Electrical stimulation device

Abstract

To provide an electrostimulator capable of notifying of information on a motor function of a paralyzed site and predetermined information during treatment, and checking a correlation between them during the treatment, or to provide the electrostimulator capable of notifying of information on a motor function of a paralyzed site detected before the treatment and after the treatment, and checking a degree of improvement in the motor function by the treatment.SOLUTION: An electrostimulator includes: motor function detection means (myoelectric potential detection means 20 and 21) for detecting a motor function of a paralyzed site of a person to be treated; electric stimulation means 17 for applying electric current to the paralyzed site of the person to be treated; and notification means 7 for notifying of information on the motor function and predetermined information so that a treating person or the person to be treated can check a correlation between the information on the motor function of the paralyzed site and the predetermined information during the treatment. Or, the electrostimulator includes motor function detection means, electric stimulation means, and notification means for notifying of information on a motor function of a paralyzed site detected by the motor function detection means before treatment and after treatment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical stimulation device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to nerves and muscle groups to relieve pain and improve muscle atrophy has been known. In the electrical stimulation device described in Patent Document 1, an electromyographic signal of a paralyzed part or an electromyographic signal of a part other than the paralyzed part is detected, and based on the detected electromyographic signal, electrical stimulation is applied to the paralyzed part to perform motor function training of the paralyzed part. In addition, the treatment history (treatment time, output frequency, stimulation time) by each of the master unit and the slave unit can be displayed and confirmed on the master unit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the electrical stimulation device described in Patent Document 1, information regarding the motor function of the paralyzed part (for example, muscle potential) and predetermined information (for example, a target muscle potential) cannot be notified during treatment, and the correlation between them cannot be confirmed during treatment. 。 The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and an object thereof is to provide an electrical stimulation device that can notify information regarding the motor function of a paralyzed part and predetermined information during treatment and can confirm the correlation between them during treatment. 。

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention includes a motor function detection means for detecting the motor function of the paralyzed part of the subject, an electrical stimulation means for applying an electric current to the paralyzed part of the subject, and a therapist or the subject can confirm the correlation between the information on the motor function of the paralyzed part and the electric current during treatment. The information on the motor function and the electric current Plot the time evolution of both values as waveforms are notified, and Numerically notify the information regarding the current motor function and the value of the current at the time of treatment, and notification means for notifying the information on the motor function before and after the start of treatment and after the end of treatment detected when the subject moves the paralyzed part. The motor function detection means Electromyogram detection means for detecting the electromyogram of the paralyzed part the movement of the joint related to the paralyzed part Means for detecting the acceleration associated with or the muscle strength value of the paralyzed part is detected Dynamometer and the information on the motor function is The electromyogram the Acceleration or the muscle strength value. According to the result of the confirmation, the therapist can adjust the electric current during the treatment. This is an electrical stimulation device characterized by this. According to this, during the treatment The electromyogram of the paralyzed part, the the movement of the joint related to the paralyzed part Acceleration associated with or the correlation between the muscle strength value of the paralyzed part and the electric current can be confirmed during the treatment, so that the therapist can adjust the electric current according to the confirmation result during the treatment. Furthermore, the improvement of the motor function can be confirmed by the information on the motor function before the start of treatment and after the end of treatment.

[0007] Also, the electrical stimulation device includes a device body, and the notification means is preferably provided on the device body or separately from the device body. When the notification means is provided on the device body, information on the motor function and predetermined information during treatment can be confirmed by using only the device body. When the notification means is provided separately from the device body, a notification means with easy-to-see display can be used.

[0008] Also, it is preferable to provide a plurality of the device bodies, and the notification means displays information of the plurality of device bodies. According to this, information during treatment by a plurality of device bodies can be confirmed by one notification means.

[0009] In addition, it is preferable that the device main body can be worn by the subject to be treated. According to this, a wearable electrical stimulation device can be provided.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electrical stimulation device that can notify information regarding the motor function of a paralyzed part and predetermined information during treatment and can confirm their correlation during treatment. Alternatively, it is possible to provide an electrical stimulation device that can notify information regarding the motor function of the paralyzed part detected before and after treatment and can confirm the degree of improvement in motor function due to treatment.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, the electrical stimulation device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) As shown in FIG. 1, an electrical stimulation device 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention includes a device main body 2 provided therein with an electrical circuit for outputting electrical stimulation, a dual-purpose electrode 3 disposed on the skin surface of a paralyzed part of a subject for detecting a myoelectric potential and applying electrical stimulation, an electrode cable 4 connecting the dual-purpose electrode 3 to the device main body 2, a myoelectric electrode 5 disposed on the skin surface of a healthy part (a part other than the paralyzed part) of the subject for detecting a myoelectric potential, an electrode cable 6 connecting the myoelectric electrode 5 to the device main body 2, and a tablet (notification means) 7 capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the device main body 2 as main components, and a wireless dongle 8 is externally attached to the device main body 2.

[0014] The dual-purpose electrode 3 is composed of a bipolar electrode 9 in which two electrodes 9a and 9b are integrally formed and one electrode 10, and each electrode is a hook-type gel electrode having a sticking surface on the back surface to be stuck to the skin surface of the subject. The hooks of the electrodes 9a, 9b, and 10 are engaged with the respective distal ends of the electrode cable 4 branched into three at an intermediate position, and the connection plug 4a on the proximal end side of the electrode cable 4 is detachably inserted into the first output connector 11 provided on the upper side surface of the device main body 2. The myoelectric electrode 5 is a bipolar electrode in which two electrodes 5a and 5b are integrally formed. The hooks of the electrodes 5a and 5b are engaged with the distal ends of the electrode cable 6 branched into two at an intermediate position, and the connection plug 6a on the proximal end side of the electrode cable 6 is detachably inserted into the second output connector 12 provided on the upper side surface of the device main body 2.

[0015] The electrode 9a and the electrode 9b are arranged on the skin surface of the muscle belly of the target muscle, detect the weak myoelectric potential generated from the muscle activity of the subject between the electrodes of the electrode 9a and the electrode 9b, and function as electrodes for electrical stimulation for applying electrical stimulation. The electrode 10 is arranged on the skin surface of the muscle belly of the muscle to which electrical stimulation is to be applied, and functions as an electrode for electrical stimulation for applying electrical stimulation to the muscle. The electrode 5a and the electrode 5b are arranged on the skin surface of the muscle belly of the target muscle, and detect the weak myoelectric potential generated from the muscle activity of the subject between the electrodes of the electrode 5a and the electrode 5b.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, the apparatus main body 2 includes an operation switch section 13, a liquid crystal display section 14, an LED display section 15, a storage section 16 which is a non-volatile memory (EEPROM) that stores the treatment conditions, treatment results, etc. in a readable manner, an electrical stimulation means 17, a control section 18 composed of a microcomputer, a communication circuit 19 that transmits and receives treatment conditions and treatment history information to and from the tablet 7, myoelectric potential detection circuits (myoelectric potential detection means) 20, 21, etc.

[0017] The LED display section 15 is provided with 5 LEDs arranged at equal intervals in the horizontal direction near the upper side of the liquid crystal display section 14. The LEDs light up according to the intensity of the detected myoelectric potential, and are myoelectric potential level LEDs for visually informing the therapist and the subject of the level of the intensity of the myoelectric potential. The intensity of the myoelectric potential is divided into 6 sections in the range from zero to the maximum value. When the intensity of the myoelectric potential belongs to the lowest intensity section, none of the 5 LEDs light up. When the intensity of the myoelectric potential increases and belongs to the next section, only the leftmost LED lights up (level 1). When it belongs to the next section, a total of 2 LEDs from the leftmost light up (level 2). Hereinafter, a total of 3 to 5 LEDs light up (levels 3 to 5) according to the section to which the intensity of the myoelectric potential belongs.

[0018] For example, when dividing the strength of the myoelectric potential into six levels in the range from zero to 100%, the myoelectric potential of 16.6% or more and less than 33.3% is set as level 1, 33.3% or more and less than 50% as level 2, 50% or more and less than 66.6% as level 3, 66.6% or more and less than 83.3% as level 4, and 83.3% or more as level 5. In this way, a plurality (five in this example) of level values regarding the myoelectric potential are set.

[0019] The electrical stimulation means 17 is composed of a battery power supply 22, an output control circuit 23 for controlling the voltage input from the battery power supply 22, an output transformer 24 for boosting the output voltage from the output control circuit 23, and a current detection circuit 25 for detecting the output current from the output transformer 24. The output current signal detected by the current detection circuit 25 is input to the control unit 18, and the control unit 18 controls the output control circuit 23. The output current from the output transformer 24 is output to the dual-purpose electrode 3 via the first output connector 11.

[0020] The battery power supply 22 can be configured using an alkaline dry battery, a lithium-ion secondary battery, or the like. Further, a battery voltage detection circuit 26 for detecting the voltage value of the battery power supply 22 and a power supply circuit 27 for supplying a control power supply to the control unit 18 are provided. When it is detected by the battery voltage detection circuit 26 that the voltage value of the battery power supply 22 has dropped to the first threshold value, the control unit 18 displays an image of the voltage value drop on the liquid crystal display unit 14 to notify a therapist or the like. Also, when the voltage value of the battery power supply 22 reaches a second threshold value that is lower than the first threshold value, the control unit 18 cuts off the power supply of the apparatus main body 2.

[0021] The device main body 2 and the tablet 7 can perform wireless communication via Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), wireless LAN, etc. The device main body 2 is provided with a communication circuit 19 as information communication means, and the communication circuit 19 is connected to a signal input / output unit 28 formed at the center of the right side surface of the device main body 2. The device main body 2 can transmit and receive information to and from the tablet 7 via a wireless dongle 8 connected to the signal input / output unit 28, receive treatment conditions from the tablet 7 and store them in the storage unit 16, or transmit the treatment history information stored in the storage unit 16 to the tablet 7.

[0022] Next, the configuration of electromyogram detection when using the dual-purpose electrode 3 will be described. A bidirectional square wave with a predetermined frequency (specific example: 20 Hz) and a predetermined pulse width (specific example: 50 μs) is output between the bipolar electrode 9 and the electrode 10 from the output catrance 24 in units of three repetitions, and the electromyogram during this repetition (specific example: 8 ms) is detected between the electrodes 9a and 9b. The electromyogram detected between the electrodes 9a and 9b is input to the electromyogram detection circuit 20 and amplified by an amplifier (not shown) or the like to a level that can be recognized by the control unit 18 and then taken into the control unit 18. The control unit 18 performs signal processing to calculate the electromyogram, and controls the output control circuit 23, for example, so that the output intensity of the next electrical stimulation becomes an output corresponding to the intensity of the calculated electromyogram. As a result, an output current flows between the bipolar electrode 9 and the electrode 10, and an electrical stimulation is applied to the paralyzed part. The output of the electrical stimulation according to the intensity of the electromyogram is limited by the maximum output set on the tablet 7, and no higher output will be applied. Also, even when no electromyogram is detected by the electromyogram detection circuit 20, an electrical stimulation with the minimum output set on the tablet 7 is always applied. In addition, the electromyogram detection sensitivity (electromyogram sensitivity) can be set by the tablet 7.

[0023] As a treatment mode of the electrical stimulation device 1, it has a first treatment mode and a second treatment mode. The first treatment mode is a mode in which an output current (electrical stimulation) with an intensity corresponding to the myoelectric potential detected from the paralyzed part of the subject is applied from the electrical stimulation means 17 to the paralyzed part for treatment as described above. The second treatment mode is a mode in which an output current with an intensity corresponding to the myoelectric potential detected from the healthy part of the subject is applied from the electrical stimulation means 17 to the paralyzed part. When performing treatment in the first treatment mode, only the dual-purpose electrode 3 is used, and since it is not necessary to use the myoelectric electrode 5, the myoelectric electrode 5 is not connected to the device main body 2. When performing treatment in the second treatment mode, the dual-purpose electrode 3 and the myoelectric electrode 5 are used.

[0024] Next, an example of treating a subject with a disorder in the dorsiflexion movement of the wrist joint or the extension movement of the fingers using the electrical stimulation device 1 in the first treatment mode will be described. The therapist attaches the electrodes 9a and 9b (bipolar electrode 9) of the dual-purpose electrode 3 onto the muscle bellies of the wrist joint dorsiflexor muscles and finger extensor muscles in the forearm, which are the paralyzed parts of the subject to be treated, and attaches the electrode 10 near one end (wrist side) of the muscle bellies of the wrist joint dorsiflexor muscles and finger extensor muscles in the forearm of the subject, respectively. The therapist sets treatment conditions such as the treatment time, the minimum and maximum outputs of the electrical stimulation, and the myoelectric sensitivity. If the treatment conditions are stored in the storage unit 16 in advance, the treatment conditions may be read from the storage unit 16 and the stored treatment conditions may be changed and set as necessary.

[0025] A method for a therapist to set treatment conditions will be described. FIG. 3 shows the screen of the tablet 7 when setting treatment conditions, which is the screen displayed when a target patient to be treated is selected on the list screen of stored patients to be treated (not shown). When touching "Back" at the lower left of the screen, the list screen of stored patients to be treated is displayed. As shown in FIG. 3, the treatment conditions of the patient to be treated stored in the storage unit 16 are read out and displayed. When the patient to be treated is a new patient and the treatment conditions are not stored in the storage unit 16, the treatment conditions are not displayed and are blank. When modifying or newly setting treatment conditions, the treatment conditions can be set by touching the part corresponding to the treatment conditions to be set in the area 61. After setting the treatment conditions, by touching "Send" at the lower right of the screen in FIG. 3, the set treatment conditions are sent from the tablet 7 to the apparatus main body 2.

[0026] Here, a method for setting myoelectric sensitivity using the apparatus main body 2 will be described. When touching the area 62 of the screen shown in FIG. 3, the screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the tablet 7. Therefore, when applying force to the forearm, touch the "+" or "-" on the screen to increase or decrease the myoelectric sensitivity so that all 5 myoelectric potential level LEDs of the LED display unit 15 light up, and when relaxing the force, all the myoelectric potential level LEDs turn off. When all the myoelectric potential level LEDs do not light up even when applying strong force, adjust to increase the myoelectric sensitivity. On the other hand, when all the myoelectric potential level LEDs do not turn off even when relaxing the force, adjust to decrease the myoelectric sensitivity. When the adjustment of the myoelectric sensitivity is completed and "OK" on the screen is touched, the myoelectric sensitivity is set and the screen returns to the screen of FIG. 3. Note that adjusting the myoelectric sensitivity so that all the myoelectric potential level LEDs turn off when relaxing the force is because if noise enters the myoelectric potential detection circuit 20, there is a possibility that an unexpected electrical stimulation may be output due to misrecognition that a myoelectric potential is detected even though no myoelectric potential is generated from the muscle.

[0027] Also, when touching the part corresponding to "Memorize EMG before and after treatment", which is an item of treatment conditions in area 61 of FIG. 3, the screen of FIG. 5(a) is displayed. When touching the "Do it" part on the screen of FIG. 5(a), the screen of FIG. 5(b) is displayed. Therefore, touch the "+" or "-" on the screen to increase or decrease and adjust the measurement time to be performed before and after treatment. When the adjustment is completed and "Determine" is touched, it returns to the screen of FIG. 3, and the set measurement time is displayed in the parentheses to the right of the item "Memorize EMG before and after treatment". When "Don't do it" is touched on the screen of FIG. 5(a), it returns to the screen of FIG. 3, and "Don't do it" is displayed to the right of the item "Memorize EMG before and after treatment". The operation of the electrical stimulation device 1 when the "Do it" part on the screen of FIG. 5(a) is touched will be described later.

[0028] After setting the treatment conditions and starting the treatment, when force is applied to the forearm, the myoelectric potential detected between the electrodes 9a and 9b is input to the myoelectric potential detection circuit 20. The control unit 18 calculates the myoelectric potential, and an output current corresponding to its intensity flows between the electrodes of the bipolar electrode 9 and the electrode 10, and electrical stimulation is applied to the dorsal flexor muscle group of the wrist joint and the finger extensor muscle group. By applying this electrical stimulation, muscle contraction of the dorsal flexor muscle group of the wrist joint and the finger extensor muscle group is promoted. As a result, the dorsal flexion movement of the wrist joint and the extension movement of the fingers are required, and the subject can perform motor function training of the wrist joint and finger joints. When the set treatment time has elapsed, the output of the electrical stimulation automatically stops, so the treatment ends.

[0029] The myoelectric potential detected during treatment is divided into 6 intervals according to the intensity of the myoelectric potential as described above, and 5 levels 1 to 5 are set according to the intensity of the myoelectric potential. The number of times (achievement times) that the myoelectric potential detected during treatment reaches each of levels 1 to 5 is counted, and the achievement times for each level are stored in the storage unit 16.

[0030] FIG. 6 shows an example of a screen displayed on the tablet 7 during treatment. The waveform 71 displayed in the waveform display area 70 represents the electromyogram of the paralyzed part during treatment, and the waveform 72 represents the current for applying electrical stimulation to the subject. The scales of the electromyogram and the current are shown on the left and right sides of the waveform display area 70, respectively. The horizontal axis represents time, and the right end of the horizontal axis represents the current time during treatment. The label on the horizontal axis indicates the time from the start of treatment in minutes and seconds. For example, "0:20" represents the time point 20 seconds after 0 minutes from the start of treatment.

[0031] In the area at the left end of the screen, the minimum output (%), maximum output (%), and electromyogram sensitivity set as treatment conditions are displayed, and the current electromyogram and current during treatment are displayed as electromyogram detection (%) and current value (mA). The minimum output and the maximum output are the minimum output and the maximum output that limit the output of the electrical stimulation as described above. Also, in the area 73 on the left side of the waveform display area 70, the electromyogram at the current time during treatment is displayed as a bar graph at intervals of 10%. In the bar graph, the current electromyogram is displayed by changing the color of the area from 0 to 20% indicated by diagonal lines corresponding to the display of 14% of electromyogram detection. In this way, the transitions of the electromyogram and the current during treatment can be confirmed by the waveforms 71 and 72. Also, the electromyogram of the paralyzed part at the current time during treatment can be confirmed as a bar graph or numerically, and the current at the current time during treatment can be confirmed numerically.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 6, the tablet 7 displays the electromyogram and the current during treatment, and the correlation between the current and the electromyogram during treatment can be confirmed. Therefore, a therapist such as a doctor or a physical therapist can take corresponding actions according to the confirmation results, such as changing the treatment conditions during treatment. For example, as a result of confirming the correlation between the current and the electromyogram, when it is determined that the output of the electrical stimulation is weak during treatment, adjustments may be made to increase the output and the electromyogram sensitivity, and when it is determined that the output of the electrical stimulation is strong during treatment, adjustments may be made to decrease the output and the electromyogram sensitivity. Note that the electromyogram of the paralyzed part is an example of information regarding the motor function of the paralyzed part, and the current is an example of predetermined information. Also, the electromyogram detection means is an example of a motor function detection means for detecting the motor function of the paralyzed part.

[0033] For example, by touching "Return" displayed at the lower left of FIG. 6, the screen shown in FIG. 3 is displayed. If a part corresponding to the myoelectric sensitivity in region 61 is touched, the screen of FIG. 7 is displayed. Touch the "+" or "-" on the screen to increase or decrease the myoelectric sensitivity. For example, the myoelectric sensitivity can be changed at intervals of 0.1. In the screen of FIG. 7, the myoelectric sensitivity is surrounded by a square so that the treatment conditions during the change operation can be understood, but it may be made recognizable by other methods such as changing the color of the characters or making the characters bold. When the adjustment is completed and "OK" on the screen is touched, the screen returns to the screen of FIG. 3. By touching "Send" in the lower right of the screen, the changed myoelectric sensitivity is transmitted to the apparatus main body 2, and the myoelectric sensitivity can be adjusted during treatment.

[0034] Here, the movement amount of a joint related to the paralyzed part may be detected using an acceleration sensor or the like, and the detected movement amount may be displayed instead of the myoelectric potential. That is, the movement amount of the joint and the current during treatment may be displayed on the tablet 7. Further, the myoelectric potential, the movement amount of the joint, and the current during treatment may be displayed on the tablet 7. In addition, a muscle strength meter may be used to detect the muscle strength value of the paralyzed part, and the detected muscle strength value may be displayed instead of the myoelectric potential. That is, the muscle strength value and the current during treatment may be displayed on the tablet 7. Further, the myoelectric potential, the muscle strength value, and the current during treatment may be displayed on the tablet 7. Note that the movement amount of a joint related to the paralyzed part and the muscle strength value of the paralyzed part are examples of information related to the motor function of the paralyzed part, and the acceleration sensor and the muscle strength meter are examples of motor function detection means.

[0035] Figs. 8(a) and 8(b) respectively show an example of the screens displayed on the tablet 7 before treatment starts and after treatment ends when "Do" is selected on the screen of Fig. 5(a) during treatment condition setting. In this case, during a predetermined time (the time set on the screen of Fig. 5(b)) before treatment starts, the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part is detected when the subject spontaneously moves the paralyzed part, and the average value (the myoelectric level before treatment) is obtained. After treatment ends, in the same way as before treatment starts, the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part is detected when the subject spontaneously moves the paralyzed part, and the average value (the myoelectric level after treatment) is obtained. Then, after treatment ends and the myoelectric level after treatment is obtained, by displaying the myoelectric level before treatment and the myoelectric level after treatment as shown in Fig. 9, it is possible to confirm the effect of whether the myoelectric level has improved due to treatment. Note that the myoelectric level is an example of information related to the motor function of the paralyzed part.

[0036] Also, a predetermined level (%) related to the myoelectric potential is set in advance, the number of times the myoelectric potential detected by the myoelectric potential detection circuit 20 during treatment exceeds the predetermined level is counted, and the total number of times from the start of treatment of that number of times is displayed on the tablet 7 during treatment. For example, as shown in Fig. 6, the predetermined level can be displayed by the horizontal line 74 in the bar graph of the area 73, and the total number of times can be displayed in the upper part 75 of the waveform display area 70. If the therapist or the subject knows the total number of times the myoelectric potential exceeded the predetermined level in past treatments, they can receive treatment while comparing with the past treatment results. Also, the above-mentioned total number of times in past treatments can be stored in the storage unit 16, and for example, the total number of times in the previous treatment can be displayed side by side with the total number of times in the current treatment. Note that the total number of times is an example of information obtained based on the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part.

[0037] Here, instead of confirming the degree of improvement in motor function by treatment by comparing the myoelectric levels before and after treatment, other indicators may be compared. For example, by using an acceleration sensor or the like to detect the amount of movement of joints related to the paralyzed part before and after treatment, and displaying and comparing the detected values, the degree of improvement in motor function by treatment can be confirmed. Also, by using a dynamometer to detect the muscle strength values of the paralyzed part before and after treatment, and displaying and comparing the detected values, the degree of improvement in motor function by treatment can be confirmed. In the electrical stimulation device described in Patent Document 1, it was not possible to notify information regarding the motor function of the paralyzed part (for example, electromyogram level) detected before and after treatment, and it was not possible to confirm the degree of improvement in motor function due to treatment. However, according to the electrical stimulation device 1 according to Embodiment 1, the degree of improvement in motor function due to treatment can be confirmed.

[0038] FIG. 10 shows an example of displaying a past treatment history, and it is displayed based on the data of treatment conditions and treatment results stored in the storage unit 16. This treatment history can be confirmed by displaying it on the tablet 7, or by importing the data into a personal computer and displaying or printing it on its monitor. It displays Table 81 of treatment conditions for each treatment day, Table 82 of treatment results, and graph 83, and omits the display of data during the treatment day. Table 81 displays the treatment time (minutes), minimum output (%), maximum output (%), and myoelectric sensitivity as treatment conditions. Table 82 displays, as treatment results, the number of times (achievement times) that the myoelectric potential detected during treatment reached each of levels 1 to 5, and an index based on the achievement times. In each treatment day of graph 83, the bar graph at the right end (bar graph a on March 1) is the achievement times of level 1, the bar graph at the left end (bar graph b on March 1) is the achievement times of level 5, and bar graphs of the achievement times of levels 2 to 4 are displayed in between. Also, an index based on the achievement times is displayed as a line graph c. Here, as an example of an index based on the achievement times, (n)×(the achievement times of level n) is obtained for each of n = 1 to 5, and their total is used. According to this index, the higher the level and the more the achievement times increase, the larger the index becomes.

[0039] According to FIG. 10, it is possible to confirm how the number of achievements at each level changes as the treatment progresses. Also, by observing the change in the index, it is possible to confirm whether the myoelectric potential during treatment is improving. According to the treatment history in FIG. 10, the treatment results from March 13th to March 15th show that the number of achievements at each level increases compared to the treatment results from March 1st to March 3rd, and the index based on the number of achievements also increases, indicating that the myoelectric potential during treatment is improving.

[0040] (Embodiment 2) This Embodiment 2 is another embodiment when using the electrical stimulation device 1 described in Embodiment 1 to perform treatment in the first treatment mode. On the tablet 7, the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part during treatment is displayed, and a preset target myoelectric potential is also displayed. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the myoelectric potential waveform 91 of the paralyzed part during treatment and the target myoelectric potential waveform (a sine wave as an example) 92 are superimposed and displayed in one display area on the screen of the tablet 7. The waveform 93 is the current waveform. In this case, since the subject can confirm the correlation between the myoelectric potential waveform of the paralyzed part during treatment and the target myoelectric potential waveform on the screen, training can be carried out to move the paralyzed part so that the myoelectric potential waveform of the paralyzed part approaches the target myoelectric potential waveform. Also, it is possible to confirm during treatment how close the actual myoelectric potential is to the target myoelectric potential. Here, the target myoelectric potential is an example of predetermined information. Note that the myoelectric potential waveform 91 of the paralyzed part and the target myoelectric potential waveform 92 may be arranged vertically on the screen for display. Also, the target myoelectric potential may be, for example, data of a basic waveform (sine wave, rectangular wave, etc.) stored in the storage unit 16 and the data may be displayed. Also, it may be possible to input the amplitude, frequency, etc. with respect to the basic waveform, and generate and display a waveform based on the input data. Also, it may be possible to allow a therapist or the like to create a waveform by handwritten input using the tablet 7.

[0041] (Embodiment 3) Embodiment 3 is an embodiment in which treatment is performed in the second treatment mode using the electrical stimulation device 1 described in Embodiment 1. In addition to arranging the dual-purpose electrode 3 on the paralyzed part of the subject as in the first treatment mode, in the second treatment mode, the electromyogram electrode 5 is arranged on the healthy part of the subject, and the electromyogram sensitivity is set using the method described above with the electromyogram electrode 5. The electromyogram detected between the electrodes of the electrode 5a and the electrode 5b is input to the electromyogram detection circuit 21 and taken into the control unit 18. The control unit 18 performs signal processing to calculate the electromyogram, and controls the output control circuit 23 so that the output intensity of the next electrical stimulation applied to the paralyzed part via the dual-purpose electrode 3 becomes an output corresponding to the intensity of the calculated electromyogram.

[0042] On the tablet 7, the electromyogram of the paralyzed part during treatment detected by the dual-purpose electrode 3 and the electromyogram of the healthy part during treatment detected by the electromyogram electrode 5 are displayed. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the electromyogram waveform 94 of the paralyzed part during treatment and the electromyogram waveform 95 of the healthy part during treatment are superimposed and displayed in one display area on the screen of the tablet 7. The waveform 96 is a current waveform. Since the subject can confirm the correlation between the electromyogram of the paralyzed part during treatment and the electromyogram of the healthy part on the screen, the subject can be trained to move the paralyzed part so that the electromyogram of the paralyzed part approaches the electromyogram of the healthy part. In addition, it is possible to confirm during treatment to what extent the electromyogram of the paralyzed part has approached the electromyogram of the healthy part. Here, the electromyogram of the healthy part is an example of predetermined information. Note that the electromyogram waveform 94 of the paralyzed part and the electromyogram waveform 95 of the healthy part may be arranged vertically on the screen and displayed.

[0043] (Embodiment 4) Embodiment 4 of the electrical stimulation device 1 described in Embodiment 1 has a function of notifying by sounds with different musical scales according to the intensity of the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part during treatment. The sound is emitted from the speaker provided in the tablet 7. As an example, as described in Embodiment 1, the intensity of the myoelectric potential is divided into six sections, and five levels 1 to 5 are set according to the intensity of the myoelectric potential. When the myoelectric potential reaches level 1, the speaker emits a sound of the musical scale do, when the myoelectric potential reaches level 2, the speaker emits a sound of the musical scale re, when the myoelectric potential reaches level 3, the speaker emits a sound of the musical scale mi, when the myoelectric potential reaches level 4, the speaker emits a sound of the musical scale fa, and when the myoelectric potential reaches level 5, the speaker emits a sound of the musical scale so.

[0044] The volume of each musical scale can be set by the therapist or the patient using the tablet 7. For example, the volume of the musical scale corresponding to the target myoelectric potential level can be set to be larger than the volume of the musical scales corresponding to other levels.

[0045] In this way, it is notified by the sounds of the musical scales do to so according to the level of the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part detected during treatment. For example, when the patient relaxes, it is effective to keep the muscle tension as low as possible. Therefore, it is possible to encourage the patient to make an effort to relax so that the musical scale becomes lower. If the musical scale becomes lower, it can be understood that the muscle is relaxed, and the patient can learn the muscle relaxation method using the change in the musical scale as a clue. Although an example of notification by the sounds of the musical scales do to so has been described, it is not limited to the sounds of the musical scales do to so, and other musical scale sounds may be used for notification.

[0046] In each of the above-described embodiments, an example in which the tablet 7 is used as the notification means has been described. However, a stationary display or monitor, a portable smartphone, or the like can be used as the notification means. The liquid crystal display unit 14 of the apparatus main body 2 may be used as the notification means. The liquid crystal display unit 14 may be enlarged so that it is easier to confirm the myoelectric potential and current during treatment on the apparatus main body 2. Further, although an example in which the treatment conditions are set using the tablet 7 has been described, the treatment conditions may be set using the operation switch unit 13 of the apparatus main body 2. Further, the present invention can also be applied to an electrical stimulation device that is made wearable by the subject, such as miniaturizing the apparatus main body 2 and fixing the apparatus main body 2 to the subject's arm or the like using a wearing means such as a fixing band.

[0047] In each of the above-described embodiments, an electrical stimulation device including one apparatus main body 2 has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to an electrical stimulation device including a plurality of apparatus main bodies 2. In that case, the tablet 7 can perform wireless communication with each apparatus main body 2, and the tablet 7 may display information on a plurality of apparatus main bodies 2. For example, a plurality of displays of myoelectric potential or the like during treatment as shown in FIG. 6 in each apparatus main body 2 may be arranged and displayed on the screen of the tablet 7. Here, the information on the apparatus main body 2 includes information on the motor function and predetermined information, as well as information such as the minimum output (%), maximum output (%), treatment mode, and treatment time set as treatment conditions. Further, although an example in which wireless communication is performed between the tablet 7 via the wireless dongle 8 attached to the apparatus main body 2 has been described, a configuration may be adopted in which a circuit for wireless communication is built in the apparatus main body 2 and wireless communication is performed with the tablet 7 without using the wireless dongle 8.

[0048] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which a subject having a disorder in the dorsiflexion movement of the wrist joint or the extension movement of the fingers is treated has been described. However, by increasing the electrode area and enlarging the dual-purpose electrode 3 and the myoelectric electrode 5 and increasing the maximum output current of the electrical stimulation device 1, the present invention can also be applied to an electrical stimulation device for treating a subject having a disorder in the lower limb.

[0049] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, an example was described in which sounds with different musical scales are used to notify according to the intensity of the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part during treatment. However, it may be notified by sounds with different volumes. Also, it may be notified by light. For example, lights with different colors may be used according to the intensity of the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part during treatment. Further, it may be notified by vibration. For example, the vibration pattern may be varied, such as varying the vibration interval or amplitude according to the intensity of the myoelectric potential of the paralyzed part during treatment. Furthermore, at least two of the sounds with different musical scales, sounds with different volumes, lights with different colors, and vibrations with different patterns as described above may be used in combination.

Industrial Applicability

[0050] It can be applied to an electrical stimulation device used when a subject with paralysis in the upper or lower limb performs functional recovery training on the paralyzed part.

Explanation of Signs

[0051] 1 Electrical stimulation device 2 Device main body 3 Dual-purpose electrode 4, 6 Electrode cable 5 Myoelectric electrode 7 Tablet 8 Wireless dongle 9 Bipolar electrode 10 Electrode 13 Operation switch section 14 Liquid crystal display section 15 LED display section 16 Memory section 17 Electrical stimulation means 18 Control section 19 Communication circuit 20, 21 Myoelectric potential detection circuit 22 Battery power supply 23 Output control circuit 24 Output transformer 25 Current detection circuit 26 Battery voltage detection circuit 27 Power supply circuit 28 Signal input / output section

Claims

1. motor function detection means for detecting the motor function of the paralyzed part of the subject; electrical stimulation means for applying an electric current to the paralyzed part of the subject; so that the therapist or the subject can confirm the correlation between the information on the motor function of the paralyzed part and the electric current during treatment, the transition of the passage of time for both the information on the motor function and the value of the electric current is notified in a waveform, and the information on the current motor function and the value of the electric current during treatment are notified numerically, and the information on the motor function before and after the start of treatment and after the end of treatment detected when the subject moves the paralyzed part is notified, a notification means; the motor function detection means is electromyogram detection means for detecting the electromyogram of the paralyzed part, means for detecting the acceleration accompanying the movement of the joint related to the paralyzed part, or a dynamometer for detecting the muscle strength value of the paralyzed part; the information on the motor function is the electromyogram, the acceleration, or the muscle strength value; characterized in that the therapist can adjust the electric current during the treatment according to the result of the confirmation. An electrical stimulation device.

2. The electrical stimulation device includes a device main body, and the notification means is provided on the device main body or separately from the device main body. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1.

3. A plurality of the device main bodies are provided, and the notification means displays information of the plurality of device main bodies. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 2.

4. The device main body is wearable by the subject. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 2 or 3.

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