Noninvasive tongue stimulation combined with intensive cognitive and physical rehabilitation induces neuroplastic changes in patients with multiple sclerosis: A multimodal neuroimaging study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients have central nervous system (CNS) lesions that may impede cognitive and sensorimotor function. Few rehabilitative therapies are available.

Objectives

The objective of this paper is to study effects of noninvasive tongue stimulation using the Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS™) combined with intensive cognitive and physical rehabilitation on working memory, gait, balance and concomitant changes in the brain.

Methods

Fourteen MS patients, seven each in an active and a sham stimulation group, participated. Participants received intensive physical therapy and working memory training for 14 weeks. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) using motor imagery and working-memory tasks were completed prior to and followin

SUBMITTER: Leonard G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5466147 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jan-Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature