Device for the transdermal stimulation of a nerve of the human body

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for the transdermal stimulation of a nerve of the human body. The device (1) comprises at least one stimulation electrode (2) and at least one reference electrode (3) for transdermal nerve stimulation. The at least one stimulation electrode (2) and the at least one reference electrode (3) are connected to a control unit and can be impinged upon by an electric current with the aid of the control unit. The at least one stimulation electrode (2) and the at least one reference electrode (3) are disposed in or on a housing (5) that is configured to be mounted on or in the human ear. In order to render nerve stimulation efficient and more easily manageable for the patient, the housing (5) is provided with a bow-shaped extension (6) that is embodied so as to be inserted into the auditory canal. Said bow-shaped extension (6) is modeled after the shape of the opening into the auditory canal or the external auditory canal while an electrode head (7) which is provided with two contact points (8, 9) for the stimulation electrode (2) and the reference electrode (3) is arranged at the end of the bow-shaped extension (6).

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to a device for percutaneous stimulation of nerves in the human body. Background technique [0002] Devices of the same type are known in various ways. Transcutaneous nerve stimulation and muscle stimulation are used, for example, in sports medicine to stimulate muscles, wherein electrodes are attached or glued to the skin for this purpose. The advantage is that no trauma to the skin surface is caused when the electrodes are put in place (non-invasive placement of the electrodes). The opposite of the above-mentioned possibility, too, is to implant the electrodes in or beneath the skin. [0003] In the case of devices for transcutaneous nerve stimulation, it is known that the electrical properties of the nerves and thus the function of the nerve to be stimulated are influenced by invasive or non-invasive electrical stimulation of nerves. The purpose of the treatment is to induce psychovegetative changes such as a decreas...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0018] There is therefore a threshold in terms of patients who must undergo such an operation

[0019] Also in some cases lead to an implanted body providing a mechanical sensation which cannot be dispensed with in a simple manner if necessary

[0020] And the devices described often have a rather bulky construction and are therefore only suitable for clinical use and not for prolonged stimulation at home

[0021] Stimulators and electrodes are often connected via long cables, which adversely affects handling

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