Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for Non-Invasive Tremor Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for essential tremor, such as medications and deep brain stimulation, are either ineffective for many patients or carry significant risks and side effects, highlighting a need for alternative, non-invasive methods to reduce tremor amplitude without surgical intervention.
Innovation Solution
A peripheral nerve stimulation device that delivers electrical or vibrotactile stimuli to sensory nerves to modify abnormal neural network dynamics, reducing tremor by altering circuit dynamics associated with ET, Parkinson's tremor, and other neurological disorders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If deep brain stimulation is used to treat tremor, then tremor amplitude reduction is achieved (up to 90%), but surgical risks and invasiveness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces peripheral nerves as an intermediary target between the stimulation device and the tremor source. Instead of directly stimulating the brain (invasive), the device stimulates peripheral nerves that send signals to the brain, using the nerve as a mediator to achieve tremor reduction without brain surgery
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical surgical implantation system (DBS electrodes implanted in the brain) with a non-invasive electrical stimulation system applied to peripheral nerves, substituting the invasive mechanical approach with a safer electrical approach
2Reliability
If medications are used to treat tremor, then tremor amplitude reduction is achieved (up to 50% in 60% of patients), but side effects increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the chemical mechanism of medications with an electrical/neural mechanism. Instead of using drugs that chemically affect the nervous system (causing side effects), the device uses electrical stimulation to directly modulate neural activity, replacing chemical treatment with physical stimulation
3Object-affected harmful factors
If peripheral nerve stimulation is used to treat tremor, then non-invasive treatment is achieved, but tremor reduction effectiveness must be sufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a feedback mechanism where sensors detect tremor characteristics and the stimulation device adjusts its output accordingly. The system monitors tremor amplitude and frequency, and modifies stimulation parameters in real-time to maintain effective tremor reduction while adapting to individual patient responses
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs variable stimulation parameters including adjustable frequency (10-100 Hz), pulse width, and amplitude that can be customized for each patient. The device can switch between different stimulation modes and adjust parameters dynamically to optimize effectiveness for different tremor types and severities
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
The device effectively reduces tremor amplitude by up to 92% in severe cases, maintaining the effect for up to 20 minutes post-treatment, offering a safe and comfortable alternative to invasive treatments.
Implementation Method 1
delivering a stimulus to the peripheral nerve through the peripheral nerve effector; the stimulus may be vibrotactile
Data Source
AI summary
Wearable devices can be used to stimulate one or more nerves or proprioceptors to reduce essential tremor, Parkinson tremor, and other forms of tremor. Wearable devices for vibrotactile stimulation of proprioceptors are provided in certain aspects.