The Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS®) is an orally applied therapy that improves walking in people with multiple sclerosis. It’s delivered by neurostimulation and is used in conjunction with physical rehabilitation exercise.

PoNS is an oral therapy used primarily at home through a mouthpiece connected to a portable controller that delivers mild electrical impulses to branches of the trigeminal and facial nerve in the tongue while performing a set of gait and balance rehabilitation exercises. During PoNS utilization, the mouthpiece is placed on the front of the tongue and the controller is activated, generally twice a day, for 40 minutes during the gait (20 min) and balance (20 min) exercise sessions and, subsequently, once a day for 20 minutes during a breathing and awareness (mindfulness) session, for a period of 14 weeks of therapy.

PoNS Therapy™ promotes neuromodulation of specific areas in the brainstem and cerebral cortex. When used regularly and consistently over the 14-week treatment period, PoNS triggers neuroplasticity leading to significant improvement in gait function. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGiwB-yZw_4].

PoNS Therapy is a 14-week intensive physiotherapy program that combines in-clinic and at-home use of the PoNS device. The program is guided by a PoNS Trainer, focusing on balance, gait and breathing and relaxation exercises. The frequency of the visits over the course of the 14-weeks is to be determined by your therapist. Be sure to obtain a script for physical therapy.

• For patients who want their therapists to get trained. If you are currently working with a rehabilitation therapist who is not yet trained on PoNS Therapy, please complete this form, click SUBMIT, and a Helius representative will reach out to them. Please be sure to speak to your therapist about PoNS prior to completing the form to ensure they are willing and able to complete the training.

• For patients who want help finding a trained therapist. You may purchase the PoNS device but will not be able to begin the therapy until a trained therapist is identified or your therapist is trained. If you need assistance identifying a rehabilitation therapist, please complete this form, click SUBMIT, and a Helius representative will reach out to you.

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