Ink-based textile electrodes for wearable functional electrical stimulation: A proof-of-concept study to evaluate...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Wearable Sensors

Background:

• Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) aids recovery in neuromuscular diseases using hydrogel electrodes.
• Hydrogel electrodes have limitations including decreased adherence and potential skin irritation.
• Textile electrodes offer improved durability and wearability for FES applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate novel ink-based printed textile electrodes for FES.
• To compare the performance and comfort of textile electrodes against traditional hydrogel electrodes.

Main Methods:

• Evaluated skin-electrode impedance for both electrode types.
• Delivered FES to the Rectus Femoris in 14 healthy subjects for isometric and dynamic contractions.
• Assessed sensory, motor, maximum, and pain thresholds, FES-induced range of motion, torque, and comfort.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences were found in stimulation performance between textile and hydrogel electrodes.
• Perceived comfort levels were also comparable between the two electrode types.

Conclusions:

• Ink-based printed textile electrodes are a promising alternative to hydrogel electrodes for FES.
• Further research is required to assess the durability, sterilizability, and stretching response of textile electrodes.