Printed dry electrode for neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) for e-textile.

Muscle atrophy is a well-known consequence of immobilization and critical illness, leading to prolonged rehabilitation and increased mortality. In this study, we develop a solution to preserve muscle mass using customized biocompatible neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) device. Commercially available NMES solutions with gel-based electrodes often lead to skin irritation. We demonstrate the printing of conducting electrodes on a compressive stocking textile that can be used for more than seven days without observing any inflammation. This solution consists of a dry and biocompatible electrode directly integrated into the textile with good mechanical compatibility with skin (Young's modulus of 0.39 MPa). The surface roughness of the underlying substrate plays a significant role in obtaining good print quality. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) analysis showed that the printed electrode showed better performance than the commercial ones based on a matched interfacial performance and improved series resistance. Furthermore, we investigated our NMES solution in a hospital setting to evaluate its effectiveness on muscle atrophy, with promising results.

[Electrical stimulation against loss of muscles and function in a patient admitted with COVID-19].

This is a case report of a hospitalised 62-year-old male patient with COVID-19, who received unilateral neuromuscular electrical stimulation treatment with a customised anti-embolic compression stocking and maintained muscle mass as well as maximum voluntary quadriceps contraction and balance during six days of illness-induced immobilisation. This illustrates, that short durations of neuromuscular electrical stimulation can help maintaining muscle mass and physical function in patients with SARS-CoV-2.