Therapeutic device for local area stimulation

Abstract

This invention, fundamentally a regular array of points, is applied non-invasively to a subject and it induces, monitors and controls a variety of therapeutic stimuli. It is effective in novel and non-obvious ways when the points are spaced approximately 3 to 6 mm apart. Further development includes patterns of electromagnetically dissimilar metal points, a magnetized support, and configurable electrical connections along with various controllers and stimulus sources. This device can administer an unprecedented variety of therapeutic stimuli in unprecedented combinations. Effects arise galvanically, through interaction of point arrays with the magnetized support, and by application of electromagnetic forces. It can electronically monitor both stimuli and local subject response through the points themselves enabling effective controls and an avenue for research. Its flat shape accomodates accessories to apply other stimuli such as heat. A clinical version accomodates invasive treatments and bulky external devices.

1 . A therapeutic device comprised of 
 a. an array of points, and    b. said array protruding from a supporting material or structure, and    c. at least some of said points approximately 3-6 mm apart.    
   
   
       2 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said support is flexible.  
   
   
       3 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said support is magnetized.  
   
   
       4 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said points are made with metal.  
   
   
       5 . The device of  claim 4  wherein said points are of two classes: 
 diamagnetic and ferromagnetic.    
   
   
       6 . The device of  claim 5  wherein said classes of points are assembled in some alternating arrangement.  
   
   
       7 . The device of  claim 4  wherein said points are interconnected with electrical conductors comprising: 
 a. interconnections within some classes of points, and    b. controllable connections between classes of points.    
   
   
       8 . The device of  claim 7  wherein points or classes of points may be selectively and separably monitored.  
   
   
       9 . The device of  claim 7  wherein signals or forces applied to points or classes of points may be selectively and separably controlled.  
   
   
       10 . The device of  claim 4  wherein provisions are made to apply, allow, or monitor electromagnetic forces through the points.  
   
   
       11 . The device of  claim 10  including: 
 a. power, force, and signal sources,    b. sensors,    c. controls and access for said sources and sensors.    
   
   
       12 . The device of  claim 11  wherein said controls and sensors operate: 
 a. manually by direct settings, or    b. by the device itself through feedback loops, or    c. algorythmically or programmatically.    
   
   
       13 . The device of  claim 12  wherein monitoring information is derived from external sources.  
   
   
       14 . The device of  claim 10  wherein forces affecting points may be monitored concurrently with application of forces to the points themselves or other points.  
   
   
       15 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said device physically accommodates optional accessories to be layered with it in use.  
   
   
       16 . The device of  claim 15  wherein there is an accessory source of heat or cold.  
   
   
       17 . The device of  claim 1  wherein the points of said device exert uniform pressure on the subject by means of padding.  
   
   
       18 . The device of  claim 1  wherein said device accommodates physical access to the subject by other devices, instruments, monitors, sensors, or therapies.  
   
   
       19 . The device of  claim 18  with provision to attach one or more hypodermic needles and tubing reliably and safely.  
   
   
       20 . The device of  claim 18  wherein said accessories provide means of application or monitoring of other therapies singly or in combination including, but not limited to, electromagnetic forces, acupuncture needles, vibration, distension and pressure.