Multiple Sclerosis and the Bioness L300

I have had MS for many years and have walking/balance problems. My friend Mo got the Bioness L300 several months ago and she believes it has made a big difference in her multiple sclerosis related gait problems. I bit the bullet and got one, too. Granted many insurance companies do not cover this device and it costs $5900. However, it works by stimulating the muscle on the front of your leg below your knee. This stimulation, in turn, forces your toes/forefoot to automatically pop up. This prevents the dropped foot so prevalent in many with multiple sclerosis.

Here are my initial pluses and minuses for the L300 as it relates to me and my experiences with multiple sclerosis:

Pros
- it does help me walk better
- I do not get as fatigued as I don't have to concentrate so hard on walking
- Bioness will work very hard to get this device for you

Cons
- it has a pretty big leg cuff and I think very few of my pants will fit over the L300
- it takes a little time to get used to the stimulation component
- it takes a little practice to get the electrodes in the right place so it is working correctly to pop you foot up
- not a lot of therapists are acclimated with the L300
- it is quite a little drama to get approved by insurance, even if to pay for it partially

Most importantly, the L300 gives us all hope that there is some help for those of us with multiple sclerosis. That is the best pro of all!!