The effect of spinal cord stimulation on function in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Eleven patients with static or slowly progressive multiple sclerosis were treated with continuous spinal cord stimulation via epidural electrodes for a minimum of two weeks. An extensive battery of objective tests was used to assess results. Significant improvement in urinary bladder function was seen in 2 of the patients with a lesser degree of improvement in 4 others and reduction of lower limb spasticity in 6 patients. Five additional patients selected for these disabilities were then treated with further evidence of improvement in bladder function in 4 and in lower limb spasticity in 2. It is suggested that benefit results from inhibition of excessive spinal reflex activity.