Treatment of osteopenia and osteoporosis, and stimulation of bone growth.

Abstract

To provide an apparatus for treatment or prevention of osteopenia and osteoporosis, stimulating bone growth, preserving or improving bone density, and inhibiting adipogenesis.SOLUTION: One embodiment comprises a motor configured to be in vibrational conductance with an area of a subject, one or more sensors in communication with the motor for receiving feedback relating to the vibrational conductance, and a controller in communication with the motor. The controller is configured to receive the feedback through one or more sensors and measure an amount of vibrational conductance transmitted to the area of the subject such that the feedback is correlated to a fit of the motor relative to the area of the subject. Additionally, the controller may be further configured to adjust one or more parameters of the motor in response to the correlated fit until the feedback is optimized within a predetermined range for treatment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An apparatus for the treatment or prevention of osteopenia and osteoporosis, stimulation of bone growth, maintenance or improvement of bone density, and inhibition of adipogenesis.

[0002] The present invention relates, in particular, to the stimulation of bone growth, healing of bone tissue, and treatment and prevention of osteopenia, osteoporosis and chronic back pain, as well as preservation or improvement of bone density, and suppression of adipogenesis by repeated application of mechanical load to bone tissue. (Incorporated by reference)

[0003] All publications and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated.

Background Art

[0004] Low bone mineral density (BMD) and osteoporosis are significant problems faced by the elderly, resulting in 1.5 million fractures in 2002 (Non-Patent Document 1). Bisphosphonates, a class of compounds that normally inhibit bone resorption, have been used for over 10 years to treat osteoporosis with considerable success, but have caused undesirable side effects including osteonecrosis of the jaw, esophageal erosion, and atypical femoral fractures, leading to a reevaluation of the use of bisphosphonate therapy.

[0005] One alternative for treating osteoporosis is the use of whole body vibration (WBV), which consists of repeated mechanical loading of bone tissue by a vibrating device using relatively high frequencies (e.g., 15 to 90 Hz) and relatively low mechanical loads (e.g., loads of 0.1 to 1.5 g). Studies have shown that WBV can delay and / or stop the progression of osteoporosis (Non-Patent Document 2). Another randomized study in which a vibratory force of 0.6 g or more was delivered to the patient's feet demonstrated that WBV is effective in improving hip BMD outcomes compared to a control group that either did not exercise or was part of an exercise program (Non-Patent Document 3).

[0006] Related studies have demonstrated WBV's ability to improve glutes and maintain spinal BMD in populations of healthy cyclists, postmenopausal women, and children with disabilities (Non-Patent Literature 4).

[0007] The mechanism by which WBV affects BMD is a subject of debate, but research suggests that intra-bone marrow shear stress in trabecular structures during high-frequency vibrations may provide mechanical signals to bone marrow cells that lead to ossinolysis (Non-Patent Literature 5). More specifically, shear stresses exceeding 0.5 Pa are mechanically stimulating to osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and mesenchymal stem cells (Non-Patent Literature 5).

[0008] Many conventional methods for promoting bone tissue growth and bone maintenance through WBV application generally tend to apply relatively high frequencies (e.g., 15 to 90 Hz) and relatively low-intensity mechanical loads (e.g., loads of 0.1 to 1.5 g) to the limbs of the body, such as the use of a vibrating platform on which the user stands, repeatedly applying mechanical load to the user's feet. Current WBV vibrating platforms (e.g., Galileo 900 / 2000® from Novotec Medical in Pforzheim, Germany, or Power Plate® from Amsterdam, Netherlands) and associated treatment regimens require the user to stand on the platform for up to 30 minutes a day, which is inconvenient for many users. Furthermore, applying vibration to the patient's feet is an inefficient method for mechanically loading the glutes, thighs, and spine, which are the target areas for WBV therapy for osteoporosis. Due to mechanical damping at the knees and ankles, up to 40% of the vibrational force is lost between the feet, buttocks, and spine (Non-Patent Literature 6).

[0009] Another challenge with current WBV platforms is the directionality of the applied force. When standing on a vibrating platform, an individual receives WBV stimulation in a plane perpendicular to the elongated bones of the spine and hip. Studies have shown that vibrations applied in the vertical direction are misaligned with the direction of the main fiber trabeculae of the greater trochanter and femoral neck, resulting in reduced shear force. In contrast, the trabeculae of the lumbar spine are aligned with the direction of vibration and have higher permeability (Non-Patent Literature 5).

[0010] A more efficient and user-friendly source of mechanical vibration is needed to deliver a force of approximately 0.6g directly to the spine and buttocks. A more efficient method for delivering vibrational force would reduce the load on the patient, make the device easier to use, and maximize the therapeutic effect on osteoporosis by localizing the mechanical load repeatedly delivered to the buttocks and spine. In addition, the possibility of delivering WBV in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the long bones of the spine and buttocks may be more effective than traditional vibration plates on which a person stands.

[0011] Furthermore, both portable and fixed-type devices are desirable.

[0012] Finally, existing vibration platform technologies limit the application of WBV to specific populations that would benefit from its use. For example, cyclists have been shown to have lower BMDs than other athletes, and even lower than seated athletes (Non-Patent Literature 7). Therefore, a wearable delivery system in this technology extends the reach of this tool to a wider range of individuals. Not only can a wearable device be used during cycling (or other activities), but the present invention can also be configured to deliver WBV to a rider via the bicycle for the purpose of preserving BMD within the cyclist.

[0013] On a separate but related point, it has been proposed that WBV "anabolizes the musculoskeletal system" and "suppresses obesity in parallel" (Non-Patent Literature 8). In animal models, studies have shown that small-sized WBV can reduce stem cell adipogenesis and provide a tool for "non-pharmacological prevention of obesity and its sequelae" (Non-Patent Literature 8). In studies conducted on obese women, WBV has shown a "positive effect on weight and waist circumference reduction" (Non-Patent Literature 9). [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0014] [Non-Patent Document 1] National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF): America's bone health: The state of osteoporosis and low bone mass in our nation. Washington DC, National Osteoporosis Foundation, 2002 [Non-Patent Document 2] Rubin et. al., Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, 19:343-351, 2004 [Non-Patent Document 3] Verschueren et al., Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, 19:352-359, 2004 [Non-Patent Document 4] Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2010; 89:997-1009, Ann Intern Med 2011; 155:668-679, J Bone and Mineral Research 2011; 26(8): 1759-1766 [Non-Patent Document 5] Journal of Biomechanics 45(2012):2222-2229 [Non-Patent Document 6] Rubin et al., Spine (Phila Pa 1976), 28:2621-2627, 2003 [Non-Patent Document 7] Int J Sports Med 2012; 33:593-599 [Non-Patent Document 8] PNAS. November 6, 2007; 104(45): 17879-17884 [Non-Patent Document 9] Korena J Fam Med. 2011; 32:399-405 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0015] The wearable vibration device provides a novel method and apparatus for bone growth, bone tissue healing, and the prevention of osteoporosis, osteopenia, and chronic back pain.

[0016] Wearable vibration devices can maintain or promote bone tissue growth, prevent the onset of osteoporosis, and treat chronic back pain. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] Typically, a vibration device according to one embodiment comprises a motor configured to have a vibration conductance with respect to the subject's region, one or more sensors communicating with the motor to receive feedback regarding the vibration conductance from the subject's region, and a control unit communicating with the motor. The control unit receives feedback via one or more sensors and is configured to measure the amount of vibration conductance transmitted to the subject's region such that the feedback correlates with the motor's fit to the subject's region. In addition, the control unit is further configured to adjust one or more parameters of the motor in accordance with the correlated fit until the feedback is optimized within a predetermined range for treatment.

[0018] In use, one way to position the vibration device relative to a subject typically involves fixing the motor to have a normal subject area and vibration conductance, driving the motor to transmit vibration to the area, detecting feedback via one or more sensors that communicate with the motor regarding the vibration conductance from the area, correlating the adaptation of the motor to the area based on the feedback, and optionally adjusting one or more parameters of the motor in response to the correlated adaptation until the feedback is optimized within a predetermined range for treatment.

[0019] In some embodiments of the wearable vibration device, the device performs effective treatment by targeting the mechanical load of vibration to the user's buttocks and spine. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ [Figure 4A] Various diagrams of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment are shown. [Figure 4B] Various diagrams of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment are shown. [Figure 4C] Various diagrams of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment are shown. [Figure 5A] Various diagrams of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment are shown. [Figure 5B] Various diagrams of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment are shown. [Figure 5C] Various diagrams of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment are shown. [Figure 6] A logic diagram of the function of an attachable vibration device according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 7] The diagram shows various components of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] This shows a vibration device in the form of a seat cover according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a block diagram of a data processing system that can be used in combination with any embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] Figure 1 shows a wearable vibrator according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, it is configured to be worn around the waist so that vibration energy is applied to the user's buttocks / spine region. The band 102 is secured to the body by a fastening mechanism or strap 104. The container or enclosure 106 contains a vibration motor, processor, battery, battery charger, voltage regulator, buzzer or alarm, motor sensor, thermal switch, and other components and / or electronics. The container 106 is secured to the band 102 and connected to the pressure sensor 112 by a connector 110. Cushioning, or foam, block, or spacer 108, functions to more accurately direct the vibration energy towards a specific area of ​​the user and to enhance the user's comfort while using the wearable vibrator. The accelerometer 114 monitors the vibration force transmitted through the body to determine whether the wearable vibrator is properly fitted. The accelerometer also evaluates the effectiveness of applying vibration force to the user. The pressure sensor 112 also serves this purpose by determining the pressure of the device on the body. The measured pressure indicates the suitability of the device.

[0023] The term "motor" is understood to mean a motor that directly transmits vibrational energy to a subject, or a combination of motors that drive a mechanism that transmits vibrational energy to a subject.

[0024] The proper fit of a wearable vibration device is crucial to ensuring its effective function. For example, if a wearable vibration device is too loose or too tight on the body, the correct amount of vibrational energy may not be transmitted to one or more bones, or the energy may be transmitted to the wrong location or in the wrong direction. In addition, improper fit can compromise the comfort of the device user.

[0025] To ensure proper and accurate fitting, the wearable vibrator includes one or more sensors. These sensors include, but are not limited to, one or more contact sensors, one or more pressure sensors, one or more strain gauges, one or more accelerometers, and one or more gyroscopes. One or more sensors can be positioned anywhere on the wearable vibrator, including straps, bands, fastening mechanisms, motors, spacers, containers, etc. In addition, one or more alarms are included in the wearable vibrator to warn the user to adjust the fit. Various types of alarms can be used, including audible, visible (e.g., flashing lights), and tactile (e.g., pulsation of the vibrator motor). The alarm sounds for a set amount of time, or until the fit is improved, or both. In addition, or alternatively, the fastening mechanism of the wearable vibrator may self-adjust based on feedback from one or more fitting sensors. This is achieved by motors, thermal mechanisms, mechanical mechanisms, electrical mechanisms, etc.

[0026] Alternatively, or in addition to this, if the fit is not transmitting optimal vibration energy, the processor of the attachable vibration device adjusts the motor's motion to increase or decrease the vibration energy transmitted to the user. In this way, the optimal treatment vibration energy is automatically optimized even if the fit changes during treatment.

[0027] Figures 2A to 2C show various diagrams of a wearable vibrator according to one embodiment. Figure 2A shows the side of the wearable vibrator that does not face the user. The band 202 is secured to the body by a fastening mechanism or strap 204. The container, pouch, or pocket 206 contains the motor 212, electronic device 210, and battery 214. The bone 208 helps to firmly hold the contents of the pocket 206 and also helps to provide rigidity to the wearable vibrator.

[0028] Figure 2B shows the user-facing side of the wearable vibrator, thus in contact with the user's body. A container, pouch, or pocket 220 holds the spacer described in Figure 1. A pressure sensor 222 detects measurements of pressure resulting from the vibration of the motor in pocket 206 and the overall tightening or fit of the wearable vibrator to the user's body. One or more pressure sensors may be placed in addition to, or instead of, other areas of the wearable vibrator. An accelerometer 216 is held in pocket or slot 218 and is for monitoring the fit of the wearable vibrator and / or the effectiveness of the transmission of vibration force to the user. One or more different sensors may be placed at various locations on the wearable vibrator to monitor the fit of the device.

[0029] Figure 3 shows a front view of a wearable vibrator according to one embodiment. The band 302 is secured to the body by a fastening mechanism or strap 304. The motor 306 and other electronic devices and components are contained in a container 308 within a pocket 310. The spacer 312 and pressure sensor 314 are located inside the wearable vibrator. The bone 316 helps to firmly hold the contents of the pocket 310 and also helps to provide rigidity to the wearable vibrator. The accelerometer 318 helps to monitor the fit of the wearable vibrator and / or the effectiveness of the transmission of vibration force to the user.

[0030] Figures 4A to 4C show various diagrams of a wearable vibrator according to one embodiment. Figure 4A shows the side of the wearable vibrator that does not face the user. The container, pouch, or pocket 406 includes the motor 402 and the motor sensor 404. The pouch or pocket 420 includes the electronic device 410 and the battery 412. The frame 408 helps to firmly hold the contents of the pocket 406 and helps to provide rigidity to the wearable vibrator. The accelerometer 414 helps to monitor the fit of the wearable vibrator and / or the effectiveness of the transmission of vibration force to the user.

[0031] Figure 4B shows the user-facing side of the wearable vibrator in contact with the user's body. The container, pouch, or pocket 418 holds the spacer described in Figure 1. A pressure sensor 416 detects measurements of the motor vibration in the pocket 406 and the pressure due to the overall tightening of the wearable vibrator against the user's body. One or more pressure sensors may be placed in addition to, or instead of, other areas of the wearable vibrator. An accelerometer 414 monitors the fit of the wearable vibrator and / or the effectiveness of the transmission of vibrational force to the user.

[0032] Figure 4C shows a bottom view of the apparatus shown in Figures 4A and 4B.

[0033] Figures 5A to 5C show various diagrams of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 5A shows the user-facing side of the wearable vibrator, thus in contact with the user's body. In this embodiment, the spacer device 506 holds the motor 504, the electronic device 502, and the battery 510. The pressure sensor 508 is located outside the spacer and thus in contact with the user. The pressure sensor 508 detects measurements of pressure due to the motor's vibration and the overall tightening of the wearable vibrator against the user's body. One or more pressure sensors may be further or alternatively placed in other areas of the wearable vibrator. This embodiment allows for a smaller device.

[0035] Figure 5B shows a plan view of the device shown in Figure 5A. Figure 5C shows the side of the mountable vibration device that does not face the user.

[0036] Figure 6 shows a logic diagram of the function of a mountable vibrator according to one embodiment. First, the device is turned on, as shown in box 602. Next, the processor checks for faults, as shown in box 604. Certain components undergo checks, including checks for battery, electronic communications, and other components. If any faults are found, the processor moves to fault handling box 622. For example, at startup, a single fault is sufficient to trigger fault handling, but during operation, multiple faults must occur either consecutively or within a specific time frame to trigger fault handling. If no faults are found, the processor moves to enter a treatment state, as shown in box 606. Entering a treatment state includes starting the treatment timer, starting the motor at nominal settings, and other processes. During the treatment state, the processor intermittently or continuously acquires data such as motor motion, device conformance, and motion frequency, as shown in box 608. The compliance includes feedback from one or more sensors, including but not limited to one or more contact sensors, one or more pressure sensors, one or more strain gauges, one or more accelerometers, and one or more gyroscopes. Motor motion and motor frequency are measured by motor sensors.

[0037] If the motor motion is not within the appropriate range, a motor motion failure is triggered, as shown by box 610. The appropriate range is preset and depends on the user's weight, height, age, gender, etc., as well as the type, area, and duration of the procedure, etc. The appropriate range may also be set dynamically based on the fit of the wearable vibrator and / or other factors. When a motor motion failure occurs, a buzzer or alarm, visible light, and / or other alarms are emitted.

[0038] If the conformance is not within the appropriate or optimal range, a poor conformance or warning is triggered, as shown in box 616. The appropriate range for conformance is based on feedback from any of the sensors described herein. The appropriate / optimal range for conformance is either preset or dynamically set based on the conformance of the mountable vibrator and / or other factors. The processor periodically checks the conformance. For example, if the conformance check returns two or more consecutive poor conformances, the conformance warning processing unit is triggered. Box 618 shows the conformance warning processing unit. Poor conformance results in pulse alarms generated by vibration of the vibrator motor, an audible buzzer or alarm, visible light, and / or other alarms.

[0039] After hearing, feeling, seeing, or perceiving a conformity alarm, the user adjusts the conformity of a wearable vibrator, or the processor adjusts the motor motion as shown in box 614, or both. Frequency, amplitude, and other motor parameters are adjusted to optimize the action in response to the conformity warning. Motor parameter adjustment is a continuous check that occurs in the normal code loop. For example, if the motor frequency changes for any reason (conformity, motion, activity, body position, time, etc.) and is outside a given window of a given frequency (e.g., 30 Hz) away from a given timer or counter, the motor self-adjusts to compensate for the frequency error.

[0040] As the procedure progresses, the processor continuously or intermittently checks the procedure timer, as shown in box 612. When the procedure time is complete, the processor moves to box 620 and the procedure ends. If the procedure time is not complete, the processor for the attachable vibrator continues the procedure and continues to acquire motor, fit, and / or other data until the procedure is complete.

[0041] Figure 7 shows various components of a mountable vibration device according to one embodiment. The processor 702 includes control electronics and is located on a circuit board 704. The circuit board, along with the other components, is housed in an enclosure 706, similar to the enclosure 106 in Figure 1, for example. The circuit board also includes a buzzer 708, a battery charger 722 connected to the battery, and a voltage regulator 724. Inside the enclosure, there are further components: a battery 712, a motor 728, a motor sensor 726 connected to the motor, and a thermal switch 730. A charging port 714 is located in the wall of the enclosure or container, making it accessible for charging the battery.

[0042] The enclosure is provided with a power switch 720, a charging LED 718, a status LED 710, and other components including one or more compatible sensors. The compatible sensors include, but are not limited to, one or more contact sensors, one or more pressure sensors, one or more strain gauges, one or more accelerometers, and one or more gyroscopes.

[0043] Embodiments for treating other areas of the body are also conceivable. For example, vibrations are transmitted to the foot via a device such as a shoe or sock, or a device attached to the foot or lower limb by strap or other means. Vibrational stimulation delivered to the foot or lower limb may help treat osteoporosis or other conditions.

[0044] Vibration noise applied to the sole of the foot has been shown to improve sensation, improve balance, and / or reduce gait variability. The vibration noise or energy may be latent or may be perceived by the wearer. As in other embodiments, the application of vibration may be periodic, continuous, or otherwise.

[0045] While certain embodiments are described herein, other embodiments are also conceivable. For example, a wearable vibrator may be configured to be attached to other areas of the body, such as the neck, back, limbs, or head. The vibration energy may be configured to be directed in different directions, multiple directions, alternating directions, or simultaneously in different directions. Multiple vibration motors may be provided within the device, which provides greater flexibility in the orientation of the vibration energy in terms of direction, body part, etc. The vibration energy changes over time, resulting in increases / decreases in amplitude, increases / decreases in frequency, changes in direction, program cycles, on / off, etc. The stimulating vibration may also incorporate different types of waveforms, such as square, triangular, sawtooth, or sinusoidal waveforms. These different waveforms introduce harmonics of the fundamental frequency and provide enhanced or additional benefits. Multiple frequencies may be superimposed on each other within the vibrating element. Multiple vibration motors may be attached to different parts of the body. Multiple wearable vibrators may be attached. Multiple vibration motors can be used to partially or completely cancel, increase, or modify the vibration energy applied to the user. The vibration energy is transmitted transcutaneously to the implanted metal plate. For example, by placing the vibration device on the outer surface of the leg, the metal bone plate inside the leg can be vibrated to reduce osteonecrosis around the plate. The device according to this embodiment can be used periodically, once a day, once a week, or once a month, to reduce osteonecrosis.

[0046] The wearable vibrator according to this embodiment is used for SI joint syndrome, SI joint osteoarthritis, SI joint instability, SI joint occlusion, myalgia and tendon pain in the pelvic region, pelvic ring instability, structural disorders after lumbar fusion, and for the prevention of recurrent SI joint occlusion and muscle tone paralysis (rectus abdominis, adductor piriformis), joint rupture and laxity, back pain, and other symptoms.

[0047] Figure 8 shows a vibrating device according to one embodiment in the form of a seat cover or pad. This embodiment includes a pad 802 itself, into which a layer of foam or other pad material is incorporated, and a plate 804 that is connected to a control unit and vibrates. The plate is metal, polymer, or any other suitable material. Preferably, the plate is rigid or semi-rigid. The plate is molded in a way that "cups" the hip bones to maximize the transmission of vibration energy from the plate to the bones. The control unit may be incorporated into the pad, or it may be a separate device that controls the plate via a wireless or wired connection. The user places the seat pad / cover on a chair or other surface and sits on the seat pad, so that the area of ​​the hips, including the protruding bones that make up the ischial tuberosities, is in contact with or near contact with the plate. The plate may have a pad cover between the plate and the user. Vibration energy is typically transmitted from the plate to the ischial tuberosities and then to the skeleton, transmitting vibration energy to the lumbar and hip regions. The vibration energy is horizontal, vertical, or both, including rotation. In this embodiment, the user's weight helps ensure that the device properly and securely "fits" to the body. However, as in other embodiments, an accelerometer may be used to evaluate the "fit." In some embodiments, accelerometer readings can be correlated with the treatment outcome to determine a preferred accelerometer reading. The control unit controls the vibration and force of the vibrator to optimize the accelerometer readings. The pad is secured near the user's body using a strap or other connector.

[0048] The vibrating device may be a back pad in a similar form to that shown in Figure 8, but is configured to be positioned on the back of the chair so that the plate area of ​​the device is in contact with the ischial tuberosities, for example, the ilium. In this embodiment, a strap may be included to increase the proximity of the vibrating device to the ischial tuberosity area.

[0049] The vibrating device may also take the form of a weighted wrap pad having a vibrating plate region adjacent to the iliac crest region of the ischium.

[0050] Vibration therapy can also be performed at a predetermined force and frequency to treat constipation and other digestive disorders.

[0051] The vibrational energy has a frequency of approximately 30 to 90 cycles / second (Hz). Other frequency ranges are also possible, such as 1 to 100 Hz, as well as other lower ranges within that, such as 25 to 35 Hz, and specific frequencies within that, such as approximately 10 Hz or approximately 4 Hz. The intensity is 0.01 g to 10 g (1.0 g = Earth's gravitational field = 9.8 m / s / s), as well as other lower ranges within that, such as 0.01 g to 4.0 g, and specific magnitudes within that, such as 0.3 g or approximately 10 g. <Example of a data processing system>

[0052] Figure 9 is a block diagram of a data processing system that may be used in combination with any embodiment of the present invention. For example, system 900 is used as part of a processor. Note that while Figure 9 shows various components of a computer system, it is not intended to represent a specific architecture or method of interconnecting the components, and therefore the details are not closely related to the present invention. It will also be understood that network computers, handheld computers, mobile devices, tablets, mobile phones, and other data processing systems with fewer or possibly more components may also be used in combination with the present invention.

[0053] As shown in Figure 9, the computer system 900 in the form of a data processing system includes a bus or interconnect 902 coupled to one or more microprocessors 903 and ROM 907, volatile RAM 905, and non-volatile memory 906. The microprocessor 903 is connected to a cache memory 904. The bus 902 interconnects these various components and also interconnects these components 903, 907, 905, and 906 to a display control unit and display device 908, as well as input / output (I / O) devices 910 including a mouse, keyboard, modem, network interface, printer, and other devices well known in the art.

[0054] Typically, the input / output device 910 is connected to the system via the input / output control unit 909. Volatile RAM 905 is usually implemented as dynamic RAM (DRAM), which requires continuous power to refresh or maintain data in memory. Non-volatile memory 906 is typically a magnetic hard drive, magneto-optical drive, optical drive, or DVD RAM, or other types of memory systems that retain data even after power is removed from the system. Non-volatile memory is usually also random-access memory, although this is not mandatory.

[0055] Figure 9 shows that the non-volatile memory is a local device directly connected to the rest of the data processing system; however, the present invention may utilize a non-volatile memory located remote from the system, such as a modem or a network storage device connected to the data processing system via a network interface such as an Ethernet® interface. Bus 902 includes one or more buses connected to each other via various bridges, control units, and / or adapters, as is well known in the art. In one embodiment, the I / O control unit 909 includes a USB (Universal Serial Bus) adapter for controlling USB peripherals. Alternatively, the I / O control unit 909 may include an IEEE-1394 adapter, also known as a FireWire® adapter for controlling FireWire® devices, SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface), I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter), or any other suitable technology. Wireless communication protocols include Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, ZigBee®, nearfield, cellular, and other protocols.

[0056] Some parts of the detailed explanation above are presented with respect to algorithms and symbolic representations of operations on data bits in computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are the way that persons skilled in the art of data processing techniques use to most effectively communicate the nature of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm is generally considered here as a self-consistent sequence of operations that leads to a desired result. An operation is an operation that requires the physical manipulation of a physical quantity.

[0057] However, it should be noted that all of these terms and similar terms are associated with appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to those quantities. As is evident from the above description, unless otherwise specified, throughout this specification, discussions using terms such as those set forth in the following claims refer to the operation and processes of a computer system or similar electronic device that manipulates and converts data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in the registers and memory of a computer system to other data similarly represented as physical quantities in computer system memory or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

[0058] The illustrated techniques may be implemented using code and data stored and executed on one or more electronic devices. Such electronic devices store and communicate (with other electronic devices internally and / or on a network) the code and data using computer-readable media such as non-temporary computer-readable storage media (e.g., magnetic disks; optical disks; random-access memory; read-only memory; flash memory devices; phase-change memory) and temporary computer-readable transmission media (e.g., electrically, optically, acoustically or otherwise propagating signals such as carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals).

[0059] The process or method shown in the previous diagram is carried out by processing logic that includes hardware (e.g., circuits, dedicated logic, etc.), firmware, software (e.g., performed on a non-temporary computer-readable medium), or a combination of both. Although the process or method has been described above in terms of several sequential operations, it should be understood that some of the operations described may be performed in a different order. Furthermore, some operations may be performed in parallel rather than sequentially.

Claims

1. A vibration device configured to be wearable by a subject, A vibration motor configured to vibrate in contact with the area of ​​the subject when the subject wears the vibration device, wherein the vibration device is portable while the vibration device is fixed to the subject, One or more motor sensors configured to receive motor feedback related to the vibration motor, One or more adaptive sensors configured to make contact with the subject and receive contact feedback correlated with the measurement of the placement or fixing of the vibration motor in the area of ​​the subject, A control unit is configured to communicate with the vibration motor, one or more motor sensors, and one or more compatibility sensors, to activate a treatment timer, to operate the vibration motor at a predetermined frequency, and to receive contact feedback from one or more compatibility sensors, The control unit is further configured to warn the subject if the motor feedback is outside a predetermined window, which is a predetermined frequency away from a predetermined timer or counter. The control unit is further configured to adjust the predetermined frequency of the vibration motor in response to the contact feedback until the contact feedback is optimized within a predetermined range of the treatment, and to stop the vibration motor when the predetermined treatment time of the treatment timer is completed. Equipped with A vibration device characterized by the following features.

2. The said area of ​​the subject includes an area that overlaps with and is in contact with the subject's buttocks or spine. The vibration device according to feature 1.

3. One or more of the compatible sensors include contact sensors configured to be attached to the vibration device via a fixing mechanism. The vibration device according to feature 1.

4. One or more of the compliant sensors include a pressure sensor. The vibration device according to feature 1.

5. One or more of the aforementioned compatible sensors include strain gauges. The vibration device according to feature 1.

6. One or more of the compatible sensors include an accelerometer. The vibration device according to feature 1.

7. The control unit is configured to adjust the frequency of the vibration motor based on the motor feedback from one or more motor sensors, or the contact feedback from one or more compatibility sensors. The vibration device according to feature 1.

8. The enclosure further comprises the vibration motor, one or more motor sensors, and the control unit. The vibration device according to feature 1.

9. The system further comprises a spacer positioned in close proximity to the vibration motor, which contacts the area of ​​the subject and transmits vibrations to that area of ​​the subject. The vibration device according to feature 1.

10. One or more of the motor sensors communicate with and are located in close proximity to the vibration motor. The vibration device according to feature 1.

11. The vibration motor is configured to transmit vibrations at a frequency of 1 to 100 Hz. The vibration device according to feature 1.

12. The vibration motor is configured to transmit vibrations at a frequency of 25 to 35 Hz. The vibration device according to feature 1.

13. The vibration motor is configured to transmit vibrations having an acceleration of 0.01 g to 10 g. The vibration device according to feature 1.

14. The vibration motor is configured to transmit vibrations having an acceleration of 0.01 g to 4.0 g. The vibration device according to feature 1.

15. The tactile feedback includes an auditory, visual, or tactile alarm configured to alert the subject to adjust the vibrating device to the area. The vibration device according to feature 1.

Images