Description:.

ELECTRIC STIMULATOR FOR REHABILITATING UPPER LIMB MUSCLES IN STROKE PATIENTS

Field of the Invention

Generally, the present disclosure relates to medical devices. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to an electric stimulator for rehabilitating upper limb muscles in stroke patients.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
In the context of stroke rehabilitation, hand dysfunction stands out as a critical impediment that profoundly impacts the capacity of patients to engage in daily activities and partake in societal roles. Stroke-induced paralysis precipitates significant muscle weakness, depriving individuals of the ability to perform autonomous physical movements, which are fundamental to personal independence. Conventional therapeutic modalities strive to fortify muscle strength; within this therapeutic spectrum, electrical stimulation has been identified as a viable approach. This method applies electrical currents to enervated muscles, with the goal of enhancing muscle endurance and functional capability.
Electrical stimulation therapy has garnered attention in the domain of stroke rehabilitation for its potential to ameliorate muscle strength, augment the scope of joint mobility, and catalyze neural plasticity. The mechanism underlying this intervention involves the activation of motor neurons, which is postulated to facilitate the recovery of neuromuscular function. Despite its therapeutic promise, the current landscape of available devices reveals a significant shortfall. Existing stimulators are predominantly designed to activate a single muscle group sequentially rather than in the concerted manner that mimics natural muscle coordination required for fluid, integrated movements. This limitation poses a barrier to achieving the synchronous muscle activation patterns that underpin functional limb movements.
Furthermore, the tethering of such devices to mains electricity constrains their usability, particularly in dynamic, real-life settings that are pivotal for task-oriented rehabilitation strategies. This constraint precludes the use of stimulators during the performance of daily tasks, an aspect critical for the restoration of functional hand movements and overall limb utility.
Literature review accentuates a definitive demand for an advanced, multipurpose electrical stimulation device that is capable of targeting multiple muscle groups simultaneously and is operable in a battery-powered mode. This innovation would allow patients to integrate the therapeutic benefits of electrical stimulation into a broader array of activities, crucially those that are task-specific, thereby promoting recovery in a contextually relevant and functional manner. Envisioned as a user-friendly, adjustable, and safe apparatus, this device would represent a significant stride forward in customizing rehabilitation to the individual needs and rehabilitation stages of each stroke patient. By bridging the identified gaps, such a device is poised to make a substantial contribution to the development of more efficacious, inclusive, and patient-centric rehabilitation interventions for individuals affected by upper limb dysfunctions post-stroke.

Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
The disclosure pertains to an electric stimulator is provided for rehabilitating upper limb muscles in stroke patients. The electric stimulator comprises a housing that is both portable and lightweight. The plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes attached to the housing. These electrodes are designed to be operatively positioned on a user's skin, specifically targeting common extensors of the wrist, extensor indicis, and extensor pollicis muscles. An electronic control unit is also housed within the same housing. This unit is programmable and controls the electrical stimulation provided by the carbon rubber reusable electrodes. The electrical stimulation is customizable, enabling it to match the rehabilitation needs of the stroke patient. A power source contained within the housing and electrically connected to both the electronic control unit and the electrodes provides the necessary electrical energy for the stimulation.
In another embodiment, the housing of the electric stimulator includes an on and off switch located on its outer surface. This switch allows for the initiation or cessation of electrical stimulation to the upper limb muscles. The on and off switch features a toggle mechanism. This mechanism provides tactile feedback to the user when changing states between the on and off positions, enhancing user interaction and control over the device.
Further, in an embodiment, the electronic control unit of the electric stimulator includes a timer function. This function is operatively connected to a contraction and relaxation time control knob. The timer function enables the adjustment of time intervals for muscular contraction and relaxation phases during the rehabilitation session. This feature allows for a more tailored rehabilitation experience, catering to the specific needs of the stroke patient.
Moreover, in an embodiment, the contraction and relaxation time control knob is calibrated. It provides time interval selections ranging from a minimum of one second to a maximum of ten seconds for both contraction and relaxation phases. This calibration offers precise control over the rehabilitation process, allowing for adjustments based on the progress and tolerance of the patient.
In an embodiment, the electric stimulator further comprises an intensity control system. This system consists of multiple knobs, each dedicated to adjusting the intensity of the electrical stimulation for a corresponding one of the plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes. This feature allows for a highly customizable rehabilitation process, enabling adjustments to the intensity of stimulation as required by the patient's condition.
In another embodiment, the intensity control knobs of the electric stimulator are labeled with incrementally increasing numerical indicators. These indicators correspond to the increasing intensity levels of electrical stimulation deliverable to the muscles. This labeling system facilitates easy adjustments and understanding of the stimulation levels being applied.
Furthermore, in an embodiment, the intensity control system enables a user to individually customize the level of electrical stimulation for each electrode. This customization allows for personalized muscle rehabilitation protocols, tailoring the treatment to the patient's specific needs and progress.
In an embodiment, the electric stimulator is constructed from a composite material. This material combines strength and light weight, thereby enhancing the portability and durability of the apparatus. The choice of material ensures that the electric stimulator can be easily transported and used in various settings, while also being robust enough to withstand regular use.
In another embodiment, the power source of the electric stimulator is comprised of a battery unit. This battery unit is capable of being charged via a standard electrical outlet. The inclusion of a rechargeable battery provides a means for electrical energy storage and reuse for the electrical stimulation, making the electric stimulator more convenient and sustainable for continuous use in rehabilitation settings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates an electric stimulator (100) for rehabilitating upper limb muscles in stroke patients, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates an electric stimulator prototype configured in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, demonstrating a user interface that facilitates the control and customization of muscle stimulation for rehabilitative purposes.

Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
FIG. 1 illustrates an electric stimulator (100) for rehabilitating upper limb muscles in stroke patients, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The term "electric stimulator" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a device designed for the rehabilitation of upper limb muscles in stroke patients. Said device encompasses several components integral to its operation, including a housing, a plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes, an electronic control unit, and a power source. The electric stimulator (100) finds application in medical rehabilitation, particularly aiding in the recovery of muscle functionality in the upper limbs post-stroke. The significance of such a device lies in its ability to provide targeted electrical stimulation, enhancing muscle recovery and contributing to the overall rehabilitation process.
The term "housing" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a portable and lightweight container that encases the internal components of the electric stimulator (100). The housing (102) is designed to facilitate easy handling and transportation of the electric stimulator, ensuring that the device can be used in various settings, including clinical environments and at the patient's home. The design considerations of the housing include ergonomics and durability, ensuring that the device can withstand regular use while being comfortable for the user to handle.
The plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104) are linked with housing through wires or appropriate connectors. These electrodes are designed to be operatively positioned on a user's skin, targeting common extensors of the wrist, extensor indicis, and extensor pollicis muscles. The carbon rubber reusable electrodes enable the delivery of electrical stimulation to specific muscle groups, facilitating the rehabilitation process. The choice of carbon rubber as a material for the electrodes is driven by its conducive properties and durability, ensuring efficient transmission of electrical stimuli and the ability to withstand repeated use.
An electronic control unit (106) is also housed within the housing (102). Said electronic control unit is programmable and controls the electrical stimulation provided by the plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104). The programmability of the electronic control unit (106) allows for the customization of electrical stimulation parameters to match the rehabilitation needs of the stroke patient. This feature is crucial in adapting the therapy to individual patient requirements, enhancing the efficacy of the rehabilitation process.
The electric stimulator (100) also comprises a power source (108) contained within the housing (102). Said power source is electrically connected to the electronic control unit (106) and the plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104), which are connected with the housing through wires. The power source (108) provides the electrical energy required for the electrical stimulation, ensuring that the device can operate independently of external power supplies. The inclusion of a power source within the device enhances its portability and convenience, enabling its use in a variety of settings without the need for continuous access to a power outlet.
Optionally, the housing may incorporate features such as waterproofing and shock resistance to further enhance the durability and versatility of the electric stimulator. Additionally, the electronic control unit could offer wireless connectivity, enabling remote programming and monitoring of the rehabilitation process by medical professionals.
As a working example, a stroke patient undergoing rehabilitation therapy could use the electric stimulator to apply targeted electrical stimulation to the extensor muscles of the wrist and fingers. The patient or a therapist sets the stimulation parameters through the electronic control unit based on the rehabilitation plan. During the session, the electric stimulator delivers controlled electrical pulses to the targeted muscles, aiding in muscle re-education and strengthening, thereby contributing to the recovery of motor functions in the upper limb.
In an embodiment, the housing (102) of the electric stimulator (100) is equipped with an on and off switch, located on an outer surface of said housing (102), for initiating or ceasing electrical stimulation to upper limb muscles. The inclusion of said switch on the outer surface allows for easy accessibility, ensuring that the user can readily start or stop the stimulation process as needed. Such placement of the on and off switch is designed with user convenience in mind, facilitating the operation of the electric stimulator (100) without the need for extensive manipulation of the device. The accessibility of the switch enhances the usability of the electric stimulator (100), making it suitable for use by individuals with varying degrees of motor function in their hands.
In another embodiment, the on and off switch of the electric stimulator (100) incorporates a toggle mechanism that provides tactile feedback to the user upon changing states between on and off positions. The tactile feedback offered by the toggle mechanism serves as an important feature for users, particularly for those with limited visual capabilities, as it confirms the activation or deactivation of the device without the need to visually inspect the switch position. The provision of tactile feedback contributes to the overall safety and user-friendliness of the electric stimulator (100), ensuring that the device's operational status is clearly communicated to the user.
In a further embodiment, the electronic control unit (106) of the electric stimulator (100) includes a timer function connected to a contraction and relaxation time control knob. This timer function permits the adjustment of time intervals for muscular contraction and relaxation phases during a rehabilitation session. The availability of a timer function linked to a control knob allows users to set specific durations for muscle stimulation and rest, tailoring the rehabilitation process to the individual needs of the stroke patient. The implementation of such a feature in the electronic control unit (106) enables precise control over the therapy session, facilitating targeted muscle recovery.
In another embodiment, the contraction and relaxation time control knob of the electric stimulator (100) is calibrated to offer time interval selections ranging from a minimum of one second to a maximum of ten seconds for both contraction and relaxation phases. This calibration provides users with the flexibility to select time intervals that best suit the rehabilitation objectives and the patient's comfort level. The ability to adjust time intervals for contraction and relaxation phases enhances the customization of the therapy, allowing for adjustments based on the progress and response of the patient to the electrical stimulation.
In an embodiment, the electric stimulator (100) comprises an intensity control system with multiple knobs, each dedicated to adjusting the intensity of electrical stimulation for a corresponding one of the plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104). Such an intensity control system facilitates the precise adjustment of electrical stimulation intensity, enabling the delivery of customized therapy to different muscle groups. The design of the intensity control system, featuring dedicated knobs for each electrode, allows for the fine-tuning of stimulation levels, ensuring that each targeted muscle receives the optimal intensity for rehabilitation purposes.
In another embodiment, the intensity control knobs of the electric stimulator (100) are labeled with incrementally increasing numerical indicators, which correspond to the increasing intensity levels of electrical stimulation deliverable to the muscles. The use of numerical indicators on the intensity control knobs aids users in accurately setting the desired stimulation intensity, providing a clear and intuitive means for adjusting the electrical stimulation levels. The labeling of knobs with numerical indicators simplifies the selection process, enhancing the user experience by making the adjustment of intensity levels straightforward and precise.
In a further embodiment, the intensity control system of the electric stimulator (100) enables a user to individually customize the level of electrical stimulation for each electrode (104), allowing for personalized muscle rehabilitation protocols. The capability to customize stimulation levels for each electrode offers a significant advantage in tailoring therapy to the specific needs of stroke patients, accommodating variations in muscle strength and responsiveness. Such customization ensures that each targeted muscle group receives appropriate stimulation, optimizing the rehabilitation process and improving outcomes for patients.
In an embodiment, the electric stimulator (100) is constructed from a composite material that combines strength with lightweight properties, thereby enhancing the portability and durability of the apparatus. The selection of composite materials for the construction of the electric stimulator (100) addresses the need for a device that is both easy to transport and resilient to wear and tear. The use of such materials contributes to the longevity of the electric stimulator (100), ensuring that it remains a reliable tool for rehabilitation over extended periods.
In another embodiment, the power source (108) of the electric stimulator (100) consists of a battery unit capable of being charged via a standard electrical outlet, providing a means for electrical energy storage and reuse for electrical stimulation. The inclusion of a rechargeable battery unit within the electric stimulator (100) facilitates continuous use of the device, eliminating the need for constant replacement of batteries. The ability to recharge the battery unit through a standard electrical outlet enhances the convenience and cost-effectiveness of operating the electric stimulator (100), ensuring that it is readily available for use in a variety of settings, including home and clinical environments.
FIG. 2 illustrates an electric stimulator prototype configured in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, demonstrating a user interface that facilitates the control and customization of muscle stimulation for rehabilitative purposes. The depicted prototype features an on and off switch prominently positioned on the upper left corner, allowing users to readily initiate or discontinue the electrical stimulation with ease. Adjacent to said switch, a contraction and relaxation time control is discernible, which provides the user with the capability to set preferred durations for the electrical impulses and the intervening rest periods, thus modulating the therapeutic session's intensity rhythm. Below these controls, the intensity control knobs are arrayed, each corresponding to one of the plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes, enabling precise adjustment of the electrical current's strength. Such controls allow for the individualization of the rehabilitation protocol, accommodating the unique needs of different muscle groups and user preferences. The integration of these interface elements into the design of the electric stimulator ensures that the device can be used efficiently and effectively, contributing to its practicality in therapeutic settings.
Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory and variants thereof, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration.
Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

I/We claim:

An electric stimulator (100) for rehabilitating upper limb muscles in stroke patients, said electric stimulator (100) comprising:
a housing (102) that is portable and lightweight;
a plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104) are attached with said housing (102), wherein said carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104) are configured to be operatively positioned on a user's skin to target muscles;
an electronic control unit (106) housed within said housing (102), said electronic control unit (106) being programmable to control electrical stimulation provided by said plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104), wherein said electrical stimulation is customizable to match the rehabilitation needs of the stroke patient; and
a power source (108) contained within said housing (102) and electrically connected to said electronic control unit (106) and said plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104), wherein said power source (108) provides electrical energy required for the electrical stimulation.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, wherein said housing (102) includes an on and off switch accessible on an outer surface of said housing (102) to initiate or cease electrical stimulation to said upper limb muscles.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 2, wherein said on and off switch comprises a toggle mechanism which provides tactile feedback to the user upon changing states between on and off positions.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, wherein said electronic control unit (106) further includes a timer function operatively connected to a contraction and relaxation time control knob, said timer function allowing for the adjustment of time intervals for muscular contraction and relaxation phases during the rehabilitation session.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 4, wherein said contraction and relaxation time control knob is calibrated to provide time interval selections ranging from a minimum of one second to a maximum of ten seconds for both contraction and relaxation phases.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, further comprising an intensity control system consisting of multiple knobs, each of said knobs dedicated to adjusting the intensity of the electrical stimulation for a corresponding one of said plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104).
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 6, wherein said intensity control knobs are labeled with incrementally increasing numerical indicators which correspond to the increasing intensity levels of electrical stimulation deliverable to the muscles.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 6, wherein said intensity control system enables a user to individually customize the level of electrical stimulation for each electrode (104), thereby allowing for personalized muscle rehabilitation protocols.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, wherein said apparatus is constructed from a composite material that combines strength and light weight, thereby enhancing the portability and durability of said apparatus.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, wherein said power source (108) is comprised of a battery unit that is capable of being charged via a standard electrical outlet, thereby providing a means for electrical energy storage and reuse for said electrical stimulation.

ELECTRIC STIMULATOR FOR REHABILITATING UPPER LIMB MUSCLES IN STROKE PATIENTS

Disclosed is an electric stimulator (100) for rehabilitating upper limb muscles in stroke patients, comprising: a housing (102) that is portable and lightweight; a plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104) are attached/linked with said housing (102), wherein said carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104) are configured to be operatively positioned on a user's skin to target common extensors of the wrist, extensor indicis, and extensor pollicis muscles; an electronic control unit (106) housed within said housing (102), said electronic control unit (106) being programmable to control electrical stimulation provided by said plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104), wherein said electrical stimulation is customizable to match the rehabilitation needs of the stroke patient; and a power source (108) contained within said housing (102) and electrically connected to said electronic control unit (106) and said plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104), wherein said power source (108) provides electrical energy required for the electrical stimulation.
Fig. 1

Drawings

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FIG. 1
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FIG. 2
, Claims:I/We claim:

An electric stimulator (100) for rehabilitating upper limb muscles in stroke patients, said electric stimulator (100) comprising:
a housing (102) that is portable and lightweight;
a plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104) are attached with said housing (102), wherein said carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104) are configured to be operatively positioned on a user's skin to target muscles;
an electronic control unit (106) housed within said housing (102), said electronic control unit (106) being programmable to control electrical stimulation provided by said plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104), wherein said electrical stimulation is customizable to match the rehabilitation needs of the stroke patient; and
a power source (108) contained within said housing (102) and electrically connected to said electronic control unit (106) and said plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104), wherein said power source (108) provides electrical energy required for the electrical stimulation.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, wherein said housing (102) includes an on and off switch accessible on an outer surface of said housing (102) to initiate or cease electrical stimulation to said upper limb muscles.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 2, wherein said on and off switch comprises a toggle mechanism which provides tactile feedback to the user upon changing states between on and off positions.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, wherein said electronic control unit (106) further includes a timer function operatively connected to a contraction and relaxation time control knob, said timer function allowing for the adjustment of time intervals for muscular contraction and relaxation phases during the rehabilitation session.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 4, wherein said contraction and relaxation time control knob is calibrated to provide time interval selections ranging from a minimum of one second to a maximum of ten seconds for both contraction and relaxation phases.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, further comprising an intensity control system consisting of multiple knobs, each of said knobs dedicated to adjusting the intensity of the electrical stimulation for a corresponding one of said plurality of carbon rubber reusable electrodes (104).
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 6, wherein said intensity control knobs are labeled with incrementally increasing numerical indicators which correspond to the increasing intensity levels of electrical stimulation deliverable to the muscles.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 6, wherein said intensity control system enables a user to individually customize the level of electrical stimulation for each electrode (104), thereby allowing for personalized muscle rehabilitation protocols.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, wherein said apparatus is constructed from a composite material that combines strength and light weight, thereby enhancing the portability and durability of said apparatus.
The electric stimulator (100) of claim 1, wherein said power source (108) is comprised of a battery unit that is capable of being charged via a standard electrical outlet, thereby providing a means for electrical energy storage and reuse for said electrical stimulation.

ELECTRIC STIMULATOR FOR REHABILITATING UPPER LIMB MUSCLES IN STROKE PATIENTS