Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for OA treatment of an affected area or joint. In one embodiment, the method may involve identifying a treatment site of the joint, and providing at least one transducer module at the treatment site. The at least one transducer module may be in operative communication with a signal generator module, and may include transducer(s) for delivering stimulative signals (e.g., electromagnetic signals and/or ultrasound signals). The method may also involve stimulating (a) bone remodeling, (b) bone cells and associated precursors, and/or (c) pericytes with the stimulative signals delivered to the treatment site.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for treating a living being with multiple, concurrent, superimposed non-phase-locked signals, at physiologically acceptable intensities and duty cycles such that the signals entrain the tissue. Preferred signals are electromagnetic, and at least one of the frequencies is selected from the list consisting of 7.6 Hz +/?2 Hz. 70.25 Hz+/?0.25 Hz, 71.25 Hz+/?0.25 Hz, and 3040 Hz +/?10 Hz. Among other things, it is contemplated that the signals can be used to create a subjective reduction in pain, mood improvement, to treat osteoporosis, to enhance cardiac function, and/or affect the hypothalamic pituitary axis.

Abstract: Methods and devices for treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head with core decompression include a dowel adapted for placement into a core decompression channel of a femoral head. A cathode at the distal end of the dowel provides electrical stimulation of bone growth in the femoral head. A method of treating osteonecrosis of the femoral head involves placing a dowel having a cathode thereon into a core decompression channel of a femoral head in a state of osteonecrosis. Electrical current is supplied to the cathode for electrical stimulation of bone growth in the femoral head.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to enhance bone growth by stimulating bone sites for bone regrowth, fusion, or grafts. The invention uses electrical stimulation of the bone site, where vibrational energy from a source is received by an implanted device and converted to electrical energy and the converted electrical energy is used by implanted electrodes to stimulate the bone site. The vibrational energy is generated by a controller-transmitter, which could be located either externally or implanted. The vibrational energy is received by a receiver-transmitter, which could be incorporated into an orthopedic device, such as pin, cage, plate or prosthetic joint used for bone healing.

Abstract: An implantable tissue growth stimulator is disclosed. The implantable tissue growth stimulator includes electronic circuitry to alter the voltage output by the stimulator. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may he controlled from an external device via wireless communication. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may be configured for use with an implants in particular, the implantable tissue growth stimulator may be incorporated into an orthopaedic device such as a hip prosthesis. The implantable. tissue growth stimulator may be used to stimulate bone growth.

Abstract: Methods and devices for the regulation of gene expression by cells via the application of fields generated by specific and selective electric and electromagnetic signals so as to target diseased or injured tissue for treatment. By gene expression is meant the up regulation or down regulation of the process whereby specific portions (genes) of the human genome (DNA) are transcribed into mRNA and subsequently translated into protein. Methods and devices are provided for the targeted treatment of injured or diseased tissue that include providing specific and selective electric and electromagnetic signals and exposing tissue to the fields generated by the signals so as to regulate gene expression. In particular, methods and devices are provided for the targeted treatment of bone defects, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, cancer, and other disease states.

Abstract: Ultrasound stimulation devices and related techniques are disclosed. An ultrasound transducer for generating ultrasound energy is carried by a transducer housing that seals the transducer and may also include a positioning element for positioning the transducer proximate an application area to which generated ultrasound energy is to be applied. The transducer housing may also carry such components as a battery, a wireless receiver, and a controller. The same housing or a separate sensor housing may include an ultrasound sensor that provides feedback to the ultrasound transducer or its controller, illustratively through a wireless transmitter.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to enhance bone growth by stimulating bone sites for bone regrowth, fusion, or grafts. The invention uses electrical stimulation of the bone site, where vibrational energy from a source is received by an implanted device and converted to electrical energy and the converted electrical energy is used by implanted electrodes to stimulate the bone site. The vibrational energy is generated by a controller-transmitter, which could be located either externally or implanted. The vibrational energy is received by a receiver-transmitter, which could be incorporated into an orthopedic device, such as pin, cage, plate or prosthetic joint used for bone healing.

Abstract: An implantable tissue growth stimulator is disclosed. The implantable tissue growth stimulator includes electronic circuitry to alter the voltage output by the stimulator. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may be controlled from an external device via wireless communication. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may be configured for use with an implant. In particular, the implantable tissue growth stimulator may be incorporated into an orthopaedic device such as a hip prosthesis. The implantable tissue growth stimulator may be used to stimulate bone growth.

Abstract: A system for treating arthritis includes at least one joint stabilizing assembly for providing relief from arthritis. At least one signal transmission element engagement member is operatively connected to the joint stabilizing assembly for connecting a signal transmission element. At least one signal transmission element is supported by the at least one signal transmission element engagement member. An electrostimulation unit, electrically connected to the signal transmission element produces a signal for improving the overall function of an arthritic joint. The electrostimulation unit used in conjunction with the joint stabilizing assembly for greater than 150 hours provides a synergistic effect, which results in optimized joint treatment versus using either the joint stabilizing assembly or electrostimulation unit alone.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to methods for treating osteoarthritis. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve providing stimulation to a subject's central nervous system to modulate a signal sent to or from the subject's joint, thereby treating osteoarthritis.

Abstract: Osteogenesis and osseointegration promotion and maintenance devices for osseous implants include an implant member having a first electrode, an inlaid second electrode positioned on the member so that it is electrically isolated from and substantially flush with the member surface, and an electrical stimulation mechanism preferably located at the member and operative to provide electrical stimulation signals to endosseous tissue surrounding the implant through the first and second electrodes. The first electrode may be the member itself or a second inlaid electrode. The implant is thus electrically functionalized for osteogenesis and osseointgration acceleration. The device is applicable to both non-dental and dental implants. In all embodiments, the use of inlaid electrode(s) enables the general appearance, external surface and mechanical integrity of the implant to be left essentially unchanged.

Abstract: Methods and devices are described for the regulation of bone morphogenetic protein gene expression in bone cells via the application of fields generated by specific and selective electric and electromagnetic signals in the treatment of diseased or injured bone. By gene expression is meant the up-regulation or down-regulation of the process whereby specific portions (genes) of the human genome (DNA) are transcribed into mRNA and subsequently translated into protein. Methods and devices are provided for the targeted treatment of injured or diseased bone tissue that include generating specific and selective electric and electromagnetic signals that generate fields optimized for increase of bone morphogenetic protein gene expression and exposing bone to the fields generated by specific and selective signals so as to regulate bone morphogenetic protein gene expression in such bone tissue.

Abstract: Osteogenesis and osseointegration promotion and maintenance devices for osseous implants include an implant member having a first electrode, an inlaid second electrode positioned on the member so that it is electrically isolated from and substantially flush with the member surface, and an electrical stimulation mechanism preferably located at the member and operative to provide electrical stimulation signals to endosseous tissue surrounding the implant through the first and second electrodes. The first electrode may be the member itself or a second inlaid electrode. The implant is thus electrically functionalized for osteogenesis and osseointgration acceleration. The device is applicable to both non-dental and dental implants. In all embodiments, the use of inlaid electrode(s) enables the general appearance, external surface and mechanical integrity of the implant to be left essentially unchanged.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a growth plate stimulation-type portable growth promotion apparatus including two-phase ultrasonic vibration generators and Light Emitting Diode (LED) devices. The ring-shaped two-phase ultrasonic vibration generators have a center hole. Each of the LED devices is provided in the center hole of the each two-phase ultrasonic vibration generator. The two-phase ultrasonic vibration generators includes a ring-shaped vibration stator configured to have a center hole; a first electrode layer provided under the vibration stator; a second electrode layer provided under the first electrode layer; and a piezoelectric ceramic group layer configured to include a first piezoelectric ceramic group for generating an A phase and a second piezoelectric ceramic group for generating a B phase. Growth plates are stimulated using two-phase ultrasound projected from the two-phase ultrasonic vibration generators and light projected from the LED devices.

Abstract: A device for stimulating the osteogenesis of a traumatized bone is mounted on a bone stabilizing implant. The device comprises a first component part comprising a first electrode, an isolating element, which is mounted at the first component part and a second component part comprising a second electrode. The second component part is mounted at the isolating element such that the first electrode and the second electrode are electrically isolated from each other. The power generation unit is electrically coupled both to the first electrode and to the second electrode. The first component part is designed to be attached to the implant in such a manner that the second component part intrudes in a region defined by a trauma within the bone.

Abstract: A method of treating a wide variety of heretofore considered unrelated ailments comprises delivering electricity through a circuit in the body. The circuit includes at least four nerves leading from at least two of the patient's extremities to various nerve roots adjacent the spinal column. Electrical energy from an electrical interferential therapy device is delivered through electrodes on the extremities adjacent the nerve endings until symptoms of the diagnosed ailment ameliorates. Sending impulses from the periphery to the central nervous system appears to the help the body manufacture various neuropeptides and other chemicals which control the essential basics of the body's health and well being.

Abstract: An electrically conductive and compressive wrap is provided having at least a liner of fabric that electronically emits infrared heat therapy to aid electrotherapy into a patient. The conductive wrap emits a low-level pulsed electrical signal associated with the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The low-level pulse is provided at low amplitude where is it not physically perceived by the user, but at a level that closely mimics the electrical signal that occurs in naturally healing cartilage. The conductive silver fabric serves as an electrode that delivers optimal distribution of current around anatomically adapted, interchangeable and wearable therapy pads for interchangeable use with the therapy system of the present invention. Each pad includes an electrical insulative liner that keeps current applied to the desired area, and a compression cover to simultaneously deliver a therapeutic amount of compressive force to the area.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided for modulating the growth, development and repair of bone, cartilage or other connective tissue. Devices and stimulus waveforms are provided to differentially modulate the behavior of osteoblasts, chondrocytes and other connective tissue cells to promote proliferation, differentiation, matrix formation or mineralization for in vitro or in vivo applications. Continuous-mode and pulse-burst-mode stimulation of cells with charge-balanced signals may be used. Bone, cartilage and other connective tissue growth is stimulated in part by nitric oxide release through electrical stimulation and may be modulated through co-administration of NO donors and NO synthase inhibitors. Bone, cartilage and other connective tissue growth is stimulated in part by release of BMP-2 and BMP-7 in response to electrical stimulation to promote differentiation of cells.

Abstract: Stimulation of bone growth to facilitate healing of a dental implant utilizing a interiorly threaded dental screw of nonconductive material in conjunction with a healing cap abutment whereby electrical stimulation facilitates healing of the surgical site. The device is powered by a battery for the purpose of creating an electrical-magnetic field to promote bone healing and bone formation. The electric magnetic field is directed to the bone around the device through a battery of a rechargeable type. A constant current is generated in a preferred range of about 5 ?A to about 20 ?A to stimulate bone healing and bone formation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a biomechanical stimulation apparatus for bone regeneration which comprises at least one displaceable element (101) configured to be in contact with at least one part of a body of a living being, to exert a mechanical stimulus on said part of the body; and displacement means (103-106) configured to displace said at least one displaceable element (101). The apparatus is configured to displace said at least one displaceable element (101) such that said at least one displaceable element performs a movement according to a biometric wave. The invention also relates to a biomechanical stimulation method and to a method for programming the apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of treating bone length discrepancies and angular deformities in a patient in need thereof, where the method involves radiofrequency ablation epiphysiodesis of a physeal plate. Specifically, the method treats long bone discrepancies with a minimally invasive procedure. The present invention is also directed to a method of inhibiting bone growth, where the method involves exposing a physeal growth plate to radiofrequency ablation epiphysiodesis.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method includes implanting an implant entirely under the subject's skin. The implant includes a passive electrical conductor of sufficient length to extend from subcutaneous tissue located below one of a surface cathodic electrode and a surface anodic electrode to the tibial nerve. The surface electrodes are positioned in spaced relationship on the subject's skin, with one of the electrodes positioned over the pick-up end of the electrical conductor such that the portion of the current is transmitted through the conductor to the tibial nerve, and such that the current flows through the tibial nerve and returns to the other of the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode. An electrical current is applied between the surface cathodic electrode and the surface anodic electrode to cause the portion of the electrical current to flow through the implant to stimulate the tibial nerve.

Abstract: Apparatus (10) is provided for treating an intervertebral disc (20) of a subject. The apparatus (10) includes a first electrode (30), configured to be inserted into a nucleus pulposus (40) of the disc (20), and a second electrode (32), configured to be placed outside of the nucleus pulposus (40), in a vicinity of the nucleus pulposus (40). A control unit (34) is configured to drive a current between the first and second electrodes (30, 32), and to configure the current to electroosmotically drive fluid between inside and outside the nucleus pulposus (40). Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: Active implantable medical devices (AIMDs) are backfilled with a dielectric fluid to increase the volts per mil dielectric breakdown strength between internal circuit elements. In a method for backfilling the AIMD with dielectric fluid, substantially all air and moisture is evacuated from the AIMD housing prior to backfilling the AIMD housing with a dielectric fluid having a dielectric breakdown strength greater than air, nitrogen or helium. The AIMD is constructed to accommodate volumetric expansion or contraction of the dielectric fluid due to changes of pressure or temperature of the dielectric fluid to maintain integrity of the AIMD.

Abstract: Methods of treating osteoarthritis include applying at least one stimulus to a stimulation site within a patient with an implanted system control unit in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters. Systems for treating osteoarthritis include a system control unit configured to apply at least one stimulus to a stimulation site within a patient in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters.

Abstract: Provided is the combined use of pulsating electromagnetic signals and dose of Botulinum toxin to treat patients suffering from osteoporosis. Also provided is the use of electromagnetic signals generated by pulsating, impulse-modulated direct current for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for treatment of a nail condition comprising, at least one active electrode disposed on the nail, at least one counter electrode, at least one power source for providing power to the device, wherein the at least one power source is electrically coupled to the at least one active electrode and the at least one counter electrode; a controllable voltage converter coupled to the at least one power source; and a sensing means coupled to the nail and to the controllable voltage converter, wherein the sensing means is configured to facilitate adjustment of the output voltage of the power source according to the nail resistance to facilitate providing a constant current to the nail with high efficiency. The present invention is also directed to a method of providing a constant current to treat a nail condition.

Abstract: A method and device the may be employed for inhibiting bone growth, including inducing epiphysiodesis or hemiepiphysiodesis, by applying electrical current to a desired region. The device includes a power source and one or a series of electrodes for applying a current sufficient to reduce or stop the growth of a bone to selected regions of the bone. The method and device may be used to correct growth discrepancies in extremities such as the arms or legs, as well as correct the curvature of the spine in scoliosis patients.

Abstract: An electrical bone growth promotion apparatus for the delivery of electrical current to an implant surgically implanted between adjacent bone masses to promote bone growth to areas adjacent to the implant is disclosed. The apparatus of the present invention comprises a self contained implant having a surgically implantable, renewable power supply and related control circuitry for delivering electrical current directly to the implant and thus directly to the area in which the promotion of bone growth is desired. The desired areas of bone growth promotion may be controlled by conducting negative charge only to the desired location of bone growth promotion.

Abstract: Small implantable magnetostrictive-electroactive (ME) device for delivering electrical energy to surrounding tissue. The wireless ME device is activated by a changing magnetic field from an externally applied alternating magnetic field source. The ME device provides a means for stimulating a nerve, tissue or internal organ with direct electrical current, such as relatively low-level direct current for temporary or as needed therapy. The field source (e.g. small coil antenna) may be a hand-held device or affixed to the wearer's skin, clothing or accessories. The ME implant may be configured as pellets which are small enough to be implanted through a surgical needle. In one embodiment, the wireless energy transmission system can be used for stimulating bone growth.

Abstract: A screw for use in stimulating bone growth, tissue healing and/or pain control. The screw includes an elongate shaft having a length extending between opposite ends, an exterior surface and a screw thread formed on the exterior surface of the shaft and extending along at least a portion of the length. The shaft has an electrically conducting portion and an electrically insulating portion. The screw also includes a head adjacent one end of the shaft for engaging the screw to rotate the screw and thereby drive it into bone. The screw includes an electrical conductor electrically connectable to the shaft for conveying current through the shaft to the bone through the conducting portion of the shaft.

Abstract: A method of determining the voltage and current output required for the application of specific and selective electric and electromagnetic signals to diseased articular cartilage in the treatment of osteoarthritis, cartilage defects due to trauma or sports injury, or used as an adjunct with other therapies (cell transplantation, tissue-engineered scaffolds, growth factors, etc.) for treating cartilage defects in the human knee joint and a device for delivering such signals to a patient's knee. An analytical model of the human knee is developed whereby the total tissue volume in the human knee may be determined for comparison to the total tissue volume of the diseased tissue in the animal model using electric field and current density histograms.

Abstract: A system for percutaneous fixation and stabilization of a fracture with a spanning, expandable structural frame placed in the intramedullary canal of the bone, comprising a column of surgical fluid such as bone cement, within which the structural frame acts as a reinforcing cage, and a sheath positioned at the fracture site and at least partially surrounding the frame and fluid. The fluid may be supported by a restrictor and may be agitated with a vibrating probe to remove entrapped air. The structural frame may be self-expanding or opened by an internal force, and it may be retrievable. The frame, fluid, or sheath may contain antibiotics, pharmaceuticals, or other therapeutic compounds to be delivered to the fracture site.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the electrical stimulation of bone growth utilizing implantable bone fixation devices and implants to which are attached a screw of nonconductive material powered by a battery for the purpose of creating an electrical-magnetic field to promote bone healing and bone formation. The electric magnetic field is directed to the bone around the device through a battery of a rechargeable type and can include a radio frequency identification device. A constant current is generated in a range of 5-20 micro amperes to stimulate bone healing and bone formation.

Abstract: An orthopedic device adapted for implantation into a body where it contacts bone tissue is disclosed which has at least one spaced apart polarized magnetic element, at least one piezoelectric element or a combination of a polarized magnetic element and a piezoelectric element which are in direct contact with one another or are separately mounted on the implant. The piezoelectric element being at least partially embedded in a surface of the device which contacts bone tissue for the promotion of osteogenesis or osseointegration.

Abstract: Methods and devices are described for the regulation of Fibroblastic Growth Factor-2 mRNA and/or FGF-2 protein in bone cells and other tissues via capacitive coupling or inductive coupling of specific and selective electric and/or electromagnetic fields to the bone cells or other tissues, where the specific and selective fields are generated by application of specific and selective signals to electrodes or one or more coils or other field generating device disposed with respect to the bone cells or other tissues so as to facilitate the treatment of diseased or injured bone and other tissues. By gene expression is meant the up-regulation or down-regulation of the process whereby specific portions (genes) of the human genome (DNA) are transcribed into mRNA and subsequently translated into protein.

Abstract: An osteogenic stimulus device having at least a pair of electrode coupled to a working circuit is presented for use in applying a therapeutic electrical signal to, in, around, and across an osseous structure to aid in the healing and bone growth process in which the therapeutic electrical signal is a function of the electrical impedance of the fractured bone. The working circuit of the osteogenic stimulus device includes an impedance measurement sub-circuit, a therapeutic application sub-circuit, and a switch sub-circuit. The kit for the osteogenic stimulus device includes the uncoupled components of the device. The method of using the osteogenic stimulus device includes the acts of activating, applying, assessing, coupling, joining, mounting, obtaining, and removing.

Abstract: This invention presents a standalone osteogenic stimulus device and a method of using the device. The standalone osteogenic stimulus device includes a housing in which a pair of electrodes and a power supply are attached to the housing. The pair of electrodes and the power supply are coupled together to provide a therapeutic electric signal across the electrode pair. The device may be mounted in any osseous structure such as a fractured bone, a cracked bone, a weakened bone, a decalcified bone, a diseased bone, and even in a void where a portion of bone in order to simulate the healing process of the osseous structure. The method includes the acts of charging, closing, mounting, obtaining, opening, and sterilizing.

Abstract: A method of increasing bone mass throughout the body of a user. The method may include the steps of obtaining a distributor comprising a plurality of electromagnetic coils, obtaining a controller comprising a processor and a memory device, operably connected to one another, the memory device storing code executable by the processor, selecting a source of electrical current, connecting the source to the controller, and positioning a user proximate the distributor. The method may further include controlling, by the controller in accordance with the code, delivery of electrical current sequentially and exclusively to each coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils to generate a magnetic field extending into the user.

Abstract: In this invention, stress shielding effects seen in total joint arthroplasty patients and trauma patients is prevented by causing the bone above the press fit of the implant to continue to act as if it were under stress by inducing an electric field in the surrounding bone that simulates the electric field generated when bone is under mechanical stress. This same effect is used to stimulate bone union in fractures and surgical arthrodesis, as well as to encourage increased bone mass and consolidation of bone during limb lengthening procedures. The electric field can be generated by a number of methods utilizing scavenged energy, with the preferred embodiment being the generation of electricity using arrays of thousands of thermoelectric generators built into an implantable chip. These generators exploit the well-known thermocouple effect, in which a small voltage is generated when two of the junctions between two dissimilar materials are kept at different temperatures.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to enhance bone growth by stimulating bone sites for bone regrowth, fusion, or grafts. The invention uses electrical stimulation of the bone site, where vibrational energy from a source is received by an implanted device and converted to electrical energy and the converted electrical energy is used by implanted electrodes to stimulate the bone site. The vibrational energy is generated by a controller-transmitter, which could be located either externally or implanted. The vibrational energy is received by a receiver-transmitter, which could be incorporated into an orthopedic device, such as pin, cage, plate or prosthetic joint used for bone healing.

Abstract: A device for stimulating the osteogenesis of a traumatized bone is mounted on a bone stabilizing implant. The device comprises a first component part comprising a first electrode, an isolating element, which is mounted at the first component part and a second component part comprising a second electrode. The second component part is mounted at the isolating element such that the first electrode and the second electrode are electrically isolated from each other. The power generation unit is electrically coupled both to the first electrode and to the second electrode. The first component part is designed to be attached to the implant in such a manner that the second component part intrudes in a region defined by a trauma within the bone.

Abstract: A method and device is disclosed for inhibiting bone growth, including inducing epiphysiodesis or hemiepiphysiodesis, using electrical current. The device includes a power source and one or a series of electrodes for applying a current sufficient to reduce or stop the growth of a bone to selected regions of the bone. The method and device may be used to correct growth discrepancies in extremities such as the arms or legs, as well as correct the curvature of the spine in scoliosis patients.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for speeding the healing process of soft tissues, bone fractures, cancerous tissue, nerve pathways and other body tissues wherein a portable base comprising a plurality of cells is applied with the cells facing or encircling the wound. The cells generate electro-magnetic radiations, radio frequencies, magnetic fields, current-voltage signals or combinations thereof via a field generator coil or electrodes. Each cell is powered and controlled individually via self-contained controls or remote controls. The type, frequency, pulse characteristics, repetition rate and signal density of the energy are varied according to the size and type of wound to be treated and according to the proximity of each cell to the wounded tissue.

Abstract: A technique and associated device for stimulating multiple electrodes with multiple electrical signals in multiple regions of the spine without injury to the patient. The electrodes are applied to respective sides of the patient's spine, and a first electrical signal is applied to any electrodes in a treatment area of the lumbar region of the patient's spine, a second electrical signal is applied to any electrodes in a treatment area of the thoracic region of the patient's spine, and a third electrical signal is applied to any electrodes in a treatment area of the cervical region of the patient's spine to induce osteogenesis in at least one of the respective treated area's of the patient's spine. The first, second, and third electrical signals respectively generate different electrode currents in the respective treated areas and are ideally selected to create current densities that are approximately equal in respective treatment areas.

Abstract: A technique and device for preventing and/or treating osteoporosis, hip and spine fractures, and/or spine fusions by incorporating at least one conductive coil (110) into a garment (90) adapted to be worn adjacent to the patient's skin over a treatment area and applying an electrical signal to the coil effective to produce a magnetic flux the penetrates the treatment area so as to produce an electric field in the bones and the treatment area.

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: An method and method for generating an electrical signal for use in biomedical applications, including two timing-interval generators, each optionally driving a multistep sequencer; analog, digital or hybrid means for combining the resulting timed signals into a complex electrical signal; optional filtering means for blocking direct current, removing selected frequency components from the resulting signal, and/or providing voltage step-up if needed; and conductive means for coupling the resulting signal to a human or animal body, food, beverage or other liquid, cell or tissue culture, or pharmaceutical material, in order to relieve pain, stimulate healing or growth, enhance the production of specific biochemicals, or devitalize selected types of organisms.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating an electrical signal for use in biomedical applications, including two timing blocks for generating timing intervals T1-T7, an interconnection block for combining these intervals into an output signal having predetermined relationships among the intervals, an output block for transmitting the output signal to a load, and, optionally, a filter for removing unwanted frequency components from the output signal and an adjustment block for selecting from among a plurality of output signals with predetermined characteristics. The output is a repeating succession of a burst of rectangular waves, an equalizing pulse (if needed) to cancel net DC, and a rest period of no signal.