Importance

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Abstract

An elongated rectangular cuff having fasteners and electrodes with an attached control unit for providing a predetermined electrical signal to the electrodes. The predetermined electrical signal is substantially a square wave with a duration of between 0.1 and 0.3 milliseconds, a frequency of between 0.1 and 0.5 Hertz, with 5 to 15 repetitions delivered every 5 to 15 minute intervals. The control unit provides a controllable intensity of between 1 to 20 milliamperes. The cuff or sleeve, when wrapped around a user's leg and positioned below the knee such that the electrodes contact the calf muscles, causes a muscle and nerve stimulation resulting in contraction of the calf muscle. Blood flow is therefore increased regardless of body position or a movement greatly decreasing the possibility of developing deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, which may be fatal. In addition it reduces ankle edema and leg discomfort associated with prolonged sitting. A predetermined applied signal is safe with little risk of harm to the user. Additionally, preferably the control unit has a single external control for controlling intensity preventing a user from applying an inappropriate signal. A simple to use, compact device and method is disclosed that can safely be used by individuals having no prior knowledge of anatomy, effectively during extended periods of sitting or immobility, such as when traveling.

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First Claim