Repetition, Precision, and Motivation: Supporting Multiple Sclerosis Recovery with v-health Mobile
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, disrupting the flow of information between the body and the brain. Among its many forms, Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) is particularly challenging, marked by a steady decline in function. Symptoms often include fatigue, motor loss, muscle weakness, and reduced mobility. PPMS is a long-term neurological condition. Small improvements can make a big difference in recovery. In this case study, we explore how the v-health Mobile can help address some of these challenges.
Multiple Sclerosis in the UK:
Over 130,000 people are living with MS in the UK [1]
Around 7,000 people are newly diagnosed each year [1]
MS is typically diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 [2]
What Causes Multiple Sclerosis?
osmosis.org/Multiple Sclerosis Edition
osmosis.org/Multiple Sclerosis Edition
The exact cause of MS is still unknown, but it’s widely believed to be the result of a complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. MS is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective layer around nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord, disrupting the flow of signals. Early diagnosis and personalised treatment can significantly improve quality of life.
Understanding the Condition: Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
The patient, a 65-year-old man and former semi-professional ballroom dancer, was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) several years ago. As is typical with PPMS, the decline in function was gradual. Over time, the condition affected his mobility and independence, eventually requiring full-time use of a wheelchair and consistent support from carers. He now faces severe challenges in daily life, from using a telephone to controlling his environment. One of his core functional goals was to regain some control of his upper limbs, especially to use the control button for his door and phone, a critical factor for independence.
The Challenge
The patient struggled with consistent arm and hand movements. His right arm lacked the strength to operate his wheelchair or even press a button to open doors. Basic interactions with his environment were difficult or impossible without support. Working with a conventional 4-channel FES device that required manual setup, had limited trigger control, and was often difficult to integrate into functional, everyday movements.
And traditional FES devices had their downsides:
Wires and clothing made certain areas hard to reach.
Limited control over timing.
Not always practical for independent use.
Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis
There is currently no cure for MS. However, there are treatments that can slow its progression and help ease symptoms. The type of treatment will depend on the symptoms, and different treatments will be needed over time.
Enhancing Repetition, Precision, and Motivation with v-health Mobile:
eir bands are our wireless, modular FES device, fully controlled via a mobile application.
The goal was to increase usability, precision, and patient motivation during therapy. Unlike traditional FES devices, v-health Mobile is designed with real-time motion integration and a modular, wireless, wearable eir bands, making a noticeable difference:
Real-time trigger timing enabled more accurate stimulation, better synchronised with voluntary movement attempts, enhancing motor learning during task-specific practice.
Flexible placement made it easier to target different muscle groups without disrupting the session. It’s a key factor in long-term, multi-joint rehabilitation. The wireless bands could be worn under clothes.
Greater independence through mobile control allowed for quick setup and easier management, without constant help.
Increased repetitions led to more engagement and more effective task-specific training. The intuitive design encouraged longer sessions and greater consistency.
And perhaps most notably from the patient’s perspective: it was simply more enjoyable to use, and that matters. In chronic conditions like MS, patient engagement and motivation are as important as clinical accuracy.
These improvements resulted in more task repetitions, consistent session quality, and patient involvement. All of these factors are essential for promoting neuroplastic changes over time. In a condition characterised by ongoing progression and frequent setbacks, the combination of an engaging user experience and therapeutic function makes a significant impact.
It’s important to remember that FES is not a cure but a valuable tool in long-term MS recovery. In this case, it hasn’t reduced the overall need for assistance, but it has:
Helped maintain and recover muscle activity
Supported psychological well-being by offering autonomy and progress
Kept the patient motivated despite setbacks
MS is a complex neurological condition that requires long-term rehabilitation with a lot of repetition. v-health Mobile provides patients and clinicians with more accessible, engaging, and meaningful therapy, even at home.
References:
[1] https://www.mssociety.org.uk/about-ms/what-is-ms
[2] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/multiple-sclerosis