For general inquiries, call 1 877-564-0008 or [email protected]. Fax PoNS device prescriptions to 1 (215) 754-4903.

Get to know PoNS® – for individuals with gait deficit

Gait Deficit: Neuropathology

In many neurologic disorders affecting movement, axonal and neuritic degeneration can alter cortico-cerebellar circuits disrupting connections between cerebellum, thalamus, striatum, prefrontal, and motor cortical areas. This process leads to disruption of the signal going from the affected areas to the spinal cord (corticospinal tract) compromising movement and coordination’s functions mediated by the cerebral cortex, the brainstem, or the cerebellum.

PoNS Therapy&reg Drives Neuroplasticity

Translingual-induced neurostimulation employs neural mechanisms that may compensate for abnormal activity of corticospinal pathways involved in regulating movement and coordination.

The tongue, which has a large cortical representation, is innervated in its front two-thirds by branches of the trigeminal and facial nerves with direct connections to the brainstem. Clinical evidence suggests that PoNS Therapy® (PoNS device plus physical therapy) can exert neuromodulation effects by the translingual stimulation of the lingual nerve (trigeminal nerve branch) and chorda tympani (facial nerve branch).

These cranial nerves have direct connections with specific areas of the brainstem (in the pons variolii and the medulla). Translingual stimulation promotes activation of mechanisms involved in neuromodulation of signaling pathways from these brainstem areas to target regions in the cerebral cortex including the left motor cortex, the bilateral anterior cingulate and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex areas that may contribute to regulate functional and cognitive mechanisms of movement and balance control.

Sustained PoNS-induced neuromodulation of these cortical areas is believed to promote adaptive changes leading to the development of new neurite/axonal networks to replace/repair impaired corticospinal tract pathways that deliver the signal to the spinal cord.

Consistent application of PoNS Therapy, over 14 weeks, is likely to consolidate these neuroplasticity mechanisms, which may compensate for the loss/decrease of function and be ultimately responsible for the therapeutic effects over the treatment period.

Why the Tongue

The tongue contains a high density of nerve endings, requiring less current than the skin to elicit a sensory response.

The mouth maintains a constant pH and temperature in a protected environment and, because saliva is an excellent electrolyte, the electrical impulse travels easily through the nerve fibers. The electrode array does not need to be implanted to conduct the impulses.

These properties make the tongue an ideal site for PoNS neurostimulation, and the electrical impulses feel like champagne bubbles or carbonation on the tongue.

Nerve
The tongue contains a high density of nerve endings
EKG
Requires less current than skin
Drops
Constant PH
Thermometer
Constant temperature
Brain
Non-implantable

REFERENCES:
Danilov Y, Kaczmarek K, Skinner K, Tyler M. Cranial nerve noninvasive neuromodulation: new approach to neurorehabilitation. In: Kobeissy FH, ed. Brain Neurotrauma: Molecular, Neuropsychological, and Rehabilitation Aspects. CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2015
Saunders JC. The role of central nervous system plasticity in tinnitus. J Commun Disord. 2007;40(4):313–334.
Leonard G, Lapierre Y, Chen J-K, Wardini R, Crane J, Ptito A. Noninvasive tongue stimulation combined with intensive cognitive and physical rehabilitation induces neuroplastic changes in patients with multiple sclerosis: a multimodal neuroimaging study. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin. 2017;3(1):2055217317690561.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

No serious adverse events related to the PoNS device were reported in the MS RCTs or in use in clinical rehabilitation settings to treat balance and gait disorders.

Some individuals have reported headaches, fatigue, and excess salivation. Excess salivation during training sessions often occurs but generally improves as patients get used to wearing the mouthpiece.

Indication
The PoNS® device is indicated for use as a short term treatment of gait deficit due to mild to moderate symptoms from multiple sclerosis and is to be used as an adjunct to a supervised therapeutic exercise program for adults 22 years of age and over by prescription only.

Contraindications
The PoNS® device delivers electrical stimulation directly to the surface of the tongue. Precautions for use are similar to those for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).

Electrical stimulation should not be used:

  • If there is an active or suspected malignant tumor
  • In areas of recent bleeding or open wounds
  • In areas that lack normal sensation

The PoNS® has not been tested on, and thus should not be used by individuals who are pregnant. Do not use the PoNS® if you are sensitive to nickel, gold or copper.

Use with caution
Electrical stimulation should only be used after seeking professional medical advice, and with caution in patients with any of the following:

  • Implanted electronic devices, including:
    • Cardiac pacemakers
    • Cardioverter defibrillators
    • Deep Brain Stimulators
    • Vagal Nerve Stimulators
    • Sacral nerve stimulators
    • Cochlear Implants
  • Metal in the mouth (e.g. piercings, braces, retainers, or other orthodontic appliance)
  • Seizure disorders
  • Epilepsy

Ready to get started with PoNS?

Patients who are seeking more information on how to get PoNS can email us at [email protected], or fill out our contact form: