portable neuromodulation stimulator (PoNS)

Indications

• treatment of gait ataxia in patients with multiple sclerosis

Contraindications

• not for use by patients < 22 years of age
• sensivtivity to nickel, gold, or copper

Procedure

• a control unit, worn around the neck, sends signals to a mouthpiece the patient holds lightly in place with their lips & teeth

Mechanism of action

• device generates electrical pulses on the dorsal surface of the tongue to stimulate trigeminal nerve & facial nerve to treat motor deficits

More general terms

• electrical nerve stimulation