Help with Balance for People with Multiple Sclerosis From: Medical Design Technology - 12/12/2014 UMass Amherst researchers will test foot sensations, vibrating insoles to aid balance Many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have trouble with balance and a fear of falling, which can have severe negative effects on their quality of life by keeping them away from social events, regular exercise and community activities. And, if they do get out, the fatigue and anxiety of walking can be very taxing. Now a new pilot study at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, funded by a one-year, $39,000 grant from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, will investigate how sensation in the feet while standing relates to balance ability and whether vibrating insoles might aid walking and improve balance. The study employs small devices called tactors embedded in the sole of the shoe to produce slight, undetectable vibrations on the skin that might improve balance and help people with MS navigate the world. Read the entire article at: http://www.mdtmag.com/news/2014/12/help-balance-people-multiple-sclerosis Links: Richard van Emmerik http://www.umass.edu/sphhs/person/faculty/richard-van-emmerik Multiple Sclerosis Study http://www.umass.edu/motorcontrol/MS.html