Neuromechanical Algometer for Pelvic Pain Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic and treatment approaches for chronic pelvic pain (CPP) lack a comprehensive mechanistic understanding, leading to indiscriminate and ineffective treatments, with limited validated interventions and inadequate objective measurements for pressure and electromyography (EMG) assessments in the pelvic region.
Innovation Solution
A diagnostic system that combines a pressure sensor algometer with EMG monitoring and a patient-activated pain trigger device, processing and analyzing signals to provide graphical representations for clinicians, allowing for timely and targeted interventions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate diagnostic tools (pressure algometer and EMG device) are used for pelvic pain assessment, then measurement coverage is comprehensive, but device complexity and procedural time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a pressure sensor algometer and an EMG monitoring device into a single integrated diagnostic system. The algometer applies controlled pressure to pelvic muscles while the EMG component simultaneously records electrical activity from the same muscle group, enabling comprehensive neuromechanical assessment through one unified device rather than requiring separate tools and procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated diagnostic device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it measures pressure pain thresholds through the algometer component and records electromyographic signals through the EMG component. This multi-functional approach allows clinicians to assess both mechanical and electrical properties of pelvic floor muscles using a single device, improving measurement coverage without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Loss of information
If comprehensive neuromechanical assessment is performed, then treatment personalization is improved, but measurement time and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated device enables continuous simultaneous measurement of both pressure and EMG signals during a single assessment procedure. Rather than requiring separate sequential tests for pressure pain thresholds and muscle electrical activity, the device captures both parameters continuously throughout the examination, completing comprehensive neuromechanical assessment in one uninterrupted procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the algometer and EMG device into a single integrated system, the patent eliminates the need for separate setup, calibration, and execution of distinct measurement protocols. The combined device performs both assessment types concurrently, reducing total measurement time while maintaining complete information gathering.
3Productivity
If integrated neuromechanical device is used, then measurement efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated diagnostic device is designed as a segmented system with distinct functional modules: the algometer component for pressure application and the EMG component for electrical signal recording. Each module operates independently but is coordinated through integrated control, allowing the device to maintain functional clarity and ease of use while achieving measurement efficiency through simultaneous multi-parameter assessment.
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
Enables accurate measurement of pressure, EMG signals, and pain sensitivity in the pelvic region, facilitating more effective and personalized treatments for CPP, improving quality of life for patients.
Implementation Method 1
The algometer may include a pressure sensor
Implementation Method 2
an electrode for the sensing of EMG signals from a patient's body
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for the diagnosis of chronic pain are disclosed. An algometer comprising a pressure sensor and electrode is disclosed. The algometer may be used to measure pressure applied by a clinician at a location on a patient's body, along with EMG signals emanating from the same location of the patient. Further, a pain trigger operable by the patient may be used in coordination with the algometer. Data from the algometer and pain trigger are transmitted to a computing device and display for rendering and analysis of patient data, leading to improved diagnosis.