Abstract: A subcutaneously implantable device is provided for either electrically stimulating skeletal musculature or sensing electrical potential at its surface without directly contacting the musculature. The implantable device comprises an electrode constructed from a single generally planar sheet of electrically conductive material and having a first surface adapted to face the skeletal musculature and an opposite surface adapted to face away from the skeletal musculature. A flexible casing covers at least a substantial portion of the opposite surface of the electrically conductive sheet. At least one electrical lead is attached at one end to the electrically conductive sheet and is attachable at an opposite end to an electrical current source. The generally planar electrically conductive sheet is preferably comprised of a noble metal, such as platinum, and has a surface area sufficiently large to distribute the charge required to stimulate the targeted muscle.