What is NISE-Stim?
NISE-Stim is a safe, non-surgical therapy developed in 2017 by Gerti Motavalli, PT, MPT, and Dr. Gad Alon, PhD, PT. Using small surface electrodes (stickers placed on the skin), gentle electrical currents are delivered to the spinal cord and surrounding muscles. This stimulation helps strengthen the connection between the brain, spinal cord, and body—supporting better movement, coordination, and overall function.
How Can It Help My Child?
Parents have reported meaningful improvements in their child’s:
- Strength and mobility – standing, walking, sitting balance, and motor control
- Core stability and coordination – for daily activities like play and self-care
- Sensory awareness – increased body awareness and response to touch/movement
- Everyday body functions – including breathing, digestion, circulation, and bowel/bladder control
Because NISE-Stim works with the body’s natural ability to rewire and adapt (called neuroplasticity), children often show progress within weeks to months.
Who Can Benefit?
NISE-Stim has been successfully used with children as young as 3 months old up to teenagers (around 18 years). It may help children with conditions such as:
- Cerebral palsy
- Spina bifida
- Spinal cord injuries
- Hypotonia (low muscle tone)
- Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
- Brachial plexus injuries
Safety First
NISE-Stim is considered safe and non-invasive. However, it’s not recommended for children who have pacemakers, other implanted electronic devices, active cancer, or for mothers during pregnancy.
How Is It Done?
Therapy is usually provided by trained professionals and may later be continued at home with caregiver guidance. Sessions often begin around 20 minutes per day, gradually building up to 1–3 sessions of about 30 minutes. Families appreciate that it can be blended into daily life—for example, while sitting, playing, or practicing specific movements like standing or walking.
Real Results for Families
Since 2017, more than 450 children have received NISE-Stim therapy. Reported benefits include:
- Greater strength and endurance
- Improved trunk and head control
- Better coordination for walking or standing
- Easier bowel and bladder regulation
- Healthier circulation and breathing
One published case study even showed a baby with spina bifida making new motor and sensory gains after NISE-Stim therapy.
Why Parents Choose NISE-Stim
Families are drawn to this therapy because it is:
- Non-invasive (no surgery required)
- Safe and well-tolerated
- Practical for home use, giving parents a direct role in therapy
- Supportive of mobility and independence in everyday life