The Society to Increase Mobility

DBA: Neurotech Network

P.O. Box 27386

Tampa, FL  33623
Text Box: The market for surface stimulation products and systems, which includes TENS devices targeted at pain control and neuromuscular stimulators designed for rehabilitation and exercise therapy, has generally been regarded as an ugly stepsister of the neurostimulation field. Although applications of electrical energy to the skin predates implanted or percutaneous stimulation by many decades, many researchers manufacturers, and clinicians have come to regard TENS and other surface stimulation treatments with a bit of skepticism. New pain control TENS units offer potential to change both perception and the performance of surface stimulation. This new generation of adhesive-applied TENS and neuromuscular stimulation products do not present any great breakthrough in neurostimulation technology or clinical science. But what they do accomplish is challenging the notion that TENS and neuromuscular stimulation users are home-based, elderly, sedentary or clinician-dependent. The new customer base is more active, independent, and economically self-sufficient. While it is too early to say how successful they will be in the goals to produce very-compact electronic units sold over the counter, the effort is a laudable one. Even if the new devices prove no more efficacious than current TENS systems, today’s retail pain-control market—which includes everything from Tylenol to herbal supplements to topical creams to unique exercise devices—could hardly be worse off for the added diversity. And who knows what other market stimulation effects may lie beneath the surface? Commentary provided by James Cavuoto, Editor & Publisher, Neurotech Business Report Text Box: Scratching the Surface

Website: www.NeurotechNetwork.org

E-mail: info@NeurotechNetwork.org
Text Box: New Database Resource Text Box: Neurotech Network in collaboration with Neurotech Reports has launched an online database of neurotechnology devices and companies. The database, which is available in the Educate section of the organization’s website, www.NeurotechNetwork.org, will include over 150 vendors of devices and services in the neurotechnology industry. The information in the Neurotech Online Database will prove useful to clinicians and consumer populations within the neurological diseases and disorders community. Both groups have the ability to access current information regarding clinical status, reimbursement options and product details. This new resource offers a dynamic capability to search for available products that address a particular condition, such as chronic pain, stroke, hearing disorders, and paraplegia to name a few. Other search features include neurotech category and company name. The database was compiled by the editors of Neurotech Reports in conjunction with Neurotech Network. An Advisory Committee consisting of members of the disability community, clinicians and researchers provided guidance in the design of this new resource. The information will be maintained and monitored by members of both organizations. This new resource is provided in an effort for Neurotech Network to continue its commitment toward increased awareness and education of neurotechnology devices. Try it out and see how you can best use this resource.