Foot Patents (Class 607/144)
  • Patent number: 11986645
    Abstract: Example inventions treat restless legs syndrome (“RLS”). Examples affix a patch externally on a dermis of a user adjacent to a targeted nerve of the user, the patch including a flexible substrate, a processor directly coupled to the substrate, and electrodes directly coupled to the substrate. Examples detect the occurrence of RLS and in response to the detecting, activate the patch, the activating including generating an electrical stimuli via the electrodes that is directed to the targeted nerve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2024
    Assignee: Neurostim Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Hoo-min D. Toong, William C. Altmann
  • Patent number: 11771892
    Abstract: Bacteria, cancer cells, fungus and other harmful cells located beneath the surface of a mammal body can be effectively destroyed by passing an electrical current through the area to be treated. Electrodes are positioned on either side of the area to be treated, for example, gums, fingers, arms, legs, feet and torso, and an electric current is caused to flow between the electrodes and through the area to be treated. The electric current will destroy the bacteria, cancer cells, fungus or other harmful cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: BNR Technology Development, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Norris
  • Patent number: 11724106
    Abstract: The embodiments and methods described herein relate to an improved functional electrical stimulation (FES) orthosis. An apparatus can include a frame assembly, an electrode assembly, and an electric stimulator. The frame assembly is removably coupleable to a portion of a limb. The electrode assembly is configured to be in electrical communication with a portion of a neuromuscular system of the limb, and includes first and second sets of electrodes. The electric stimulator is in electrical communication with the electrode assembly. The electric stimulator is configured to send a first signal substantially during a first time period and via a first channel to the first set of electrodes for stimulation of a neuromuscular system of the limb, and is configured to send a second signal, during at least one of the first time period or a subsequent second time period, via a second channel to the second set of electrodes for stimulation of the neuromuscular system of the limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: Bioness Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Sean McBride
  • Patent number: 11638814
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a neuromodulation method for treating neurodegenerative disease. The neuromodulation method comprises attaching a first active electrode to a patient's leg in the back of the knee area in an expected location of a peroneal nerve of the first leg and attaching a grounding electrode to the patient's body. Generating electrical pulses by a pulse generator connected to the first active electrode and the grounding electrode. Stimulating by the first active electrodes the peroneal nerve of the first leg and controlling via a control unit a flow of the generated pulses to the first electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Assignee: TESLA MEDICAL S.R.O.
    Inventors: Lukas Doskocil, Jan Krhut, Lukas Peter, Michal Drahos, Zdenek Krcil
  • Patent number: 11116968
    Abstract: Bacteria, cancer cells, fungus and other harmful cells located beneath the surface of a mammal body can be effectively destroyed by passing an electrical current through the area to be treated. Electrodes are positioned on either side of the area to be treated, for example, gums, fingers, arms, legs, feet and torso, and an electric current is caused to flow between the electrodes and through the area to be treated. The electric current will destroy the bacteria, cancer cells, fungus or other harmful cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: BNR Technology Development, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey B. Norris
  • Patent number: 11077300
    Abstract: The embodiments and methods described herein relate to an improved functional electrical stimulation (FES) orthosis. An apparatus can include a frame assembly, an electrode assembly, and an electric stimulator. The frame assembly is removably coupleable to a portion of a limb. The electrode assembly is configured to be in electrical communication with a portion of a neuromuscular system of the limb, and includes first and second sets of electrodes. The electric stimulator is in electrical communication with the electrode assembly. The electric stimulator is configured to send a first signal substantially during a first time period and via a first channel to the first set of electrodes for stimulation of a neuromuscular system of the limb, and is configured to send a second signal, during at least one of the first time period or a subsequent second time period, via a second channel to the second set of electrodes for stimulation of the neuromuscular system of the limb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: Bioness Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Sean McBride
  • Patent number: 10207107
    Abstract: An electrostimulation apparatus may comprise a control unit, a power supply and a carrier separated or combined. The control unit is configured to provide the electrical current to an electrode layer settled on or inside the carrier, and the power supply is configured to heat a heating piece settled on or inside the carrier. The carrier has a plurality of connecting portions which are configured to electrically connect to the control unit, the power supply, the heating piece and the electrode layer. Furthermore, the electrode layer is electrically connected to the control unit through the connecting portions, and also the heating piece is electrically connected to the power supply through the connecting portions. Also, the heating piece and the electrode layer are attached on the carrier, and the carrier can be used to serve both training and treatment purposes for a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventors: Quanqin Dai, Pu Jiang
  • Patent number: 10173049
    Abstract: A skin electrode for stimulation comprising a superporous hydrophilic material having a first relaxed state and a second expanded state. In the second expanded state the superporous hydrophilic material is breakable to at least partly enclose at least one hair, and an electrode surface for electrically stimulating the skin by driving current from the electrode surface through the hydrophilic material to the skin comprising the at least one hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Sooma Ltd.
    Inventors: Tuomas Neuvonen, Jani Virtanen, Mika Nikander
  • Publication number: 20150127065
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a percutaneous neurostimulator (11) consisting of a printed circuit board, the main elements of which are a microcontroller (14) and two electrodes having opposed polarity, and operating according to an intensity of about 1 ?A and a frequency or a combination of sequential frequencies chosen amongst eight possible frequencies: 8 Hz, 12 Hz, 16 Hz, 20 Hz, 24 Hz, 28 Hz, 32 Hz, 36 Hz.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Mario PASTORELLI
  • Patent number: 8972017
    Abstract: Methods related to an electrical stimulation orthosis are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a method includes disposing a connector of a stimulation electrode assembly through an opening defined by a detachable layer. The connector of the stimulation electrode assembly is reversibly coupled to a connector disposed on an inner face of a frame. The detachable layer is coupled to the inner face of the frame. The method further includes disposing the frame about a limb segment of a body such that the detachable layer is in contact with a portion of the limb segment, and an electrical stimulation electrode of the stimulation electrode assembly is in contact with at least one stimulation point on a surface of the body associated with at least one of a nerve or a muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Bioness Neuromodulation Ltd.
    Inventors: Amit Dar, Yossef Shalev, Jonathan Bar-Or, Roger Nathan
  • Publication number: 20140288613
    Abstract: A method for treating incontinence includes positioning a transcutaneous electrode on skin of a patient adjacent a stimulation site; inserting a leading end of a percutaneous needle electrode through the skin adjacent the stimulation site, the percutaneous needle electrode including a lead wire disposed opposite the leading end; securing a neurostimulator unit to the transcutaneous electrode such that the neurostimulator unit is electrically coupled to the transcutaneous electrode with no lead wire disposed between the neurostimulator unit and the transcutaneous electrode, the neurostimulator unit including a pulse generator; connecting the lead wire of the percutaneous needle electrode to the neurostimulator unit for electrically coupling the needle electrode to the neurostimulator unit; and activating the pulse generator such that current pulses traverse the stimulation site by passing between the transcutaneous electrode pad and the percutaneous needle electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventors: Brent D. Laing, John Green
  • Publication number: 20140277325
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the invention disclosed herein provides systems, devices and methods for providing electrical stimulation to a patient. An electrical mechanical interconnection is provided to facilitate user friendly systems and devices. Exemplary therapeutic electrical stimulation devices include a shoe connected mechanically and electrically to a conductor that provides signals for electrical stimulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: EMPl lnc.
    Inventors: Thomas Jerome Bachinski, Richard Paul Shindley, Dennis Lutz
  • Publication number: 20140257436
    Abstract: A stimulation therapy device provides an electrical stimulation therapy to branches of the tibial nerve of a patient. The device comprises a support member configured to be worn around the ankle or foot of the patient, first and second pairs of electrodes attached to the support member, and a stimulation circuit attached to the support member. The stimulation circuit is configured to deliver electrical stimulation pulses through the first and second pairs of electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: AMS Research Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Yonce, John Jason Buysman, Richard A. Lundeen, Jeffrey John Childs
  • Patent number: 8818520
    Abstract: A tibial nerve stimulation device including a percutaneous electrode for inserting adjacent a stimulation site of a patient and a neurostimulator unit attachable to a transcutaneous electrode configured to be applied to skin adjacent the stimulation site. The neurostimulator unit includes a pulse generator electrically coupled to the percutaneous needle electrode and transcutaneous electrode and a microcontroller in communication with the pulse generator for monitoring a number of available treatment credits and activating the pulse generator, each available treatment credit corresponding to a treatment session and the pulse generator operable to be activated for performing the treatment session when the number of available treatment credits is at least one. A computer system is operable to communicate with the microcontroller of the neurostimulator unit for receiving a treatment credit request and transmitting the number of treatment credits purchased to the microcontroller of the neurostimulator unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Advanced Uro-Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Brent Laing, John David Green
  • Publication number: 20140180376
    Abstract: An intrinsic transduction system for stimulating portions of the body. The output of the transducer is a stimulating and/or nerve regenerating frequency having components falling within predetermined frequency band limits so as to optimally excite touch nerve fibers relative to nociceptor or pain receptor nerve fibers. Products, in particular a prosthetic disc, shoe, apparel, a spark cleat, incorporating an impact sensing element made from polymeric piezoelectric material. In response to impact, the piezoelectric material generates an electrical signal to a battery powered negative ion emitting unit or to an information display device which is at least partially molded into or contained in the product, or relayed by antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventor: JAMES EDWARD JENNINGS
  • Patent number: 8738143
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for reduction of or treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the method comprising causing isometric stimulation of the leg muscles to promote blood flow. Other embodiments provide treatment for other circulatory disorders of the lower limbs and/or the systemic circulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Sky Medical Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Arthur Tudor Tucker, Duncan Shirreffs Bain
  • Publication number: 20140046423
    Abstract: Various methods and devices for providing transdermal electrical stimulation therapy to a patient are provided. In certain variations, a method may include positioning a stimulator electrode over a glabrous skin surface overlying a target nerve of a subject. Electrical stimulation may be delivered through or across the glabrous skin surface to the target nerve to stimulate the target nerve, while remaining safe and tolerable to the patient. Electrical stimulation may be delivered at frequencies that may be painful or intolerable when applied over non-glabrous surfaces of the body. Various applicators or devices for providing transdermal electrical stimulation therapy are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: EMkinetics, Inc.
    Inventors: Amit RAJGURU, Daniel R. BURNETT
  • Publication number: 20140018897
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a percutaneous neurostimulator (11) constituted by a printed circuit board, the main elements of which are a microcontroller (14) and two electrodes having opposed polarity. The percutaneous neurostimulator operates according to a frequency or a combination of sequential frequencies chosen from eight possible frequencies: 8 Hz, 12 Hz, 16 Hz, 20 Hz, 24 Hz, 28 Hz, 32 Hz, 36 Hz.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventor: MARIO PASTORELLI
  • Publication number: 20130331907
    Abstract: An apparatus for the electrical stimulation of a subject is provided, the apparatus comprising a contact member having a contact surface for contacting the plantar surface of a foot of the subject; and means for providing an electrical stimulation cycle to the foot of the subject comprising supplying an electrical current to the contact surface for the electrical stimulation of the plantar muscles of the foot of the subject; wherein the contact surface is moveable so as to allow the angle of the joints of the foot and ankle of the subject to change during the electrical stimulation cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Actegy Limited
    Inventors: David Paul Sumners, Katya Nikolova Mileva
  • Publication number: 20130238075
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the invention disclosed herein provides systems, devices and methods for providing electrical stimulation to a patient. An electrical mechanical interconnection is provided to facilitate user friendly systems and devices. Exemplary therapeutic electrical stimulation devices include a shoe connected mechanically and electrically to a conductor that provides signals for electrical stimulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: Empi Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Jerome Bachinski, Richard Paul Shindley, Dennis Lutz
  • Publication number: 20130006322
    Abstract: Provided herein are methods and devices useful for inhibiting or treating urological conditions, such as overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms including bladder overactivity, urinary frequency, urinary urgency, urinary incontinence, interstitial cystitis (IC), urinary retention, and pelvic pain; gastrointestinal conditions, such as fecal incontinence, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and constipation; and sexual conditions, such as premature ejaculation, erectile disorder, and female sexual arousal disorder by non-invasive transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH OF THE COMMONWEALTH SYSTE
    Inventor: Changfeng Tai
  • Patent number: 8295925
    Abstract: Certain embodiments described herein are directed to methods for treating loss of protective sensation. In certain embodiments, loss of protective sensation may be restored by application of an effective amount of a pulsed current at, for example, an effective pulse frequency. Devices and systems designed to treat loss of protective sensation are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: WaveRx, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael S. Brogan, Laura E. Edsberg, Douglas P. Kalinowski, Laura L. Deming
  • Patent number: 8285381
    Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for neuromuscular electrical stimulation to muscle tissue. Stimulation electrodes and sensors may be provided, such that signals provided by the sensors may affect the signals provided to the stimulation electrodes, thus providing a feedback. Stimulation electrodes may be provided on a stimulation pad and sensors may be provided on a sensing pad, which may be designed to conform to an anatomical feature. A system for neuromuscular electrical stimulation may also include temperature sensitive elements that may help prevent burns, especially for comatose, sedated, or patients in critical condition. The system may also include a cooling assembly for a stimulation pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Niveus Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Fahey
  • Patent number: 8209022
    Abstract: An electrical stimulation orthosis and method therefor, the orthosis including: (a) an at least semi-rigid frame configured to substantially envelop a limb segment, the frame having at least one first complementary mechanical fastener associated therewith; (b) a surface electrical stimulation electrode assembly associated with, and supported by, the frame, the assembly having a surface stimulation electrode for contacting at least one stimulation point on the limb segment, the surface electrode assembly having an electrode base for electrically associating, via the frame, with a stimulator unit for providing a stimulation signal to the surface electrode, the electrode base having a top face for receiving the stimulation electrode, and a bottom face having at least one second complementary mechanical fastener, the first and second fasteners adapted for reversible attachment and detachment, at a plurality of locations on the frame, thereby enabling the electrical stimulation electrode assembly to be adjustably
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Bioness Neuromodulation Ltd.
    Inventors: Amit Dar, Yossef Shalev, Jonathan Bar-Or, Roger Nathan
  • Patent number: 8209036
    Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation (FES) orthosis for FES to a limb segment, including: (a) a semi-rigid, self-retaining C-shaped frame, the frame configured to substantially envelop the limb segment, the frame including a first flexible and elongated circumferentially retaining element and at least a first and a second opposing flexible and elongated circumferentially retaining elements disposed on the circumferentially opposite side of the frame, the first retaining element and the first opposing retaining element forming a pair of opposing retaining elements, and (b) a surface electrical stimulation electrode for contacting at least one stimulation point on a surface of the limb segment, associated with, and supported by, the frame, the surface electrode for electrically associating, via the frame, with a neuroprosthetic stimulator unit, so as to provide FES, wherein the opposing retaining elements are configured to be radially spring-loaded towards a center of the frame, such that in donning the orthosis
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Bioness Neuromodulation Ltd.
    Inventors: Roger H. Nathan, Amit Dar, Jonathan Bar-Or
  • Patent number: 8150525
    Abstract: A device for the treatment of hyperhydrosis by application of electric current to a treatment area of the skin is described. The device comprises: a) a garment comprising a first electrode adapted for contacting said treatment area; b) a second electrode adapted for contacting the treatment area or skin proximal to the treatment area; and c) a power delivery unit in electrical communication with said first and second electrodes. The power delivery unit provides a customized dose of electricity to the treatment area. In one embodiment, the garment is a glove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ali Fassih, Ronald J. Gillespie, Michael Joyce, Joseph Junio, Joan D. Newburger, Ying Sun
  • Publication number: 20120078338
    Abstract: A shoe electrode comprising an electrode, a skin adhesive for attaching the electrode to the skin, an electrically conductive heel pad, and a conductive pathway between the electrode and the heel pad. A removable adhesive is used to attach the heel pad to the heel of a shoe and in one embodiment, the electrode, heel pad and conductive pathway are formed as a single piece of conductive vinyl film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: David Sheraton
  • Patent number: 7998092
    Abstract: A force sensor system for use in monitoring weight bearing on a location. The force sensor system comprises at least one a foot force sensor, a palm force sensor, and a knee force sensor. The foot force sensor comprises a flexible insole containing a plurality of inflatable pockets that are inflated with air or liquid. The palm force sensor and knee force sensor each comprise a wrap to be worn around the palm and knee, respectively. Each wrap comprises a pocket. Each pocket is connected to a tube that, in turn, connects with a pressure sensor and a connector coupling that is remote from the pocket. Each coupling contains a valve. The valve opens to allow inflation and deflation of each inflatable pocket. The pressure sensors measure the air or liquid pressure within each of the inflatable pockets, and convert the corresponding pressure signal into a suitable output signal medium, usually electrical signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Andante Medical Devices, Ltd.
    Inventors: Arik Avni, Lior Bar-Nes, Ronit Frideman
  • Patent number: 7899556
    Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation (FES) orthosis for FES to a limb segment, including: (a) a semi-rigid, self-retaining C-shaped frame, the frame configured to substantially envelop the limb segment, the frame including a first flexible and elongated circumferentially retaining element and at least a first and a second opposing flexible and elongated circumferentially retaining elements disposed on the circumferentially opposite side of the frame, the first retaining element and the first opposing retaining element forming a pair of opposing retaining elements, and (b) a surface electrical stimulation electrode for contacting at least one stimulation point on a surface of the limb segment, associated with, and supported by, the frame, the surface electrode for electrically associating, via the frame, with a neuroprosthetic stimulator unit, so as to provide FES, wherein the opposing retaining elements are configured to be radially spring-loaded towards a center of the frame, such that in donning the orthosis
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Bioness Neuromodulation Ltd.
    Inventors: Roger Nathan, Amit Dar, Jonathan Bar-Or
  • Patent number: 7740650
    Abstract: A method for treating an infected area on a subject, comprising the steps of: exposing the infected area to an aqueous solution; and providing direct current to the aqueous solution to treat the infected area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Daemen College
    Inventors: Michael S. Brogan, Laura E. Edsberg, Douglas P. Kalinowski
  • Publication number: 20100101002
    Abstract: A pair of socks with electronic muscle stimulator device attached to socks to produce electrical stimulants inside socks allow user to massage their feet. Socks that integrate electronic muscle stimulator, conductive fabric, and electrodes woven into socks to distributes electric signals to all parts of socks, gives user the ability to stimulate, contract, massage, and relax feet muscles inside the socks without taking off shoes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: Roy C. Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7662176
    Abstract: A footwear apparatus includes multiple first reservoirs and multiple second reservoirs joined with a substrate. Selected ones of the multiple first reservoirs include a reducing agent, and first reservoir surfaces of selected ones of the multiple first reservoirs are proximate to a first substrate surface. Selected ones of the multiple second reservoirs include an oxidizing agent, and second reservoir surfaces of selected ones of the multiple second reservoirs are proximate to the first substrate surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Vomaris Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffry B. Skiba, Lawrence A. Schneider
  • Publication number: 20090182393
    Abstract: A patch for a therapeutic electrical stimulation device includes a shoe connected to the first side of the patch, the shoe including a body extending in a longitudinal direction from a first end to a second end, and having first and second surfaces, the first end of the shoe defining at least two ports, and the first surface of the shoe defining a connection member. The patch also includes at least one conductor positioned in the ports of the first end of the shoe. The shoe is configured for sliding insertion into a receptacle defined by a controller so that the conductor is connected to the controller to deliver electrical current from the controller, through the conductor, and to the electrodes, and the connection member is at least partially captured by a detent defined by the controller in the receptacle to retain the shoe within the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas Jerome Bachinski
  • Publication number: 20090076565
    Abstract: Non-surgical methods for treating pelvic floor muscular dysfunctional disorders are provided. The method combines pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), biofeedback and pelvic floor exercises, pudental and hypogastric nerve neuromodulation (electrical stimulation), and tibial nerve neuromodulation (PTNS).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Earl A. Surwit
  • Patent number: 7283870
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for obtaining information, such as heart rate or the presence of atrial fibrillation, from electrodes applied to the feet of a subject. A scale having electrodes may be used for this purpose. The signal obtained from the electrodes is digitized and filtered to obtain an electrocardiographic signal exhibiting periodic, sequential, discrete, magnitudinal variations associated with the heartbeats of the subject. The electrocardiographic signal is then analyzed to identify discrete magnitudinal variations useful for obtaining the desired information. In determining the heart rate of the subject, an interval between variations having a desired magnitudinal characteristic may be employed. The absence of such variations is indicative of atrial fibrillation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: The General Electric Company
    Inventors: Willi Kaiser, Martin Fideis
  • Patent number: 7233829
    Abstract: An article of clothing for use in water includes an electroactive material integrated into the clothing, at least one electrode integrated into the clothing and wherein the electroactive material is adapted to release electrical impulses into the water. A method of generating electrical energy on a person includes wearing clothing with an integrated electroactive material that produces electrical charges upon movement of the person and harvesting electrical energy from the electroactive material for use with an electrical load. An article of clothing includes an electroactive material integrated into the clothing, at least one electrode integrated into the clothing, and wherein the electroactive material is adapted to generate an electrical field around the clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Glycon Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Vladimir Vlad
  • Patent number: 7233828
    Abstract: A device for applying a therapeutic electrical field to a user's body includes an electroactive material shaped for application to a user body to provide a therapeutic electric field in response to pressure applied to the electroactive material and one or more electrodes integrated into the electroactive material and disposed along an inner surface of the electroactive material for delivering the therapeutic electric field to the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Glycon Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Vladimir Vlad
  • Patent number: 6889088
    Abstract: A pulse generating apparatus has two like output channels that apply generated pulse signals of selected characteristics to two electrodes attached to a strap, each electrode receiving a different signal. The strap is attached to the foot so that the electrodes are positioned to stimulate with an electrical signal the abductor hallucis muscle of the foot to correct an imbalance due to overpowering by the adductor hallucis muscle in the large toe. The signal strengthens the abductor hallucis muscle so that eventually it regains strength sufficient to counter balance the imbalance effect of the stronger adductor hallucis muscle and alleviate the bunion condition in the large toe. The electrical signal generator generates signals that are pulses that are adjustable in frequency, modulation, pulse width and amplitude with modified square waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Bassem M. Demian
  • Patent number: 6862481
    Abstract: A pulse generating apparatus has two like output channels that apply generated pulse signals of selected characteristics to two electrodes attached to a strap, each electrode receiving a different signal. The strap is attached to the foot so that the electrodes are positioned to stimulate with an electrical signal the abductor hallucis muscle of the foot to correct an imbalance due to overpowering by the adductor hallucis muscle. The signal strengthens the abductor hallucis muscle so that eventually it regains strength sufficient to counter balance the imbalance effect of the stronger adductor hallucis muscle and alleviate the bunion condition. The electrical signal generator generates signals that are pulses that are adjustable in frequency, modulation, pulse width and amplitude with modified square waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Bassem M. Demian
  • Patent number: 6788978
    Abstract: A sanitary article to be worn in contact with the skin of a user that is adapted to provide metallotherapy effects, comprising a knitted part that has, at least on a side thereof adapted to be directed toward the user's skin, rows of knitting or portions of rows of knitting formed by yarns that comprise a metal or metalloid adapted to provide metallotherapy effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Gafitex S.r.l.
    Inventor: Giuliano Vesnaver
  • Publication number: 20040030270
    Abstract: A therapeutic garment combining compression therapy such as gradient compression of a body part or tissue of a human or animal subject with electrical or other form of delivered-energy stimulation. Garment electrodes have conductive portions contiguous or integral with elastic portions for delivering electrical stimulation to a treated area that is under compression. The combination of electrotherapy in conjunction with compression can help reduce edema and promote optimum blood circulation and improved healing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventor: James P. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6635236
    Abstract: A method for treating podotrochlosis (navicular disease/navicular syndrome) in the foot of a horse is disclosed. The method comprises identifying the specific area(s) of the horse's foot affected by navicular disease and applying at least one extracorporeal shockwave to the affected area(s). In a preferred embodiment, a sonar-emitting device is used to identify the areas within the foot affected by podotrochlosis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Knut Bär
  • Patent number: 6456884
    Abstract: A therapeutic system comprising an orthotic device adapted to extend the range of angular movement between adjacent first and second skeletal body parts which have been drawn to and involuntarily held in a limited angular range of motion position relative to one another by contraction of muscle fibers and connective tissue due to immobility of one or both of said skeletal body parts and an electrode component positioned to be effective to conduct an electrical current to at least one of said body parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Trestles Healthcare, Inc.
    Inventor: John P. Kenney
  • Patent number: RE34661
    Abstract: An ankle brace designed to be worn under the shoe has a first bladder which is filled with the high viscosity gel resistant to rapid deformation to apply pressure to the ankle and conform to its shape to provide support to the ankle. A second bladder inflatable with air is juxtaposed the first bladder to provide a uniform compressive force upon the bladder filled with the gel. A canvas ankle brace holds a pair of air and gel bladders along each of its sidewalls and is wrapped about the lower extremity and snugly fit thereto. Once the brace is in position, air is introduced into the second bladder to press the first bladder against the ankle and to conform to the shape thereof. Broad elastic straps may be secured to the lower rear of the brace to extend over the front of the ankle and the instep in a cruciate configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Royce Medical Company
    Inventor: Tracy E. Grim