JP7022954B2 - Combined treatment device - Google Patents
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本発明は、超音波治療器および低周波治療器に係り、特に、低出力超音波パルス（Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound、以下LIPUS）を用いた超音波治療と、微弱電流治療器を一体化・小型化するとともに、両方の治療効果が同時に得られる複合治療器に係る。 The present invention relates to an ultrasonic treatment device and a low frequency treatment device, and in particular, integrates and miniaturizes an ultrasonic treatment using a low output ultrasonic pulse (Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound, hereinafter LIPUS) and a weak current treatment device. At the same time, the present invention relates to a combined therapeutic device that can obtain both therapeutic effects at the same time.
低出力超音波パルスを用いた治療は、骨折した患部に低出力の超音波を照射し、骨融合を促進する治療法である。超音波の生体内作用特性については、機械的刺激作用と温熱作用があり、骨折治療には前者の機械的刺激作用が骨融合を促進していると考えられている。この他、神経機能の正常化、炎症の収束、組織修復、石灰沈着、軟部組織進展性促進、経皮的薬剤吸収促進（フォノフォレシス）についても効果があるとされている。一方、電気刺激治療は生体に低周波電気信号を供給することで治療効果を得るものであり、鎮痛や運動機能改善、創傷治療に効果があるとされている。電気刺激には経皮的電気刺激、干渉電流療法、高電圧刺激法など各種存在するがその中でも微弱電流（マイクロカレント）刺激法は１ｍＡ以下の微小電流を生体に流すことで損傷電流が流れたことと同様の効果から、細胞の修復促進を図り、例えば筋肉や関節のダメージ又は創傷の治癒に用いられる。 Treatment using a low-power ultrasonic pulse is a treatment method in which a fractured affected area is irradiated with low-power ultrasonic waves to promote bone fusion. Regarding the in vivo action characteristics of ultrasonic waves, there are mechanical stimulating action and thermal action, and it is considered that the former mechanical stimulating action promotes bone fusion in fracture treatment. In addition, it is said to be effective in normalizing nerve function, converging inflammation, tissue repair, calcification, promoting soft tissue progression, and promoting percutaneous drug absorption (phonophoresis). On the other hand, electrical stimulation treatment obtains a therapeutic effect by supplying a low-frequency electrical signal to a living body, and is said to be effective in analgesia, improvement of motor function, and wound treatment. There are various types of electrical stimulation such as percutaneous electrical stimulation, interference current therapy, and high voltage stimulation method. Among them, the weak current (microcurrent) stimulation method causes a damage current to flow by passing a minute current of 1 mA or less to the living body. Since it has the same effect, it promotes cell repair and is used, for example, for damage to muscles and joints or healing of wounds.
上記の超音波による骨折治療器については公知技術であり、市販化されている。このような公知技術に基づく超音波治療器としては、特許文献１に開示されるものがある。電気刺激治療器についても同様に経皮的電気刺激や干渉電流、高電圧刺激、微弱電流（マイクロカレント）といった公知の電気刺激法に沿った電気刺激信号を供給する、各種動作モードを搭載した、或いは専用機タイプの低周波治療器が市販化されている。また、両者の機能を併せもったコンビネーション治療器も実現されている。機能構成としては、超音波治療器と低周波治療器の各々の機能を並列に有し、プローブについては、例えば、上記市販されているコンビネーション治療器の場合、電気刺激を人体に与える導子、超音波を照射するプローブを各々別々に有し、超音波プローブの表面外郭が電気刺激を与える導子の一方の電極を兼ねる共有構成となっているものがある。 The above-mentioned ultrasonic fracture treatment device is a known technique and is commercially available. As an ultrasonic therapy device based on such a known technique, there is one disclosed in Patent Document 1. Similarly, the electrical stimulation therapy device is equipped with various operation modes that supply electrical stimulation signals according to known electrical stimulation methods such as percutaneous electrical stimulation, interference current, high voltage stimulation, and weak current (microcurrent). Alternatively, a dedicated machine type low frequency treatment device is commercially available. In addition, a combination treatment device that combines both functions has also been realized. As a functional configuration, each function of an ultrasonic therapy device and a low frequency therapy device is provided in parallel, and the probe is, for example, in the case of the above-mentioned commercially available combination therapy device, a guide that gives electrical stimulation to the human body. Some have a separate probe for irradiating ultrasonic waves, and the outer surface of the ultrasonic probe has a shared configuration in which it also serves as one electrode of a conductor that gives electrical stimulation.
上記コンビネーション治療器の場合、電気刺激導子は、人体表面に貼り付けるタイプの一定の広い面積を必要とする形状で、超音波プローブとは別体に構成される。従って、顔表面や口腔内といった貼り付けるための表面面積が狭い、或いは表面が粘膜で覆われた組織には適用することはできない。 In the case of the combination treatment device, the electrical stimulation guide has a shape that requires a certain large area to be attached to the surface of the human body, and is configured separately from the ultrasonic probe. Therefore, it cannot be applied to tissues having a narrow surface area for sticking, such as the surface of the face or the oral cavity, or the surface of which is covered with mucous membranes.
例えば、公知技術である特許文献２のように、超音波照射機能と電気刺激機能と両方の機能をひとつのプローブで実現し、これを一対で使用することで、両プローブからの超音波および低周波電気信号を一つのプローブから同時に顔表面などに与えることは可能となる。しかしながら、特許文献２の場合、プローブの構造は、超音波を照射する部分と低周波電気信号を流す電極が別々の接点を有する、物理的には分離した構造となっている。 For example, as in Patent Document 2, which is a known technique, both the ultrasonic irradiation function and the electrical stimulation function are realized by one probe, and by using this as a pair, ultrasonic waves and low voltage from both probes are realized. It is possible to apply a frequency electric signal from one probe to the face surface at the same time. However, in the case of Patent Document 2, the structure of the probe is a physically separated structure in which the portion to be irradiated with ultrasonic waves and the electrode through which a low-frequency electric signal is transmitted have separate contacts.
この場合、構造が大きく複雑化する方向になり、人体に接触する面積が非常に大きくなり、狭い領域に適用するのは困難になる。また、超音波の効果を得るためのゲル等を皮膚表面に塗布する使用方法、或いは口腔部への適用を考慮すればプローブ先端には一定の防水性も必要とされる。すなわち電極部が新たに設けられると防水性を低下させ、これら目的に使用することは困難になる。 In this case, the structure becomes large and complicated, the area in contact with the human body becomes very large, and it becomes difficult to apply it to a narrow area. Further, considering the usage method of applying a gel or the like for obtaining the effect of ultrasonic waves to the skin surface or the application to the oral cavity, a certain degree of waterproofness is required at the probe tip. That is, if the electrode portion is newly provided, the waterproof property is lowered, and it becomes difficult to use it for these purposes.
本発明は、上記問題に鑑み、主にＬＩＰＵＳを用いた超音波治療器と主に微弱電流刺激治療器を組み合わせた治療器を提供するとともに、使用するプローブの小型化と顔表面などの頭部、もしくは口腔内を対象とする治療を可能とし、同時に防水性を向上させたプローブにより効果的な治療を可能とするプローブおよび回路構成を提供とすることを課題とする。 In view of the above problems, the present invention provides a treatment device that mainly combines an ultrasonic therapy device using LIPUS and a weak current stimulation therapy device, and also reduces the size of the probe to be used and the head such as the face surface. Alternatively, it is an object of the present invention to provide a probe and a circuit configuration that enable treatment targeting the oral cavity and at the same time enable effective treatment with a probe having improved waterproofness.
前記課題を解決するために、本発明に基づく治療器は、超音波を放射する圧電素子、前記圧電素子に接着する金属外郭、一対構成を成す前記圧電素子および前記金属外郭により構成されるプローブ、前記圧電素子を駆動するための超音波駆動回路、一対の前記プローブの前記金属外郭間に微弱電流を供給する微弱電流供給回路、前記プローブの金属外郭と超音波駆動回路間の電線間に配置されるコンデンサ、を含んで構成されるものであり、より具体的には超音波駆動回路および微弱電流供給回路と、超音波または微弱電流の少なくとも一方を患部に照射するプローブと、を備えた治療器であって、前記超音波駆動回路からの電気信号に、前記微弱電流供給回路からの微弱電流が重畳された信号により、前記プローブ内に配置された圧電素子が駆動されて超音波が発生するとともに前記プローブの外郭を介して微弱電流を出力することを特徴とする。
In order to solve the above problems, the treatment device based on the present invention includes a piezoelectric element that emits an electric current, a metal outer shell that adheres to the piezoelectric element, and a probe that is composed of the piezoelectric element and the metal outer shell that form a pair. An ultrasonic drive circuit for driving the piezoelectric element, a weak current supply circuit for supplying a weak current between the metal outer shells of the pair of probes, and an electric wire between the metal outer shell of the probe and the ultrasonic drive circuit. A treatment device including an ultrasonic drive circuit and a weak current supply circuit , and a probe for irradiating the affected area with at least one of ultrasonic waves or a weak current . The signal obtained by superimposing the weak current from the weak current supply circuit on the electric signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit drives the piezoelectric element arranged in the probe to generate ultrasonic waves. It is characterized by outputting a weak current through the outer shell of the probe.
また、本発明による治療器は、前記プローブの外郭に接続する信号線にコンデンサを設けて、前記超音波駆動回路からの前記信号が前記コンデンサを経由した後に前記微弱電流供給回路からの微弱電流が重畳されることを特徴とする。 Further, in the treatment device according to the present invention, a capacitor is provided in the signal line connected to the outer shell of the probe, and the weak current from the weak current supply circuit is generated after the signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit passes through the capacitor. It is characterized by being superimposed.
上記構成を有する本発明の治療器により、ＬＩＰＵＳとマイクロカレントによる複合治療器が実現できるとともに、使用するプローブでは、超音波治療器と微弱電流刺激治療器を一体化した構成で機器を小型化することで、可搬性が向上した。 The treatment device of the present invention having the above configuration can realize a combined treatment device using LIPUS and microcurrent, and the probe to be used can be miniaturized by integrating an ultrasonic therapy device and a weak current stimulation therapy device. As a result, portability has improved.
また、超音波と微弱電流を一体化したプローブから治療エネルギー照射可能であることから、比較的平板な部分の少ない部位、例えば顔面の口元や顎付近にも自由度をもった配置で適応することが可能になった。 In addition, since it is possible to irradiate therapeutic energy from a probe that integrates ultrasonic waves and a weak current, it should be adapted to areas with relatively few flat areas, such as the mouth and chin of the face, with a degree of freedom. Is now possible.
また、プローブのヘッド部分にある金属外郭と超音波照射と微弱電流の接点を共有化することでヘッド部分の防水性は保たれることから、粘膜表面例えば口腔内に対しても治療が可能となった。 In addition, since the waterproofness of the head part is maintained by sharing the contact point between the ultrasonic irradiation and the weak current with the metal outer shell on the head part of the probe, it is possible to treat the mucosal surface, for example, the oral cavity. became.
以下、本発明の実施の形態を添付図面に基づいて説明する。 Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
図１は、本発明の実施形態の超音波および微弱電流複合治療器の構成図である。治療器本体中には、プローブ内の圧電素子を駆動させるための電気信号を発生させる回路（以下、超音波駆動回路１）、微弱電流を供給するための回路（以下、微弱電流供給回路２）が各々存在している。両回路は互いに影響なく独立した構成でも良いし、両回路間で電気信号を取得する構成として、一方の出力タイミングに同期する、或いは一方の出力をトリガーとして他方が出力されるなど、一方の出力に基づいて他方が出力される、或いは相互に連携動作する構成であっても良い。その場合は、図示されない信号線が両回路間に設けられる。超音波および微弱電流を供給するプローブ３は本体に接続される。プローブ３は、２本で１対を成す構成である。プローブ３は、後述するプローブヘッド部８およびプローブヘッド間の電位を直流的に同電位にしないためのコンデンサ９から構成される。 FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an ultrasonic and weak current combined treatment device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the main body of the treatment device, a circuit for generating an electric signal for driving the piezoelectric element in the probe (hereinafter, ultrasonic drive circuit 1) and a circuit for supplying a weak current (hereinafter, weak current supply circuit 2) Are each present. Both circuits may be configured independently without affecting each other, or as a configuration for acquiring an electric signal between the two circuits, one output may be synchronized with one output timing, or one output may be used as a trigger to output the other. The other may be output based on the above, or may be configured to operate in cooperation with each other. In that case, a signal line (not shown) is provided between the two circuits. The probe 3 that supplies ultrasonic waves and a weak current is connected to the main body. The probe 3 is configured to form a pair with two probes. The probe 3 is composed of a probe head portion 8 to be described later and a capacitor 9 for preventing the potentials between the probe heads from being equal in direct current.
図２は本発明の実施形態の前記プローブ３のプローブヘッド部８の内部構成を示す図であり、超音波を出力する圧電素子４と、前記圧電素子４に接着する金属外郭５、前記圧電素子４を駆動するための前記超音波駆動回路１からの電気信号を流すための電線ａ６、ｂ７を含んで構成される。尚、前記電線ａ６は、前記微弱電流供給回路２からの微弱電流を、前記金属外郭５を介して人体に流すための役割も果たす。本実施形態では、圧電素子４と金属外郭５からなる超音波プローブのヘッド部分としての基本構造は骨折治療器に用いられる従来技術による超音波プローブのヘッド部分とほぼ同じ構造とすることができる。これにより追加機能が加わったにも関わらず、プローブ３の大きさを変更する必要がなく、さらにゲルや粘着パットの使用が不要で、顔などの面積の小さな部分にも使用できるだけでなく、口腔内など粘膜のある部位に対しても適応することが可能である。 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the probe head portion 8 of the probe 3 according to the embodiment of the present invention, and shows a piezoelectric element 4 that outputs ultrasonic waves, a metal outer shell 5 that adheres to the piezoelectric element 4, and the piezoelectric element. It is configured to include electric wires a6 and b7 for passing an electric signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 for driving the 4. The electric wire a6 also plays a role of allowing the weak current from the weak current supply circuit 2 to flow to the human body through the metal outer shell 5. In the present embodiment, the basic structure of the ultrasonic probe head portion including the piezoelectric element 4 and the metal outer shell 5 can be substantially the same as the head portion of the ultrasonic probe according to the prior art used in the fracture treatment device. Despite the addition of additional functions, there is no need to change the size of the probe 3, no gel or adhesive pad is required, and it can be used not only for small areas such as the face, but also for the oral cavity. It can also be applied to areas with mucous membranes such as the inside.
超音波駆動回路１は、圧電素子４に駆動用の交流電気信号を発生するための発振回路である。圧電素子に発生する超音波の周波数は、印加された信号の周波数によって決まり、超音波治療器の場合、特に人体に効果的に作用する数ＭＨｚから、それ以下の周波数が一般に用いられることから、その所定の周波数の超音波を圧電素子から発生させるための交流電気信号を圧電素子４に供給する。 The ultrasonic drive circuit 1 is an oscillation circuit for generating an AC electric signal for driving in the piezoelectric element 4. The frequency of the ultrasonic wave generated in the piezoelectric element is determined by the frequency of the applied signal, and in the case of an ultrasonic therapy device, a frequency of several MHz or less, which acts particularly effectively on the human body, is generally used. An AC electric signal for generating an ultrasonic wave having a predetermined frequency from the piezoelectric element is supplied to the piezoelectric element 4.
微弱電流供給回路２は、低周波電流刺激の一種で組織修復に関わる損傷電流と同等の微弱な電流を人体に流すことで、損傷した組織の回復を促進する微弱電流治療法のために、一般的には、周波数１００Ｈｚ以下、最大で１ｍＡを超えない程度の電流、例えば周波数５０Ｈｚ、出力５００μＡを流すための回路である。 The weak current supply circuit 2 is a kind of low-frequency current stimulation, and is generally used for a weak current treatment method that promotes the recovery of damaged tissue by passing a weak current equivalent to the damage current related to tissue repair to the human body. Specifically, it is a circuit for passing a current having a frequency of 100 Hz or less and not exceeding 1 mA at the maximum, for example, a frequency of 50 Hz and an output of 500 μA.
プローブ３を構成するプローブヘッド部８には、圧電素子４を駆動するための超音波駆動回路１からの電気信号と、微弱電流供給回路２からの人体組織に流す微弱電流が、重畳して供給される。ここでコンデンサ９は、各プローブが治療器本体のＧＮＤに回路上導通していてプローブ間が同電位になるような場合には、微弱電流がプローブ間を流れないため、治療器本体のＧＮＤからプローブを直流的に切り離すことで、プローブ間が同電位になることを防ぎ、微弱電流が人体を経由してプローブ間に流れるようにするために配置される。 An electric signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 for driving the piezoelectric element 4 and a weak current flowing from the weak current supply circuit 2 to the human body tissue are superimposed and supplied to the probe head portion 8 constituting the probe 3. Will be done. Here, in the capacitor 9, when each probe is conducting on the circuit to the GND of the main body of the treatment device and the potentials of the probes are the same, a weak current does not flow between the probes. By disconnecting the probes in a direct current manner, they are arranged to prevent the probes from having the same potential and to allow a weak current to flow between the probes via the human body.
圧電素子４は、一般的な圧電素子が電極にあたる金属板に挟まれた構造であり、例えば圧電素子としては圧電セラミック（PZT：チタン酸ジルコン酸鉛）が用いられる。 The piezoelectric element 4 has a structure in which a general piezoelectric element is sandwiched between metal plates corresponding to electrodes. For example, a piezoelectric ceramic (PZT: lead zirconate titanate) is used as the piezoelectric element.
金属外郭５は圧電素子４の支持部材を構成するものであり、超音波を確実且つ効率的に人体に供給するために使用するとともに、本発明では微弱電流を人体に流すための電極の役割を果たす。金属外郭５の材質としては、導電性があり、所定の超音波出力が得られ、耐水性や耐腐食性のある材質であれば、いずれも使用できる。アルミ鋼板、ステンレス鋼板、チタン鋼板の他、ニッケルメッキ、銀めっき等を施した鋼板、でも良い。 The metal outer shell 5 constitutes a support member for the piezoelectric element 4, and is used to reliably and efficiently supply ultrasonic waves to the human body. In the present invention, the metal outer shell 5 serves as an electrode for passing a weak current to the human body. Fulfill. As the material of the metal outer shell 5, any material can be used as long as it is conductive, can obtain a predetermined ultrasonic output, and has water resistance and corrosion resistance. In addition to aluminum steel sheets, stainless steel sheets, and titanium steel sheets, nickel-plated or silver-plated steel sheets may be used.
電線ａ６は、超音波駆動回路１からの電気信号と微弱電流供給回路２からの微弱電流をプローブヘッド部８からコンデンサ９の間で結線することで重畳された電気信号を金属外郭５に供給するための信号線である。電線ｂ７は、圧電素子４を挟み、金属外郭５の対極側を結線する信号線である。微弱電流は、低周波信号であること、および圧電素子４、コンデンサ９があることから人体を介してプローブヘッド間を流れ、超音波駆動回路１からの信号は圧電素子４を共振周波数（超音波治療器では1MHz前後の高周波）で駆動させる。すなわち、超音波駆動回路１と各プローブ３で高周波信号の閉回路を各々構成し、一方、微弱電流供給回路２、プローブ３、人体、プローブ３および微弱電流供給回路２で微弱電流信号の閉回路を構成している。 The electric wire a6 supplies the superimposed electric signal to the metal outer shell 5 by connecting the electric signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and the weak current from the weak current supply circuit 2 between the probe head portion 8 and the capacitor 9. It is a signal line for. The electric wire b7 is a signal line that sandwiches the piezoelectric element 4 and connects the counter electrode side of the metal outer shell 5. Since the weak current is a low frequency signal and has the piezoelectric element 4 and the capacitor 9, it flows between the probe heads through the human body, and the signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 resonates with the piezoelectric element 4 (ultrasonic). In the treatment device, it is driven by a high frequency of around 1MHz). That is, the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and each probe 3 each constitute a closed circuit for high-frequency signals, while the weak current supply circuit 2, the probe 3, the human body, the probe 3 and the weak current supply circuit 2 each form a closed circuit for weak current signals. Consists of.
尚、図１の実施例において、説明の便宜上、超音波駆動回路１からの電気信号と微弱電流供給回路２からの電流は、治療器本体から別々のコネクタ（図示されない）から出力されているが、実用面ではコネクタは一本化して良い。すなわち、図３のように治療器本体のコネクタ内に、超音波駆動回路１からの電気信号、微弱電流供給回路２からの電流が両方収容される構造とし、ケーブルを一本化することも問題ない。この場合、微弱電流供給回路２からの電流の接点を従来の超音波プローブの接点と干渉しない位置にすることで、従来の超音波プローブを接続して使用することも可能となる。 In the embodiment of FIG. 1, for convenience of explanation, the electric signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and the current from the weak current supply circuit 2 are output from the treatment device main body from separate connectors (not shown). In terms of practical use, the connector may be unified. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, it is also a problem to have a structure in which both the electric signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and the current from the weak current supply circuit 2 are accommodated in the connector of the treatment device main body, and the cable is unified. do not have. In this case, by arranging the contact of the current from the weak current supply circuit 2 at a position that does not interfere with the contact of the conventional ultrasonic probe, it is possible to connect and use the conventional ultrasonic probe.
図４は、別の実施例を示すものである。この構成においては、治療器本体内部にコンデンサ９、超音波駆動回路１からの電気信号と微弱電流供給回路からの電流の結合点まで含む構成となっている。本構成の場合、プローブは、プローブヘッド部８のみを含む構造となる。図３ではコネクタの変更が必要であるが、図４では治療器本体からのコネクタは信号線が一本化されているため、従来の超音波プローブのコネクタを変更することなく使用することが可能である。また、上記の図１、図２、図３においてコンデンサ９は電線ａ６のみに配置されているが、これに限定されず、電線ｂ７にも配置される構成でも良い。 FIG. 4 shows another embodiment. In this configuration, the capacitor 9 and the coupling point of the electric signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and the current from the weak current supply circuit are included inside the main body of the treatment device. In the case of this configuration, the probe has a structure including only the probe head portion 8. In FIG. 3, it is necessary to change the connector, but in FIG. 4, since the connector from the treatment device main body has a single signal line, it can be used without changing the connector of the conventional ultrasonic probe. Is. Further, in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 above, the capacitor 9 is arranged only on the electric wire a6, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the capacitor 9 may be arranged on the electric wire b7 as well.
次に、上記のように構成された、本発明の実施形態の治療器の使用例について説明する。 Next, an example of using the treatment device according to the embodiment of the present invention configured as described above will be described.
本発明のプローブの基本構造は従来の超音波プローブと同一のため、基本的には治療を予定した患部の上にゲルを塗布し、プローブを接触させる同等の使用法となる。このとき、本発明では同時に患部に微弱電流を流すことで、損傷電流に擬した電流による組織の修復・回復を早める効果が同時に得られる。従来の超音波プローブヘッドと同等の構造のため、例えば比較的水分の多い口腔内部にもその治療予定箇所にプローブの先端を当てて治療を施すことが可能となる。 Since the basic structure of the probe of the present invention is the same as that of the conventional ultrasonic probe, the gel is basically applied on the affected area to be treated, and the probe is brought into contact with the same usage. At this time, in the present invention, by simultaneously passing a weak current through the affected area, the effect of accelerating the repair / recovery of the tissue by the current imitating the damage current can be obtained at the same time. Since it has the same structure as the conventional ultrasonic probe head, it is possible to treat the inside of the oral cavity, which has a relatively large amount of water, by applying the tip of the probe to the planned treatment site.
プローブは互いに同等の２チャンネル構成であることから、患部に対し、適切に配置することで微弱電流を流したい箇所の位置精度を向上させ、治療効果の向上が見込める。 Since the probes have a two-channel configuration equivalent to each other, by appropriately arranging them with respect to the affected area, the position accuracy of the part where a weak current is desired to flow can be improved, and the therapeutic effect can be expected to be improved.
本発明の治療器を作動させて、２本のプローブの間に微弱電流を流し、同時にＬＩＰＵＳを照射して治療する。微弱電流は、例えば、低周波（数100Hz程度）の＋／－双方向矩形電流パルスで実効電流１ｍＡ以下であり、例えば、周波数５０Ｈｚ、出力５００μＡである。ＬＩＰＵＳは、周波数１．５ＭＨｚ程度、１平方センチメートルあたり出力６０ｍＷ程度である。本例では、２本構成であるが、プローブのペア数を増やし複数同時治療を行っても良い。 The treatment device of the present invention is operated, a weak current is passed between the two probes, and LIPUS is irradiated at the same time for treatment. The weak current is, for example, a low frequency (about several 100 Hz) +/- bidirectional rectangular current pulse with an effective current of 1 mA or less, and for example, a frequency of 50 Hz and an output of 500 μA. LIPUS has a frequency of about 1.5 MHz and an output of about 60 mW per square centimeter. In this example, the configuration is two, but the number of probe pairs may be increased to perform multiple simultaneous treatments.
また、プローブに出力ボタンを設けて、ＬＩＰＵＳ、微弱電流の出力をコントロールしても良い。出力ボタンは、プローブを介して治療器本体内部の超音波駆動回路１、微弱電流供給回路２と接続し、例えばボタンを押している間のみ出力するといった治療法にバリエーションを持たせることも可能となる。この実施形態の場合は、超音波駆動回路１と微弱電流供給回路２の間に信号線を設けて、例えば、超音波駆動回路１からの出力がＯＮの時は、微弱電流供給回路２の出力もＯＮにするように連動機能を持たせても良い。或いは超音波出力と微弱電流の出力を交互に行うといった出力パターンでも良い。 Further, the probe may be provided with an output button to control the output of LIPUS and weak current. The output button is connected to the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and the weak current supply circuit 2 inside the treatment device body via a probe, and it is possible to give variation to the treatment method such as outputting only while the button is pressed. .. In the case of this embodiment, a signal line is provided between the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and the weak current supply circuit 2. For example, when the output from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 is ON, the output of the weak current supply circuit 2 is provided. You may have an interlocking function so that it is also turned on. Alternatively, an output pattern may be used in which ultrasonic output and weak current output are alternately performed.
本発明の治療器によると、超音波による治療と微弱電流による治療が同時に行えることとなる。従来では、まず超音波による治療を行い、続けて微弱電流による治療を行う、或いは微弱電流による治療の後に超音波による治療を行うので、治療時間は超音波による治療時間と微弱電流による治療時間の合計時間となり、非常に長い治療時間が必要となっていた。ところが本発明の治療器によれば両方の治療を同時に行うので、その分、治療時間を短くして治療効率を向上させることができる。さらに、超音波による治療を一定時間（例えば、30分）施し、続けて微弱電流による治療を行うなど、超音波と微弱電流の治療を別々に行う場合に比較して、本発明の治療器を使用して同時に超音波と微弱電流による治療を行う場合は、それぞれの治療による効果がはるかに高くなり、この点でもより治療効果が向上される。 According to the treatment device of the present invention, treatment with ultrasonic waves and treatment with a weak electric current can be performed at the same time. Conventionally, the treatment with ultrasonic waves is first performed, and then the treatment with weak currents is performed, or the treatment with weak currents is followed by the treatment with ultrasonic waves. Therefore, the treatment time is the treatment time with ultrasonic waves and the treatment time with weak currents. It was a total time, and a very long treatment time was required. However, according to the treatment device of the present invention, both treatments are performed at the same time, so that the treatment time can be shortened and the treatment efficiency can be improved accordingly. Further, the treatment device of the present invention is compared with the case where the treatment with ultrasonic waves and the weak current is separately performed, such as the treatment with ultrasonic waves for a certain period of time (for example, 30 minutes) and then the treatment with a weak current. When the treatment is performed by ultrasonic waves and weak current at the same time, the effect of each treatment is much higher, and the therapeutic effect is further improved in this respect as well.
また、超音波による治療では、その治療部位の深度に応じて使用周波数を使い分けることが行われており、３ＭＨｚでは皮下約１ｃｍ、１ＭＨｚでは皮下約３ｃｍまで達するとされている。この性質に合わせて、照射超音波の周波数を選択したところで、微弱電流についてもより治療効果が得られる大きさに電流値および周波数を自動的に調整して、同時に出力する制御も可能である。この微弱電流の電流値、周波数についてはあらかじめ設定されていても良いし、患者個々人の状態に合わせて微調整ができる設定があっても良い。このような制御により、治療対象の患部位置に応じた適切な治療効果が得られる。 Further, in the treatment by ultrasonic waves, the frequency used is properly used according to the depth of the treatment site, and it is said that the frequency reaches about 1 cm subcutaneously at 3 MHz and about 3 cm subcutaneously at 1 MHz. When the frequency of the irradiated ultrasonic wave is selected according to this property, it is possible to automatically adjust the current value and frequency to a magnitude that can obtain a more therapeutic effect even for a weak current, and control the output at the same time. The current value and frequency of this weak current may be set in advance, or may be set so as to be finely adjusted according to the individual patient's condition. With such control, an appropriate therapeutic effect can be obtained according to the position of the affected area to be treated.
上記実施例において、超音波と微弱電流は同時に出力されているが、本発明はこれに限定されない。微弱電流のパルス幅を例えば２ｍｓｅｃとすると、バルスが出力されている当該２ｍｓｅｃにおいて超音波は出力されないが、当該２ｍｓｅｃ以外のパルスが出力されていない時間においては、超音波が出力されるような制御も望ましい。超音波と微弱電流を同時に出力しないように、換言すれば超音波駆動回路１と微弱電流供給回路２を同時に駆動させることなく、択一的に或いは時間差で駆動させることによって制御するので、使用する電力のピーク値を抑えることができ、使用する電源の出力容量を小さくすることができるので、電源の小型化やコストダウンが可能となる。 In the above embodiment, the ultrasonic wave and the weak current are output at the same time, but the present invention is not limited to this. If the pulse width of the weak current is, for example, 2 msec, the ultrasonic wave is not output in the 2 msec where the bals is output, but the ultrasonic wave is output in the time when the pulse other than the 2 msec is not output. Is also desirable. It is used because it is controlled so that the ultrasonic wave and the weak current are not output at the same time, in other words, the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and the weak current supply circuit 2 are not driven at the same time but are driven alternately or with a time lag. Since the peak value of the electric power can be suppressed and the output capacity of the power supply used can be reduced, the power supply can be miniaturized and the cost can be reduced.
微弱電流を使用する治療では比較的長時間にわたって治療が継続されるので、治療器を携帯して持ち運ぶ場合が多く、この場合は、電源としてバッテリーが使用される。携帯して持ち運ぶ時の使用者の負担を軽くするために治療器自体を軽量・小型化する必要がある。その為には、使用するバッテリーも小型化が重要となる。そこで本発明では、このように、超音波と微弱電流を同時に出力しないように時間差で出力するように制御するので、バッテリーには大きな出力が求められることはなく、バッテリーの小型化や軽量化が可能なだけでなくバッテリーのコストダウンも可能となる。 In the treatment using a weak current, the treatment is continued for a relatively long time, so that the treatment device is often carried around, and in this case, the battery is used as a power source. It is necessary to reduce the weight and size of the treatment device itself in order to reduce the burden on the user when carrying it. For that purpose, it is important to reduce the size of the battery used. Therefore, in the present invention, since the ultrasonic waves and the weak current are controlled to be output with a time difference so as not to be output at the same time, the battery is not required to have a large output, and the battery can be made smaller and lighter. Not only is it possible, but the cost of the battery can also be reduced.
上記の制御、即ち微弱電流が出力されていないオフの状態で出力される超音波の出力時間を制御することによって、超音波による治療と微弱電流による治療のバランスを制御することができる。或いは、微弱電流のパルス幅を制御することによっても同様に超音波と微弱電流による治療のバランスを制御することができる。さらに、微弱電流による治療を例えば１時間程度の比較的長い時間で行う場合は、超音波駆動回路１のみを途中で、例えば２０分経過後に停止するなどの制御も可能である。 By controlling the above-mentioned control, that is, the output time of the ultrasonic wave output in the off state where the weak current is not output, the balance between the treatment by the ultrasonic wave and the treatment by the weak current can be controlled. Alternatively, by controlling the pulse width of the weak current, the balance of the treatment by the ultrasonic wave and the weak current can be similarly controlled. Further, when the treatment with a weak current is performed for a relatively long time of, for example, about 1 hour, it is possible to control only the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 in the middle, for example, to stop after 20 minutes have passed.
さらに、超音波と微弱電流を同時に出力しない制御においては、超音波駆動回路１を駆動している場合は、微弱電流供給回路２を、微弱電流供給回路２を駆動している場合は、超音波駆動回路１を電気的にそれぞれ切り離すような構成でも良い。例えば超音波駆動回路１を駆動している場合は微弱電流供給回路２に接続されていて、電線ａ６に接続されている電線を微弱電流供給回路２から電気的に切り離すスイッチ回路（不図示）を設けて超音波駆動用の信号が微弱電流供給回路２に影響しないように制御することも望ましい。このような構成では、微弱電流供給回路２に対する超音波駆動用信号の影響が全く発生せず、より微弱電流供給回路２の動作をより安定したものとすることができる。同様に、微弱電流供給回路２を駆動している場合は、超音波駆動回路１に接続されていて、電線ａ６や電線ｂ７に接続されている電線を超音波駆動回路１から電気的に切り離すスイッチ回路（不図示）を設けて、超音波駆動用の信号が微弱電流供給回路２に影響しないように制御することも望ましく、超音波駆動回路１の動作をより安定したものとすることができる。さらに、これらのスイッチ回路を超音波駆動回路１と微弱電流供給回路２の両方に設けることは、両方の回路をより安定したものとすることができるので、より望ましい。 Further, in the control in which the ultrasonic wave and the weak current are not output at the same time, the weak current supply circuit 2 is driven when the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 is driven, and the ultrasonic wave is driven when the weak current supply circuit 2 is driven. The drive circuit 1 may be electrically separated from each other. For example, when driving the ultrasonic drive circuit 1, a switch circuit (not shown) that is connected to the weak current supply circuit 2 and electrically disconnects the electric wire connected to the electric wire a6 from the weak current supply circuit 2 is provided. It is also desirable to provide and control so that the signal for driving the ultrasonic wave does not affect the weak current supply circuit 2. In such a configuration, the influence of the ultrasonic wave driving signal on the weak current supply circuit 2 does not occur at all, and the operation of the weak current supply circuit 2 can be made more stable. Similarly, when the weak current supply circuit 2 is being driven, a switch that is connected to the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and electrically disconnects the electric wire connected to the electric wire a6 and the electric wire b7 from the ultrasonic drive circuit 1. It is also desirable to provide a circuit (not shown) to control the signal for driving the ultrasonic wave so as not to affect the weak current supply circuit 2, and the operation of the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 can be made more stable. Further, it is more desirable to provide these switch circuits in both the ultrasonic drive circuit 1 and the weak current supply circuit 2 because both circuits can be made more stable.
本発明では、治療器とプローブの構成として、治療器１台に対して１対構成を成すプローブを有するとしているが、１対構成を複数備えていても良い。すなわち、プローブの数を２ｎ（ｎ＝１以上）とし各々超音波照射を行うプローブの１対構成間で微弱電流を流す組み合わせをｎ個とする構成であっても良い。このような複数プローブ対構成とすることで複数個所の同時治療が可能になり、治療時間の短縮化、患者の負担低減が実現される。 In the present invention, the treatment device and the probe are configured to have a probe having a pair configuration for one treatment device, but a plurality of pair configurations may be provided. That is, the number of probes may be 2n (n = 1 or more), and the number of combinations in which a weak current is passed between a pair of probes to be irradiated with ultrasonic waves may be n. By adopting such a plurality of probe pair configuration, simultaneous treatment at a plurality of places becomes possible, the treatment time is shortened, and the burden on the patient is reduced.
尚、図示の実施形態はあくまで本発明を例示するものであり、本発明は、説明した実施形態により直接的に示されるものに加え、特許請求の範囲内で当業者によりなされる各種の改良・変更を包含するものであることは言うまでもない。 In addition, the illustrated embodiment is merely an example of the present invention, and the present invention includes various improvements and improvements made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the claims, in addition to those directly shown by the described embodiments. It goes without saying that it involves changes.
１…超音波駆動回路１
２…微弱電流供給回路２
３…プローブ
４…圧電素子
５…金属外郭
６…金属外郭に接続される電線ａ
７…圧電素子に接続される電線ｂ
８…プローブヘッド部
９…コンデンサ
1 ... Ultrasonic drive circuit 1
2 ... Weak current supply circuit 2
3 ... Probe 4 ... Piezoelectric element 5 ... Metal outer shell 6 ... Electric wire a connected to the metal outer shell
7 ... Electric wire b connected to the piezoelectric element
8 ... Probe head 9 ... Capacitor
Claims (1)
超音波または微弱電流の少なくとも一方を患部に照射するプローブであって、前記超音波駆動回路が出力した電気信号によって前記超音波を発生させる圧電素子と前記圧電素子が接着された金属外郭を有するプローブの一対と、前記金属外郭と前記超音波駆動回路間の信号線に配置されるコンデンサ、を備えた治療器であって、
前記超音波駆動回路からの前記電気信号が前記コンデンサを経由した後に、前記微弱電流供給回路からの微弱電流が重畳された信号により、前記プローブ内に配置された圧電素子が駆動されて超音波が発生するとともに前記プローブの前記金属外郭を電極として前記微弱電流を前記一対のプローブ間に流すことを特徴とする治療器。 A main body with an ultrasonic drive circuit and a weak current supply circuit,
A probe that irradiates the affected area with at least one of ultrasonic waves or a weak current, and has a piezoelectric element that generates the ultrasonic waves by an electric signal output by the ultrasonic drive circuit and a probe having a metal outer shell to which the piezoelectric element is adhered. A treatment device including a pair of the metal and a capacitor arranged in the signal line between the metal outer shell and the ultrasonic drive circuit .
After the electric signal from the ultrasonic drive circuit passes through the capacitor, the piezoelectric element arranged in the probe is driven by the signal on which the weak current from the weak current supply circuit is superimposed to drive the ultrasonic wave. A treatment device characterized in that a weak current is passed between the pair of probes by using the metal outer shell of the probe as an electrode .
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
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| JP3041064U (en) | 1997-03-03 | 1997-09-05 | ヤーマン株式会社 | Ultrasonic beauty treatment equipment |
| JP2005253501A (en) | 2004-03-09 | 2005-09-22 | Tec Beauty:Kk | Complex treatment apparatus |
| JP2006141493A (en) | 2004-11-17 | 2006-06-08 | Yoshiaki Tsuyuki | Ion introduction appliance |
| US20090112283A1 (en) | 2007-10-30 | 2009-04-30 | Kriksunov Leo B | Microcurrent device with a sensory cue |
| KR101139808B1 (en) | 2012-02-16 | 2012-04-30 | 주식회사 에이티시스템 | Combined head of physical cure apparatus for using ultrasonic waves and low frequency |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP3041064U (en) | 1997-03-03 | 1997-09-05 | ヤーマン株式会社 | Ultrasonic beauty treatment equipment |
| JP2005253501A (en) | 2004-03-09 | 2005-09-22 | Tec Beauty:Kk | Complex treatment apparatus |
| JP2006141493A (en) | 2004-11-17 | 2006-06-08 | Yoshiaki Tsuyuki | Ion introduction appliance |
| US20090112283A1 (en) | 2007-10-30 | 2009-04-30 | Kriksunov Leo B | Microcurrent device with a sensory cue |
| KR101139808B1 (en) | 2012-02-16 | 2012-04-30 | 주식회사 에이티시스템 | Combined head of physical cure apparatus for using ultrasonic waves and low frequency |
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| JP2019042214A (en) | 2019-03-22 |
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