Challenges associated with nerve conduction block using kilohertz electrical stimulation

J Neural Eng. 2018 Jun;15(3):031002. doi: 10.1088/1741-2552/aaadc0. Epub 2018 Feb 8.

Abstract

Neuromodulation therapies, which electrically stimulate parts of the nervous system, have traditionally attempted to activate neurons or axons to restore function or alleviate disease symptoms. In stark contrast to this approach is inhibiting neural activity to relieve disease symptoms and/or restore homeostasis. One potential approach is kilohertz electrical stimulation (KES) of peripheral nerves-which enables a rapid, reversible, and localized block of conduction. This review highlights the existing scientific and clinical utility of KES and discusses the technical and physiological challenges that must be addressed for successful translation of KES nerve conduction block therapies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials / physiology
  • Animals
  • Electric Stimulation / instrumentation
  • Electric Stimulation / methods
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy / instrumentation
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Nerve Block / instrumentation
  • Nerve Block / methods*
  • Neural Conduction / physiology*
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Pain / physiopathology
  • Pain Management / instrumentation
  • Pain Management / methods
  • Spinal Cord Injuries / physiopathology
  • Spinal Cord Injuries / therapy