Abstract: An actuator delivers mechanical vibrations to the body of a subject. The actuator includes a piezoelectric element, electrodes in electrical communication with an electrical source and the piezoelectric element to drive the piezoelectric element, a polymeric protective layer encapsulating the piezoelectric element and part of the electrodes, and an enclosure attached to the protective layer. The actuator includes a space between the protective layer and the enclosure allowing desired modes of vibration to develop across a surface of the protective layer that encapsulated the piezoelectric element. The actuator can include a skin attachment article that has a mounting pad for attaching to the skin of the subject and for attaching the actuator. The skin attachment article has a cover that overlies the actuator and the mounting pad when the article is attached to the skin of the subject.

Abstract: An actuator is disclosed for delivering mechanical vibrations to the body of a subject. The actuator includes a piezoelectric element, electrodes in electrical or wireless communication with an electrical source and the piezoelectric element to drive the piezoelectric element, a polymeric protective layer encapsulating the piezoelectric element and at least part of the electrodes, and an enclosure attached to the protective layer and defining a space between the protective layer and the enclosure allowing desired modes of vibration to develop across a surface of the protective layer that encapsulated the piezoelectric element. The actuator can include a skin attachment article having a mounting pad for attaching to the skin of the subject and for attaching the actuator and having a cover that overlies the actuator and the mounting pad when the article is attached to the skin of the subject.

Abstract: A device for manipulating circulation in the circulatory system of the body of a subject is disclosed. The device includes a flexible support dimensioned for covering a section of the body of the subject, a vibration inducing element embedded in or attached to the support. The support includes a patch and an attachment layer on the patch. The attachment layer includes a biocompatible adhesive suitable for attaching the patch to skin on the section of the body of the subject. The vibration inducing element is positioned in or on the support such that the vibration inducing element can transmit vibrations to the skin when the patch is adhered to the skin on the section of the body of the subject.