EP1874398A2

EP1874398A2 - Device for administering electrode stimulation of back and abdominal muscles

Info

Publication number: EP1874398A2
Application number: EP06750709A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Steve Compex Medical S.A. GUEX; Felix Compex Medical S.A. BUHLMANN; Klaus Compex Medical S.A. SCHONENBERGER; Pierre-Yves Compex Medical S.A. MUELLER; Dan Compex Technologies Inc. GLADNEY; Marshall Compex Technologies Inc. MASKO
Original assignee: Compex Medical SA; Compex Technologies Inc
Current assignee: Compex Medical SA; Compex Technologies Inc
Priority date: 2005-04-19
Filing date: 2006-04-19
Publication date: 2008-01-09
Also published as: WO2006113802A3; EP1874398A4; JP2008536636A; WO2006113802A2

Abstract

A device capable of stimulating both back-muscles and abdominal muscles of a wearer for the purpose of reinforcing the entire core, the device may provide sequential or simultaneous stimulation of the back-muscles and abdominal muscles to treat and prevent back pain.

Description

DEVICE FOR ADMINISTERING ELECTRODE STIMULATION OF BACK AND ABDOMINAL MUSCLES

Cross-Reference to Related Applications The current application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. provisional patent application filed on April 19, 2005, entitled "Device For Administering Electrode Stimulation of Back and Abdominal Muscles," having Serial No. 60/672,934, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to electro-muscle stimulation. More specifically, the invention relates to a belt-like device, which is wrapped around or otherwise placed upon a portion of the body to administer adjustable levels of electrical stimulation. In particular, the invention relates to a single device that can stimulate the total core of a wearer, namely abdominal muscles (e.g. rectus abdominus, obliques) and back muscles (e.g. erector spinae).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) utilizes a conductive pad or electrode to externally apply a current to a muscle or group of muscles and thereby cause them to contract. The electrode receives an electric stimulation signal from an external voltage/current source, such as an EMS machine. The stimulation signal can be adjusted in amplitude, polarity, frequency, waveform, etc.

EMS is commonly used in physical or occupational therapy to strengthen atrophied muscles or paralyzed limbs, and also to exercise muscles that are immobilized for long periods of time as a result of muscular or neurological disorders, extended periods of bed rest arising from injury, surgery, or illness. EMS is also useful for the general exercise of functional muscles to improve muscle tone and strength. For example with athletes, EMS can be used to treat muscle injuries as a supplement to conventional conditioning exercises. EMS can also be used to recondition muscles or muscle groups which have, for whatever reason, lost their tone and/or strength, have been injured, or are in need of reconditioning to effect cosmetic improvements. An operator who has been trained in the principles of EMS can analyze the areas which are of concern, and select the proper muscles to exercise and train.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,480,830 illustrates a method and apparatus for exercising paralyzed muscles wherein a set of transcutaneous stimulation electrodes are placed upon the skin of the subject over the muscles which are to be stimulated. A computer controlled stimulator generates a pair of alternately pulsed stimulation signals which are applied across different pairs of stimulation electrodes to produce controlled muscle contraction. Muscle movement is resisted by a dynamic load and a position sensor provides a feedback signal indicating the movement actually achieved. The computer uses the feedback signal for modifying the control signal applied to the stimulator.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,582,049 portrays a patient initiated response method for reeducating debilitated muscle tissue. The method comprises the detection of an electromyographic signal in a muscle group which is used to trigger an artificial stimulation signal of a higher predetermined intensity and transmit such a signal to a debilitated muscle group. The patient initiated electromyographic signal may be detected in a debilitated or non- debilitated muscle group. The operator determines the frequency and intensity of the stimulation signal.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,586,495 illustrates an apparatus and method for stimulating muscular activity in an acutely injured patient. A leg which is to be stimulated is strapped into a brace and the leg muscles are stimulated to work isometrically against the brace. The effort exerted by the muscles is measured by load cells which generate feedback signals for a control computer. The computer adjusts the stimulation signals in accordance with the received feedback signals. U.S. Pat. No. 4,586,510 discloses an apparatus for exercising a paralyzed limb by functional electrical stimulation. The system utilizes simple analog devices including a reference signal generator, a position sensor, and an error signal generator. The error signal is integrated to produce a stimulation driving signal for application to the stimulation electrodes mounted on the limb. In the disclosed embodiment, the paralyzed person may be seated in an exercise chair which is equipped with a pair of loading assemblies which are attachable to the legs of the person so as to yieldingly resist the stimulated movement.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,724,842 shows a method and apparatus for muscle stimulation. An exercise machine or dynamometer is provided with control apparatus for ascertaining the physical position of a patient during an exercise. The patient is then electrically stimulated over selected ranges of motion in order to aid in the exercise.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,785,813 is directed toward an apparatus for assisting muscular contraction of a partially paralyzed muscle. The apparatus uses a pair of electrode terminals which sense voluntary EMG signals at the site of the muscle and periodically transmit appropriately corresponding higher level stimulation signals. Stimulation signals are generated by a pulsed stimulator operating under control of an amplifier arrangement connected to receive the EMG signals from the electrode terminals. A transistor switch interrupts the amplifier output in synchronism with the generation of stimulation signals.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,838,272 describes a method and apparatus for adaptive closed loop electrical stimulation of muscles. The method and apparatus strengthens skeletal muscles through maximizing muscle tension in which electrical stimulation signals are applied to the selected muscles at a predetermined frequency, pulse width, and amplitude, and work output by the muscles in response to stimulation signals is determined over a fixed period of time. The work output is compared to a defined value which can be a target value or a value measured during a previous stimulation period.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,070,873 includes a method of and apparatus for electrically stimulating quadriceps muscles of an upper motor unit paraplegic. Muscle fatigue of an electrically stimulated quadriceps muscle of an upper motor neuron paraplegic is detected and compensated for by monitoring the myoelectric (EMG) signal produced by the stimulated muscle and controlling one or more of the following parameters of the electrical stimulation (ES) signal: pulse repetition rate, amplitude, and pulse width.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,330,516 depicts a device for generating hand function having an S-type splint consisting of a forearm portion extending along the palmar side of the forearm, a palmo-dorsal transition portion leading to a dorsal portion extending across the dorsal side of the carpal bones of the hand, and a palmar portion which touches the palm of the hand of the wearer of the device at least indirectly. A plurality of electrodes are mounted on the splint in positions in which they can make contact with skin portions directly overlying the muscles to be stimulated.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,507,788 illustrates a method and apparatus for controlling skeletal muscle fatigue during electrical stimulation. Electrical stimulation signals are applied to muscles at a frequency which is varied in response to a detected ripple signal in an output tension or torque record which corresponds to the fusion of the multiple muscle contractions. An average torque amplitude is first determined when a stimulation signal is applied at an initial frequency.

The amplitude of the ripple on the torque output is then determined and compared to the average torque amplitude to provide a ripple percentage. The measured ripple percentage is compared to a selected ripple percentage corresponding to the desired fusion of the multiple muscle contractions. The stimulation frequency is adjusted by a feedback loop until the measured ripple percentage conforms to the selected value. U.S. Pat. No. 5,628,722 shows a method for maintaining knee stability of a user suffering from damage to a knee ligament. The method includes a sensor feedback system for measuring abnormal physical relationships between the tibia and femur. The sensor feedback system determines whether selected conditions have been met warranting the application of electrical stimulation and provides information regarding the determination to an electronic stimulator. Electrodes are spaceably mounted on the hamstring and/or quadriceps muscles in electrical communication with the electronic stimulator for causing contraction of the thigh muscles at selected levels, thus providing a posteriorly and/or anteriorly directed force to the upper tibial bone and thereby preventing its instability. The devices mentioned above have several shortcomings. For example, the devices do not allow a user to simultaneously or sequentially stimulate the abdominal and back muscles with a single device. Moreover, the prior art devices are not easily adjustable to position multiple sets of electrodes over the core muscle groups of wearers, especially when the wearers are of different sizes. Also, alignment of electrodes over certain muscle groups, particularly on the back of a user, is made difficult because electrodes used in these types of devices employ adhesives that do not readily allow for multiple placement and removal. Therefore, a device and method for applying the device to correctly orient and place the device and the electrodes earned by the device on the first attempt is needed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the shortcomings set forth above, it is an object of the invention to provide a device that is capable of stimulating both abdominal muscles (e.g. rectus abdominus, obliques) and back muscles (e.g. erector spinae) for the purpose of reinforcing the entire core of the wearer. It is another object of the invention to provide simultaneous or sequential stimulation of the back muscles and abdominal muscles to treat and prevent back pain.

In one embodiment, the invention includes at least one adjusting zone to enable a wearer to tighten the belt in a symmetrical way to position a first set of electrodes over the wearer's abdominal muscles and position a second set of electrodes over the wearer's back muscles. An electrical connection is maintained between the first set of electrodes and the second set of electrodes with a wire. The wire contains at least one connector between the electrodes and the wire to enable the wire to be attached to and disconnected from the electrodes without the need for additional materials.

The device may be used either passively or actively. In the passive capacity, the user exerts no activity and the electrodes artificially stimulate the muscles. In this passive state, an EMS controller controls all muscular contractions by automatically emitting electrical surges or pulses either simultaneously or sequentially to the abdominal and back muscles. The surges may be adjusted to suit the needs of the user. The controller may various aspects of the electrical stimulation being delivered and, for example, be used to adjust the amplitude of the pulse, the duration of the pulse, pulse width, rest periods between each pulse, intensity, frequency, and other electrical characteristics of the delivered stimulation signals according to an intended use or application.

The belt may also be used in an active capacity in which it is used to augment exercise. In this aspect, the belt directs and targets muscle groups as determined by the user while simultaneously exercising. In some modes, the device may be used to stimulate one set of muscles in a manner antagonistic to the muscles being exercised, thereby increasing the intensity of the effort required by the exercised muscles.

The device includes a flexible covering having a plurality of electrodes. The flexible covering is shaped like a band or belt, and is designed to encircle and be snugly connected around a portion of a patient' s body. The band or belt is made in a plurality of sizes to fit different size persons and different portions of the body.

The electrodes can be placed in a pattern which matches predetermined groups of muscles, the muscles being the abdominal muscles and the back muscles. The electrodes receive either a positive or negative stimulation signal, and are positioned upon the flexible covering or band so that stimulation interaction between different muscle groups is minimized. The controller may be removably inserted in a pocket easily accessible to the wearer to enable manipulation of the controls and adjustment of the intensity of the signal presented to the various electrodes.

The present invention further provides a device for stimulation of muscles of a user having at least a belt portion capable of being affixed around the abdomen of the user, at least two electrodes on the belt portion capable of being placed in the region of and directing electrical stimulus to at least one abdominal muscle of the user; at least two electrodes on the belt portion capable of being placed in the region of and directing electrical stimulus to at least one back muscle of the user; and a controller capable of directing electrical stimulation to the at least one abdominal muscle and to the at least one back muscle. The device may have electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least two abdominal muscles of the user and capable of directing electrical stimulus to the at least two abdominal muscles and may have electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least two back muscles of the user and capable of directing electrical stimulus to the at least two back muscles. The abdominal muscles stimulated by the device may be rectus abdominus and/or oblique muscles and the back muscles stimulated by the device may be erector spinae muscles.

The device may have a closure mechanism, which may be adapted to close over the back of the user in the region of the spinal column. The closure mechanism may include a hinge, as well as hook and loop fastener materials.

The belt portion of the device may also include an abdominal portion that defines an opening for placement over the user's umbilicus. Placement of the opening in the abdominal portion of the device over the umbilicus effects proper placement of the electrodes relative to the abdominal muscles and the back muscles to be stimulated by the device. The controller may be capable of directing electrical stimulation to the abdominal muscle and the back muscle simultaneously or in an alternating pattern of stimulation (e.g. through electrical conduits, to a contact and through an electrode.)

The present invention also provides for a device for stimulation of muscles of a user, having at least a belt portion capable of being affixed around the abdomen of the user; an abdominal portion having at least two electrodes capable of being placed in the region of and capable of directing electrical stimulus to at least one abdominal muscle of the user; and a controller capable of directing electrical stimulation to the at least one abdominal muscle such that the abdominal portion defines an opening and placement of the opening over the umbilicus effects proper placement of the electrodes relative to the at least one abdominal muscle. The device may have at least two electrodes on the belt portion capable of being placed in the region of and directing electrical stimulus to at least one back muscle of the user, to at least two back muscles of the user or more than two back muscles of the user. The device may also have electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least two abdominal muscles and capable of directing electrical stimulus to the at least two abdominal muscles. The abdominal muscles stimulated by the device may be rectus abdominus and/or oblique muscles and the back muscles stimulated by the device may be erector spinae muscles.

The device may have a closure mechanism, which may be adapted to close over the back of the user in the region of the spinal column. The closure mechanism may include a hinge, as well as hook and loop fastener materials. The controller may be capable of directing electrical stimulation to the abdominal muscle and the back muscle simultaneously or in an alternating pattern of stimulation (e.g. through electrical conduits, to a contact and through an electrode.)

The present invention also provides for a method for attaching a device for stimulation of core muscles in a user, the method including the steps of providing a device for stimulation of abdominal muscles comprising a belt portion capable of being affixed around the abdomen of the user, an abdominal portion having at least two electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least one abdominal muscle of the user, at least two electrodes on the belt portion capable of being placed in the region of at least one back muscle of the user, a controller capable of directing electrical stimulation to the at least one abdominal muscle and to the at least one back muscle, wherein the abdominal portion defines an opening, and a closure mechanism; placing the device over the abdomen of the user with the opening aligned over the umbilicus of the user; closing the closure mechanism over the user's back in the region of the spinal column.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 depicts an isometric view of the device pursuant to the invention. Fig. 2 depicts a front view of a back portion of the device pursuant to the invention.

Fig. 3 depicts a reverse view of a back portion of the device pursuant to the invention.

Fig. 4 depicts a front view of an abdominal portion of the device pursuant to the invention. Fig. 5 depicts a reverse view of a back portion of the device pursuant to the invention.

Fig. 6a is a front view of an electrostimulation device having attachment portions comprising magnetic connection elements to assist a user in alignment of the device during donning and a flap connected to one end of the device that overlaps and extends beyond the magnetic connection and which connects to the other end of the device for further securing the ends of the device in the spinal region of the user.

Fig. 6b is a perspective view of the ends of the device being aligned for closure of the attachment portion.

Fig. 7a is a front view of an electrostimulation device having an attachment portion comprising magnetic connection elements to assist a user in alignment of the device during donning and a flap connected to one end that overlaps and extends beyond the magnetic connection and which connects to the other end for further securing the ends of the device in the spinal region of the user. Fig. 7b is a perspective view of the ends of the device being aligned for closure of the attachment portion.

Fig. 8a is a front view of an electrostimulation device having an attachment portion comprising a buckle connected to adjustable straps to secure the ends of the device in the spinal region of the user.

Fig. 8b is a back (or inside) view of the electrostimulation device of Fig. 14a showing connectors for electrodes and guides for placement of electrodes on the inside of the device.

Fig. 9a is a front view of an electrostimulation device having an attachment portion comprising a hinged portion and using a hook and loop fabric system (such as a Velcro® system) to secure the ends of the device in the spinal region of the user.

Fig. 9b is a perspective view of the ends of the device being aligned for closure of the attachment portion.

Fig. 10a is a front view of an electrostimulation device having an attachment portion comprising a buckle connected to adjustable straps to secure the ends of the device in the spinal region of the user.

Fig. 10b is a perspective view of the ends of the device being aligned for closure of the attachment portion.

Fig. 11a is a front view of an electrostimulation device having an attachment portion comprising guiding tabs and a latch connected to one end that overlaps and extends beyond the magnetic connection and which connects to the other end for further securing the ends of the device in the spinal region of the user.

Fig. l ib is a perspective view of the ends of the device being aligned for closure of the attachment portion.

Fig. 12a is a front view of an electrostimulation device having adjustable elastic bands, an attachment portion comprising interlocking clasp elements for securing ends of the device in the spinal region of the user.

Fig. 12b is a perspective view of the ends of the device being aligned for closure of the attachment portion.

While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention. DETAILED DESCRgTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The device 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. Device 10 includes a back portion 12 and an abdominal portion 14. Back portion 12 includes an interior side 16 and an exterior side 18. A plurality of electrodes 20, 22, 24, and 26 are disposed on the interior side 16 of back portion 12. Electrodes 20 and 24 are positioned above electrodes 22 and 26 on back portion 12, although a variety of electrode configurations may be used while remaining within the scope of the invention. First and second adjustment zones, 84 and 86 allow the user to increase or decrease the circumference of the device according to use and comfort.

With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, additional features of back portion 12 will be discussed. Electrodes 20, 22, 24, and 26 are disposed on interior side 16, as shown in FIG. 2. In an one embodiment, guides 28, 30, 32, and 34 may be disposed on interior side 16 around electrode 20 to more specifically position electrode 20 adjacent to a certain muscle group. Similar guides may be disposed on interior side 16 around electrodes 22, 24, and 26. Guides 28, 30, 32, and 34 may be a flap of material, adhesive, or similar fastening means while remaining within the scope of the invention.

The exterior side 18 of the back portion 12 is shown in FIG. 3. First clasp 36 and second clasp 38 are each disposed on exterior side 18 of back portion 12. First clasp 36 is disposed on exterior side 18 about flap 40. Second clasp 38 is disposed on exterior side 18 about flap 42. With reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the details of abdominal portion 14 will be discussed. Abdominal portion 14 includes a center portion 44 and peripheral portions 46 and 48 on opposing sides of center portion 44. Abdominal portion 14 includes an exterior side 50, shown in FIG. 4, and an interior side 52, shown in FIG. 5. Controller 54 is shown in FIG. 4. Controller 54 includes a plurality of buttons 56 for operating the device 10, although a variety of operators may be used while remaining within the scope of the invention. Controller 54 is disposed in pocket 58. Pocket 58 includes a flap attached to abdominal portion for maintaining the position of controller adjacent to abdominal portion. Pocket 58 includes a top portion 60 and a bottom portion 62.

In one embodiment, top portion 60 is attached to exterior side 50, while bottom portion 62 is not attached to exterior side 50. This configuration enables a wearer of device 10 to pull bottom portion 62 away from exterior side 50 so the wearer can more easily view controller 54. hi another embodiment, bottom portion 62 may be removably fastened to exterior side 50. This enables the controller 54 to remain close to exterior side 50 during exercise or sudden movement, while allowing a user to remove bottom portion 62 from exterior side 50 when viewing or adjusting controller 54. Controller 54 is shown adjacent to center portion 44, although a variety of locations may be contemplated while remaining within the scope of the invention.

FIG. 5 shows the interior side 52 of abdominal portion 14. A plurality of electrodes 64, 66, 68, and 70 are disposed on the interior side 52 of the center portion 44 of abdominal portion 14. Electrodes 64 and 66 are shown on top of electrodes 68 and 70, although a variety of electrode configurations may be used while remaining within the scope of the invention. Guides 74, 76, 78, and 80 may be disposed on the interior side 52 of abdominal portion 14 about electrode 68 to more specifically position electrode 68 adjacent to a certain abdominal muscle group. Similar guides may be disposed on interior side 52 around electrodes 64, 66, and 70. Guides 74, 76, 78, and 80 may be a flap of material, adhesive, or similar fastening means while remaining within the scope of the invention.

Plurality of apertures 82 are disposed in peripheral portions 46 and 48. Apertures 82 are designed to be used in connection with clasps 36 and 38 to adjust the location of electrodes 20, 22, 24, 26, 64, 66, 68, and 70 relative to various muscle groups of the wearer.

The interaction of back portion 12 and abdominal portion 14 will now be discussed. Peripheral portion 48 is slid through first clasp 36 to form first adjustment zone 84. Next, peripheral portion 46 is slid through second clasp 38 to form second adjustment zone 86. The interaction of adjustment zones 84 and 86 with respect to the various electrodes on back portion 12 and abdominal portion 14 enable the wearer to position the electrodes on the back portion 12 adjacent to a predetermined set of back muscles. Similarly, the interaction of adjustment zones 84 and 86 with respect to the various electrodes on abdominal portion 14 enable the wearer to position the electrodes on abdominal portion 14 adjacent to a predetermined set of abdominal muscles. This configuration enables device 10 to be worn by persons of varying sizes.

The electrodes on back portion 12 and abdominal portion 14 are attached by wire 88. Wire 88 is disposed inside back portion 12 so that end 90 of wire 88 can be pulled from between interior side 16 and exterior side 18 to connect end 90 to plug 92. The attachment of end 90 to plug 92 provides either simultaneous or sequential back and abdominal stimulation through controller 54.

In another embodiment, the device may be configured to close over the back of the user in the region of the spinal column. An abdominal portion of the device with electrodes for stimulating abdominal muscles on the interior side is placed over the abdomen by the user and attachment portions are brought around the back and secured to each other in the region of the spinal column using a closure mechanism. Electrodes for stimulation of the back muscles are disposed on the interior side of the device in the region of each of the attachment portions.

The device may include elastic portions interposed between the abdominal portion and each of the attachment portions. In one embodiment, the device is approximately 80 cm in length and can stretch to 1.2 meters. The device may be constructed of different lengths to accommodate the various abdominal girth measurements of users in the population. The varying lengths may be achieved, for example, by employing different lengths of elastic portions in construction of the device. In addition, a band of material that is less elastic may be overlayed on the elastic portion between the abdominal portion and the attachment portions. This band may be passed through a clamp and or other attachment mechanism to limit the stretch of the elastic portion and to ensure a sufficiently snug fit of the device onto the user while the device is in use. Generally, the clamp or other attachment mechanism should be able to maintain the limit of the stretch from use to use and allow for adjustment as progress from use of the device is achieved. The elastic portion may also extend into or over a portion of the device in order to provide a greater length of elastic material to stretch around the abdomen of the user. For example, the abdominal portion of the device may define a cavity from which elastic portions may extend. The greater length of elastic portion provides a greater range of stretch thereby allowing more users of different sizes to the use the same sized device.

Various materials may be used employed in the manufacture of the elastic portions with consideration given to, for example, comfort of the user where the elastic portion may contact skin, degree of tension exhibited by the material over the range of the stretch, ability of the material to allow perspiration to evaporate and pass through the material and durability of the material. Provision must also be made for electrical connections between the abdominal portion of the device and the attachment portions that span the elastic portions. Conductive elements (e.g. wires) providing for such connections need to be of sufficient length to accommodate the range of stretching of the belt portion. Conductive elements may be disposed in a wave or ribbon pattern across the length of the elastic material to accommodate the stretching of the elastic material.

Various closure mechanisms may be used to secure the two ends of the device together including buttons, snaps, hook and loop fabric closure systems (e.g. VELCRO® closures), and buckles. Considerations in using the closure mechanisms may include: comfort of the user while wearing the device (e.g. allowing the user to sit in a chair or to lie down); convenience of closure (e.g. allowing the user to effect closing and opening of the closure mechanism in a straightforward manner); and security of the closure (e.g. to ensure that the device remains in place even when the wearer is active).

Proper alignment of the device on the body of the user is essential to ensure that the proper muscle groups are being stimulated. In addition, proper alignment ensures greater comfort for the wearer of the device. A high degree of comfort in wearing the device allows the user to potentially use the device with a higher intensity setting and for longer periods of time, hi order to achieve proper alignment, the abdominal portion of the device may define a centrally located opening around which the electrodes targeting abdominal muscles are placed. The user of the device can locate the opening over their umbilicus as an initial step in putting on the device, thereby aligning the electrodes over the correct abdominal muscle group. The user can then bring the two ends of the device around the back and use the closure to secure the device. One or both of the attachment portions may also be configured to assist in the proper alignment of the device over the back of the user. For example, a projection or enlargement of a region of an attachment portion could be constructed to align with the depression in the region of the spinal column of the user.

As depicted in Figs. 6-12, electrostimulation device 100 can include attachment portion 102 located at one end of device 100, and attachment portion 103 located at the opposite end of device 100, which facilitates securing device 100 around a user's midsection or core. Generally, each attachment portions 102, 103 can include one or more structural elements that facilitate fastening or securing attachment portion 102 to attachment portion 103.

With respect to Figs. 6a and 6b, attachment portion 102 can include magnetic button 101, which can engage with corresponding magnetic element 105 on attachment portion 103. In some embodiments, as depicted in Fig. 13, attachment portion 103 can comprise a flap portion 112 coupled to a stationary portion 114, which can facilitate positioning corresponding magnetic element 105 in contact with magnetic button 101 to secure attachment portion 102 to attachment portion 103. Hook and loop fabric closures may also be used to ensure the attachment portions 102, 103 are secured to each other. Electronic controller 156 may be programmed in various ways to provide for regimens of stimulation to abdominal and back muscles. Opening 160 is defined by the region of the device that is placed over the abdomen of the user and is aligned over the umbilicus of the user. When opening 160 is aligned over the umbilicus, attachment portion 103 and attachment portion 102 will come together in the region of the spinal column of the user and the correct positioning of the electrodes over the back muscles will be achieved.

With respect to Figs. 7a and 7b, electrostimulation device 100 can include button 134 on attachment portion 102, which is adapted to engage with corresponding element 138 located on the opposite attachment portion 103. In some embodiments, corresponding element 138 can be a rigid projection of attachment portion 103 and may define an opening sized to receive and secure button 134 which, in turn, facilitates fastening or securing device 100 around a user's midsection. While Fig. 7 depicts an attachment mechanism comprising a button and a corresponding element defining an opening sized to receive the button, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that other slot and projection fastening mechanisms could be employed in the devices of the present disclosure, hi addition, flap 140 extends over and past button 134 to engage regions 136 to further secure the device to the user. Flap 140 and regions 136 may comprise hook and loop fastener fabric closure components. With respect to the embodiment shown in Fig. 8, device 100 may be secured by a mechanical closure in which a raised ovoid tab 104 is inserted through an opening defined on corresponding tab 106. Either of ovoid tab 104 or corresponding tab 106 is twisted slightly off plane with respect to each other allowing ovoid tab 104 to pass through the opening. Tension may then be applied across ovoid tab 104 and corresponding tab 106 either through elastic or by adjustment of a strap to maintain device 100 in place on the user's body. Fig. 8b also shows an embodiment in which four electrodes may be placed over abdominal muscles and four over back muscles. Gel electrodes are placed in over contacts 150 in accordance with the guidance markings 152 on the device. The guidance markings can be utilized according to size of the user and, optionally, for alternative placement to stimulate additional muscle regions. With respect to Figs. 9a and 9b, attachment portions 102, 103 utilize a hook and loop closure materials in strips 108, 110 (such as VELCRO®). Attachment portion 103 may comprise a hinged portion 112 that is rotatably coupled to stationary portion 114. hi some embodiments, Velcro® strip 110 can be located on hinged portion 112, such that attachment portion 102 can be fastened to attachment portion 103 by positioning attachment portion 103 proximate attachment portion 102 and rotating hinged portion 112 onto attachment portion 102 so that strips 108, 110 come into contact with one another.

With respect to Figs. 10a and 10b, attachment portion 102 can comprise a snap-type buckle having clasp 116 which adapted to engage with corresponding structure 118 on attachment portion 103. hi some embodiments, clasp 116 can include one to five prongs or more, all of which are deformable to at least some degree that are adapted to engage with corresponding structure 118. Corresponding structure 118 can comprise a body portion defining a recess adapted to receive the prongs of clasp 116. Referring to Fig. 11, a hinged closure is shown with two tabs utilized for alignment of the attachment portions prior to moving a hinged flap over the junction of the attachment portions and securing them in place over the back of the user.

Referring to Fig. 12, attachment portion 102 can include clasp 130 that is adapted to engage with corresponding clasp 132 on attachment portion 103. In these embodiments, clasps 130, 132 can be semi-cylindrical elements that can interlock to fasten attachment portion 102 to attachment portion 103.

The electronic controls can be programmed to provide for simultaneous stimulation of abdominal and back muscles or for alternating stimulation of abdominal and back muscles. The electronic controls may provide for stimulus to any number of regions. In one embodiment, eight electrodes are utilized with four present on the interior side of the abdominal portion and two on each of the attachment portions placed over the back. This arrangement can provide for stimulation of a total of four areas, two in the abdomen of the user and two in the back. The electronic controls may provide for separate control of each of the electrodes. Alternately, the electronic controls may provide for two channels for four outputs to the eight electrodes.

The electronic controls may have various mechanisms to allow for programming of the controls or to allow the user to interface with the electronic controls. User interactions with the controls may allow for turning the device on and off, controlling the duration of a stimulation session, adjusting the intensity of pulses, adjusting the pulse width, adjusting the frequency of pulsing, adjusting the delay between pulses, setting a pattern of stimulation (e.g. simultaneous front and back stimulation or alternating front and back stimulation), viewing the time elapsed during a session, and the like. The electronic controls may also control the ramping up and ramping down of many of these features. In many of these alternatives, individual sets of electrodes can be controlled independently. This feature could allow for different stimulation patterns for back and for abdominal muscles, depending on the needs or desires of the user.

The electronic controls may be attached to the device in a manner that allows the user to rotate the face of the controller into view while the user is wearing the device. In this embodiment, the electronic controls would appear to be disposed upside down relative to the device. However, on rotation of the electronic controls, the user will read the display in the correct orientation. The electronic controls may be detachable from the device. The electronic controls may also be interoperable with other types of devices similar to the present invention. The connection between the electronic controls and the device may be a single multi-prong type connection or multiple electrical conduits connected to each electrode may be individually connectable to the device. Alternately, the electronic controls may be embedded into the device. Various sensors and other circuits may be included with the electronic controls as well. For example, thermal measurement sensors may be included to monitor skin temperatures and for measurement of work. Other types of sensors include a heart rate (pulse) monitor, blood flow sensor, perspiration monitor, and blood O₂ sensor. To facilitate use of the device in conjunction with athletic endeavors, the electronic controls may also incorporate a pedometer and, optionally, a GPS sensor.

The electronic controls themselves may be integrated into the device with the various interface mechanism accessible on the exterior side of the device or the top or bottom edges. The electronic controls may also be encased in a separate housing during assembly of the controls. They may be installed in permanent fashion onto the exterior side of the device. The housing may be rigidly affixed to the exterior side of the device. In this configuration, the user can program and otherwise interact with the device prior to putting it on. The electronic controls may also be hingedly attached to the device. This construction allows the user to view a display on the housing and to perform any number of interactions with the device, even while the device is in operation. Alternatively, the housing may be designed to fit into and removeably engage a portion of the device.

The electrodes may be made of materials and utilize construction suitable for EMS or TENS applications as known to one of skill in the art. hi one embodiment, the device utilizes gel electrode pads that may be positioned on the interior of the device to engage a contact that is wired to the electronic controls. Contacts may be virtually any conductive material such as metal or conductive plastic and may be riveted or clamped or otherwise secured in position. The gel electrodes may be double phase. Adhesive on one side of the gel electrode may be a relatively stronger adhesive to ensure continued secure positioning of the electrode relative to the contact on the device. Adhesive on the opposite side of the gel electrode may by relatively weaker allowing for the gel electrode to remain in place over the desired portion of the user's body, yet avoiding pain to the user upon removal of the electrode. On the interior side of the device, guide markings may be set in place during manufacture to assist a user in correct placement of the electrodes over the contacts in accordance with the size of the user and optionally the program to be utilized with the device. For example, large and tall users may desire or need to have electrodes farther apart to obtain maximum benefit from a session. In another embodiment, guide markings may assist users of the device in arranging the electrodes to provide for stimulation of more than one set of muscles or muscle groups. As can be seen from the Figures, various designs may be used for the abdominal portion of the device. In addition, various colors may be used in the design. For example, belts may be designed with one color or color scheme for users with a certain body size and another color or color scheme for users with a different body size (e.g. larger or smaller). In addition, devices according to the invention and having various designs and colors may be employed in a program for promoting increasing levels of fitness. For example, various designs and/or colors may be employed in a set of devices such that a first design/color may be utilized by a user beginning a program of training and as the user makes improvements and progresses through the training regimen, the user may graduate to a device having a design/color scheme that indicates a more difficult level in the training regimen.

Although the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers of ordinary skill will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A device for stimulation of muscles of a user, comprising: a belt portion capable of being affixed around the abdomen of the user; at least two electrodes on the belt portion capable of being placed in the region of and directing electrical stimulus to at least one abdominal muscle of the user; at least two electrodes on the belt portion capable of being placed in the region of and directing electrical stimulus to at least one back muscle of the user; and a controller capable of directing electrical stimulation to the at least one abdominal muscle and to the at least one back muscle.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least two abdominal muscles of the user and capable of directing electrical stimulus to the at least two abdominal muscles.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the device comprises electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least two back muscles of the user and capable of directing electrical stimulus to the at least two back muscles.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the abdominal muscles are selected from the group consisting of the rectus abdominus and the obliques.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein at least one of the back muscles is an erector spinae muscle.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the device further comprises a closure mechanism.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the closure mechanism is adapted to close over the back of the user in the region of the spinal column.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the closure mechanism comprises a hinge.

9. The device of claim 7, wherein the closure mechanism comprises hook and loop fastener materials.

10. The device of claim 7, wherein the belt portion further comprises an abdominal portion, the abdominal portion defining an opening for placement over the user's umbilicus, wherein placement of the opening in the abdominal portion of the device over the umbilicus effects proper placement of the electrodes relative to the at least two abdominal muscles.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the placement of the opening in the abdominal portion of the device over the umbilicus allows the user to achieve proper placement of the electrodes relative to the at least two back muscles.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the controller is capable of directing electrical stimulation to the abdominal muscle and the back muscle simultaneously.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the controller is capable of directing electrical stimulation to the abdominal muscles and the back muscles in an alternating pattern of stimulation.

14. A device for stimulation of muscles of a user, comprising: a belt portion capable of being affixed around the abdomen of the user; an abdominal portion having at least two electrodes capable of being placed in the region of and capable of directing electrical stimulus to at least one abdominal muscle of the user; and a controller capable of directing electrical stimulation to the at least one abdominal muscle; wherein the abdominal portion defines an opening and wherein placement of the opening over the umbilicus effects proper placement of the electrodes relative to the at least one abdominal muscle.

15. The device of claim 14, further comprising at least two electrodes on the belt portion capable of being placed in the region of and directing electrical stimulus to at least one back muscle of the user.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the device comprises electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least two abdominal muscles and capable of directing electrical stimulus to the at least two abdominal muscles.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the device comprises electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least two back muscles of the user and capable of directing electrical stimulus to the at least two back muscles.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the abdominal muscles are selected from the group consisting of the rectus abdominus and the obliques.

19. The device of claim 18, wherein at least one of the back muscles is an erector spinae muscle.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein the device further comprises a closure mechanism.

21. The device of claim 20, wherein the closure mechanism is adapted to close over the back of the user in the region of the spinal column of the user.

22. The device of claim 21, wherein the closure mechanism comprises a hinge.

23. The device of claim 21, wherein the closure mechanism comprises hook and loop fastener materials.

24. The device of claim 23, wherein the controller is capable of directing electrical stimulation to the abdominal muscle and the back muscle simultaneously.

25. The device of claim 24, wherein the controller is capable of directing electrical stimulation to the abdominal muscles and the back muscles in an alternating pattern of stimulation.

26. A method for attaching a device for stimulation of core muscles in a user, comprising the steps of: providing a device for stimulation of abdominal muscles comprising a belt portion capable of being affixed around the abdomen of the user, an abdominal portion having at least two electrodes capable of being placed in the region of at least one abdominal muscle of the user, at least two electrodes on the belt portion capable of being placed in the region of at least one back muscle of the user, a controller capable of directing electrical stimulation to the at least one abdominal muscle and to the at least one back muscle, wherein the abdominal portion defines an opening, and a closure mechanism; placing the device over the abdomen of the user with the opening aligned over the umbilicus of the user; closing the closure mechanism over the user's back in the region of the spinal column.