Segmented Transcutaneous Spinal Stimulation for Motor Function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing treatments for spinal cord injuries and neurological disorders fail to effectively restore motor functions such as locomotion, posture, and voluntary movements in individuals with complete or incomplete paralysis due to spinal cord injuries or brain injuries.
Innovation Solution
Non-invasive transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation (tESCS) is applied at multiple spinal levels, combined with physical training and neuromodulatory agents, to activate spinal networks and facilitate voluntary movements and autonomic functions by modulating spinal circuitry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If epidural electrical stimulation is used to enable motor function, then motor function can be enabled, but the treatment is invasive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses transcutaneous electrical stimulation as an intermediary method to activate spinal cord networks without direct invasive electrode placement. Surface electrodes applied to the skin deliver electrical current through tissue to modulate spinal circuitry, achieving motor function enablement while avoiding the complexity and invasiveness of epidural stimulation systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical invasive epidural stimulation system with a non-invasive transcutaneous electrical stimulation approach. Instead of physically inserting electrodes into the epidural space, the system uses external surface electrodes to deliver electrical signals through the skin and tissue to achieve the same neuromodulatory effect
2Ease of operation
If non-invasive transcutaneous electrical stimulation is applied, then ease of operation is improved, but stimulation effectiveness may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies transcutaneous electrical stimulation at multiple segmented spinal levels (cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions) simultaneously or sequentially. This segmentation approach allows the system to target different spinal cord networks responsible for specific motor functions, maintaining effectiveness while preserving the ease of non-invasive application through surface electrodes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs adjustable electrical stimulation parameters including frequency (5-40 Hz), amplitude, and pulse width that can be modified to optimize motor function enablement. By changing these parameters, the system achieves reliable motor responses while maintaining the simplicity of non-invasive surface electrode application
3Reliability
If spinal cord networks are activated to enable locomotion, then motor function is improved, but the mechanism is complex and not fully understood
Solution Approach 1:
The patent activates spinal cord networks that serve multiple functions including locomotion, posture control, and autonomic regulation through a single transcutaneous electrical stimulation approach. By stimulating specific spinal levels, the system enables multiple motor and autonomic functions simultaneously, reducing the need for separate targeted interventions for each function
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 involuntary and voluntary movements, including stepping, standing, and autonomic control, in individuals with spinal cord injuries or neurological disorders, by leveraging the spinal cord's ability to interpret proprioceptive information and respond functionally, without directly activating muscle cells.
Implementation Method 1
Transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation (tESCS) is applied at multiple spinal levels, combined with physical training and neuromodulatory agents, to activate spinal networks and facilitate voluntary movements and autonomic functions by modulating spinal circuitry.
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, non-invasive methods to induce motor control in a mammal subject to spinal cord or other neurological injuries are provided. In some embodiments the methods involve administering transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation (ISCS) to the mammal at a frequency and intensity that induces locomotor activity.