Helius to Showcase Innovative PoNS Device at ACRM’s 2022 Conference – Demonstrating the Power of Neuromodulation to Help People with MS Improve their Gait

Rhea-AI Summary

Helius Medical Technologies will showcase its innovative Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS®) at the ACRM Conference in Chicago from November 8-11. Visitors to booth 512 can explore how PoNS aids those with multiple sclerosis (MS) in improving gait deficiencies. The device uses electrical impulses through the tongue to stimulate neural pathways, enhancing mobility. Physical therapists can register for free online training to maximize the effectiveness of PoNS therapy. Helius is committed to supporting MS patients as 70% report mobility challenges.

Positive

• Showcasing PoNS at a major rehabilitation conference could drive awareness and interest.
• Free online training for physical therapists enhances engagement and potential adoption of PoNS Therapy.
• Focus on treating gait deficiencies in MS patients addresses a significant need, as 70% report difficulties.

Negative

• None.

Physical Therapists Who Visit Booth 512 Can Sign Up for Free Online PoNS Therapy™ Training

NEWTOWN, Pa., Nov. 03, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Helius Medical Technologies (NASDAQ: HSDT) will showcase its innovative new Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS®) at the 99^th annual American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM) Conference, held November 8-11 in Chicago. Visitors to booth 512 will see the device and learn more about how it can improve gait deficiency in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

PoNS works by delivering electrical impulses through nerve fibers on the tongue, stimulating the flow of millions of neural impulses to the brain structures that control gait. This creates a cascade of activity in the brain that – when combined with an exercise regimen supervised by a physical therapist – produces a neuromodulatory and neuroplastic effect that can have a significant impact on the independence and personal productivity of people with MS. (Results of this study can be found at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017705/)

“The ACRM is committed to helping people live their fullest lives by improving, expanding and regaining mobility, and we’re excited to exhibit at the Conference because we share the same goals,” said Antonella Favit-Van Pelt, M.D., Ph.D., Helius' Chief Medical Officer. “PoNS addresses a complication that’s very top-of-mind for people with MS: 70% of them report having difficulty walking, and of that group 70% identify gait deficit as the most challenging aspect of their disease.”

In addition to seeing the PoNS device in person, booth visitors can speak with key Helius team members, who can answer questions about PoNS and the accompanying PoNS Therapy regimen that maximizes its effectiveness. Physical therapists also will be able to sign up for free, online PoNS Therapy training.

“Rehabilitation professionals who work with people with MS, or are interested in the relationship between neuromodulation and gait, are invited to visit us at booth 512,” said Favit-Van Pelt. “But this is more than just a chance to see the device and talk, it’s an opportunity to take action: By signing up for training physical therapists are making themselves even more invaluable to their patients with MS.”

About Helius Medical Technologies, Inc.
Helius Medical Technologies is a leading neurotech company in the medical device field focused on neurologic deficits using non-implantable platform technologies that amplify the brain’s ability to compensate and promote neuroplasticity, improving the lives of people dealing with neurologic diseases. The Company’s first commercial product is the Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS®). For more information, visit www.heliusmedical.com.

About the PoNS Device and PoNS Therapy
The Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS) is an innovative non-surgical medical device, inclusive of a controller and mouthpiece, which delivers electrical stimulation to the surface of the tongue to improve balance and gait. The PoNS device is indicated for use in the United States as a short-term treatment of gait deficit due to mild-to-moderate symptoms from multiple sclerosis (“MS”) and is to be used as an adjunct to a supervised therapeutic exercise program in patients 22 years of age and over by prescription only. Helius is advancing PoNS post-approval research in MS through a recently launched Therapeutic Experience Program (TEP) designed to partner with neurologists and neurorehabilitation therapists at 10-12 US centers of excellence, who express an interest in becoming “early adopters” of PoNS therapy. For more information visit www.ponstherapy.com.

FAQ

What is the Portable Neuromodulation Stimulator (PoNS)?

The PoNS is a non-surgical medical device designed to improve gait and balance in patients with multiple sclerosis by delivering electrical stimulation to the tongue.

Where can I see the PoNS device?

You can see the PoNS device at booth 512 during the ACRM Conference in Chicago from November 8-11.

What is the significance of the ACRM Conference for HSDT?

The ACRM Conference provides HSDT with an opportunity to showcase PoNS and engage with rehabilitation professionals interested in improving patient outcomes.

How does PoNS therapy work for MS patients?

PoNS therapy works by stimulating neural pathways to improve gait when combined with a supervised exercise regimen.

What percentage of MS patients experience gait difficulties?

Around 70% of individuals with multiple sclerosis report having difficulty walking, with gait deficits being a significant challenge.