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Leg exerciser for training of paralysed muscle by closed-loop control

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Abstract

An exercise device which can be used to stimulate either paralysed or nonparalysed muscles is described. The device uses sequential activation of muscles to elicit either isometric or isotonic contractions. Feedback sensors provide the relative position of the joints of the leg to a computer-controlled two-channel sequential stimulatior which regulates the activity of the muscles. The computer can be programmed to preprogram workouts so that the muscle can move throught patterns of activity requiring either isometric exeroise, isokinetic exercise or isotonic exercise. In all cases the computer controls the entire exercise program and automatically terminates when the muscle is fatigued. THis device could be used for any type of physical therapy involving active stimulation of muscle.

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Petrofsky, J.S., Heaton, H.H. & Phillips, C.A. Leg exerciser for training of paralysed muscle by closed-loop control. Med. Biol. Eng. Comput. 22, 298–303 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02442096

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02442096

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