Muscle electrical stimulation program and electrical stimulation device

Abstract

This technology provides a way to diversify the sensory experiences that can be provided to users using electrical stimulation devices. [Solution] A program for applying electrical stimulation to muscles, wherein the computer of an electrical stimulator equipped with a signal application unit that applies a voltage signal to a group of electrodes is made to execute a function by controlling the signal application unit to repeatedly apply a plurality of pulse waveform groups as a voltage signal to the group of electrodes, the plurality of pulse waveform groups including a first pulse waveform group that is applied intermittently in each first cycle corresponding to a frequency of 15Hz to 25Hz, and a second pulse waveform group that is applied outside the application period of the first pulse waveform group in the first cycle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electrical stimulation device for applying electrical stimulation to a user.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an electrical stimulation device including an electrode group that applies electrical stimulation to both legs of a user. By applying electrical stimulation to both legs using this electrical stimulation device, it is possible to promote exercise accompanied by muscle contraction and relaxation.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Recently, there is concern about chronic lack of exercise among the elderly and others. In order to eliminate the lack of exercise, a device for promoting continuous use of an electrical stimulation device that can be used indoors is desired. The inventor of the present application has recognized that in order to make such a device, it is important to diversify the physical sensations that can be given to the user.

[0005] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a technology capable of diversifying the physical sensations that can be given to a user using an electrical stimulation device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The program of this disclosure is a program for applying electrical stimulation to a muscle, and is a muscle electrical stimulation program that controls a computer of an electrical stimulator equipped with a signal application unit that applies a voltage signal to a group of electrodes, thereby causing the computer to execute a function of repeatedly applying a plurality of pulse waveform groups to the electrode group as the voltage signal, wherein the plurality of pulse waveform groups include a first pulse waveform group that is applied intermittently in each first cycle corresponding to a frequency of 15 Hz to 25 Hz, and a second pulse waveform group that is applied outside the application period of the first pulse waveform group in the first cycle.

[0007] The electrical stimulation device of this disclosure comprises a group of electrodes that provide electrical stimulation to a user, a signal application unit that applies a voltage signal to the group of electrodes, and a control unit that executes the aforementioned muscle electrical stimulation program. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to diversify the sensory experiences that can be provided to users using an electrical stimulation device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the configuration of an electrical stimulation system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a right side view showing an electrical stimulation device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3(A) is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the EMS waveform group for the left leg is applied to the electrode group, and Figure 3(B) is an explanatory diagram showing the state in which the EMS waveform group for the right leg is applied to the electrode group. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the functions of an electrical stimulation device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] This waveform diagram shows the EMS waveform groups for the left leg and the EMS waveform groups for the right leg. [Figure 6] These are waveform diagrams of the first and second pulse waveform groups. [Figure 7] This is a waveform diagram of a group of pulse waveforms. [Figure 8] This is a waveform diagram of the EMS waveform group applied in skip mode. [Figure 9] This graph shows the results of muscle fatigue measurements taken before and after using the walking mode. [Figure 10] This graph shows the results of calf muscle strength measurements conducted before and after the trial period for the walking mode. [Figure 11] This graph shows the results of walking speed measurements conducted before and after the testing period for the walking mode. [Figure 12] This graph shows the results of a two-step test conducted before and after the trial period for the walking mode. [Figure 13] This is a block diagram showing the functions of the remote controller of the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments are described below. The same reference numerals are used for identical components, and redundant explanations are omitted. For the sake of clarity, components are omitted, enlarged, or reduced as appropriate in each drawing. The drawings should be viewed in accordance with the orientation of the reference numerals. The vertical and horizontal axes of the waveform diagrams are enlarged or reduced as appropriate for ease of understanding. The waveforms in the waveform diagrams are simplified as appropriate for ease of understanding.

[0011] Refer to Figure 1. The electrical stimulation system 12 using the electrical stimulation device 10 includes, in addition to the electrical stimulation device 10, a remote controller 14 (hereinafter also referred to as the remote control 14) for operating the electrical stimulation device 10. Details of the remote control 14 will be described later.

[0012] Refer to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is also a top view of the electrical stimulation device 10. The electrical stimulation device 10 comprises an electrode group 16 that applies electrical stimulation to the user's legs, and a main body 18 that houses the electrode group 16.

[0013] The main body 18 is used in a state of being placed on the floor F. On the upper surface portion of the main body 18, a pair of footrest portions 20L and 20R for placing the user's left and right feet are provided. The pair of footrest portions 20L and 20R includes a left footrest portion 20L for placing the left foot LF and a right footrest portion 20R for placing the right foot RF. The footrest portions 20L and 20R include a front portion 22 for placing the toe side portion of the user's foot and a rear portion 24 for placing the heel side portion of the foot.

[0014] On the upper surface portion of the main body 18, a plurality of device operation portions 26A and 26B for operating the electrical stimulation device 10 are provided. The device operation portions 26A and 26B are, for example, buttons that receive a pressing operation by the user. The device operation portions 26A and 26B of the present embodiment include a first level operation portion 26A for increasing the set level of the electrical stimulation applied to the user and a second level operation portion 26B for decreasing the set level.

[0015] On the lower surface portion of the main body 18, a plurality of grounding portions 30A to 30C are provided at intervals in the front-rear direction. The plurality of grounding portions 30A to 30C includes a front grounding portion 30A provided on the front side of the main body 18, a rear grounding portion 30B provided on the rear side, and an intermediate grounding portion 30C provided between the front grounding portion 30A and the rear grounding portion 30B. The main body 18 can swing back and forth with rotation around the left-right direction axis while the intermediate grounding portion 30C is grounded.

[0016] The electrode group 16 includes a plurality of electrodes 32L and 32R for applying electrical stimulation to both legs of the user. The plurality of electrodes 32L and 32R are provided individually corresponding to the left and right legs. The plurality of electrodes 32L and 32R includes a left electrode 32L corresponding to the left leg LL and a right electrode 32R corresponding to the right leg RL. The plurality of electrodes 32L and 32R are used in a state of being applied to the corresponding legs LL and RL of the user. Each of the left electrode 32L and the right electrode 32R of the present embodiment constitutes each of the pair of footrest portions 20L and 20R. Specifically, the left electrode 32L constitutes the left footrest portion 20L, and the right electrode 32R constitutes the right footrest portion 20R.

[0017] Refer to Figures 3(A) and (B). When the electrode group 16 has multiple electrodes 32L and 32R that make up the electrode group 16 applied to the legs LL and RL, it can form a left leg current supply path 34L that applies electrical stimulation to the left leg LF and a right leg current supply path 34R that applies electrical stimulation to the right leg RL. The electrode group 16 of this embodiment can form a bilateral current supply path 36 that includes the left leg current supply path 34L and the right leg current supply path 34R. The left leg current supply path 34L includes at least a portion of the left leg LL. In this embodiment, the left leg current supply path 34L includes the sole of the left leg LF, the lower leg, and the upper leg. The right leg current supply path 34R includes at least a portion of the right leg RL. In this embodiment, the right leg current supply path 34R includes the sole of the right leg RL, the lower leg, and the upper leg. The bilateral electrical conduction pathway 36 includes the groin area in addition to the left leg electrical conduction pathway 34L and the right leg electrical conduction pathway 34R.

[0018] Refer to Figure 4. Each block shown in the block diagrams of this specification can be realized in hardware terms by electronic components, circuits, mechanical devices, etc., including CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and in software terms by computer programs, etc. Here, we depict functional blocks realized through the cooperation of these. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways by combinations of hardware and software.

[0019] In addition to the aforementioned electrode group 16 and device operation units 26A and 26B, the electrical stimulation device 10 includes a device power supply 40, a signal application unit 42 that applies a voltage signal to the electrode group 16, and a device control unit 44 (control device) that controls the electrical stimulation device 10.

[0020] The device power supply 40 is housed in the main body 18. In this embodiment, the device power supply 40 is a primary battery such as a manganese battery. The device power supply 40 may also be a rechargeable secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery. The device power supply 40 supplies power to the signal application unit 42, the device control unit 44, etc.

[0021] The signal application unit 42 is configured using a pulse width modulation circuit or the like.

[0022] The device control unit 44 functions as the computer for the electrical stimulation device 10. The device control unit 44 includes a device storage unit 46 that stores various information related to the electrical stimulation device 10. The device control unit 44 executes processes to realize the functions of the device control unit 44 (such as the operation control unit 48 and current control unit 98, which will be described later) by executing programs stored in the device storage unit 46.

[0023] The device control unit 44 includes an operation control unit 48 that executes an electrical stimulation operation by controlling the signal application unit 42. The electrical stimulation operation is performed by the signal application unit 42 applying a group of EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) waveforms for applying electrical stimulation as voltage signals to the electrode group 16. The function of the operation control unit 48, described below, is achieved by executing a muscle electrical stimulation program for applying electrical stimulation to the muscles.

[0024] Refer to Figure 5. The vertical axis in Figure 5 shows the voltage level. The EMS waveform group includes the left leg EMS waveform group 50L, which applies electrical stimulation to the left leg LL, and the right leg EMS waveform group 50R, which applies electrical stimulation to the right leg RL. Hereafter, when describing the configuration common to the left leg EMS waveform group 50L and the right leg EMS waveform group 50R, the term "EMS waveform group 50" will be used to refer to them collectively. The EMS waveform group 50 is designed to apply electrical stimulation equivalent to one step of walking.

[0025] The device memory unit 46 stores waveform information that contains parameters related to the EMS waveform group 50 (such as the periods Ta1, Ta2, Tb, periods Tf, Tg, and pulse output time Ti1, which will be described later). The waveform information is stored in the form of a table or the like. The operation control unit 48 reads the waveform information stored in the device memory unit 46 and controls the signal application unit 42 based on the read waveform information, thereby generating EMS waveform groups 50L and 50R with various waveforms.

[0026] The motion control unit 48 can execute an alternating stimulation mode using the signal application unit 42, which alternately applies the left leg EMS waveform group 50L and the right leg EMS waveform group 50R to the electrode group 16. By executing the alternating stimulation mode, the stimulation current with the left leg EMS waveform group 50L and the stimulation current with the right leg EMS waveform group 50R are alternately output from the electrode group 16.

[0027] Figure 3(A) shows the state in which a stimulating current with the left leg EMS waveform group 50L is output from electrode group 16, and Figure 3(B) shows the state in which a stimulating current with the right leg EMS waveform group 50R is output from electrode group 16. In Figures 3(A) and 3(B), the arrow Da indicates the direction of current flow of the stimulating current.

[0028] When the electrode group 16 forms a conduction path 36 for both legs, the motion control unit 48 can apply electrical stimulation at a level perceptible only to either the left leg LL or the right leg RL by changing the polarity of the electrodes 32L and 32R to which the EMS waveforms 50L and 50R are applied. This will be described in detail below.

[0029] The intensity of the electrical stimulation is strongest at the input point of the stimulating current with EMS waveform group 50L, 50R, and decreases rapidly as it moves away from that point. Therefore, when applying electrical stimulation to the left leg LL, it is necessary to ensure that the input point of the stimulating current is the left electrode 32L. For this reason, the motion control unit 48 applies the left leg EMS waveform group 50L so that the left electrode 32L, which is the application target, is positive polarity and the right electrode 32R is negative polarity. As a result, the stimulating current with the left leg EMS waveform group 50L is passed through the bilateral current path 36 from the left electrode 32L to the right electrode 32R (see Figure 3(A)). As a result, a perceptible level of electrical stimulation can be applied to the left leg LL, which is close to the left electrode 32L, and the right leg RL does not need to be subjected to a perceptible level of electrical stimulation. In this embodiment, since the left electrode 32L constitutes the left foot rest 20L, a perceptible level of electrical stimulation is applied to the sole of the left leg LL where the left electrode 32L touches.

[0030] When applying electrical stimulation to the right leg RL, it is necessary to ensure that the input point for the stimulation current is the right electrode 32R. For this reason, the motion control unit 48 applies the EMS waveform group 50R for the right leg so that the right electrode 32R, which is the application target, is positive polarity and the left electrode 32L is negative polarity. As a result, a stimulation current with the EMS waveform group 50R for the right leg is passed through the bilateral current path 36 from the right electrode 32R to the left electrode 32L (see Figure 3(B)). As a result, a perceptible level of electrical stimulation can be applied to the right leg RL, which is close to the right electrode 32R, and the left leg LL does not need to be subjected to a perceptible level of electrical stimulation. In this embodiment, since the right electrode 32R constitutes the right foot rest 20R, a perceptible level of electrical stimulation is applied to the sole of the right leg RL where the right electrode 32R makes contact.

[0031] In this embodiment, the control unit 48 applies the left leg EMS waveform group 50L and the right leg EMS waveform group 50R respectively during the stimulation application period Ta1. The stimulation application period Ta1 in this embodiment consists of a plurality of consecutive block periods Tb. The figure shows the stimulation application period Ta1 consisting of three consecutive block periods Tb. The control unit 48 alternately applies the left leg EMS waveform group 50L and the right leg EMS waveform group 50R, with a stimulation pause period Ta2 in which the applied voltage is set to zero.

[0032] The walking pace can be adjusted by changing the duration of the stimulation application period Ta1 and the stimulation rest period Ta2. For example, the longer the duration of the stimulation application period Ta1 and the stimulation rest period Ta2, the slower the walking pace can be reproduced. Conversely, the shorter these durations are, the faster the walking pace can be reproduced. Note that when alternately applying the left leg EMS waveform group 50L and the right leg EMS waveform group 50R, it is not essential to insert a stimulation rest period Ta2 between the stimulation application periods Ta1.

[0033] Refer to Figure 6. Figure 6 shows a portion of the EMS waveform group 50 during one block period Tb in Figure 5. The EMS waveform group 50 consists of multiple pulse waveform groups 52 that are repeatedly applied to the electrode group 16. The EMS waveform group 50 will include multiple pulse waveform groups 52 that are repeatedly applied.

[0034] Refer to Figure 7. Figure 7 shows a portion of the pulse waveform group 52 in Figure 6. The application period Tc of the pulse waveform group 52 consists of a pulse continuation period Td1 in which the pulse train 54 is continuously applied, and a pulse pause period Td2 in which the application of the pulse train 54 is paused. The pulse train 54 consists of multiple pulse signals 56 of the same polarity, each having a predetermined number of pulses applied at predetermined pulse periods Te. The pulse voltage (voltage level) of the pulse signals 56 is set by input operations to the device operation units 26A and 26B.

[0035] The pulse duration Td1 and pulse period Te are set to be very short. The pulse train 54 output during the pulse duration Td1 is recognized as a single electrical stimulus. The length of the pulse pause period Td2 is longer than the length of the pulse duration Td1 in order to reduce the user's pain caused by the electrical stimulation. Figure 7 shows an example where the pulse duration Td1 is 2.1 ms, the pulse pause period Td2 is 14.7 ms, the pulse period Te is 700 μs, and the number of pulses is 3.

[0036] Refer to Figure 6. The multiple pulse waveform groups 52 include a first pulse waveform group 52A that is applied intermittently every first period Tf, and a second pulse waveform group 52B that is applied outside the application period Tc of the first pulse waveform group 52A in the first period Tf. Here, "outside the application period Tc of the first pulse waveform group 52A" refers to the period Th obtained by subtracting the application period Tc of the first pulse waveform group from the first period Tf. Figure 6 shows an example in which one first pulse waveform group 52A and two second pulse waveform groups 52B are included within the first period Tf. The application period Tc, pulse duration Td1, pulse pause period Td2, and pulse period Te are common to both the first pulse waveform group 52A and the second pulse waveform group 52B.

[0037] In this embodiment, the pulse waveform group 52 is repeatedly applied within the same first period Tf at intervals of a second period Tg that is shorter than the first period Tf. One portion of the second period Tg within the first period Tf becomes the application period Tc of the first pulse waveform group 52A, and the remaining portion of the second period Tg within the first period becomes the application period Tc of the second pulse waveform group 52B. The second period Tg is the time length obtained by dividing the first period Tf into N+1 equal parts, where N is the number of second pulse waveform groups 52B within the first period Tf.

[0038] The first pulse waveform group 52A is mainly used to induce incomplete tetanus in the muscles. In relation to this purpose, the first period Tf is set in the range of 40ms to 66ms, corresponding to a frequency of 15Hz to 25Hz that can induce incomplete tetanus in the muscles. Figure 6 shows an example where the first period Tf is 50.00ms and the second period Tg is 16.66ms (=50.00 / (2+1)). The frequency corresponding to the first period Tf is preferably 18Hz to 23Hz, and more preferably 19Hz to 21Hz.

[0039] If only the first pulse waveform group 52A is applied at each of the first cycle Tf intervals, the user will receive intermittent, wave-like electrical stimulation. When such intermittent electrical stimulation is applied to the legs, it becomes impossible to reproduce the sensation of continuously pressing down on the ground. To address this, the motion control unit 48 applies the second pulse waveform group 52B between consecutive first pulse waveform groups 52A. This allows the user to receive continuous electrical stimulation compared to when only the first pulse waveform group 52A is applied at each of the first cycle Tf intervals. When such pulse waveform group 52 is applied to the legs, it becomes possible to reproduce the sensation of continuously pressing down on the ground.

[0040] By changing the pulse waveforms of the first pulse waveform group 52A and the second pulse waveform group 52B described above, the sensory experience provided to the user can be varied in various ways. Here, "pulse waveform" refers to the waveform of the pulse signal 56 in the pulse train 54.

[0041] For example, by making the pulse output time Ti1 (see Figure 7) of each pulse signal 56 in the first pulse waveform group 52A longer than the pulse output time Ti1 of each pulse signal 56 in the second pulse waveform group 52B, the sensation provided by the first pulse waveform group 52A can be strengthened. This is equivalent to making the duty cycle of the pulse signal 56 of the first pulse waveform group 52A larger than the duty cycle of the pulse signal 56 of the second pulse waveform group 52B (the ratio of pulse output time Ti1 to pulse period Te). By strengthening the sensation provided by the first pulse waveform group 52A with a frequency of 15Hz to 25Hz, it becomes easier to induce incomplete tetanus in the muscles. Therefore, it becomes easier to induce muscle fatigue while providing the user with the sensation of continuous electrical stimulation. When such a pulse waveform group 52 is applied to the legs, it becomes easier to induce muscle fatigue while providing the sensation of continuously pressing on the ground. In relation to these effects, if the stimulation period Ta1 includes multiple blocking periods Tb, it is sufficient that the conditions regarding the pulse output time Ti1 are met in at least one of the blocking periods Tb.

[0042] In contrast, the shorter the pulse output time Ti1 of the first pulse waveform group 52A is compared to the pulse output time Ti1 of the second pulse waveform group 52B, the weaker the sensation provided by the first pulse waveform group 52A can be. When the pulse output time Ti1 of the second pulse waveform group 52B and the first pulse waveform group 52A are the same, the pulse waveform group 52 is applied at frequencies above 25Hz. By weakening the sensation provided by the first pulse waveform group 52A at frequencies between 15Hz and 25Hz, muscle fatigue can be reduced. Therefore, it is possible to provide the user with the sensation of continuous electrical stimulation while moderately suppressing muscle fatigue. When such a pulse waveform group 52 is applied to the legs, it is possible to provide the sensation of continuously pressing on the ground while moderately suppressing muscle fatigue.

[0043] The effects described above can also be obtained if the pulse voltage (voltage level) of the pulse signal 56 of the first pulse waveform group 52A is higher than the pulse voltage of the pulse signal 56 of the second pulse waveform group 52B. Furthermore, in order to obtain the effects described above, the pulse output time Ti1 of the first pulse waveform group 52A may be made longer than the pulse output time Ti1 of the second pulse waveform group 52B, and the pulse voltage of the first pulse waveform group 52A may be made higher than the pulse voltage of the second pulse waveform group 52B.

[0044] Refer to Figure 5. Each of the multiple block periods Tb differs in at least one of either the pulse waveform of the pulse waveform group 52 applied during the block period Tb or the duration of the block period Tb. For example, if the pulse output time Ti1 of the first pulse waveform group 52A is gradually increased as the block period Tb progresses, the intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the user can be gradually increased. Conversely, if the pulse output time Ti1 of the first pulse waveform group 52A is gradually decreased as the block period Tb progresses, the intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the user can be gradually decreased. Furthermore, by increasing or decreasing the duration of each block period Tb, the perceived duration corresponding to each block period Tb can also be increased or decreased. This makes it possible to gradually change the intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the user, as will be explained below, and to achieve a diversification of the sensations applied to the user. In any block period Tb, the first period Tf and the second period Tg of each pulse waveform group 52 have the same duration.

[0045] Next, various operating modes using the alternating stimulation modes described above will be explained. The operation control unit 48 starts executing the following operating modes when predetermined start conditions are met. The start conditions are, for example, receiving predetermined input operations on the electrical stimulator 10 and the remote control 14. The operation control unit 48 may execute at least the following operating modes individually, or each operating mode may be executed in sequence.

[0046] [Table 1]

[0047] Table 1 shows a time table of various operating modes using the alternating stimulation mode. Ti2 in Table 1 is the pulse-off period in the pulse period Te (see also Figure 7). The walking mode is a mode that reproduces normal walking motion. Here, the walking modes are shown as slow walking mode, walking mode, and fast walking mode. In each walking mode, the perceived walking pace is changed by changing the length of the stimulation application period Ta1 and the stimulation rest period Ta2. For example, the total time of the stimulation application period Ta1 and the stimulation rest period Ta2 gradually decreases in the order of slow walking mode, walking mode, and fast walking mode. This indicates that the perceived walking pace increases in the order of slow walking mode, walking mode, and fast walking mode. In addition, in each walking mode, the pulse output time Ti1 of the first pulse waveform group 52A is decreased in the order of first block period Tb and second block period Tb, thereby gradually weakening the electrical stimulation. This reproduces the motion in which the stimulation applied to the foot weakens as the contact area with the ground increases during walking.

[0048] The stepping mode is a mode that simulates stepping. Here, we refer to the stepping modes as the 1st stepping mode, the 2nd stepping mode, and the 3rd stepping mode. In each stepping mode, the stimulation period Ta1 is shorter than in the walking mode in order to provide the sensation of stepping rhythmically with light steps. In each stepping mode, the perceived stepping pace is changed by changing the total time of the stimulation period Ta1 and the stimulation rest period Ta2. For example, the total time of the stimulation period Ta1 and stimulation rest period Ta2 gradually decreases in the order of the 1st stepping mode, the 2nd stepping mode, and the 3rd stepping mode. This indicates that the perceived stepping pace increases in the order of the 1st stepping mode, the 2nd stepping mode, and the 3rd stepping mode.

[0049] The climbing mode is a mode that simulates the walking motion when climbing stairs. In the climbing mode, the stimulation application period Ta1 consists of three block periods Tb. In the climbing mode, the pulse output time Ti1 of the first pulse waveform group 52A is increased in the order of the first block period Tb, the second block period Tb, and the third block period Tb. This means that in the climbing mode, the electrical stimulation applied as a physical sensation gradually increases. This simulates the state when climbing stairs, where the stimulation on one foot is weak when one foot lands because the weight is distributed between both feet, and then the stimulation increases when the remaining foot pushes off the ground because the entire body weight is placed on the one foot.

[0050] The descending mode is a mode that simulates the walking motion when going down stairs. In descending mode, the stimulation application period Ta1 consists of three block periods Tb. In descending mode, the pulse output time Ti1 of the first pulse waveform group 52A is made smaller in the order of the first block period Tb, the second block period Tb, and the third block period Tb. This means that in descending mode, the electrical stimulation applied as a sensation gradually weakens. This simulates how, when going down stairs, the stimulation is strong when one foot lands with weight on it and force, and then weakens after a short time as the load is distributed across the entire foot.

[0051] The Slow Pace mode is a mode that replicates a slow, powerful walking motion. The stimulation period Ta1 in Slow Pace mode consists of five block periods Tb. In Slow Pace mode, the pulse output time Ti1 of the first pulse waveform group 52A is gradually increased from the first block period Tb to the fourth block period Tb, and then decreased in the fifth block period Tb. In addition, the stimulation period Ta1 is longer in Slow Pace mode than in walking mode. This means that in Slow Pace mode, the electrical stimulation applied as a physical sensation slowly and gradually increases, and then suddenly weakens. This replicates the motion of gradually increasing the force of pushing off the ground, and finally slowly lifting the foot off the ground.

[0052] [Table 2]

[0053] See also Figure 8. The skip mode is a mode that reproduces the skipping motion. In step mode, multiple intermittent EMS waveform groups 50L for the left leg and multiple intermittent EMS waveform groups 50R for the right leg are alternately applied to the electrode group 16. The multiple EMS waveform groups 50L and 50R for both the left and right legs include a first EMS waveform group 50A corresponding to the first step of walking motion and a second EMS waveform group 50B corresponding to the second step of walking motion using the same foot as the first step of walking motion. Table 2 shows the time table for the first EMS waveform group 50A and the second EMS waveform group 50B applied in skip mode. A stimulation pause period Ta2 in which the applied voltage is set to zero is inserted between the first EMS waveform group 50A and the second EMS waveform group 50B. This allows for repeated intermittent electrical stimulation to be applied to the same leg, reproducing the skipping motion in which the same leg continuously bounces with both legs.

[0054] The effects of the above improvements will be explained.

[0055] The multiple pulse waveform groups 52 include a first pulse waveform group 52A that is intermittently applied at each first period Tf corresponding to a frequency of 15Hz to 25Hz, and a second pulse waveform group 52B that is applied outside the application period of the first pulse waveform group 52A in the first period Tf. Therefore, by changing the pulse waveforms of the first pulse waveform group 52A and the second pulse waveform group 52B, the sensory experience that can be provided to the user can be easily changed, as described above. In turn, it is possible to diversify the sensory experience that can be provided to the user.

[0056] The pulse signals of the first pulse waveform group 52A with frequencies from 15Hz to 25Hz have a pulse output time Ti1 or pulse voltage greater than that of the pulse signals 56 of the second pulse waveform group 52B. This allows for a moderately reduced load on the user compared to applying only the first pulse waveform group 52A with frequencies from 15Hz to 25Hz. This finding was obtained through experimental studies conducted by the inventors of the present invention, as described below. Therefore, by providing the user with a sensation that is less likely to become tiresome, it becomes possible to encourage continued use of the electrical stimulation device 10 while also providing the user with a moderate level of fatigue. Consequently, compared to outputting only the first pulse waveform group 52A with frequencies from 15Hz to 25Hz, it becomes possible to provide a sensation that is more suitable for maintaining muscle mass.

[0057] The electrical stimulator 10 includes an operation control unit 48 that controls the signal application unit 42 to alternately apply the left leg EMS waveform group 50L and the right leg EMS waveform group 50R to the electrode group 16. As a result, the left leg EMS waveform group 50L and the right leg EMS waveform group 50R are alternately output from the electrode group 16, giving the user an unprecedented sensation similar to walking. In other words, it provides the user with a sensation that is less likely to become tiresome, and consequently, makes it easier to encourage continued use of the electrical stimulator 10.

[0058] Next, I will describe the tests conducted to confirm the effects of the alternating stimulation modes described above.

[0059] A total of 12 subjects were asked to use the aforementioned electrical stimulator 10, and to use the walking mode described below on a one-off basis. The subjects consisted of 6 men and 6 women, with an average age of 68.58 ± 3.53 years. The voltage level (pulse voltage) of the electrical stimulator 10 was set to the maximum level that the subjects could tolerate.

[0060] Walking mode refers to a 20-minute mode that runs in the following order: stepping mode (3 minutes) → rest mode (30 seconds) → slow walking mode (3 minutes) → walking mode (3 minutes) → rest mode (30 seconds) → uphill mode (3 minutes) → downhill mode (3 minutes) → skip mode (3 minutes) → rest mode (1 minute). In this case, the stepping mode was performed in the order of the aforementioned 1st stepping mode (1 minute) → 2nd stepping mode (1 minute) → 3rd stepping mode (1 minute). The rest mode is a mode in which the application of the EMS waveform group is paused.

[0061] In conjunction with this, the same subjects were instructed to use the aforementioned electrical stimulation device 10 and the training mode described below. This training mode outputs a group of pulse waveforms at a frequency (=20Hz) suitable for promoting incomplete tetanus for a total of 23 minutes.

[0062] To evaluate the muscle fatigue of subjects using the electrical stimulator 10, the following muscle fatigue measurement was performed. In the muscle fatigue measurement, the subject's muscle strength was measured using a simple muscle strength measuring device (Mutas F-1, manufactured by Anima Co., Ltd.). In this muscle fatigue measurement, the muscle strength immediately before using the electrical stimulator 10 and the muscle strength immediately after using the electrical stimulator 10 were measured. For the muscle strength immediately after using the electrical stimulator 10, the muscle strength immediately after using the walking mode and the muscle strength immediately after using the training mode were measured separately.

[0063] Refer to Figure 9. Here, the muscle strength immediately before using the electrical stimulator 10 is set to 100, and the ratio of muscle strength immediately after use to the muscle strength before use is shown. When using the walking mode, the results showed that muscle strength decreased by an average of about 10% compared to before using the walking mode. Furthermore, it can be seen that the degree of muscle strength decrease is smaller when using the walking mode compared to when using the training mode. This supports the idea that when using the walking mode, the exercise load is lighter compared to when using the training mode aimed at muscle hypertrophy, making it a mode suitable for maintaining muscle mass.

[0064] Next, a total of six subjects were asked to continuously use the aforementioned walking mode with the aforementioned electrical stimulator 10. The subjects consisted of three men and three women, with an average age of 69.83 ± 2.71 years. The voltage level (pulse voltage) of the electrical stimulator 10 was set to the maximum level that the subjects could tolerate. The subjects were instructed to use the walking mode once a day for a total of 20 minutes during a trial period of four weeks.

[0065] To evaluate the calf muscle strength of the subjects, the following calf muscle strength measurement was performed. For the calf muscle strength measurement, the subjects' muscle strength was measured using a simple muscle strength measuring device (Mutas F-1, manufactured by Anima Co., Ltd.). In this muscle fatigue measurement, the muscle strength immediately before the test period and the muscle strength immediately after the test period were measured.

[0066] Furthermore, in order to evaluate the subjects' walking speed, we decided to conduct the walking speed measurement described below. In the walking speed measurement, the time required to walk 5m at a normal walking speed and the time required to walk 5m at a maximum walking speed were measured using a stopwatch. Normal walking speed refers to the walking speed at which the subject usually walks, and maximum walking speed refers to the fastest speed at which the subject can walk without running.

[0067] Furthermore, to evaluate the subjects' two-step stride length, we decided to conduct the two-step test described below. In the two-step test, the subjects were asked to take two steps, and their stride length was measured using a measuring tape.

[0068] Refer to Figure 10. Here, muscle strength immediately before the test period is set to 100, and the ratio of muscle strength immediately after the test period to muscle strength immediately before the test period is shown. When the walking mode was used continuously, an average increase of 4.7% in muscle strength was obtained compared to immediately before the test period.

[0069] Refer to Figure 11. When the walking mode was used continuously, the average speed increased by approximately 0.31 seconds at normal walking speed compared to immediately before the test period. In addition, the average speed increased by 0.19 seconds at maximum walking speed compared to immediately before the test period, showing a statistically significant difference (p<0.05).

[0070] Refer to Figure 12. When walking mode was used continuously, the average stride length increased by approximately 11.16 cm compared to immediately before the trial period, a statistically significant difference (p<0.05). Both test results support the idea that using walking mode can moderately reduce the exercise load on the user.

[0071] Next, I will explain other improvements to the electrical stimulation system 12.

[0072] Let's consider a scenario where multiple users use individual electrical stimulators 10 simultaneously. This could occur, for example, in a gym, nursing home, or rehabilitation room. In this case, there is a risk that one user's remote control 14 could accidentally operate another user's electrical stimulator 10.

[0073] As a countermeasure, one possible approach is to operate the electrical stimulator 10 only when it receives a pre-set version of command data, based on that command data. In this case, the remote control 14 needs to be configured to set the version of the command data to be output from among several different versions. Similarly, the electrical stimulator 10 also needs to be configured to set the version of the command data to be received from among several different versions. Therefore, it is necessary to configure the versions to be used in both the remote control 14 and the electrical stimulator 10.

[0074] Furthermore, the command data version is usually switched by sliding a slide switch on the remote control 14 or the electrical stimulator 10, or by pressing multiple buttons simultaneously. However, the number of versions that can be switched using such operations is at most two or three. Therefore, it is not suitable for use in situations where many users are using the electrical stimulator 10 simultaneously.

[0075] The following describes measures to prevent errors in operation when multiple users simultaneously use the electrical stimulation device 10.

[0076] Refer to Figure 13. The remote control 14 comprises a remote control power supply 80, a plurality of remote control operation units 82A to 82E that receive input operations from the user, a remote control control unit 84 that controls the remote control 14, a transmission unit 86 that can transmit transmission signals using infrared light or the like, and a remote control storage unit 88.

[0077] The remote control power supply 80 is housed in the casing of the remote control 14. The remote control power supply 80 is a primary battery, a secondary battery, etc. The remote control power supply 80 supplies power to the remote control control unit 84, the transmitter unit 86, etc.

[0078] The multiple remote control operation units 82A to 82E include a power operation unit 82A for turning the power on and off, a menu operation unit 82B for selecting a mode, level operation units 82C and 82D for changing the set level, and a switching operation unit 82E for pausing or resuming the operation of the electrical stimulation device 10. The level operation units 82C and 82D include a first level operation unit 82C for raising the set level and a second level operation unit 82D for lowering the set level.

[0079] The remote control memory unit 88 stores identification information unique to the remote control 14. This identification information is a serial code or the like. The identification information is composed of random numbers generated by a random number generator built into the remote control 14, for example. The random number generator generates random numbers of a predetermined number of bits (for example, 16 bits). In addition, the identification information may be written to the remote control memory unit 88 through input operations to the remote control operation unit.

[0080] The remote control unit 84 generates command data in response to input operations to the remote control operation units 82A to 82E. The command data is used to instruct the operation of the electrical stimulator 10. The remote control unit 84 transmits a transmission signal containing the generated command data to the electrical stimulator 10 through the transmission unit 86.

[0081] Refer to Figure 4. The electrical stimulation device 10 includes a receiving unit 92 that receives a transmission signal transmitted from the transmitting unit 86 of the remote control 14. The receiving unit 92 receives the transmission signal that has passed through the receiving window 94 (see Figure 1) provided in the main body 18.

[0082] The device control unit 44 of the electrical stimulator 10 includes a registration unit 96 that registers identification information of the remote control 14 paired with the electrical stimulator 10 in the device storage unit 46. When predetermined registration process start conditions are met, the registration unit 96 executes a registration process (pairing process) to register the remote control 14. The registration process start conditions are that predetermined input operations are performed on the device operation units 26A and 26B of the electrical stimulator 10 and the remote control operation units 82A to 82E of the remote control 14. The input operation for the remote control 14 is, for example, pressing the power operation unit 82A and the menu operation unit 82B of the remote control 14 simultaneously, that is, simultaneously inputting multiple remote control operation units 82A to 82E. This prevents the registration process from being accidentally executed while the remote control 14 is in use. The input operation for the electrical stimulator 10 is, for example, pressing the level operation unit 26A of the electrical stimulator 10.

[0083] When an input operation for registration is performed on the remote control 14, the remote control control unit 84 of the remote control 14 generates a processing code for registration and transmits it from the transmission unit 86. The processing code is accompanied by identification information unique to the remote control 14, which is stored in the remote control memory unit 88 of the remote control 14. When the receiving unit 92 of the electrical stimulator 10 receives the processing code transmitted from the remote control 14 while an input operation for registration has been performed on the electrical stimulator 10, the registration unit 96 registers the identification information attached to the processing code as identification information unique to the remote control 14 in the device memory unit 46. This completes the registration process.

[0084] When the remote control unit 84 of the remote control 14 transmits a transmission signal containing command data, it adds identification information stored in the remote control storage unit 88 to the command data. The command data is defined according to a predetermined format, and the identification information is stored in a predetermined position within that format. The operation control unit 48 of the electrical stimulator 10 executes an operation corresponding to the command data only when it receives command data to which identification information corresponding to a remote control 14 registered in the device storage unit 46 has been added. This ensures that even when multiple users use the electrical stimulator 10 simultaneously, the electrical stimulator 10 can execute an operation corresponding to the command data only when it receives command data transmitted from a remote control 14 registered in the electrical stimulator 10. Consequently, when multiple users use the electrical stimulator 10 simultaneously, it is possible to prevent situations in which another user's electrical stimulator is accidentally operated.

[0085] Let's consider the case where a repeat command is sent to the electrical stimulator 10 to repeat a predetermined operation. In this case, the remote control unit 84 of the remote control 14 may send a repeat command with identification information stored in the remote control memory unit 88 added to it. Alternatively, a repeat command may not be used to repeat a predetermined operation. In this case, identification information may be added to the command corresponding to the operation to be repeated, and the command with the added identification information may be sent repeatedly.

[0086] Next, I will explain other improvements to the electrical stimulation device 10.

[0087] When commercial power is used as the device power supply 40, it is possible to supply power continuously, and therefore it is common to keep the receiving unit 92 of the electrical stimulator 10 in a state where it can receive signals at all times. In contrast, when batteries are used as the device power supply 40, keeping the receiving unit 92 of the electrical stimulator 10 in a state where it can receive signals at all times will cause a large amount of battery power to be consumed when the electrical stimulator 10 is not in use. Consequently, there is a problem that the actual usable time of the electrical stimulator 10 will be shortened.

[0088] The following describes the measures taken to reduce power consumption in the electrical stimulation device 10, based on the above.

[0089] The device control unit 44 of the electrical stimulation device 10 includes a current control unit 98 that controls the current supplied to the receiving unit 92. The current control unit 98 can cause the receiving unit 92 to perform an intermittent reception mode, which intermittently maintains the receiving unit 92 in a standby state capable of receiving, and a continuous reception mode, which constantly maintains the receiving unit 92 in a standby state capable of receiving. The current control unit 98 can cause the receiving unit 92 to perform the intermittent reception mode by intermittently supplying the receiving unit 92 with a current of a predetermined set value. The current control unit 98 can also cause the receiving unit 92 to perform the continuous reception mode by constantly supplying the receiving unit 92 with a current of a predetermined set value.

[0090] When in intermittent reception mode, the current control unit 98 intermittently supplies a set value of current to the receiving unit 92 only for a predetermined reception period (e.g., 2ms) at predetermined intermittent cycles (e.g., 200ms). When in intermittent reception mode, the current control unit 98 reduces power consumption by limiting the amount of current supplied to the receiving unit 92 to a limit value smaller than the set value outside of the reception period.

[0091] In intermittent reception mode, when the current control unit 98 receives a transmission signal from the receiving unit 92, it extends the reception period during which the receiving unit 92 can receive signals. During this extended reception period, when the current control unit 98 receives a transmission signal from the remote control 14 that includes a predetermined command, it switches from intermittent reception mode to continuous reception mode. This predetermined command is, for example, a power-on command to turn on the device power supply 40 of the electrical stimulation device 10. Conversely, when the current control unit 98 receives any other transmission signal during this extended reception period, it limits the current supplied to the receiving unit 92 to below a limit value and continues intermittent reception mode.

[0092] When the current control unit 98 is in the continuous reception mode, if a predetermined termination condition (for example, a predetermined time has elapsed since the end of receiving the transmission signal) is met, it will switch from the continuous reception mode to the intermittent reception mode.

[0093] As described above, by executing the intermittent reception mode, the current control unit 98 can reduce the power consumption of the receiving unit 92 compared to when the receiving unit 92 is kept in a constant reception mode.

[0094] Furthermore, when the transmitter 86 of the remote control 14 transmits a transmission signal including a power-on command, it repeatedly transmits the transmission signal for a predetermined number of repetitions (for example, 6) such that a predetermined transmission period and a transmission interval period alternate. The current control unit 98 may ignore the second and subsequent transmission signals if it receives transmission signals including a power-on command consecutively. Consecutive reception here means that the interval period between the previously received transmission signal and the newly received transmission signal is the aforementioned transmission interval period ± α.

[0095] Other variations of each component are described.

[0096] The electrode group 16 only needs to be able to apply electrical stimulation to both of the user's legs, LL and RL, by forming at least a left leg conduction path 34L and a right leg conduction path 34R, and the specific example is not particularly limited. The right electrode 32R and left electrode 32L of the electrode group 16 may be provided on a separate attachment such as a belt, separate from the main body 18 which has footrests 20L and 20R. In addition, the left electrode 32L may be individually provided on the attachment for the left leg LL and the main body 18, and the right electrode 32R may be individually provided on the attachment for the right leg RL and the main body 18.

[0097] An example has been described in which the electrode group 16 can form a bilateral electrical conduction path 36 including an electrical conduction path 34L for the left leg and an electrical conduction path 34R for the right leg. In addition, the electrode group 16 may also form separately separated electrical conduction paths 34L for the left leg and 34R for the right leg. This assumes a case where the electrical conduction path 34L for the left leg is formed by multiple left-side electrodes 32L, and the electrical conduction path 34R for the right leg is formed by multiple right-side electrodes 32R. Specifically, this is the case where the left-side electrodes 32L and right-side electrodes 32R are provided on the left and right mounting fixtures and the main body 18 as described above.

[0098] When forming separate electrical pathways 34L for the left leg and 34R for the right leg, the motion control unit 48 may vary the combination of electrodes 32L and 32R to which the EMS waveforms are applied, depending on the applied EMS waveform groups 50L and 50R, in order to apply an electrical stimulation level that can be perceived only to either the left leg LL or the right leg RL. Specifically, when the motion control unit 48 applies the EMS waveform group 50L for the left leg, it only needs to apply the current to the multiple left-side electrodes 32L that form the left leg electrical pathway 34L. As a result, the stimulation current with the EMS waveform group 50L for the left leg is passed only through the left leg electrical pathway 34L, and an electrical stimulation level that can be perceived only to the left leg LL is applied. Also, when the motion control unit 48 applies the EMS waveform group 50R for the right leg, it only needs to apply the current to the multiple right-side electrodes 32R that form the right leg electrical pathway 34R. As a result, a stimulating current with the EMS waveform group 50R for the right leg is passed only through the electrical conduction path 34R for the right leg, and an electrical stimulation level that can only be perceived by the right leg RL is applied. In other words, the motion control unit 48 can apply an electrical stimulation level that can only be perceived by either the left leg LL or the right leg RL by changing either the polarity of the electrodes 32L and 32R to which the EMS waveform group 50L and 50R is applied, or the combination of electrodes 32L and 32R to which the EMS waveform group 50L and 50R is applied.

[0099] The specific waveforms of the EMS waveform groups 50L and 50R are not limited to those of the embodiment. For example, the EMS waveform groups 50L and 50R may consist of only one of the first pulse waveform group 52A and the second pulse waveform group 52B. Furthermore, the second pulse waveform group 52B only needs to be applied outside the application period Tc of the first pulse waveform group 52A in the first period Tf (period Th), and it is not necessary for it to be output every second period Tg. For example, a pause period may be inserted between the application period Tc of the first pulse waveform group 52A and the application period Tc of the second pulse waveform group 52B.

[0100] The number of block periods Tb provided in the EMS waveform group 50 is not particularly limited. There may be one block period Tb or six or more block periods Tb.

[0101] Up to this point, we have described an example in which the target of electrical stimulation by the EMS waveform group 50 is the legs, but the specific example is not particularly limited. For example, the target of electrical stimulation may be the abdomen, both arms, or other parts of the body besides the legs. In any case, the target of electrical stimulation can be any part of the body. In this case, the electrode group 16 only needs to be able to form an electrical pathway to the target of electrical stimulation (part of the body), and the specific example is not limited to the embodiment.

[0102] The electrical stimulator 10 is not required to be used in combination with the remote control 14. The electrical stimulator 10 may be operated solely by input operations on the device operation units 26A and 26B. To achieve this, the same input operations as the remote control operation units 82A to 82E of the remote control 14 may be achieved by changing the operation time on the device operation units 26A and 26B, or the combination of device operation units 26A and 26B that are the target of the input operation. For example, by pressing the device operation unit 26A for a predetermined threshold time or longer (hereinafter referred to as a long press), the same input operations as the power operation unit 82A of the remote control 14 may be achieved. In addition, for example, by performing a long press on the device operation unit 26B, the same input operations as the menu operation unit 82B of the remote control 14 may be achieved. In addition, for example, by pressing multiple device operation units 26A and 26B simultaneously, the same input operations as the switching operation unit 82E of the remote control 14 may be achieved. Furthermore, if the device operation units 26A and 26B are pressed for a period of time less than a predetermined threshold (short press operation), the same input operation as the level operation units 82C and 82D of the remote control 14 will be achieved.

[0103] The program, which includes modules corresponding to each block of the device control unit 44, may be stored on a recording medium such as a DVD and installed in the device control unit 44. Alternatively, the program stored in storage may be read by a processor (CPU, etc.) and executed to perform the functions of each block.

[0104] The embodiments and variations described above are illustrative. The abstract technical ideas derived from them should not be interpreted restrictively to the content of the embodiments and variations. Many design changes are possible, such as changes, additions, and deletions of components, in the embodiments and variations. In the embodiments described above, the content that allows for such design changes is emphasized with the notation "embodiment." However, design changes are also permitted even in content without such notation. The hatching applied to the cross-sections in the drawings does not limit the material to which the hatching is applied. The numerical values ​​mentioned in the embodiments and variations (for example, the frequency corresponding to the first period Tf) naturally include those that can be considered identical when errors are taken into account.

[0105] Any combination of the above components is also valid as an aspect of this disclosure. Furthermore, expressions of this disclosure converted between devices, computer programs, recording media storing computer programs, etc., are also valid as aspects of this disclosure.

[0106] The following is a description of each claim in the claims of the original application. (Claim 1) A program for applying electrical stimulation to muscles, A computer in an electrical stimulator equipped with a signal application unit that applies a voltage signal to a group of electrodes, By controlling the signal application unit, the function of repeatedly applying a group of pulse waveforms as the voltage signal to the electrode group is achieved. Make it run, The plurality of pulse waveform groups are, A group of first pulse waveforms that are intermittently applied in each first period corresponding to a frequency of 15Hz to 25Hz, A muscle electrical stimulation program comprising: a second group of pulse waveforms applied outside the application period of the first group of pulse waveforms in the first cycle. (Claim 2) The muscle electrical stimulation program according to claim 1, wherein the pulse output time of the first pulse waveform group is longer than the pulse output time of the second pulse waveform group. (Claim 3) The muscle electrical stimulation program according to claim 1, wherein the pulse voltage of the first pulse waveform group is higher than the pulse voltage of the second pulse waveform group. (Claim 4) The pulse output time of the first pulse waveform group is longer than the pulse output time of the second pulse waveform group. The muscle electrical stimulation program according to claim 1, wherein the pulse voltage of the first pulse waveform group is higher than the pulse voltage of the second pulse waveform group. (Claim 5) The group of pulse waveforms is repeatedly applied at intervals of a second period shorter than the first period within the same first period. The muscle electrical stimulation program according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein one portion of the second period in the first period is the application period of the first pulse waveform group. (Claim 6) The function of applying to the electrode group involves controlling the signal application unit to repeatedly apply the plurality of pulse waveform groups to the electrode group in each of a plurality of consecutive block periods. A muscle electrical stimulation program according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each of the plurality of block periods differs in at least one of the pulse waveform of the pulse waveform group or the time length of the block period. (Claim 7) The function applied to the electrode group is to control the signal application unit to alternately apply to the electrode group, as voltage signals, a group of left leg EMS (Electric Muscle Stimulation) waveforms that apply electrical stimulation to the left leg and a group of right leg EMS waveforms that apply electrical stimulation to the right leg. The muscle electrical stimulation program according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the EMS waveform group is a repetition of the plurality of pulse waveform groups. (Claim 8) A group of electrodes that apply electrical stimulation to the user, A signal application unit that applies a voltage signal to the electrode group, An electrical stimulator comprising: a control unit that executes a muscle electrical stimulation program according to any one of claims 1 to 7. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 10...Electrical stimulator, 16...Electrode group, 42...Signal application unit, 50, 50L, 50R...EMS waveform group, 52A...First pulse waveform group, 52B...Second pulse waveform group, 56...Pulse signal.

Claims

[Claim 1] A program for applying electrical stimulation to muscles, A computer in an electrical stimulator equipped with a signal application unit that applies a voltage signal to a group of electrodes, By controlling the signal application unit, the function of repeatedly applying a group of pulse waveforms as the voltage signal to the electrode group is achieved. Make it run, The plurality of pulse waveform groups are, A group of first pulse waveforms that are intermittently applied in each first period corresponding to frequencies from 15 Hz to 25 Hz, A muscle electrical stimulation program comprising: a second group of pulse waveforms applied outside the application period of the first group of pulse waveforms in the first cycle.

Images