Translingual Neurostimulation: A Breakthrough in Neurological Rehab for Veterans

The field of neurological rehabilitation is evolving—and translingual neurostimulation is at the center of the next wave of innovation.

This non-invasive technique uses mild electrical stimulation to the tongue to activate brain pathways that support balance, gait, and motor coordination. When paired with physical therapy, it may enhance neuroplasticity, helping patients regain function faster.

While still emerging in clinical use, this method is gaining attention across rehab settings, including within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

What Is Translingual Stimulation?

Translingual stimulation targets the tongue, which is rich in cranial nerve connections to the brainstem. These connections make it an effective entry point for neuromodulation.

• It’s non-surgical and low risk

• Functional MRI studies show measurable changes in brain activity

• Gains appear more significant when stimulation is paired with physical or occupational therapy

In clinical studies, adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) have shown meaningful improvements in balance, walking ability, and functional mobility when translingual stimulation is used in a structured rehab program.

Why This Matters for the VA

The VA treats thousands of veterans with neurological deficits each year—MS, stroke, TBI, Parkinson’s, and more. These patients often receive excellent care, but many hit a plateau in progress.

Translingual stimulation offers VA clinicians a new option to break through that plateau.

Benefits may include:

• Faster improvement in gait and balance

• Better rehab outcomes for patients with chronic conditions

• Expanded tools for PT, OT, and Neuro rehab teams

Because the technology is portable and easy to use under clinical supervision, it’s also a potential fit for VA Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) and Community Living Centers (CLCs).

What the Evidence Tells Us

This therapy is supported by observational studies and imaging data—not just anecdotal reports. In structured rehab programs, patients have demonstrated:

• Statistically significant improvements in Dynamic Gait Index (DGI)

• Reduced fall risk

• Sustained gains over 6 months after therapy ended

While no veteran-specific trials have been completed yet, the available research in similar patient populations supports serious consideration by rehab clinicians.

A Word of Caution—and Encouragement

Translingual neurostimulation is not a standalone solution. It must be paired with movement and structured therapy to work.

But the potential is real. And the time is now for VA teams to explore how this approach might support their goals around fall prevention, neuro recovery, and quality of life for veterans.

JhetVet Gov Con: Here to Support

At JhetVet Gov Con, we help medical suppliers, clinicians, and contracting teams bring the right solutions into the VA. We don’t hype trends. We highlight real opportunity.

Want to explore training options, procurement pathways, or how this fits into your neuro rehab model? Let’s talk.