Abstract: A bi-level tank includes a transfer tank and a return tank containing a volume of water, including transfer and return components in the transfer and return tanks, respectively, and a transition component. A bellows couples an upper surface of a piston in the transfer tank to the return component that exerts pressure on the upper surface, while a lower surface of the piston is under pressure from a pressured fluid supplied by a source thereof, producing a pressure differential on the piston. Actuation of a force-applying mechanism on the piston sufficient to overcome the pressure differential displaces the piston for exchanging respective volumes of the return component and the fluid from the source. An extensible and retractable constant-volume boot holds the transition component around the bellows and has valves configured to open and close for equalizing pressure between the boot and the transfer tank.

Abstract: Techniques for dynamic visualization of data are provided. A plurality of therapies is received, where each of the plurality of therapies is associated with a respective plurality of guidelines. A guideline tree is generated based on the plurality of therapies, where each leaf node in the guideline tree represents a respective therapy, and where each edge in the guideline tree represents a respective guideline. A visual depiction of the guideline tree is generated. Further, a first plurality of attributes associated with a first patient is received, and a first modified visual depiction of the guideline tree is generated based on the first plurality of attributes.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a haptic system of rotating cylindrical shafts topped with caps to create a virtual sensation of Braille text by integrating a microprocessor with microdrive motors. The micro drive's shafts are crowned with plastic cylindrical caps, the top face of which are precisely flush or level with the device's display surface thereby emulating the standard diameter and feel of a Braille dot or Braille space in two dimensions. It is the rotation of the drive's shaft that spins the caps and simulates the sensation of a Braille dot that is felt with the fingertips. This sensation of a two dimensional rotating dot is the result of the top face of the capped shafts positioned flush with the device's display surface. Motors that alternate between rotating shafts and shafts at rest produce Braille cell dots and spaces, respectively.

Abstract: A wearable ultraviolet light phototherapy device is disclosed. The wearable ultraviolet light phototherapy device can have a substrate or a housing that is to be worn on a body part of a patient. At least one ultraviolet light emitting source located about the substrate or housing can deliver ultraviolet radiation into the body part of the patient. A control module can control operation of the at least one ultraviolet light emitting source. To this extent, the control module can direct the at least one ultraviolet light emitting source to deliver a predetermined amount of ultraviolet radiation at a peak wavelength into the body part of a patient. The control module can determine the predetermined amount of ultraviolet radiation as a function of the patient's susceptibility to ultraviolet radiation.

Abstract: The system includes an instrument for determining the anatomical, biomechanical, and physiological properties of a body segment that includes one or more force sensitive probes is provided. A human operator actuates one or more force sensitive probes, wherein the force sensitive probes are positioned at the surface of the body segment. The operator pushes on the force sensitive probes with varying force applied on the body segment to measure tissue deflection forces. The instrument may include one or more of gyroscopes, accelerometers, and magnetometers capable of measuring changes in tissue deflection caused by the force sensitive probes relative to a grounded reference frame in 3-D space, wherein the tissue deflection force data and the change in tissue deflection data are used to compute segment tissue viscoelastic properties. The instrument may also be untethered or wireless.

Abstract: An improved pressure sensory threshold testing instrument comprised of a filamentous testing element (132) mounted on a head member (102) that is pivotally attached to a handle member (100) with a nonelectrical power assist pivot mechanism. The power assist pivot mechanism aids in actively biasing the head member (102) into either an open, testing position or a closed, storage position. The power assist mechanism and geometry resist accidental opening that could expose and damage the filament. The design facilitates one-handed operation with no change in grasp needed throughout the whole process of retrieval, testing, and storage. This singular grasp allows for increased ease and efficiency of the testing procedure. The configuration speeds the testing process while protecting the filament more securely in an instrument that is portable in a pocket. The design also minimizes the potentially threatening appearance of this type of medical testing device.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for neurologic vibratory sense evaluation includes a vibration article configured to attach to a body part of a patient under evaluation, the vibration article comprising a vibration element configured to vibrate against the body part, a control module configured to control an amplitude of vibrations generated by the vibration element, and a patient input device configured to enable a patient to start and stop an evaluation session, wherein starting the session in a first mode of operation causes the vibration element to initially vibrate at a relatively high amplitude that gradually decreases and wherein starting the session in a second mode of operation causes the vibration element to initially vibrate at a relatively low amplitude that gradually increases.

Abstract: Disclosed is a temperature providing device including a housing body, a plurality of temperature transmitters transmitting different temperatures to an outside of the housing body, and a temperature adjusting unit adjusting a temperature of each of the plurality of temperature transmitters.

Abstract: A bathtub (1) which comprises: —a main body (2) having side walls (22, 22a, 22b), at least one of which presents an inner surface provided with guide means (3); —supporting means (4) engaged with guide means (3) and configured for supporting at least a portion of user's body in order to allow, in use, simulating user flotation.

Abstract: Provided is a pain detecting method including obtaining an electric signal from applied pressure and heat by using a sensor unit including a material exhibiting both the piezoelectric characteristic and the thermoelectric characteristic; separating a pressure signal generated by the pressure and a heat signal generated by the heat from the obtained electric signal; determining whether to generate pain data from each of the pressure signal and the heat signal; and outputting the pain data.

Abstract: A device and method for the treatment of a patient by means of manual therapy through a hand held device along with simultaneous thermal treatment and electrical stimulation. The device is comprised of a handle with a finger grip, a shaft with removable applicator tips that can be heated or cooled as necessary. An electrical connection on the device handle allows for the incorporation of commercially available transcutaneous electrical stimulation units with the device to provide electrical stimulation in combination with manual and thermal therapy.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for the mechanical detection of a specific underlying tissue in a subject, comprising a container, wherein the container comprises a probe, spring, sensor, and signal indicator, wherein when a mechanical force is applied to the probe, it is transmitted to the sensor, whereby the sensor provides the signal indicator with a signal and the signal indicator indicates to the user an indication of detection of the specific underlying tissue in the subject. The sensor of the invention can be an electrical sensor such as a piezoelectric force transducer or a balloon. The invention also provides a method of performing a cricothyrotomy using the device.

Abstract: A processor-controlled, energy-based therapy apparatus includes a pressure wave therapy device configured to provide therapeutic acoustic pulses to a patient and a processor that controls the output of the device. The pressure wave therapy device may include a control unit configured to control the pressure wave therapy device to deliver a treatment program, the treatment program comprising a plurality of acoustic pulses, each acoustic pulse comprising a pressure, the control unit including a memory storing patient-specific treatment information relating to a pain threshold of the patient; and a pain threshold indicator coupled to the control unit, the pain threshold indicator operable by the patient to provide an indication to the control unit of when a patient's pain threshold has been reached because an energy level delivered to the patient is unbearable.

Abstract: A method and a device for diagnosing brain injury (e.g. concussion) based on analysis of electromyogram (EMG) signals and presence of neurological modulation impairment of motor activity are described. The method consists of recording specific EMG signals under defined conditions, processing the acquired EMG signals, extracting the relevant information, and making diagnosis of brain injury and disorders that are associated with brain pathology. Specifically, the steps and device involved in the method include placing an EMG electrode set on the subject's body area, acquiring EMG signals from a subject's muscle(s) undergoing contraction, processing the acquired EMG signals using a signal processing algorithm that includes Fourier transformation. The resulting EMG data with a frequency domain (frequency power spectra) are then analyzed in comparison with databases stored in the device and used to determine anomaly of diagnostic value in the EMG power spectra from subjects.

Abstract: A manometric probe, comprising: a main body (2) provided with a longitudinal axis (X); an extensible membrane (3) sealingly associated to at least two annular areas of the main body (2) so as to delimit a chamber (4) external to the main body (2); feed means (51,52) arranged so as to enable feeding of a fluid inside the chamber (4).

Abstract: A method of massaging allows a user to use a massage tool to selectively apply pressure to an arm or leg. The massage tool includes a body having a curved surface, a strap and a handle. In the method, the strap is placed around the arm or leg, the strap is tightened, and a handle attached to the tool is moved. As a result of this method, the force of the curved surface of the tool may be accurately adjusted to provide for the release of tension in specific muscles.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the diagnosis of chronic pain are disclosed. An algometer comprising a pressure sensor and electrode is disclosed. The algometer may be used to measure pressure applied by a clinician at a location on a patient's body, along with EMG signals emanating from the same location of the patient. Further, a pain trigger operable by the patient may be used in coordination with the algometer. Data from the algometer and pain trigger are transmitted to a computing device and display for rendering and analysis of patient data, leading to improved diagnosis.

Abstract: Disclosed is a medical device, including: a therapeutic component adapted to provide therapeutic functionality while in therapeutic mode and further adapted to enter a device sleep mode (DSM), an accelerometer configured to identify a movement characterization of the therapeutic component and a movement analysis module (MAM) configured to receive the movement characterization from the accelerometer and determine a malfunction parameter wherein the MAM is operable while the therapeutic component is in the DSM.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for quantitatively assessing mental states and/or characteristics of an individual. Specific mental states and/or characteristics, or properties thereof may, in some embodiments, be associated with one or more stimuli. In some embodiments, such stimuli may be administered to an individual, whereupon the individual's responses are usable to determine one or more aspects of the individual's mental affect. Some of the disclosed methods and systems are based at least in part on computerized and computer-associated devices.

Abstract: An implantable pulse generator includes a current steering capability that allows a clinician or patient to quickly determine a desired electrode stimulation pattern, including which electrodes of a group of electrodes within an electrode array should receive a stimulation current, including the amplitude, width and pulse repetition rate of such current. Movement of the selected group of electrodes is facilitated through the use of remotely generated directional signals, generated by a pointing device, such as a joystick. As movement of the selected group of electrodes occurs, current redistribution amongst the various electrode contacts takes place. The redistribution of stimulus amplitudes utilizes re-normalization of amplitudes so that the perceptual level remains fairly constant. This prevents the resulting paresthesia from falling below the perceptual threshold or above the comfort threshold.

Abstract: The present invention teaches a system for the automated palpation testing of a patient, including the use of a robotic device with a actuating element thereto. The system is useful for testing patients at risk of nerve degradation, such as diabetic sufferers. The system includes a controller for programming the robotic device to administer the test in a particular pattern, and a storage medium for storing the results of the test. The system allows a more accurate determination of the stage of nerve degradation, as well as being more standardized because of the inclusion of automation technology.

Abstract: A method for evaluating pain experienced by a human is disclosed. The method includes applying a first noxious stimulus to a normative site on the human, wherein the first noxious stimulus is applied below a pain threshold of the human and logging a first information associated with the first noxious stimulus. The method further includes applying a second noxious stimulus to a source of the pain in the human, wherein the second noxious stimulus is applied until pain threshold is reached and logging a second information associated with the second noxious stimulus. The method further includes increasing the second noxious stimulus until pain tolerance is reached and logging a third information associated with the second noxious stimulus. The method further includes continuing to apply the second noxious stimulus until the human can no longer tolerate the second noxious stimulus and logging a fourth information associated with the second noxious stimulus.

Abstract: A force transducer comprises a handle operably connected to a probe having an elongate tip. The force transducer includes a biasing element arranged with respect to the handle, in force transmitting communication with the probe, and a detector operable to detect a degree of force applied between the probe and the handle. The force transducer further includes an actuator operable to exert a force on the biasing element in dependence upon the degree of force detected by the detector so as to cause a predetermined force to be transmitted from the handle to the probe.

Abstract: A rodent enclosure dimensioned in length, width and height so as to allow a rodent to run freely along the length of the enclosure, but not turn around without standing on its hind legs. The enclosure has a floor with bars extending transversely to allow access for a force sensor's probe from below. A force measurement device for use with the rodent enclosure to measure the tactile response of a rodent comprising a measurement probe connected to a device body. The probe has a tip which can be engaged with a rodent's paw through the floor of the enclosure. The device body has a fixed body part and a rotatable body part arranged to allow relative rotation between them. A rotation sensor detects the relative rotation and outputs a measurement parameter having values that are calibrated against force values associated with forces applied to the probe's tip.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method and system for stimulating and monitoring intensity of pain experienced by one or more users. The method includes measuring the intensity of pain experienced by the one or more users on a pre-determined scale and augmented chart or physician's personal assessment using a plurality of one or more bio-markers, determining co-relation between the plurality of one or more bio-markers and the intensity of pain experienced by the one or more users, refining the co-relation between the plurality of one or more bio-markers and the intensity of pain experienced by the one or more users by learning from responses of one or more similar users, generating a pain profile for each of the one or more users and utilizing the learned information and the generated profile for monitoring, evaluating and treating the one or more users.

Abstract: A therapeutic patch for treating pain capable of compressing a tender area up to a boundary thereof and/or an entire induration with metallic grains or crushed stones by a treatment method in accordance with a classification determined after clarifying a site of pain by pressing a skin with a pressing bar or fingers (first to fourth fingers) to classify the cause of pain, thereby finding the presence of a geographical tender area and/or the presence of an induration on a skin as the cause of pain.

Abstract: Testing instruments having a handle with a first handle portion that is substantially linear and a second handle portion wherein the handle is not substantially linear, a first monofilament, and a second monofilament wherein the first monofilament detachably connects to the second handle portion and wherein the second monofilament detachably connects to the second handle portion are disclosed herein. Further, methods of evaluating cutaneous sensory detection in which an instrument is held with a digit proximate to a position indicator, a skin area is contacted with a monofilament, sufficient pressure is applied to flex the monofilament, and the monofilament is withdrawn from the skin area.

Abstract: Methods of reducing or abolishing neuropathic pain in humans and animals are discussed. In some examples administration of the apoptosis inhibitor taurours-odeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), greatly reduced both neuronal loss and the increase in glia, and partially reversed spinal nerve ligation (SNL)-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. Among RVM neurons, serotonergic (5-HT) neurons decreased by 35% ipsilateral to SNL. In some examples, the density of 5-HT immunoreactive varicosities in the superficial dorsal horn of the spinal cord was lower ipsilateral to SNL. The RVM 5-HT neurons that remained after SNL appeared to facilitate nociception. When rats that had undergone SNL were treated with the 5-HT neurotoxin, 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT), mechanical withdrawal thresholds increased significantly. In some examples nerve injury induces death of antinociceptive RVM neurons which can be reduced or abolished by TUDCA.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for measuring muscle reflexes (e.g., a bulbocavernosus reflex) as a tool for identifying/diagnosing dysfunctions (e.g., spinal cord abnormalities, bladder voiding dysfunction, and sexual organ dysfunction) non-invasively by using mechanical stimulation. The system and method includes a probe having a predetermined patient contacting portion, wherein when the contacting portion is moved into contact with a particular area of the patient (e.g., the patient's genitals), the contact induces a muscle reflex. The probe detects the pressure resulting from the contacting portion being abruptly and forcibly brought into contact with the particular area. Such detection is used to electronically initiate capture of electrical responses from a plurality of electrodes placed on the patient's skin in proximity to the particular area. Such electrical responses are processed to determine characteristics of the patient's reflexes of one or more muscles adjacent to the electrodes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for utilizing the benefits of encoded signal transmission and reception to enhance the performance of medical testing devices (100) adapted to evoke and measure biological response signals such as auditory evoked potentials (AEP), and the auditory brainstem response (ABR) signals in particular. Auditory stimuli, such as clicks, are presented to the ear of a human patient, in a predetermined encoded sequence, resulting in the generation of auditory responses and bio-electric response signals in the human patient. These response signals from the patient are acquired and observed, and are processed according to the predetermined encoded sequence in which the auditory stimuli were presented to the patient's ear in order to extract the desired auditory evoked potential signals or ABR signals.

Abstract: A sleeve is provided for determining the location and severity of joint pain in a patient. The sleeve includes sensors in communication with a display device that allow for areas of pain to be quickly and accurately determined. Methods of utilizing the sleeve are also disclosed.

Abstract: A hand-held neuroscreening device includes an elongate handle having a first end, a second end, and longitudinal axis extending therethrough between the first end and the second end. A head portion is fixedly attached to the first end of the handle. The head portion has a longitudinal axis, a fixed temperature surface extending in a first plane oblique to the head portion longitudinal axis, and a variable temperature surface extending in a second plane oblique to the first plane. A method of using the device is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for monitoring the autonomous nervous system of a sedated patient. The method comprises steps of providing a skin conductance signal measured at an area of the patient's skin through a measurement interval, calculating a characteristic of said skin conductance signal, establishing a first output signal indicating the state of pain or discomfort in the patient, and a second output signal indicating the state of awakening in the patient, based on said characteristic of said skin conductance signal. The calculating of the signal characteristic comprises calculating a value representative of a statistical dispersion, e.g., the standard deviation, of the values of the skin conductance signal through the measurement interval.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlled modulation of physiological and pathological neuronal rhythmic activity in the brain by means of sensory stimulation, which is capable of diagnostically ascertaining functional disorders in the brain and of alleviating or eliminating the symptoms of a functional disruption. According to the invention, the method comprises generating a plurality of pulses at a plurality of excitation frequencies, respectively, to stimulate neuronal rhythmic activity in a patient's brain; measuring the neuronal rhythmic activity in response to the pulses; determining an excitation frequency in which the measured neuronal rhythmic activity has a maximum amplitude of pathological rhythm; generating an entraining periodic pulse sequence operating at the excitation frequency; and generating a desynchronization pulse following the entraining periodic pulse sequence to desynchronize the neuronal rhythmic activity, where the pulse are either visual or acoustic or tactile.

Abstract: A generally cylindrical housing has proximal and distal ends and is formed with a length and a diameter. A cylindrical recess is formed in the proximal end. The cylindrical recess has an interior shoulder. A cone is formed at the distal end. An axial passageway extends though the cone. A hollow interior is in the housing forming a chamber in communication with the axial passageway. A cylindrical identifying component is positioned within the recess in contact with the shoulder. A marking component is positioned within the axial passageway and has an extent projecting distally of the distal end. A marking fluid is located within the chamber.

Abstract: The present disclosure involves an electronic device. The electronic device is configured to perform evaluations on a patient user for medical purposes. The electronic device includes a touchscreen display configured to receive input from the user. The electronic device includes a memory storage component configured to store programming code. The electronic device includes a computer processor configured to execute the programming code to perform an evaluation of the user's mental and physical abilities. The evaluation includes prompting the user to perform a plurality of tasks. At least one of the tasks prompts the user to manipulate one or more graphical models shown on the touchscreen display according to predefined instructions. The evaluation includes detecting, via the touchscreen display, responses from the user for the tasks. The evaluation includes determining, based on the detected responses, whether the user is mentally and physically fit to provide reliable feedback to medical personnel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hand-held instrument used in the assessment of cutaneous tactile sensation. The device consists of a shape memory alloy wire with selected bending force rating and an integral force indicator mechanism. The force indicator is comprised of a wire attachment means, spring-mounted battery and a light source. A hand-held instrument used in the assessment of cutaneous tactile sensation, specifically the ability to discriminate between sharp and dull stimuli, is disclosed. The device consists of two handle-mounted monofilaments with calibrated bending force ratings; one terminating in a sharp tip, the other in a dull tip. Users apply each monofilament separately to the skin thereby transmitting either a sharp or dull stimuli at a specific force. The accuracy of feedback to these stimuli will alert users to the presence or absence of protective sensation. Methods of use and kits are also disclosed.

Abstract: A neuropathy diagnostic device includes a body having a neutral temperature surface disposed on an exterior of the body, a variable temperature surface disposed on the exterior of the body, and a vibrating surface having a variable vibration amplitude. The vibrating surface extends outwardly from the body. A touch sensor extends outwardly from the body. A processor is disposed within the body. The processor is adapted to set a temperature of the neutral temperature surface, vary a temperature of the variable temperature surface, and vary the vibration amplitude of the vibrating surface.

Abstract: A palpometer device (10, 110) for assisting an examiner to evaluate deep pain sensitivity in a patient which includes a housing (12, 112) supporting an axially displaceable spring-biased probe (14, 114) having a proximal end (16, 116) extending from an axial bore (18, 118) in a proximal axial face (20, 120) of the housing, and adapted for abutting contact with the patient. Within the housing, the spring-biased probe incorporates an annular flange (22, 122) for engaging one end of a bias spring (24, 124) coaxially disposed within the housing. The bias spring is disposed coaxially about the probe to resist axial displacement of the housing towards the proximal end of the probe upon manual application of a bias force to the housing, when the proximal end of the probe is in contact with a patient's body.

Abstract: The present invention is an article of manufacture and method for using same, comprising at least two self adhesive sensors having a paired offset potential of consistently below about +/?1.0 mV; and a data gathering device connected to the sensors capable of measuring the voltage difference between the sensors. The sensors preferably are AgCl coated Silver.

Abstract: A method, including measuring a force exerted by a probe on tissue of a patient and measuring a displacement of the probe while measuring the force. The method further includes detecting a tenting of the tissue responsively to a relation between the measured force and the measured displacement.

Abstract: A hand held instrument for evaluation of cutaneous sensory perception includes a body member, a rotatable head, and a testing element such as a monofilament projecting from the head member wherein the head member and the body are rotatably engaged for positioning the head member with its projecting testing element at a substantially right angle from the body and for alternatively positioning the head member with its projecting testing element in a non-testing position with the testing element extending in a protected position within an elongate channel of the body. The instrument further includes a guard member or sleeve in cooperative engagement with the body and head member to cover the elongate channel in a first non-testing position and to uncover the elongate channel in a second testing position.

Abstract: The apparatus (2) for early diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, of the type comprising: receiving means which define a receiving zone (8) for receiving a patient's finger, means for measuring the cutaneous sensibility of a finger (10) disposed in said receiving means, comprising a device for determining a sensation threshold of the finger pulp and a device for measuring the innervation density of the finger pulp, each device comprising protruding portions (22) adapted to be brought into contact with the finger (10), is characterized in that the protruding portions (22) of the device for measuring the innervation density are identical with those of the device for determining the sensation threshold.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for measuring muscle reflexes (e.g., a bulbocavernosus reflex) as a tool for identifying/diagnosing dysfunctions (e.g., spinal cord abnormalities, bladder voiding dysfunction, and sexual organ dysfunction) non-invasively by using mechanical stimulation. The system and method includes a probe having a predetermined patient contacting portion, wherein when the contacting portion is moved into contact with a particular area of the patient (e.g., the patient's genitals), the contact induces a muscle reflex. The probe detects the pressure resulting from the contacting portion being abruptly and forcibly brought into contact with the particular area. Such detection is used to electronically initiate capture of electrical responses from a plurality of electrodes placed on the patient's skin in proximity to the particular area. Such electrical responses are processed to determine characteristics of the patient's reflexes of one or more muscles adjacent to the electrodes.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for measuring muscle reflexes (e.g., a bulbocavernosus reflex) as a tool for identifying/diagnosing dysfunctions (e.g., spinal cord abnormalities, bladder voiding dysfunction, and sexual organ dysfunction) non-invasively by using mechanical stimulation. The system and method includes a probe having a predetermined patient contacting portion, wherein when the contacting portion is moved into contact with a particular area of the patient (e.g., the patient's genitals), the contact induces a muscle reflex. The probe detects the pressure resulting from the contacting portion being abruptly and forcibly brought into contact with the particular area. Such detection is used to electronically initiate capture of electrical responses from a plurality of electrodes placed on the patient's skin in proximity to the particular area. Such electrical responses are processed to determine characteristics of the patient's reflexes of one or more muscles adjacent to the electrodes.

Abstract: A method and system for identifying location of a touched body part. The method includes initializing a tracking system for monitoring travel of a pointer useful for indicating a touching operation, wherein the touching operation is performed on a body part. In addition, the method includes monitoring the travel of the pointer from a predetermined first location to a second location, wherein the second location coincides with a touch endpoint on a body part; and identifying the location of body part that was touched by the pointer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for examining nerve function. In order to examine the function of a nerve of the human body, the device for examining nerve function of the present invention includes: at least one stimulator for stimulating the human body; and a stimulator-fixing member having a form corresponding to the hands or feet of the human body, wherein the stimulator is located at one side of the simulator-fixing member so as to fix the stimulator to the hands or feet of the human body. The device for examining nerve function of the present invention further includes at least one blood-circulation detection sensor fixed at the stimulator-fixing member. According to the present invention, since the degree of hypoesthesia is examined through the stimulation of the stimulator, test accuracy and reliability may be greatly improved and it is possible to systematically and actively determine a diagnosis and course of treatment for a patient having diabetes or spinal nerve damage, e.g.

Abstract: A computer assisted system for objective assessment by a patient of pain experienced is presented with successive computer screens. A first interactive screen includes anterior and posterior images of a body replica. The user indicates a pain area on the images corresponding to an area on the body having pain and a percentage pain area is calculated. A second interactive screen indicates pain intensity in the pain area. A third interactive screen indicates pain type. A fourth interactive screen indicates pain depth in response to input from the user. A fifth interactive screen displays confirmation information. The first through fourth screens are re-displayed for modification in response to the user, if selected. The fifth screen is then re-displayed in response to modifications and a final screen displayed in response to a confirmation of accuracy. Data is saved and a printable report created.

Abstract: A device for evoking a temporal summation of pain in a subject. The device comprises a stimulation element (SE) arranged generating a physical stimulation on a skin surface area of at least 20 cm2 according to a control signal (CS), where the stimulation (PS) evokes pain in the subject. A processor (PR) generates the control signal (CS) to the stimulation element (SE) so as to provide a repetitive stimulation pattern comprising at least repetitions of: a)applying stimulation for a period (SP) of 0.5-120 seconds, b)stopping stimulation for a period (TP) of 0.5-20 seconds. Preferred periods are 1-3 seconds for both stimulation and intermediate stopping periods. The stimulation element may include an inflatable tourniquet arranged for providing a compressional stimulation of an arm or a leg. However, other types of stimulation elements may be used such as electric, heating, mechanical stimulation or the like may be used.

Abstract: A living body measurement apparatus according to the present invention functions both as a muscular tissue hardness tester for measuring hardness of muscular tissue of a living body and as an algesiometer for measuring a degree of sense of pain of the living body, and the apparatus includes: an contacting section which includes a first contact surface contacting the living body, and which applies pressure to the living body; an auxiliary section which includes a second contact surface contacting the living body, and which supports the second contact surface so that the second contact surface perform reciprocating movement between a coplanar position in which the second contact surface is disposed substantially coplanar with the first contact surface and a retracted position in which the second contact surface is retracted with respect to the first contact surface; and a locking mechanism which locks the auxiliary section in a state in which the second contact surface is disposed at the retracted position.