Pain Treatment System

Abstract

A method, system, and device for the treatment of pain that stimulates one or more of the five senses to reduce pain in a human. The five senses are vision (eyes), hearing (ears), olfaction (smell), taste (taste), and touch (touch). The device preferably uses a headset with an audio and video system, along with a scent delivery device, food / tastants, and a haptic device, to stimulate one or more of a human's five senses.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to alleviating pain in humans, and more particularly to methods, systems, and devices for stimulating one or more of the senses to alleviate pain in humans. [Background technology]

[0002] It is known that stimulating human senses can relieve stress, anxiety and stress-related disorders without using pharmacological treatment.Generally, audio, visual and aromatic stimuli have been used to relieve stress and anxiety.However, there is still a need to relieve human pain, especially without using pharmacological treatment for pain relief or as a supplement to pharmacological treatment. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Methods, systems, and devices for the treatment of pain have been discovered that stimulate one or more of a person's five senses to alleviate pain. The five senses are vision (eyes), hearing (ears), olfaction (smell), gustation (taste), and touch (touch). The devices of the present invention preferably use a headset with an audio and video system, along with a scent delivery device, food / tastants, and a haptic device to stimulate one or more of a person's five senses.

[0004] In the present invention, a database is formed having one or more records for each of the five senses. Preferably, the database has multiple records for each of the five senses. There are five categories of records in the database, each category corresponding to one of the five senses. More preferably, each one of the records in each category is associated with one of the records in each of the other categories in the database. This association allows for the selection of subsequent records based on the selection of an initial record.

[0005] In order to treat the person with a certain level of pain, one or more of records are selected from the database.Preferably, three or more of records are selected from the database.Preferably, at least one visual record, one auditory record and one olfactory record are selected from the selected records.Also, optionally, taste record and tactile record can be selected.

[0006] The selected recordings are administered to a patient experiencing pain. Preferably, the selected recordings are administered to the patient simultaneously, such that multiple senses of the patient are stimulated simultaneously. Such simultaneous stimulation of the five senses, as opposed to sequential individual stimulation, is believed to provide superior pain relief to the patient.

[0007] During administration of the selected recordings, the patient's pain level is monitored to determine if there is a decrease in pain, and if so, the selected combination of recordings continues to be administered until the pain returns to its initial level.

[0008] If there is no reduction in pain during the administration of the selected recording, a new selection of recordings is made and the newly selected recordings are administered to the patient. Again, the patient's pain level is monitored while the newly selected recordings are administered to determine if there is a reduction in pain. If the pain is reduced, the newly selected recordings continue to be administered until the pain returns to its initial level. If the newly selected recordings do not reduce the pain, a different selection of recordings is made and the process is repeated. This process continues until the selected recordings reduce the pain. If the selected set of recordings is found to reduce pain, that set of recordings continues to be administered to the patient until the pain returns to its initial level.

[0009] The database preferably also stores patient records. The patient records stored in the database can include collected information from the patient. The collected information from the patient can include the patient's age, the patient's comorbidities, the patient's gender, previous treatments for the patient's pain, the patient's current level of pain, the duration of the pain, the anatomical location of the patient's pain, the patient's current pain management, medications the patient is currently using, and the patient's preferred sensory treatment for pain. Additionally, selected records that reduce the patient's pain can be stored in the database for that patient so that they can be used again or so that they can be used for different patients with similar characteristics to the patient. The database can also store selected records that do not reduce pain so that they are not selected again.

[0010] The selection of the record can be (1) random, (2) based on information collected from the patient, (3) based on the first selected record, or (4) based on information collected from a previous patient and the selected record that reduced the previous patient's pain level. Preferably, each record in each category is associated with one of the records in another category, so the selection can be based on the first selected record. After the first record is selected, this association can be relied upon for all selection of records to be administered to that person. The database is searchable, and if there is a similarity in the collected information between the previous patient and the current patient, the selected record that reduced the previous patient's pain level can be located and used for the current patient. In other words, patient records in the database can be searched to find previous patients with characteristics similar to the current patient.

[0011] Pain measurements are made using standard pain scales such as the VAS and Wong Baker.

[0012] The present invention can treat pain classified as acute, chronic, or acute exacerbated. Pain can be further categorized as neuropathic or somatic.

[0013] Monitoring of pain levels and pain reduction during recordings is recorded in a database along with the duration for which those recordings reduced pain.

[0014] In the present invention, methods, systems and devices have been discovered for reducing pain in a human having a level of pain, preferably by stimulating at least three or more of the human's senses, and reducing the human's level of pain during the stimulation.

[0015] Generally, the method comprises: a) providing a database having a plurality of individual visual, auditory, and olfactory recordings; b) selecting one visual recording, one auditory recording, and one olfactory recording from the database; c) forming a combination of the selected visual recording, the selected auditory recording, and the selected olfactory recording; d) delivering the combination to a human suffering from a level of pain; e) measuring the level of pain in the human during delivery of the combination to the human; f) determining whether the combination reduced the human's level of pain; g) if it is determined that the combination has reduced the level of pain in the human, continuing to deliver the combination to the human until the level of pain returns to the initial level; h) if it is determined that the combination did not reduce the human's level of pain, repeating steps b) through f) with different combinations until it is determined that a different combination reduces the human's level of pain, and then continuing to deliver the different combination that reduces the human's level of pain until the pain level returns to the initial level. can be described as including

[0016] The method can include collecting information from the human, the information including age, comorbidities, sex, previous treatments for pain, pain level, pain duration, the anatomical location of the patient's pain, current pain management, specific medications used in the past, current medications, and preferred sensory treatments for pain. Selecting step b) can be based on the collected information. The method can also include storing the collected information in a database and in the patient's record.

[0017] The method may include, in the selecting step b), a visual recording is first selected, an auditory recording is second selected based on the selected visual recording, and an olfactory recording is third selected based on the selected visual recording and the selected auditory recording.

[0018] The method preferably includes the database comprising a plurality of individual taste records, the selecting step b) may include selecting an individual taste record, and the forming step c) may include adding the selected taste record to the combination.

[0019] Preferably, in the selecting step b), the method includes first selecting a visual record, second selecting an auditory record based on the selected visual record, third selecting an olfactory record based on the selected visual record and the selected auditory record, and fourth selecting a gustatory record based on the selected visual record, the selected auditory record, and the selected olfactory record, wherein in this stepwise selection of records, each selection of records after the initial selection of records is based on an association of records of one category with records of other categories.

[0020] Preferably, the method includes the database having a plurality of individual tactile records, the selecting step b) includes selecting an individual tactile record, and the forming step c) includes adding the selected tactile record to the combination.

[0021] Preferably, the method includes, in the selecting step b), a visual recording is first selected, an auditory recording is second selected based on the selected visual recording, an olfactory recording is third selected based on the selected visual recording and the selected auditory recording, an olfactory recording is fourth selected based on the selected visual recording, the selected auditory recording and the selected olfactory recording, and a tactile recording is fifth selected based on the selected visual recording, the selected auditory recording and the selected olfactory recording.

[0022] A method of the present invention for treating pain may include the steps of: delivering a first plurality of combinations of records to a patient by a delivery device; determining by a processor, for a particular combination of the first plurality of combinations, an effect of the particular combination on the patient's pain level and a duration of the effect of the particular combination on the patient's pain level, wherein determining the effect of the particular combination on the patient's pain level and the duration of the effect of the particular combination on the patient's pain level includes obtaining, by the processor, a measurement of the relationship between the patient's pain level reduction and time while the patient is exposed to the particular combination, determining a particular time representing the moment the patient's pain level is reduced, and determining the duration of the effect of the particular combination based on the particular time; generating, by the processor, a delivery schedule for delivering the particular combination based on the effect and duration; and delivering, by the delivery device, the particular combination according to the delivery schedule to provide an effect on the patient's pain level. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 shows a scent delivery device for use in the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates audio, visual, taste, and tactile delivery systems for use with the present invention. [Figure 4A]FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a database used in the present invention. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a database used in the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates another scent delivery device for use in the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates the present invention. In step 10, a database having categories of sensory recordings is formed. The database is formed in a conventional manner using conventional equipment, such as a computer having memory. The categories of sensory recordings include visual recordings, auditory recordings, olfactory recordings, optionally gustatory recordings, and optionally tactile recordings. Under each category are multiple individual records. Preferably, each individual record in each category is associated with one of the records in each of the other categories. This association allows an individual record in another category to be selected based on the selection of an individual record in a previous category. In other words, if an image or video recording is selected under the visual category, the selected image or video recording is associated with an audio recording in the auditory category, such that selecting an image or video recording automatically selects the associated audio recording.

[0025] In step 11, data is collected from the patient experiencing pain. The data can be collected by any conventional method using conventional equipment, such as a questionnaire given to the patient prior to the start of treatment. The collected data includes the patient's age, the patient's initial pain level, the patient's comorbidities, the patient's gender, previous pain treatments administered to the patient, the duration of the patient's pain, the anatomical location of the patient's pain, current pain management, medications previously used by the patient, medications currently used by the patient, and the patient's preferred pain treatment, which may include stimulating one or more of the five senses (sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch) by administering one or more of visual recording, auditory recording, olfactory recording, gustatory recording, and tactile recording. This collected information is stored in a database as the patient's record.

[0026] In step 12, a single visual record, a single auditory record, and a single olfactory record are selected from the database. Optionally, a single taste record and optionally a single tactile record may be selected from the database. In one embodiment of the invention, once a single visual record is selected, an auditory record is selected based on the association between the auditory record and the visual record. An olfactory record is then selected based on its association with the selected auditory record. Optionally, a taste record may be selected, the selection of the taste record being based on its association with the selected olfactory record. Further, optionally, a tactile record may be selected, the tactile record being selected based on its association with the selected taste record.

[0027] In step 13, all of the selected records are combined so that they can be delivered to the patient simultaneously.

[0028] In step 14, the combined recording is administered to the patient.

[0029] In step 15, the patient's pain level is measured while administering the selected recording combination.

[0030] In step 16, it is determined whether the initial pain level has decreased. If the answer in step 16 is yes, i.e., the pain level has decreased, the invention proceeds to step 17, and the combination continues to be administered to the patient until the pain level returns to its initial level, at which point treatment is stopped, or a decision is reached to discontinue treatment.

[0031] If the answer in step 16 is no, i.e., the initial pain level has not decreased, the invention proceeds to step 18, where one of the records in the administered combination is changed to form a new combination, and the new combination of records is administered following step 19. If the answer in step 16 is no, the repetition of steps 14, 15, 16, 18, and 19 continues. If the answer in step 16 is yes, the invention proceeds to step 17 and end 17a. When changing one of the records in the administered combination, in the same category, only one of the records in one of the categories is changed to form the new combination.

[0032] The results of the treatment are added to the patient's record in the database at or an appropriate time before termination 17a. In other words, the combination of sensory recordings that reduces the patient's pain level is stored in the patient's record in the database. Furthermore, the patient's collected information can be stored in combination with the combination of sensory recordings that reduces the patient's pain level. This improves the searchability of the database.

[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates a scent delivery device for use with the present invention. The scent delivery device in FIG. 2 includes a headset 20 with a speaker / earphone 20a and an attached blower fan 21 with a nozzle 22 extending from the outlet of the blower fan 21. One end 22a of the nozzle 22 is attached to the outlet of the blower fan 21. The other end 22b of the nozzle 22 is attached to a container 23 containing a fragrance component. The nozzle 22 may be a flexible boom tube, allowing the positions of the end 22b of the nozzle 22 and the container 23 to be adjusted. The container 23 is positioned in front of the user's face, facing the nose. The blower fan 21 may be a mini blower fan measuring 30 mm x 30 mm x 10 mm. For example, a Delta BFB0312HA fan with a maximum flow rate of 1.45 cfm and combined with a 12-volt DC power supply may be used, consuming 0.09 amps of power. The container 23 can be a 15 ml vial of LA container. The fan speed can be adjusted with a potentiometer (e.g., 10K ohms) to vary the flow rate from about 0 cfm to 1.45 cfm. The scent intensity can be inversely proportional to the flow rate.

[0034] To stimulate the sense of taste, i.e., the sense of taste, the headset can include a tastant delivery device for delivering a tastant separate from the scent. For example, the tastant delivery device can include a tastant container and a nozzle for delivering a tastant solution. The tastant solution can be sprayed from the nozzle into the patient's mouth or can be delivered directly to the patient's mouth. The tastant nozzle is separate from the scent nozzle.

[0035] A fan is used in conjunction with the scent delivery device to provide a directed airflow toward the user's nose or face, thereby assisting in the transfer of the aromatic compounds to the nose. Suitable fans include blowers, centrifugal fans, or axial fans. Such fans are small, conventional fans. One such fan measures 1 1 / 2 inches by 1 1 / 2 inches by 1 inch (4 cm x 4 cm x 2.5 cm) and moves 7 cubic feet of air per minute.

[0036] A heater may be used to assist in the delivery of scented air to the patient's nose. The heater may be a small, conventional heater. The heater may heat the airflow from a fan and / or a container of fragrance ingredients to deliver the scent.

[0037] Figure 3 shows a sensory stimulation system suitable for the present invention. Figure 3 shows a patient 30 seated in a chair 31 in front of a table 32. On top of the table 32 is a computer 33 having a screen 34 that provides images 35 to the patient 30 for visual stimulation. Mounted above the screen 34 are speakers 36 that provide sounds 37 to the patient 30 for auditory stimulation. In the present invention, a conventional virtual reality headset can be used in place of the screen 34 and speakers 36.

[0038] A bowl 38 is placed on the table 32 and holds food that the patient 30 can eat to stimulate the palate.

[0039] 3 shows a conventional haptic interface device as an armband 39 worn on the arm of a patient 30. The armband 39 is connected to a computer 33 by wires 39a and provides tactile stimulation to the patient 30 to stimulate the sense of touch. Conventional tactile stimulation devices can also be used in the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 4A shows a portion of a database 40a used in the present invention. The database 40 has categories 41 corresponding to each of the five senses: sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch. Each category 41 has a plurality of records 42. FIG. 4B shows a portion of a database 40b in which combinations 43 of records of pain relief for previous patients are stored along with characteristics 44 of the previous patients. The characteristics 44 of the previous patients were obtained from collected information of the previous patients. The combinations 43 can also be stored in the patient's record in the database.

[0041] Preferably, data collected from the patient before, during, and after treatment is stored in a database along with the results of the treatment for the patient. The database can be searched for patients with the same or similar characteristics, so that a treatment that relieves pain in one patient can be tried on another patient to see if it relieves pain in the other patient. The database has patient records. The collected information is stored in the patient record in the database. The sensory record used for the patient is also stored in the database as part of the patient record in the database. The collected information for the patient can also be added to the combination of sensory records that relieves pain for the patient.

[0042] FIG. 5 illustrates a scent delivery device according to the present invention. The scent delivery device 50 includes a headset 51 from which a flexible arm 52 extends. A case 53 is attached to one end of the arm 52. The case 53 contains a scent reservoir 54 and a fan 55. The scent reservoir 54 is removable from the case 53, allowing different scents to be used. The fan 55 moves air through the scent reservoir 54, causing scented air 56 to exit the case 53. The flexible arm 52 positions the case 53 and directs the scented air 56 toward the patient's nose. A power source 57 is connected to the fan 55 by a wire 58 to provide power to the fan 55. The headset 51 can be worn by the patient on their head, and the power source 57 can be placed in a shirt pocket or on a table next to the patient.

Claims

1. 1. A method of alleviating pain in a human having a level of pain, comprising: a) providing a database having a plurality of individual visual, auditory, and olfactory recordings; b) selecting individual visual, auditory, and olfactory recordings from said database; c) forming a combination of the selected visual, auditory, and olfactory recordings; d) delivering said combination to said human having a level of pain; e) measuring the level of pain in the human during delivery of the combination to the human; f) determining whether the combination reduced the level of pain in the human; and g) if it is determined that the combination has reduced the level of pain in the human, continuing to deliver the combination to the human until the level of pain returns to its initial level; h) if it is determined that the combination did not reduce the level of pain for the human, repeating steps b) through f) with a different combination until it is determined that a different combination reduces the level of pain for the human, and thereafter continuing to deliver the different combination that reduces the level of pain for the human until the level of pain returns to the initial level; A method comprising:

2. collecting information from the human, the information including age, comorbidities, sex, previous treatment for pain, pain level, pain duration, anatomical location of pain, current pain management, current medications, and preferred sensory treatment for pain. further comprising The method of claim 1 , wherein the selecting step b) is based on the collected information.

3. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein in the selecting step b), the visual recording is first selected, the auditory recording is second selected based on the selected visual recording, and the olfactory recording is third selected based on the selected visual recording and the selected auditory recording.

4. the database further comprises a plurality of individual taste records; said selecting step b) comprising selecting individual taste records; 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein said forming step c) comprises adding said selected taste record to said combination.

5. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein in the selecting step b), the visual recording is first selected, the auditory recording is second selected based on the selected visual recording, the olfactory recording is third selected based on the selected visual recording and the selected auditory recording, and the gustatory recording is fourth selected based on the selected visual recording, the selected auditory recording, and the selected olfactory recording.

6. the database further comprises a plurality of individual tactile records; said selecting step b) comprising selecting individual tactile recordings; The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the forming step c) includes adding the selected tactile recording to the combination.

7. the database further comprises a plurality of individual tactile records; said selecting step b) comprising selecting individual tactile recordings; The method of claim 4 , wherein said forming step c) includes adding said selected tactile recording to said combination.

8. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein in the selecting step b), the visual recording is first selected, the auditory recording is second selected based on the selected visual recording, the olfactory recording is third selected based on the selected visual recording and the selected auditory recording, the olfactory recording is fourth selected based on the selected visual recording, the selected auditory recording, and the selected olfactory recording, and the tactile recording is fifth selected based on the selected visual recording, the selected auditory recording, and the selected olfactory recording.

9. The collected information about a patient is stored in the database, and the combination of records that reduces the pain of the patient is stored in the database; 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the selecting step b) for another patient includes searching the database of patients to identify a patient with characteristics similar to the other patient, and selecting the combination of records that reduced the pain of the one patient over the selected combination of records for the other patient.

10. the collected information of the patient is stored in the database; The method of claim 2 , wherein the combination of records that reduces the patient's pain is stored in the database.

11. the database includes records of the patients; 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the combination of the collected information of the patient and the record of the reduction in the level of pain of the patient is stored in the record of the patient in the database.

12. the database includes records of the patients; the combination of records that reduces the pain for the patient is stored separately from the patient's record; 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the collected information for the patient is added to the combination of records that reduce the level of pain for the patient, which is stored separately from the record for the patient.

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