Comparative Effectiveness of Neuromodulation Techniques for Managing Neurogenic Bladder in Women with MS

Recent research has explored the use of neuromodulation methods to treat neurogenic overactive bladder symptoms in women diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Two primary techniques, transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation (TPTNS) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), have demonstrated similar levels of effectiveness in managing bladder dysfunction.

A pilot study published online on April 11 in Neurodegenerative Disease Management involved 16 female MS patients divided into two groups. Each group received one of the treatments over a period of two consecutive weeks, with a total of 10 sessions. The study aimed to assess the impact of these methods on bladder function through various urodynamic parameters and patient-reported measures.

Results indicated that neither TPTNS nor rTMS produced significant changes within or between groups regarding urodynamic parameters. However, notable improvement was observed in nocturia frequency in the TPTNS group when analyzing a three-day voiding diary. Other patient-centered assessments, including the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire-V8, Incontinence Severity Index, and Incontinence Quality of Life Scale, showed no significant differences.

The authors highlighted that both neuromodulation strategies are advantageous because they are safe, easy to administer, and free of side effects. Consequently, both TPTNS and rTMS are considered viable treatment options for women with MS experiencing neurogenic bladder symptoms.

These findings suggest that neuromodulation could be a promising avenue for symptom relief, although further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm long-term benefits. The study underscores the importance of patient safety and treatment accessibility in managing complex neurogenic conditions.

For more information, see the full study: Pınar Atak Çakir et al, Effect of neuromodulation on neurogenic bladder in women with multiple sclerosis: a pilot randomized controlled trial, Neurodegenerative Disease Management (2025). [DOI: 10.1080/17582024.2025.2488712].

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-neuromodulation-methods-outcomes-neurogenic-bladder.html