Assistive devices for multiple sclerosis patients
Reviewed by Assistive devices are practical tools that can help individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS) across many daily functions, supporting independence when physical, cognitive, or emotional symptoms present challenges.
These tools assist with various daily activities, from helping individuals navigate foot drop more safely to improving visual clarity. While many devices are readily available in retail stores, in healthcare facilities, or by prescription, others are the focus of clinical trials to determine their safety and effectiveness.
Advanced medical devices and mobility aids for MS
The following assistive devices can help people with MS with mobility or balance issues:
- SafeGait 360 Balance and Mobility Trainer (Gorbel Medical)
- L300 Go (Bioness) for foot drop
- Ekso wearable exoskeletons (Ekso Bionics)
- Lokomat functional robotic gait therapy (Hocoma)
- RT 300 lower extremity cycling (Restorative Therapies)
- ReWalk Personal, a motorized exoskeleton suit (Lifeward)
- Walkport (Medthera), a supported walking station
People may also find the following mobility equipment useful:
- Walking sticks
- Walking frames
- Mobility scooters
- Wheelchairs
Neurostimulation technologies
Devices that stimulate the nervous system enable individuals with MS to move with greater ease. For those managing foot drop, these systems may help prevent falls and improve muscle strength over time:
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for managing some types of pain
- Functional electrical stimulation for hand, foot, or leg weakness
- Portable neuromodulation stimulator for walking difficulties
Devices for specific bodily functions and symptoms
Targeted assistive technologies address unique MS symptoms and physiological challenges, such as:
- continuous positive airway pressure treatment for sleep apnea
- LoFric Primo (Wellspect Healthcare) for clean intermittent catheterization
- OkuStim (Okuvision) for decreased vision resulting from ocular trauma
Medication-related devices and monitoring
Standard therapies for MS include different formulations of small-molecule drugs and proteins. While some medications are taken orally, some are administered by injection.
A variety of medication autoinjectors assist with self-administering these treatments:
- RebiSmart, Rebidose, and Rebiject II Devices for Rebif medication
- BETACONNECT Device for Betaseron medication
- Avonex Single-Use Autoinjector for Avonex medication
- Autoject 2 for Copaxone medication
For patients needing help with tracking, medication event monitoring systems automatically record each dose. These devices are built into pill bottles, boxes, or pouches.
Adaptive tools for daily living
Many individuals with MS use nonmedical adaptive equipment for everyday tasks at home. Although these everyday items require less technology than advanced symptom-management systems, they can still improve quality of life.
Assistive devices that can support people with MS at home include:
- spill-proof cups that simplify holding and drinking liquids
- weighted silverware to counteract hand tremors
- hand clips that make holding cooking utensils easier
- battery-operated jar and can openers for those with reduced hand strength
- shower and bath seating
- long-handled sponges or brushes for bathing
- reach extenders and grabber tools for retrieving objects
- trackball mice for computer navigation
- detachable lap trays for wheelchair users
- typing aids and button pushers to help with using a keyboard
Choosing the right durable medical equipment
People with MS should consult their healthcare team for personalized guidance when selecting assistive tools.
If an individual in the United States requires financial assistance for adaptive equipment or home modifications, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society offers a search tool to locate local resources. Additionally, the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation provides access to various grants and assistance programs that could help people with MS get the assistance they need.
Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
