Brain stimulation may enhance physical therapy for people living with MS

A recent study suggests that combining non-invasive brain stimulation with physical therapy may help people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) improve their walking and balance.

While both approaches were found to be beneficial, the effects were more likely to last six months in participants who also received brain stimulation.

Researchers in Australia ran a small clinical trial with 40 adults who participated in a six-week physical therapy programme designed to improve mobility and stability. Before each session, half the participants underwent 20 minutes of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) targeting the motor cortex – the part of the brain responsible for controlling limb movement. The other half received a sham treatment that mimicked the procedure without delivering stimulation.

Of the 36 people who completed the study, most were evaluated both a week after finishing the programme and again six months later.

Participants in both groups showed notable improvements in walking and balance tests after the programme, demonstrating the value of physical therapy for people living with MS. However, those who received tDCS experienced longer-lasting results, with many still reporting improvements six months later. They also reported better physical and mental well-being compared to the group that received the sham treatment.

These findings suggest that pairing brain stimulation with physical therapy could provide longer-term benefits for individuals with MS, improving both mobility and quality of life.