PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF THE FOOT MUSCLES

摘要

System, device and method for providing neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to muscles of foot. The device includes an electrical signal generator for producing a wave pattern of variable frequency, duration, intensity, ramp time and on-off cycle. Device further includes surface electrodes for being positioned over the foot muscles or around ankles and attached to signal generator. Signal generator is programmed to stimulate the foot muscles and nerves. Location of the electrodes and the programming are adjusted to reduce pooling of the blood in the soleal veins of the calf and enhance venous blood flow to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), to enhance venous blood flow for the post-thrombotic syndrome patient, to expedite wound healing, to reduce neuropathic pain of the foot and ankle, chronic musculoskeletal pain of the ankle and foot, and acute post-operative foot and ankle pain, and to prevent muscular atrophy of the foot muscles.

主权项

1. A device for delivering electrical stimulation to muscles of a foot of a patient, the device comprising:
one or more power sources; a signal generator for generating electrical current; and electrodes in communication with the signal generator for delivery of the electrical current to the foot, wherein the electrical current is for causing the muscles to contract, and wherein the electrodes are adapted to be located on a heel of the foot and on an arch of the foot.