Functional magnetic stimulation: theory and coil optimization

Excitable tissue can be stimulated non-invasively by means of externally ap plied changing magnetic fields. This paper considers theoretically magnetic stimulation to functionally stimulate the tissue. We optimize the stimulat ing coil to accomplish functional magnetic stimulation (FMS) with the minim um cost expressed in terms of driving energy needed to provoke excitation. Magnetic stimulation is less discomfortable than functional electrical stim ulation (FES) and therefore, the use of FMS opens up completely new views t o the restoration of movement and therapy in patients with neuromuscular sy stem impairment. Advances in coil design can make FMS a promising applicati on field for magnetic stimulation. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All right s reserved.