Device for the transdermal stimulation of a nerve of the human body

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for the transdermal stimulation of a nerve of the human body. Said device (1) comprises at least one stimulation electrode (2) and at least one reference electrode (3) for transdermal nerve stimulation. The at least one stimulation electrode (2) and the at least one reference electrode (3) are connected to a control unit (4) and can be impinged upon by an electric current with the aid of said control unit (4). The at least one stimulation electrode (2) and the at least one reference electrode (3) are disposed in or on a housing (5) that is configured so as to be mounted on or in the human ear. In order to render nerve stimulation efficient and more easily manageable for the patient, the housing (5) is provided with a bow-shaped extension (6) that is embodied so as to be inserted into the auditory canal. Said bow-shaped extension (6) is modeled after the shape of the opening into the auditory canal or the external auditory canal while an electrode head (7) which is provided with two contact points (8, 9) for the two electrodes (2, 3) is arranged at the end of the bow-shaped extension (6).

Description

technical field [0001] The invention relates to a device for percutaneous stimulation of nerves in a human body, the device having at least one stimulating electrode and at least one reference electrode for percutaneous nerve stimulation, wherein the at least one stimulating electrode and the at least one reference electrode is connected to a control unit and can be supplied with current by the control unit, wherein the at least one stimulating electrode and the at least one reference electrode are arranged in or on a housing configured for mounting on or in a human ear . Background technique [0002] Devices of the same type are known in various ways. Transcutaneous nerve stimulation and muscle stimulation are used, for example, in sports medicine to stimulate muscles, wherein electrodes are attached or glued to the skin for this purpose. The advantage is that no trauma to the skin surface is caused when the electrodes are put in place (non-invasive placement of the elect...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0018] There is therefore a threshold in terms of patients who must undergo such an operation

[0019] Also in some cases lead to an implanted body providing a mechanical sensation which cannot be dispensed with in a simple manner if necessary

[0020] And the devices described often have a rather bulky construction and are therefore only suitable for clinical use and not for prolonged stimulation at home

[0021] Stimulators and electrodes are often connected via long cables, which adversely affects handling

Images