Non-Invasive Spinal Electrical Stimulation (NISE-Stim)

At Get Ahead Physiotherapy, NISE-Stim® is used as an adjunct to active physiotherapy rather than as a replacement for functional rehabilitation. Treatment is incorporated into a child-centred programme and may be combined with strengthening, balance, gait training, postural work, developmental activities and functional practice.

We work closely with parents, carers and the wider multidisciplinary team to ensure that treatment is appropriate, goal-directed and integrated into the child’s overall management. The use of electrical stimulation in paediatric neurodisability should be undertaken by appropriately trained clinicians with careful consideration of indications, precautions and contraindications.

NISE-Stim® is a non-invasive electrical stimulation approach developed for children with neurological and orthopaedic conditions. It may be used to support neuromuscular activation, sensory feedback, motor control and functional movement, with treatment tailored to the individual child’s presentation and goals. It has been found to be effective in paediatric populations, with benefits for children from 3 months to 18 years.

The stimulation works to encourage muscle activation or relaxation by placing electrodes over the spinal cord and other parts of the body. Two of our physiotherapists are qualified NISE-Stim® practitioners, enabling us to provide this specialist intervention alongside conventional physiotherapy.

The therapist will carry out a detailed assessment to determine the best placement of the electrodes and device settings. A home programme will then be devised to allow continuation of the therapy on a daily basis.