because over 75% of people living with MS experience walking and balance problems. Fortunately recent research suggests that intense physiotherapy can help improve walking and balance function for people with MS, but it is not yet known if there are added benefits from pairing physiotherapy with electrical stimulation delivered through the tongue. |
| Study Description: | This study is investigating whether physiotherapy paired with tongue delivered electrical stimulation using a ‘PoNS’ (portable neuromodulation stimulator) device enhances improvements in walking and balance for people with MS. This study primarily involves participating in an individualized 14-week physiotherapy program while wearing a ‘PoNS’ device.
After the initial 14-weeks there will be a 'wash out' period (no intervention) followed by a 14-week 'cross over' period. Participants will also be asked to complete walking and balance tests, short questionnaires, and neurophysiological measures as part of the research assessments (over a 40 week period total). Results of this study will help advance our understanding of neuromodulation, neuroplasticity, and walking and balance training. Results will be used to help advocate for appropriate interventions for improve walking and balance in MS. |
| Recruitment Dates: | 2021-08-01 to 2022-01-31 |
| Who can participate: | Individuals with walking impairments from their MS |
| Location of Trial: | University of Saskatchewan |
| Trial Investigator | Sarah Donkers |
| Contact Information: | Saskatchewan Study Coordinator pons.ms@usask.ca (306)222-6134 Newfoundland Study Coordinator grmelam@mun.ca |
| Trial Funding: | Industry Funded Investigator Initiated Trial (IIT) |