Abstract: An electrode holder is adapted for cooperating with a strap applied to a body part of a patient to hold a surface electrode to the skin. The electrode holder includes a base and a post projecting from the base. The post is adapted for extending through the strap and into a cavity formed with the electrode. The electrode holder is releasably attached to the strap by mating hook and loop fasteners. Once attached, the post of the holder secures the electrode in position thereby reducing motion artifacts caused by disturbance of the electrode after placement against the skin of the patient.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel device for portable percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and electro-acupuncture. In the preferred embodiment, the device consists of a needle/electrode holder that has a linear electrode/needle guide channel and a power supply channel that intersects with the needle/electrode guide channel and serves for insertion of a pin electrode from an electrical generator (PENS unit). The pin electrode will provide an electrical contact with the needle and at the same time function as means for securing the needle in a desire position in the guide channel. The needle remains straight and the extended portion thereof is kept out of contact with the patient's skin.

Abstract: A device for muscle stimulation, including: two exoskeletal shells, each including an outer member including an at least semi-rigid material, the shells being configured to at least partly, surround a limb portion of a user, and kinematic connection means connecting the shells and providing the shells with at least one degree of freedom in translation, so as to enable the shells to move in a substantially linear movement with respect to each other.

Abstract: A portable device for applying therapeutic electrical signals and/or electromagnetic fields to a patient's knee for the treatment of osteoarthritis and other diseases, defects and injuries. The device is operable in several modes to deliver signals to the patients knee so as to cause an electric and/or electromagnetic field to be generated that selectively up-regulates gene expression of Aggrecan and Type II Collagen while simultaneously selectively down-regulating the gene expression of metalloproteases. The device includes a signal generator that generates compound electric signals including a 60 kHz sine wave having a peak to peak voltage of approximately 4.6 V to 7.6 V and a 100% duty cycle signal that is generated for approximately 30 minutes and a 50% duty cycle signal that is generated for approximately 1 hour after the 100% duty cycle signal.

Abstract: A neural lead and method of treating neurological disorders by stimulation of the cerebral cortex of the brain is provided. The lead is designed for reduction of strain between the lead body and the lead paddle caused by the position of the lead body above the cranium and the lead paddle beneath the cranium. The lead is also designed to include a two dimensional chronic electrode array for better stimulation coverage of the target area of the cerebral cortex. A method of treating a neurological disorder by stimulating the cerebral cortex is also presented.

Abstract: A vest for providing electrical stimulation is disclosed. The vest includes front and rear sections and a controller. Left front and right front electrodes are provided on interior surfaces of the front section, and left rear and right rear electrodes are provided on interior surfaces of the rear section. The controller is provided on an exterior surface of the front section and provides selectively adjustable electrical pulse signals to the electrodes via wires routed over the exterior surface of the front and rear sections to the electrodes through respective openings provided in the front and rear sections. The electrodes and the front and rear sections include means for positional adjustment of the electrodes on the interior surfaces of the front and rear sections. The vest can be used for electrical stimulation of muscles or nerves of the abdomen and back for users having varying body types and sizes.

Abstract: A device for attaching at least three electrodes to a subject for stimulating abdominal muscles of the subject, comprising an attachment mechanism for extending around the torso of the subject and a main locating element provided on the attachment mechanism for locating a central electrode of the at least three electrodes adjacent the umbilicus of the subject. Two secondary locating elements are also provided on the attachment mechanism disposed on respective opposite sides of the main locating element for locating two corresponding side electrodes of the at least three electrodes spaced apart from the central electrode. Application of at least one pulsed signal to the subject through the respective central and side electrodes stimulates the abdominal muscles of the subject.

Abstract: A fixation device fixes the position of an implantable microminiature device residing proximally to a target site such as a nerve or a muscle. In one embodiment, the device comprises a sheath and a means for attaching the device to adjacent tissue. The means for attaching may be any one of several embodiments including one or more grasping members, a combination of grasping members and one or more helices, or an extension adapted to accept a suture. In another embodiment, the fixation device comprises an assembly residing in the implantation pathway, behind the stimulation device, thus preventing retreat of the stimulation device in the pathway. In a preferred use, the fixation device fixes the position of a microstimulator component of a Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) system.

Abstract: A surface electrode for long-term delivery of an electrical signal to a skin surface of a patient, the surface electrode including: (a) a flexible, at least partially-conductive surface layer for physically contacting the skin surface, and for delivering thereto the electrical signal, and (b) an electrically conductive layer, operatively connected to the partially-conductive surface layer, for transferring the electrical signal thereto, wherein the at least partially-conductive surface layer has a thickness of less than 0.5 mm, and preferably contains a conductive gel or artificial skin.

Abstract: Pathological conditions are alleviated by bone conduction practiced by the application of sinusoidal electric waves at frequencies of between 4,200 and 6,500 hertz at less than 200 microamperes current.

Abstract: An apparatus for intra-oral stimulation of the trigeminal nerve includes an energy source that imparts energy to a tooth to stimulate the trigeminal nerve and an attachment portion to secure the energy source in a mouth in proximity to the tooth. Stimulating the trigeminal nerve in this manner has been experimentally shown to induce and/or enhance relaxation and/or sleep without the adverse side effects associated with traditional drug therapies. In one embodiment, the apparatus can be realized as a “cap” having two legs that engage opposing sides of a tooth and a bridge portion spanning the occlusal surface of the tooth to link the legs.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a lead electrode assembly for subcutaneous implantation including an electrode; a riser coupled to the electrode; and a head coupled to the riser.

Abstract: An electrode system is provided that generates a current flow that envelops and permeates an entire wound site. The electrode system includes two electrodes that are shaped and oriented to cause the current to flow from one electrode through the wound to the other electrode. A first electrode is applied to the wound site and the second electrode encircles the first electrode and is applied to the skin surrounding the wound cite. The two electrodes may be mounted to an oxygen-permeable layer that provides support for the electrodes and allows the wound site to breathe. An electrically insulative element may be disposed between the two electrodes. A power supply, which may be local to or remote from the electrode system, is provided for applying a voltage potential across the electrodes. In another suitable embodiment, the two electrodes are comprised of oppositely charged polymers.

Abstract: An apparatus for piercing a skin surface, and methods for operating and manufacturing such an apparatus. In one embodiment, the apparatus can include a support housing having an engaging surface to engage the skin surface. A releasable attachment member can releasably secure the housing to the skin surface, for example, with an adhesive bond. A stop member can operatively engage a percutaneous probe of the apparatus to at least restrict the ability of the probe to be re-used.

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.

Abstract: A method for applying variable electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) to an exercising person includes a belt having a plurality of electrodes placed around the abdomen at the rectus abdominis and obliques. The person then gets into an exercise apparatus which has a rotatable component. Attached to the rotatable component is a transducer that senses the position of the component. An EMS generator is connected to the belt through the transducer. As the user exercises in a first direction, increasing stimulation is applied to the subject muscles. As the user moves the rotatable component in the opposite direction, decreasing stimulation is applied to the user. In an alternative embodiment, the belt has at least one pair of electrodes connected to a common adjustment control so that as the voltage increases to one of the electrodes, it decreases to the other electrode of the pair, and vice versa. A toggle switch makes possible the selection of a particular pair.

Abstract: Systems for RF diathermy treatment are described. An apparatus includes an RF diathermy coil assembly, comprising: an elastically deformable garment; and a conductive coil assembly secured to the garment, including: a primary winding; and a secondary winding coupled to the primary winding, the primary winding and the secondary winding being configured to optimize an impedance match between the conductive coil and an RF power source connected to the conductive coil.

Abstract: A compress garment for application to a body generally includes a member sized and shaped for positioning onto a body when in position conforms to and supports a body shape. A least one, preferably a multiple number of access windows disposed in the garment member for enabling dermal application and removal of a medical electrode. The access windows are located on the garment member at positions enabling access to pre-selected dermal areas.

Abstract: The method and apparatus for balancing the electric potential of a human body takes advantage of pressing to arouse the force and latent power of self-treatment by electric current of the human body. The method mainly is done by pressing the abdomen and the buttocks to make the human body generate regular respiration whereby positive and negative ions in the nature are absorbed and delivered by the blood and the nerve system for circulation to make complement and get a balanced effect with the positive and negative ions in the cell tissues in the nerve system of the human body. The apparatus is provided mainly on a base with massage mechanisms, by pressing the vital points on the abdomen and the buttocks periodically for predetermined times with the massage mechanisms, and by the images shown, the user can totally pay attention to the area where the electric current flows through to promote balancing of the positive and negative ions to get the effect of removing diseases and making good health.

Abstract: An electronic stimulator for delivery of energy to a treated body portion through a garment or other form of electrode, and a method of treatment using said stimulator. A connector strap comprising diode bridge circuitry maintains proper polarity on the electrodes regardless of the orientation of connection between the stimulator and the electrode.

Abstract: A surface electrode for long-term electrical communication with a skin surface of a patient, the surface electrode including: (a) a highly-conductive foil, for operatively connecting to a power source, for communication of an electrical signal between the highly-conductive foil and the skin surface of the patient, and (b) a securing arrangement for securing the highly-conductive foil to the skin surface, wherein the foil has a plurality of macroscopic air-permeable regions for fluid communication of air with the skin surface, and wherein the plurality of macroscopic air-permeable regions has a first surface area, the foil has a second surface area, and a ratio of the first surface area to the second surface area is at least 0.1.

Abstract: A surface neuroprosthetic device for functional electrical stimulation (FES) having an internal cushion interface system, and a method of using the device including: (a) an at least semi-rigid exoskeleton shell for covering at least a portion of a limb; (b) at least one cushion interface disposed between the shell and the limb, the cushion interface being directly attached to the shell, and (c) at least one electrical stimulation electrode associated with, and supported by, the cushion interface, wherein the cushion interface is configured to transfer pressure from the shell to the electrode, so as to provide electrical contact between the electrode and a skin surface of the limb, thereby effecting functional electrical stimulation of at least one muscle of the limb.

Abstract: A sensor device in the form of a substantially flat package for receiving and transmitting signals, to be monitored and/or recorded, comprising, in combination a first layer in the form of an annulus having an undersurface to adhere to the skin of a patient; a second layer in the form of a conductive sensing layer peripherally bounded by the first layer and having an undersurface adapted for contact with the skin of the patient; a conductive terminal extending above the second layer in adjacent and conductive relation therewith; a protector extending in shallow dome configuration over the first and second layers and over the terminal; and a conductive lead extending over edges defined by the first and second terminals, and under the protector, for protected contact with the terminal, and to transmit signals for monitoring or recording.

Abstract: An electrokinetic delivery system for personal use in self-administration of a medicament to a treatment site on an individual includes a device shaped to conform with the shape of a portion of an individual's finger from a tip thereof to a location past the first finger joint. A self-contained power source is carried by the device and a first electrode is carried by the device adjacent a distal end portion thereof and the tip of the individual's finger. The first electrode is in electrical contact with the power source. A second electrode is carried by the device for contact with the individual's finger. The second electrode is in electrical contact with the power source.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation device method provides for exact repeatable positioning of stimulation pads onto a body part. The device includes a flexible member for contacting a body part and hook/loop members for tightly supporting the flexible member against the body part. At least one electrical bus is provided which may include a connector for enabling connection of the bus to an electrical lead wire and an electrical contact disposed on the inside of the flexible member. A conductive pad is provided which has dimensions substantially smaller than the dimensions of the flexible member and includes a cover adhesive layer for removably adhering the conductive pad to the flexible member inside with a first side of the cover layer covering the bus contact and an electrical communication therewith. A current controlling media is adhered to a second side of the cover layer and a base layer disposed on the current controlling media is provided for removably adhering the conductive pad to the body part.

Abstract: An electro-acupuncture device for controlling nausea. The device includes a wristwatch like housing, circuitry for generating electro-acupuncture stimulus disposed within the housing, and a strap for securing the housing to the wrist. The device also includes a pair of D-shaped electrodes disposed on the bottom outer surface of the housing. A gasket made of an electrically non-conductive material is applied to the bottom outer surface of the housing. The gasket has apertures which are sized and shaped to receive the D-shaped electrodes. When the device is strapped to a patient's wrist, the electrodes contact the wrist and provide electric stimulation to the wrist.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation device method provides for exact repeatable positioning of stimulation pads onto a body part. The device includes a flexible member for contacting a body part and hook/loop members for tightly supporting the flexible member against the body part. At least one electrical bus is provided which may include a connector for enabling connection of the bus to an electrical lead wire and an electrical contact disposed on the inside of the flexible member. A conductive pad is provided which has dimensions substantially smaller than the dimensions of the flexible member and includes a cover adhesive layer for removably adhering the conductive pad to the flexible member inside with a first side of the cover layer covering the bus contact and an electrical communication therewith. A current controlling media is adhered to a second side of the cover layer and a base layer disposed on the current controlling media is provided for removably adhering the conductive pad to the body part.

Abstract: Bone screw (10a) having a hollow, tubular shaft (12a) consisting of metal, such as titanium, the shaft having a head (14a) at one end and a self-tapping external thread (18a) at the other end. The head (14a) has a hexagonal recess (16a) for inserting a turning tool. An electrically insulated metallic end-piece (20a) which tapers in the direction of the end in the form of a cone or pointed arch, is inserted the other end of the shaft (12a). A receiving coil (30a) is located in the hollow shaft (12a), the terminals (36a, 38a) of the coil being electrically coupled to the shaft (12a) and to the end-piece (20a). The space between the end-piece (20a) and the end of the shaft (12a) as well as the interior of the shaft (12a) are filled with a biocompatible insulating compound (26a), such as an epoxy resin. A low-frequency electric voltage can be induced in the receiving coil by an external primary coil which is coupled to an oscillation generator.

Abstract: A joint protector includes a band surrounding a human body and having an inner side and an outer side. A power supplier is securely attached to the outer side of the band. A flexible heating pad is attached to the inner side of the band and electrically connected to the power supplier. The flexible heating pad provides heat energy to warm the user's skin and reduce pain due to the electric resistance of the flexible heating pad. An inner layer is securely adhered on the inner side of the band for covering the flexible heating pad.

Abstract: A device for attaching at least three electrodes to a subject for stimulating abdominal muscles of the subject. The device comprises an attachment mechanism that further comprises a main locating element for locating a central electrode of the at least three electrodes, and two secondary locating elements disposed on respective opposite sides of the main locating element for locating two corresponding side electrodes of the at least three electrodes spaced apart from the central electrode. A receiver is also provided for receiving a signal generated by a signal generator for generating at least one pulsed signal. A selector is also provided for selecting one or more of the electrodes through which a pulsed signal is to be applied.

Abstract: The present invention involves an electrode sensor attachable to a substrate for sensing electrical activity of a patient. The electrode sensor comprises an elongated conductive body having first and second ends, wherein the first end is adapted to contact the patient for sensing electrical activity of the patient. The second end is configured to conductively attach to the substrate. The elongated conductive body is greater than about 2 millimeters in length and is configured to extend from the substrate.

Abstract: A reliable, self-contained iontophoretic drug delivery system is disclosed which enjoys a long stable shelf life and which is easy for the user to activate and employ. This system includes a wearable iontophoretic device that is prepackaged as a complete self-contained unit which includes the active species or drug to be administered and counter ions. The system includes a provision for isolating moisture sources from the electrodes and from the power source during storage and provides a simple, user-friendly mechanism to connect the drug to be administered and counter ion reservoirs to the electrodes and the device to the skin of a user in order to activate the device circuit. All elements of the device are contained in a single outer package.

Abstract: An RF diathermy coil assembly, including a generally elastically deformable patient conforming garment and a conductive coil secured to the garment. The conductive coil having a woven wire construction such that the coil can deform as the garment elastically deforms. The RF diathermy coil assembly can be used for wound healing in conjunction with muscle stimulation.

Abstract: A non-polarizable, silver/silver chloride biomedical electrode that is protected against corrosion during its shelf life by an organic corrosion retarding agent, preferably selected from the group consisting of mercaptans and azoles.

Abstract: A unitary electrode mounting and packaging system for roughening the skin of a patient and applying an electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring electrode to the skin in a single step. A sheet of a thin plastic material is folded over itself to form a U-shaped carrier having an upper panel connected to a lower panel by the fold. The upper panel supports an electrode and an amount of an electrically conductive gel in a pocket that is covered by the electrode. The lower panel includes an abrasive or roughened material on the bottom surface of the lower panel opposite the electrode. To place the electrode on the skin, the carrier is positioned against the skin of a patient such that the roughened material contacts the skin and pressure is applied downwardly on the electrode. A tab connected to the lower panel then is grasped and pulled by an individual such that the roughened material abrades the skin beneath the carrier to clear the portion of the skin located beneath the electrode.

Abstract: A medical electrode for obtaining biopotentials from the skin of a subject or electrically stimulating the subject's skin and deeper tissue layers. The electrode has a carrier base member from which project a plurality of spikes arranged in an array on one surface of the base member. The spikes are sufficiently long to penetrate through the stratum corneum into the stratum germinativum of the subject's skin. The spikes may be formed by a deep reactive ion etching process on a silicon wafer forming the base member. A fluid container may be formed on another surface of the skin for providing a drug to the surface of the skin through holes in the base member. The action of the spikes on the skin enhances administration of the drug.

Abstract: An electromagnetic stimulation device which is comprised of a plurality of overlapping coils which are able to be independently energized in a predetermined sequence such that each coil will generate its own independent electromagnetic field and significantly increase the adjacent field. The coils are co-planar and are disposed in an ergonomic body wrap, which is properly marked to permit an unskilled patient to locate the body wrap, on a particular part of the body, of the patient so that the stimulation coils will maximize the electromagnetic stimulation on the selected nerves, muscles, and/or body tissues near the treated area. The device can be used to treat medical conditions including: muscular atrophy, neuropathic bladder and bowel, musculoskeletal pain, arthritis, as well as possible future applications in the prevention of deep vein thrombosis and weight reduction.

Abstract: An apparatus that aids in the loss of weight through the reduction of fatty body tissues. The apparatus is preferably in a garment configuration, provides electrically conducting portions and insulating portions configured in such a way that the potential of electrochemical signal messaging system in the patient's body is altered. The re-directed currents trigger a release of stored fatty tissues, and a reduction of weight. The electrically conductive portions are configured and provided in a manner that permits safe and effective use. The device may be sold and marketed as a weight reduction or muscle building apparatus.

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.

Abstract: A biological electrode includes an electrode element having electroconductivity with respect to a living body, the biological electrode used by disposing said electrode element at a predetermined position, and the electrode element being made of biodegradable material.

Abstract: A medical electrode includes a first conductive polymerizable gel layer for electrically coupling the electrode to a body and a flexible porous electrical conductor disposed on the first gel layer. A second conductive polymerizable gel layer disposed on the flexible porous electrical conductor and polymerized with the first layer through the porous conductor. An electrical connector disposed in connect with the second gel layer enables the electrical connection to an outside power source, or monitoring device, and an insulative backing is adhered to the second gel layer to prevent inadvertent contact therewith.

Abstract: There is provided a skin engageable, electrode assembly for making selectable contact with the skin. The electrode facilitates the selective collection of electrical data and/or provides selective electrical stimulation. The electrode includes a conductive element, preferably of fabric construction, a semi-fluid conductive layer surrounding the conductive element, a cover preferably made of a perforated fabric or other porous material cell, and one or more temperature sensitive wires embedded in the cover that constrict when heated to cause the semi-liquid conductive layer to permeate the cover via the pores to engage the skin for electrical communication. When the wires cool, they loosen causing the semi-fluid conductive layer to be reabsorbed within the cover to prevent electrical communication with the skin.

Abstract: An electro-acupuncture device for controlling nausea. The device includes a base unit which is includes a wrist-watch like housing, circuitry for generating electro-acupuncture stimulus disposed within the housing, and a strap for securing the housing to the wrist. The base unit has a standardized construction. The device also includes a releasably attachable electrode assembly. The electrode assembly attaches to the base unit of the device. The electrode assembly includes a pair of electrodes and connectors for connecting the electrodes to the circuitry of the base unit. The output of the device is dependent upon the circuitry of the electrode assembly. Thus various electrode assemblies can be made. The circuitry of the base unit modifies the output of the device depending upon which electrode assembly is attached to the base unit.

Abstract: An apparatus for piercing a skin surface, and methods for operating and manufacturing such an apparatus. In one embodiment, the apparatus can include a support housing having an engaging surface to engage the skin surface. A releasable attachment member can releasably secure the housing to the skin surface, for example, with an adhesive bond. A stop member can operatively engage a percutaneous probe of the apparatus to at least restrict the ability of the probe to be re-used.

Abstract: An electrode system is provided that generates a current flow that envelops and permeates an entire wound site. The electrode system includes two electrodes that are shaped and oriented to cause the current to flow from one electrode through the wound to the other electrode. A first electrode is applied to the wound site and the second electrode encircles the first electrode and is applied to the skin surrounding the wound cite. The two electrodes may be mounted to an oxygen-permeable layer that provides support for the electrodes and allows the wound site to breathe. An electrically insulative element may be disposed between the two electrodes. A power supply, which may be local to or remote from the electrode system, is provided for applying a voltage potential across the electrodes. In another suitable embodiment, the two electrodes are comprised of oppositely charged polymers.

Abstract: A probe insertable into a body cavity for applying an electrical stimulation to tissue therein includes a flexible hollow member of biocompatible material to enable the member to be inserted into the body cavity and to substantially conform to its inner surface, and thereby, to contact the tissue therein to be stimulated. A portion of the outer surface of the hollow member is electrically conductive to enable an electrical voltage to be applied thereto for electrically stimulating the tissue within the body cavity contacted by the electrically conductive surface. The probe may also include a transparent section and an optical sensor, such as an oximeter, for optically examining tissues within the body cavity.

Abstract: An electrode for acquiring bioelectrical signals employs an array of spikes that penetrate the viable epidermis layer of the skin of a patient. The spikes may be conductive to provide the bioelectrical signal. Or, the spikes may extend through a conductive layer that provides the bioelectrical signal. The signal obtained from the patient may be amplified using an amplifier and battery circuit present on the electrode body. The electrode may be used with or without conductive paste or gel.

Abstract: A support garment for an external wearable defibrillator provides support for and proper positioning of monitoring electrodes and/or therapy electrodes and associated cabling, and can require less than 1.5 pounds of tension to maintain contact between the monitoring electrodes and the patient's skin. The garment may be fabricated in a range of sizes, provide for customized fitting to each patient, and can be made from a washable material that is comfortable for long-term wear and which incorporates electrically conductive cloth to provide a more comfortable electrical connection between the therapy electrodes and the patient's skin.

Abstract: The present invention is a device that allows electrical stimulation to an anatomical site that is covered by a cast. The electrode is applied to achieve a desired physiological response (e.g., bone growth), treatment of pain, or the prevention of muscle atrophy.

Abstract: An electric therapeutic device having easy operability and improved therapy effects for treating the affected part of a user with electric current flowing from a conductor (3) attached to the affected part, including a hot water or cold water circulator (4) for circulating hot or cold water in the conductor (3).