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2015036 tn?1332997788

Does anyone here use the Bioness L300 Plus?

I just got my MS Society magazine- probably all the rest of you have too ;o).  

On page 5 there is an advertisement for a device that stimulates the muscles in the leg, to help with foot drop.  There is a device under the the knee, and the upper thigh.  Do any of you use this or any other similar device?  I have  gait assessment scheduled for next week.  My neurologist wants me to get a powerchair- but if this would work, I would much rather have this device.  

Although my weakness is on my left side, I also have trouble with a damaged right foot.  If this device works though, I should be able to walk okay, right?

Thanks for any thoughts, or advice.
Tammy
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Avatar universal
Careful beware, I own the Bioness L300, and when something, ANYTHING goes wrong w/ it-Unless you have the warranty, which only last for one year- you will have to purchase a new warranty when the year one runs out- which b.t,w. is another expense.  Cost of new bioness and another $500 for only another year.  Trust me, I've been through all of this nonsense since 2009 !
Very Disappointed with Warranty, yet very good for foot drop.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
After wearing an AFO for seven years, I just completed the month trial for an L300. The device performed as promised by Bioness; however, it could not provide the same support as the AFO. I did get used to the stimulation and the device allowed me to walk for a short distance with only a cane. The problem for me, however, was that it offered no support when my leg became fatigued. After all these years with an AFO, my muscles are not as strong and I do need the extra support.

If you haven't worn an AFO for long, I do recommend trying the L300. The Bioness clinician was extremely helpful.

One word about used devices: Do not try one if Bioness does not support it. I don't see how you could fit the L300 properly on your own. The clinician has to place the electrodes in the right position.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Unfortunately and $6000 later, I have not had good results at all with the Bioness L300 system.  The customer support has been dismal and, I hate to post these negative reviews but, if it saves just one person from having to go through what I have been through with Bioness, it is worth it.  Once they sold me the product, they would have me go 20 miles away from where I live for adjustments.  I have disabilities and Multiple Sclerosis and this was not an easy task for me.  I finally gave up going and they refused to meet me anywhere closer for any further adjustments.  Please don't make the mistake I made, research the reviews THOROUGHLY, before buying this system.  The time frame for which to return it expired due to all the back and forth with the adjustments and they will not refund a penny.  I am still paying $355 a month for a product that did not work for me and the company is heartless - they do not care - they take your money and turn their back on you.  I am disabled with very low income and this has been a HUGE sacrifice for something I am not getting use out of.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Unfortunately and $6000 later, I have not had good results at all with the Bioness L300 system.  The customer support has been dismal and, I hate to post these negative reviews but, if it saves just one person from having to go through what I have been through with Bioness, it is worth it.  Once they sold me the product, they would have me go 20 miles away from where I live for adjustments.  I have disabilities and Multiple Sclerosis and this was not an easy task for me.  I finally gave up going and they refused to meet me anywhere closer for any further adjustments.  Please don't make the mistake I made, research the reviews THOROUGHLY, before buying this system.  The time frame for which to return it expired due to all the back and forth with the adjustments and they will not refund a penny.  I am still paying $355 a month for a product that did not work for me and the company is heartless - they do not care - they take your money and turn their back on you!
Helpful - 0
1760800 tn?1406753451
HI...   Juust saw  your post,

At the time I got my bioness I was with Coventry Insurance of Delaware.  I was completely shocked they coverd all the costs.  Now I am with United healthcare.  I need one for my left leg and they will not cover any of the cost at all.

I do love it it works great!
Helpful - 0
1760800 tn?1406753451
HI...  

At the time I got my bioness I was with Coventry Insurance of Delaware.  I was completely shocked they coverd all the costs.  Now I am with United healthcare.  I need one for my left leg and they will not cover any of the cost at all.

I do love it it works great!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi I'm in the market for l-300'if you don't mind me asking what insur, company you have,my rep.said they won't cover it and medicare is 6 months into reviewing their application so it won't be covered for some time.Thanks
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi I'm in the market for l-300'if you don't mind me asking what insur, company you have,my rep.said they won't cover it and medicare is 6 months into reviewing their application so it won't be covered for some time.Thanks
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi I'm in the market for l-300'if you don't mind me asking what insur, company you have,my rep.said they won't cover it and medicare is 6 months into reviewing their application so it won't be covered for some time.Thanks
Helpful - 0
2015036 tn?1332997788
I had the opportunity to try it out a few weeks ago.  Now I honestly prefer a regular brace.  The muscle contractions were so intense,  it was painful to walk.   I was also still,  and sore all night.  

It could be that mine was set too high.   Just wanted to be sure folks know what they're getting into.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
May i ask who is your ins co?
Helpful - 0
8056905 tn?1396401910
I used to work for a durable medical equipment company...that actually was started by Mr. Al Mann as well...but, he sold the company...I worked for Minimed/diabetic insulin pump...He is a genius and now with having MS since 2002 and having my one and only child/2yr old boy...I am in need of this device to keep up with him and hopefully go back to working!  Medical necessity is needed along with the script...but, like most that have gone thru the process of even getting onto disability...it can be long and disheartening...I am going to meet with the rep on Thursday at one of my physical therapy appts. and am hoping to be able to see a difference...even a little!  I believe in Al Man and hope that it's as good, well, even better than the pump!  I am willing to sell everything I have...which is not much but, my car if this works!  I just want to be better for my son...and feel a little bit like me again!  Right now when I walk into an interview...they see me walk and have already made up their mind!  If anyone knows away to get help or get across to the federal/state plans to get this covered please let me know!  I appreciate all and any information!  Thank you...leximinor
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Now that you have had it for over a year, what is your opinion?  I am trying it and need to make a decision soon!  
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Anyone here nave Blue Cross/Blue Shield?
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I emailed Bioness and asked if they sold 2nd hand refurbished units since many patients no longer need them after a while. They do! She recommended I contact my nearest dealer to see if they had any or could get them.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I emailed Bioness and asked if they sold 2nd hand refurbished units since many patients no longer need them after a while. They do! She recommended I contact my nearest dealer to see if they had any or could get them.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Have been using Bioness L300 Plus for 2 months, purchased it today.  I'm appealing insurance denial but am being realistic...planning on payments for 18 months.  I am thrilled with my increased mobility and balance.  It is worth the price as I consider it my "new car".  It increases my quality of life immeasurably!  I was diagnosed with MS 13 1/2 yrs. ago.  I am now using my cane after more than 3 yrs with an AFO and a walker!
Helpful - 0
1 Comments
How is the customer service you have received? I have had MS dxd in 2001. I have gradually lost a little here and a little there and now relay mostly on a walker but just recently bought a scooter. I am looking into the Bioness L300 for my right leg. I was shown the wrap for under the knee and the pad for in the shoe. Is this what you have?
Avatar universal
My friend has M.S.
Insurance wouldn't pay for it.  I found one on ebay and bought it for her.
She has been using it for a couple of weeks. It's life changing and brought me to tears when I saw her walk.  I can't tell you how good I felt.

If you buy one second hand, (Bioness), it's hard to find someone who will  program it because you didn't get it from Bioness.

I can telll you it's been a life changing experience. She has to go several times to practice walking. But to see her without a brace is incredible. I'm getting tears in my eyes just writing this.
Helpful - 0
1 Comments
That's awesome! I have Medicaid - I'll have to look on ebay. So did she get it programmed? How much did it cost to buy and program, if I may ask. Thanks. And bless you for helping your friend!!!
Avatar universal
I was told that Medicare would not pay for it, but now have Medigap N and am going to call them again to see if they cover it.  Keep us posted!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
lol mine is sitting on the kitchen table awaiting the tech monday..I didn't find any financial assistance other than being able to put it on a 18 month 0% interest that they qualified me for..also yes it requires a script that they fax your doctor..not a bad deal all in all
Helpful - 0
1760800 tn?1406753451
AT the time I had Coventry health care of delaware -  They covered my Bioness 100% and evern paid for the pads that go inside the device which need to be changed every two weeks.  I looked at both walk-aide and bioness and while walk aid does not need foot sensor - it works primarily when walking forward not as well side to side or backwards -  it works off the motion of your leg -  Bioness works no matter which way you step. I work on my feet on my weekend job and step all different ways so it was best for me.  I tried them both out however.  

It has been life changing for me as well.  I could not imagine not having it.

See what your insurance co says - perhaps they will cover part of it.

Let me know how it goes.
Tracy
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Who is yr insurance and how did you get it covered? Bioness rep just  told me insurance companies don't cover it and I want one. I tried it last week and it was life-changing. I've fallen many times and even had to have surgery.
Helpful - 0
1337734 tn?1336234591
Thanks Dennis, That's a great idea! If they turn my appeal down I think I will try it :)
Stay well,
Deb
Helpful - 0
645800 tn?1466860955
LOL.

When I was talking to my brother the other day about this he suggested that if they don't give me the Bioness that I should put in for a scooter so that they would reconsider the Bioness. So I pointed out that 2 Bioness systems ( need both legs) it would be cheaper for them to give me the scooter. LOL

Dennis
Helpful - 0
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