304. Electrical Stimulation for MS: Can It Help Foot Drop and Walking? with Mandy Jacques

I'm so excited to welcome Dr. Mandy Jacques, PT, DPT, MSCS, a physical therapist and Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist, for an in-depth conversation about electrical stimulation (e-stim) for multiple sclerosis (MS). We talk about the Neubie device from NeuFit, how it's used, and how it fits into a real-life exercise routine.

Here's what we cover 🔑:

→ What is electrical stimulation for MS? E-stim sends a gentle electrical current through pads on your skin to activate your nerves and muscles. When MS disrupts the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles, stimulation can give that signal extra support while you move.

→ What makes direct current e-stim different? Dr. Mandy explains what sets the Neubie's direct current apart from other types of e-stim, and why that matters for people with MS.

→ Foot drop, spasticity, and fatigue. How targeted stimulation is used for foot drop (aka toe drag), spasticity (muscle tightness or stiffness that makes movement feel harder), MS fatigue, and overall mobility.

→ Using the Neubie at home or in a clinic. The practical steps for getting started, so you know what a session actually looks like.

→ Neuroplasticity and MS-specific exercise. Why stimulation works best alongside movement, plus Dr. Mandy's advice on safe, effective exercise strategies to help you get stronger and walk with more confidence.

This episode is for you if:

✅ You deal with foot drop or toe drag
✅ Spasticity makes your legs feel tight or stiff
✅ Fatigue limits how far you can walk
✅ You've been curious about e-stim but didn't know where to start
✅ You want to understand why a tool works before you try it

E-stim isn't a magic fix, and it looks different for everyone with MS. But the right tools, paired with the right exercises done consistently, can help you see what's possible in your daily life. Progress, not perfection. You've got this 🧡

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

NeuFit for Patients - https://www.neu.fit/patients/

About Dr. Mandy Jacques 

Dr. Mandy Jacques is a  physical therapist and MS certified specialist, and I can just say from experience, that is a rare combo. Dr. Mandy has spent the last five years at NeuFit working with people with MS, first in the clinic and now leading the department that helps people use the Neubie device right in their own homes. 

Where to reach Dr. Mandy Jacques & NeuFit:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NeuFit/videos

Website: https://www.neu.fit/patients/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: [email protected] 

Website: www.MSingLink.com

Social: 

★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness

★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen

★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1

→ The Progress Method for MS: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/the-progress-method-for-ms

→ Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram

→ The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink