Sanford Health Offers First FDA-Approved Device for Arm and Hand Recovery After Ischemic Stroke

A breakthrough therapy for stroke survivors to help improve upper‑limb function through vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) paired with rehabilitation is now available at Sanford Bismarck. Mobia Medical Inc. and Sanford Health today announced the availability of the FDA‑approved Vivistim.

Vivistim is the first and only FDA‑approved device that uses VNS during therapy to help stroke survivors significantly improve arm and hand function—even years after their stroke. Clinical studies show patients using Vivistim achieve two to three times greater improvement than rehabilitation alone.

The system works by delivering gentle, precisely timed vagus‑nerve stimulation during therapist‑guided rehabilitation, strengthening neural pathways that support motor recovery. Vivistim is intended for chronic ischemic stroke survivors who continue to experience moderate to severe upper‑limb impairment six months or more after their stroke. The therapy includes a small, implanted device, therapist‑led sessions using a wireless remote, and at‑home exercises activated by a handheld magnet to support continued recovery in daily tasks.

“Our team is excited by the potential of Vivistim,” said Tiffany Skor, MOTR/L, CLT, therapy and rehabilitation manager, Sanford Bismarck. “As occupational therapists, we see firsthand how innovation can reshape the patient journey, and Vivistim represents a significant step forward. Its capabilities open new possibilities for personalized therapy, improved outcomes and more efficient care. We’re excited to bring this technology into our practice and confident it will make a meaningful difference for the patients and families we serve.”

For more information, visit vivistim.com.