System and method for neuro-stimulation
A neuro-stimulation system employs a includes a stimulator which may include electrode devices and/or vibration elements. A controller may be employed to drive the stimulating elements with an electrical signal. In response to the electrical signal, the stimulating elements deliver electrical and/or mechanical stimulation to the body part. The stimulation may be an aperiodic stimulation and/or may be a subthreshold stimulation. In one embodiment, the stimulator is disposable and the processor determines usage of the stimulator and ensures that the stimulator is limited to a certain amount of use. Neuro-stimulation systems may be applied to sensory cells of body parts during movement of the body parts to induce neuroplastic changes. Such movement may involve a variety of therapeutic applications, e.g. in stroke patient therapy.
1. A method, comprising:
generating at least one bias signal using a system for providing sub-threshold stimulation, the system comprising an application body with a stimulating element generating the at least one bias signal;
inputting the at least one bias signal to at least one sensory cell area of a chest region of a subject while the subject is undergoing lung function, such that the sub-threshold stimulation is transferred to intercostal muscles of the subject; and
inducing a neuroplastic response in the nervous system of the subject by inputting the at least one bias signal for at least a period of time whereby the subject's lung function is improved by increasing an expansion or a contraction of lungs of the subject during the subject's lung function.
2. The method according to claim 1 wherein the at least one bias signal is continuously applied to the chest region of the subject.
3. The method according to claim 1 wherein the at least one bias signal is non-continuously applied to the chest region of the subject.
4. The method according to claim 1 wherein the at least one bias signal is a modulated bias signal applied to the chest region of the subject.
5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one bias signal is a modulated bias signal that is continuously applied to the chest region of the subject.
6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one bias signal is a modulated bias signal that is non-continuously applied to the chest region of the subject.