| abstract |
A multi-functional, modular PEMF biophysical stimulation field generator device and healing system using small coils and a PEMF technique to create a high magnetic flux penetration into hard and soft tissues for treatment of a variety of conditions, including fractures and osteoporosis, to achieve an anticipated shorter healing and rehabilitation time. The orthogonally-arranged coils are sequentially-activated to develop a rotating cylindrical energy field focussed on a target area so as to stimulate bone growth. An activation signal having a combined waveform is used to activate the coils, comprising a high frequency carrier wave, which is amplitude-modulated, by a low frequency treatment wave for optimal penetration of biological tissue. In a preferred embodiment, a pre-form wrap is provided as a cast, brace or splint, containing small magnetizing coils, with the wrap being placed circumferentially around the body part containing the treatment site. By virtue of its modular design, the wrap may contain a portable power source, and it may be opened and the coils removed so that they may be placed over, in or under any orthopedic brace, cast, splint or garment. The coils are arranged to insure maximum focussing of the energy to the treatment site. Minimization of the undesired effects of electromagnetic fields on living tissue is achieved by using the small magnetizing coils, thereby preventing electromagnetic field dispersion to adjacent tissues, by a carrier frequency which improves the electromagnetic field concentration at the treatment site, and by the phasic stimulation which improves the electromagnetic beam concentration in the center, further eliminating electromagnetic field dispersion. The PEMF stimulation also develops an electrical field causing tetanic microcontractions in muscle tissue, thereby offsetting muscle atrophy, a common side effect of immobilization, creating gentle exercise loading, inducing bone growth stimulation. The integrated healing system comprising the inventive device, its placement and activation signal, is engineered to provide optimum therapy by combining the beneficial physiological effects resulting from combined device and treatment modalities to optimize and achieve more efficient results through a combined approach. |