Frequency-Selective Neural Stimulation for Motor Dysfunction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neurological stimulation systems for treating motor dysfunction lack the ability to selectively and preferentially activate or inhibit motor neurons without repositioning electrodes, which limits their effectiveness in inducing specific muscle responses.
Innovation Solution
The use of high and low frequency electrical signals delivered through implanted leads to selectively activate or inhibit motor neurons, allowing for preferential induction of motor responses in specific muscles without repositioning the electrodes, by manipulating the frequency of the electrical signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrical stimulation is applied to activate motor neurons, then motor responses are induced, but the ability to selectively activate specific muscles is limited without repositioning electrodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing frequency-dependent activation characteristics of motor neurons. Different frequency ranges (e.g., 1-100 Hz, 100-1000 Hz, >1000 Hz) selectively activate different motor neuron populations and muscle groups, enabling selective muscle activation without physical electrode repositioning. This transforms the static electrode configuration into a dynamically adjustable system through frequency modulation.
2Manufacturing precision
If high frequency signals are used to activate motor neurons, then selective activation is achieved, but the complexity of signal parameter control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the stimulation system frequency-adaptive. The signal generator dynamically adjusts frequency parameters based on desired muscle activation targets, transforming a static stimulation system into one that can adapt its electrical parameters in real-time. This dynamic control enables precise targeting of different motor neuron populations without requiring complex hardware modifications.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables precise control over motor responses in different muscles by varying signal frequency, potentially simplifying treatment procedures and reducing the need for invasive electrode repositioning, thereby improving the efficacy of motor dysfunction treatments.
Implementation Method 1
administering electrical signals to a target neural population to induce a motor response in a muscle
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology is directed generally to electrical stimulation and associated systems and methods for preferentially and/or selectively activating and suppressing motor neurons and/or motor responses, such as to treat a motor dysfunction in patients. For example, in some embodiments high frequency electrical stimulation can be administered to a target neural population via an implanted signal delivery device to induce a motor response in a first muscle, and low frequency electrical stimulation can be administered to the target neural population via the same signal delivery device to induce a motor response in a second muscle that is different than the first muscle.