Importance

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Abstract

An elongated rectangular cuff having electrodes combined with a motion detector for detecting muscle contraction 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 0.20 to 4 milliamperes, and a voltage between 1 and 200 volts at an output resistance of substantially 50 kilo Ohms. 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. A motion detector monitors the contraction and provides feedback to the control unit to adjust the signal. Blood flow is therefore increased regardless of body position or 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. In addition it prevents orthostatic hypotension. An applied signal is continuously adjusted resulting in little risk of harm to the user.

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First Claim