Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tdcs) Can Enhance Physical Training Outcomes in Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Objective: To determine the effect of multiple sessions of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with aerobic physical activity on balance and walking in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Background: tDCS is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that is believed to exert clinical benefits through modulation of cortical excitability and plasticity, thereby enhancing and prolonging training gains. While tDCS has been increasingly studied for the reduction of severity of MS symptoms such as cognitive impairment, fatigue, and spasticity with promising results, its potential for improving motor deficits have been understudied. We address this gap by investigating the synergistic effects of tDCS combined with physical activity. Design/Methods: MS participants (EDSS Results: A male 59 year-old-patient (secondary progressive subtype; EDSS: 5.5) completed the full 10 sessions. Compared to baseline visit, the participant showed improvement in gait speed (from 1.16 to 1.35 m/s) and stride length (from 1.12 to 1.46 m). Similarly, there was a reduction of 30% in sway area and an increase of 35% in the overall distance walked over 2 minutes. Lingering benefits were observed at 4-weeks following tDCS treatment. Full results from the study will be included at the time of presentation. Conclusions: Our preliminary results showed cumulative and long-lasting benefits of multiple sessions of tDCS combined with physical activity on motor functions. Disclosure: Dr. Pilloni has nothing to disclose. Dr. Choi has nothing to disclose. Dr. Shaw has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sherman has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Biogen Inc. Dr. Pau has nothing to disclose. Dr. Krupp has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Biogen, Everyday Health, Gerson Lehman, Novartis, RedHill Biopharma, Roche, Shire, and Sanofi-Aventis. Dr. Krupp has received royalty, license fees, or contractual rights payments from Biogen, Reata Pharma, AbbVie Pharmaceuticals, Amicus Therapeutics, SA Inventions, Finkhar Health, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Eisai, IPSOS, Octapharma, Atara Biotherapeutics, Merck, Research Tech, and ERT Inc. Dr. Krupp has received research support from Biogen and Novartis Pharmaceuticals. Dr. Charvet has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Biogen.