Feedback system with stimulation of sensory nerves for improved balance control

Abstract

A feedback device for measuring pressure related information, and for providing that information in a way that is useful to the wearer of the device. At least one sensor detects pressure information and transmits at least one pressure information signal to a signal processing subsystem. The signal processing subsystem converts the received pressure information signal into at least one stimulation control signal. The signal processing subsystem then transmits the stimulation control signal to at least one stimulator, which provides stimulation to a wearer of the device reflecting the stimulation control signal received from the signal processing subsystem.

1 . (canceled) 
     
     
         2 . A system for improving balance control, the system comprising:
 a. at least one sensor associated with a prosthetic lower leg of the user, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to generate user balance information signals and transmit the user balance information signals, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to sense an angle between the prosthetic lower leg and an upper leg of the user;   b. a signal processing subsystem, the subsystem configured to receive the user balance information signals and generate balance control signals comprising temporal and spatial information reflecting the angle between the prosthetic lower leg and an upper leg of the user; and   c. at least one stimulator configured to be responsive to the balance control signals to provide stimulation based on the balance control signals, thereby providing feedback to the user.