Systems and methods for restoring muscle function to lumbar spine and kits for implanting same

Abstract

A system for restoring muscle function to the lumbar spine to treat low back pain is provided. The system may include one or more electrode leads coupled to an implantable pulse generator (IPG) and atunneler system for subcutaneously implanting a proximal portion of the lead(s). The system may also include a handheld activator configured to transfer a stimulation command to the IPG, and an external programmer configured to transfer programming data to the IPG. The stimulation command directs the programmable controller to stimulate the tissue in accordance with the programming data. The system may include a software-based programming system run on a computer such that the treating physician may program and adjust stimulation parameters.

Description

technical field [0001] The present application relates generally to systems and methods for neuromuscular electrical stimulation, including stimulation of tissues associated with lumbar control for the treatment of back pain. Background technique [0002] The human back is a complex structure that includes bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and other structures. The spine has staggered vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs and allows motion in several planes, including flexion-extension, lateral bending, axial rotation, longitudinal axial traction-compression, anterior-posterior sagittal translation, and left-right horizontal translation. The spine provides connection points for a complex collection of muscles that are under voluntary and involuntary control. [0003] Back pain in the lower part of the back or lower back is common. In many cases, the cause of back pain is unknown. It is believed that some cases of back pain are caused by abnormal mechanics of...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

First, it is difficult to achieve uniform load distribution throughout the range of motion if the position of the optimal instantaneous axis of rotation is not close to the position of the motion segment throughout the range of motion

Second, cyclic loading of dynamically stabilized implants may cause fatigue failure of the implant or the implant-bone junction, such as screw loosening

Third, implantation of these systems requires surgery, which can lead to new pain caused by adhesions or neuroma formation

The challenge of FES involves the grading of the forces produced by the muscles stimulated, and the control of each muscle and the system as a whole to produce desired actions such as standing and walking

Images