Translingual neural stimulation to improve gait and balance in multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial

Translingual neurostimulation (TLNS) is a promising neuromodulation technique. This Phase II randomized sham-controlled trial aimed to determine the efficacy of adding TLNS to 14 weeks of gait and balance physical therapy (PT+TLNS) among people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

No actionable change for audiologists; TLNS for MS gait/balance is outside standard audiology scope, though vestibular audiologists should monitor this neuromodulation literature as it overlaps with balance rehabilitation.

Translingual neurostimulation sits at the intersection of neuromodulation and vestibular rehabilitation, and RCT-level evidence for balance outcomes could eventually inform how audiologists integrate such devices into vestibular care pathways.

1. 01Phase II RCT with sham control evaluated translingual neurostimulation (TLNS) in MS patients.
2. 02Primary focus was improving gait and balance, outcomes directly relevant to vestibular rehabilitation.
3. 03TLNS delivers non-invasive electrical pulses via a tongue device, stimulating brainstem balance pathways.
4. 04Sham-controlled design strengthens the reliability of any observed effect.
5. 05Findings could have downstream implications for neuromodulation use in vestibular disorders.

PMID

42150723

DOI

10.1016/j.apmr.2026.03.025.

Journal

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Publication type

research_article

Evidence level

1b

Population

Patients with multiple sclerosis experiencing gait and balance impairment

Intervention

Translingual neurostimulation (TLNS) via tongue device

Comparator

Sham stimulation