Cranial nerve non-invasive neuromodulation improves gait and balance in stroke survivors: A pilot randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Introduction/Background: Cranial nerve non-invasive neuromodulation (CN-NINM) has been shown to enhance physiotherapy interventions for balance and mobility in patients with neurological impairments. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of CN-NINM in improving gait and balance in a pilot randomised controlled trial in stroke survivors undergoing inpatient rehabilitation. Material and method: A convenience sample of 10 stroke survivors were randomised to two groups, one receiving CN-NINM using a Portable Neuromodulation Stimulation (PoNS™) device (n = 5, mean age 72 ± 5 y) and the other not receiving stimulation (controls n = 5, mean age 74 ± 6y). For the two-week trial..