GB2566343A - Pulsed electromagnetic field device and method of treatment - Google Patents

Abstract

A method comprising: providing a mobile telecommunications device having a processor, a transmitter and an antenna; the processor determining a first algorithm S203 for controlling a time dependent property of a first electrical signal to be generated by the transmitter, that is based upon physiological data obtained from a subject 201; and generating the first electrical signal to drive the antenna in emitting a first pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) S205. The first physiological data may comprise monitoring the subject using a sensor, or entering information via a user-interface of the mobile device. The first physiological data may represent a sleep cycle or brain activity. The first PEMF may comprise 1 to 120 second bursts separated by rest periods of 1 to 120 seconds. Further physiological data may be continuously obtained from the subject while the first electrical signal is generated, where the step of generating the first electrical signal is continued until a difference between the value of a parameter of the further physiological data and a target value is less than or equal to a reference value S207. Described in relation to converting a personal radio device, such as a smart phone, into a pulsed radio wave therapy device.

Description

PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD DEVICE AND METHOD OF TREATMENT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to US continuation in part under 35 U.S.C.

111(a) (application number 15/702,600) filed on 12 September 2017, which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

FIELD [0002] This disclosure relates to a method of treating a subject using pulsed electromagnetic fields, and a method of configuring or reconfiguring a mobile telecommunications device to emit pulsed electromagnetic fields that have been personalised.

BACKGROUND [0003] Pulsed electromagnetic fields “PEMF” therapy is established in the treatment of a wide spectrum of maladies, disease and conditions. Some devices that deliver PEMF operate in the radio frequency range and these have been proven to benefit a range of conditions.

[0004] Every living cell exports positive ions such as sodium and potassium to create an excess of positive charge on the outside of a cell. Therefore, a potential difference across the cell membrane (transmembrane PD) exists. Typically, this potential difference is about 40mV to say 90 mV, depending on cell type. Like all charged surfaces cell membranes will respond to a modulating EM field by small movements. This enlivens surface receptors and signalling systems that stimulate a cell to function more actively. The signalling systems in the membrane are provoked into stimulating cell activity by the movement. In the case of fibroblasts, for example, the function of this activity is the production of collagen. It is important however that the membrane is allowed to return to its resting position and therefore the EM fields are pulsed. Pulsed Radio Wave Therapy devices are currently available as stand-alone dedicated devices which have a range of settings to provide the optimum pulse radio frequency signal, and come at range of high costs, generally from $350 to $6,000. These devices commonly use electrode-like coils that are used in contact with the body to deliver the PEMF.

[0005] Such devices commonly utilise dedicated remote controls or include the software and controls, screens etc. on board the device, increasing cost and reducing flexibility and the potential to upgrade programmes. Such devices are sold at a high price as after a sale, manufacturers are limited to an income stream supplying low-cost, generalisable electrodes, gels, test strips, etc. This raises the barrier to purchase and provides a lumpy income stream for manufacturers.

[0006] Different people and different animals have cells and organs that function differently to other members of their species. For example, the cells and organs of one person may function differently to the corresponding cells and organs of the next person. There is, therefore, a natural variation of biological or physiological behaviour (e.g. in the function of cells and organs) across a species. This variation leads to a natural distribution which can be characterised by an average (or standard) for the species. This average or standard, when used to design treatments for an individual, does not account for natural variations from the average. This is currently the case for pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) treatments. The treatments delivered are therefore sub-optimal. The present disclosure is directed to providing a mobile telecommunications device, computer software for controlling a mobile telecommunications device and/or method for delivering an improved PEMF treatment regime.

SUMMARY [0007] This Summary is provided to introduce a brief selection of disclosed concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description including the drawings provided. This Summary is not intended to limit the claimed subject matter's scope.

[0008] Aspects of disclosed embodiments are defined in the appended claims. The

Inventors have identified that a smartphone or tablet, for example, with mobile telecommunications capability may be utilised, or its function reconfigured, generally by software alone or by some added hardware, to deliver PEMF, both contact or non-contact, at therapeutic levels. The use of a smartphone, for example, for therapy is believed to be counterintuitive because the use of mobile phones is generally considered to be harmful, e.g., linked to local oedema, haematoma and even brain cancer. This is due to the continuous wave nature of a radio frequency signal for telecommunications. In contrast, the present disclosure relates to the use of pulsed radio waves for patient therapy.

[0009] This disclosure provides:

a method of treating a subject with PEMF including measurement of key parameters of a subject, a comparison of the measurements with the corresponding average parameter values for the average or standard person, and adjustment of the protocol/algorithm(s) so that it (they) works better for the subject than a standard protocol/algorithm(s).

a mobile telecommunications device configured to deliver an improved PEMF treatment to a subject;

an app or computer software for controlling a mobile telecommunications device to deliver an improved PEMF treatment to a subject.

[0010] The inventors have recognised that a mobile device, such as a portable mobile communications device or cellular device or tablet, may be configured or reconfigured to provide functionality which is otherwise only provided by dedicated devices. In particular, the inventors have recognised that telecommunications antenna of mobile telecommunications devices may be driven for use in a method of treatment of the human body or animal, rather than just for telecommunications.

[0011] Disclosed embodiments include a method of treating an individual including providing a mobile telecommunications device including a processor, a transceiver coupled to the processor including a transmitter for generating pulsed electrical signals adapted to be coupled to an antenna, at least one memory device accessible by the processor. The mobile telecommunications device is positioned proximate to the subject. Pulsed electrical signals are generated to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, and the antenna in response to the pulsed electrical signals emits a PEMF that reaches the subject to provide treatment.

[0012] As previously mentioned, there is a problem with existing PEMF devices and methods in that differences between individuals are not accounted for, leading to sub-optimal PEMF treatment regimes.

[0013] There is therefore provided a method including use of physiological data from an individual to determine the emission pattern of a PEMF so that the pattern is personalised to the physiological needs of the individual. The PEMF emission pattern may have a parameter which is calculated based on the physiological data from the individual to cause the physiological state of the individual to be altered or maintained beneficially. The physiological state of the individual can be moved to or towards (or maintained at) an ideal state more effectively than if the physiological data from the individual is not used to determine the PEMF emission pattern. The method may include calculating the PEMF emission pattern based on both idealised data and the physiological data from the individual to produce the PEMF in an intermediate target pattern. The method may also include a feedback loop for continually updating the PEMF emission pattern based on up-to-date physiological data from the individual so as to gradually or incrementally alter the physiological state of the individual.

[0014] The state of the subject may be characterised by a parameter related to a rhythm or cyclical pattern produced by the physiology of the subject. For example, a rhythm may be produced by the cells, organs or tissue of the subject. Alternatively, or in addition, the state of the subject may be characterised by a parameter related to a rhythm or cyclical pattern produced by the behaviour or movement of the subject. Alternatively, or in addition, the state of the subject may be characterised by a parameter related to a rhythm or cyclical pattern produced by activity in the subject, for example the brain activity in the subject.

[0015] Standard or average states exist for different groups in different situations.

That is standard or average states exist for a given species or subset within a species when given internal and/or external circumstances prevail. For example, there exists a standard or average state for a person lying down in a quiet room before sleep. There may exist a different standard or average state if the person is male compared with if the person is female. There may exist a still different standard or average state if the room is loud and the person is sitting up. The standard or average state is calculated based on the distribution of differences in state among individuals of a group in any given set of circumstances. That is, the states of two or more individuals in a given set of circumstances are combined or compared to calculate the standard or average state for the group to which the two or more individuals belong in that situation. The individuals’ states can be looked up from a pre-existing database or can be measured directly before they are combined or compared to create the standard or average states.

[0016] When used to design a treatment program, the standard or average state is essentially an estimate of the state of the subject. An estimate of the state of the subject may not accurately represent the actual state of the subject. In this case, the values selected for the one or more PEMF parameters are based on erroneous or inaccurate data and the PEMF treatment delivered to the subject may not produce the desired effect in the subject or may produce the desired effect to a lesser degree.

[0017] To address the problem, there is provided a mobile device and/or method configured to provide an improved PEMF treatment regime.

[0018] More particularly, there is provided a mobile device configured to determine (e.g. generate or produce) an algorithm for controlling an antenna of the mobile device to emit (i.e. generate) a pulsed electromagnetic field for delivery to a subject. The algorithm is based on physiological data obtained from a subject.

[0019] There is therefore provided a method comprising: (i) providing a mobile telecommunications device including a processor, and a transmitter for generating electrical signals adapted to be coupled to an antenna; (ii) determining via the processor a first algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a first electrical signal to be generated by the transmitter based on first physiological data obtained from the subject; and (iii) generating the first electrical signal to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, wherein the antenna in response to the first electrical signal emits a first pulsed electromagnetic field “PEMF”.

[0020] As illustrated in Figure 2, obtained subject data 201 is used to determine an algorithm at step S203. Determining the algorithm may take place in the processor or in a proxy device or service such as a computing cloud. As interactions between a mobile device and such other device or services are governed by the processor, it may therefore be understood that the algorithm is determined via the processor in the sense that the processor is the means by which the algorithm is obtained. In step S205, the antenna emits the first PEMF according to the algorithm. Not shown in Figure 2 is the interim step of providing electrical signals to the antenna from the transmitter. The processor generates commands in accordance with the algorithm to control the transmitter to provide the electrical signals to the antenna. The PEMF is emitted according to the electrical signals (i.e. according to the algorithm).

[0021] It may be understood that the standard or average data when used alone is a blunt tool for determining an effective algorithm and the resultant PEMF treatment is likely to have a sub-optimal effect on the physiology of the individual. This is because a PEMF having a time dependent parameter (for example pulse frequency) very far removed from a corresponding parameter (for example brain wave frequency) in the subject is less effective at altering (i.e. entraining) the corresponding parameter in the subject than a PEMF having a time dependent parameter which is closer in value to the corresponding parameter in the subject.

[0022] Advantageously, the algorithm is based on physiological data obtained from the subject. That is, data representing the physiology of the subject is used in the algorithm. This has the effect of producing an algorithm for treatment which is better suited to the treatment requirements of the subject than a standard algorithm. This solves the problem of how to provide an algorithm for producing a pulsed electromagnetic field which provides an enhanced effect on the physiology of the individual subject compared with conventional PEMF treatments.

[0023] The first physiological data obtained from the subject may be obtained using a separate device from the mobile device and input by a user to the mobile device for use in the algorithm. Alternatively, or in addition, the first physiological data may have been obtained and then stored in the device and retrieved from a memory module of the mobile device for use in the algorithm. Advantageously, the method may include a further step of obtaining the first physiological data from the subject using the mobile device before the step of determining the first algorithm. This has the effect of rendering the mobile device selfsufficient for the delivery of the PEMF treatment according to the algorithm. This solves the problem of how to provide a mobile device which can be used for PEMF treatment according to the algorithm without the need for other devices or connections.

[0024] Output from the subject (i.e. first physiological data and/or second physiological data) may be captured (i.e. obtained) by monitoring the physiology of the subject (e.g. monitoring the aforementioned rhythms or patterns). Monitoring may be carried out by an individual via observation or automatically via a monitor. The monitor may be a sensor configured to capture indications of the rhythms or cyclical patterns. For example, an accelerometer, microphone or camera of the mobile device may record the movement patterns of the subject; electrical sensors may record the subject’s brain waves; and/or optical means (e.g. a light sensor) may record the subject’s pulse.

[0025] Therefore, obtaining the first physiological data may comprise monitoring the subject using a sensor connected to the processor. Advantageously, this provides an automatic PEMF treatment system which requires minimal input from the user. Further advantageously, this allows physiological data to be obtained which the individual themselves would otherwise be oblivious to.

[0026] Alternatively, or in addition, obtaining the first physiological data comprises recording information entered into the processor via a user interface of the mobile device. Advantageously, this allows physiological data which is difficult to measure using sensors (e.g. mood changes) to be obtained and used in the algorithm. An example may be that the subject is presented with a series of options representing certain physiological states (e.g. tired, stressed, alert, drowsy etc.) on a screen or user interface of the mobile telecommunications device. The subject then chooses an option which they consider matches their own physiological state and the determined algorithm is based on data representing the option selected. Alternatively, or in addition, a questionnaire generated or stored on (or accessed by) the mobile telecommunications device may be presented to the subject on the user interface or screen of the mobile telecommunications device. In this case, data is entered into the mobile telecommunications device by the subject via the user interface in the form of answers to the questions. The answers to the questionnaire may be entered into a minialgorithm for determining via the processor the (e.g. first) physiological state of the subject. [0027] Advantageously, if the PEMF is emitted using a certain frequency it can cause patterns in the physiology of the subject to be altered if frequencies of the patterns are different from each other. This is known as entrainment. Therefore, in the methods described herein, the first physiological data may comprise a first pattern having a first frequency, and the first electrical signal comprises a second pattern having a second frequency different from the first frequency so that the first PEMF has a pulsing frequency equal to the second frequency. This solves the problem of how to cause the frequency associated with the physiology of the subject to be altered.

[0028] The first pattern and/or second pattern may be representative of a macroscale temporal pattern such as a sleep pattern including different stages of sleep or a microscale temporal pattern such as a brainwave pattern in the frequency range 1 to 60 Hz.

[0029] The inventors have recognised that the physiology of the subject is more likely to be altered when the frequency of the PEMF is in the range associated with frequencies of the human body. Therefore, the first frequency and/or the second frequency may be in the range 1 to 300 Hz.

[0030] Standard or average states may produce sub-optimal treatment results when used on their own to determine an algorithm for emitting PEMF. However, the inventors have recognised that determining an algorithm for emitting PEMF based on physiological data obtained from an individual subject and standard or average physiological data obtained from a group of individuals can improve the PEMF treatment.

[0031] That is, the inventors have recognised that the state of the subject is likely to differ to some extent from the standard or average state and therefore they may have different target metrics for a given parameter. That is, the PEMF parameter values generated or selected based on the standard or average state are likely to be sub-optimal for the treatment of the subject. The inventors have recognised that by, in response to an output from the subject, modifying at least one PEMF parameter from those generated or selected based on the standard or average state, the PEMF therapy delivered to the subject can be improved. This allows better synching with the subject’s own state (e.g. rhythm) so as to achieve a better therapeutic result for the subject than the standard/average protocol.

[0032] For example, the standard or average data for a healthy group of individuals (such as a group of individuals having regular healthy sleep cycles) can be used synergistically with the physiological data from an unhealthy individual (such as one having disrupted or irregular unhealthy sleep cycles). If the right healthy group is chosen (i.e. one which, for example, has attributes matching attributes of the individual) and the individual’s own physiological data is involved in determining the algorithm, the PEMF can be used to gently coerce the physiology of the individual to become more attuned to that of the healthy group in a way which is better suited to that individual.

[0033] It may therefore be understood that the algorithm may be determined based on both the first physiological data and second data which is different from the first physiological data. Optionally, the algorithm may be determined based on a combination of the first physiological data and second data.

[0034] Optionally, the second data comprises a third pattern having a third frequency which is different from the first and second frequencies. Alternatively, the second data contains information regarding a third frequency which is different from the first and second frequencies. For example, the information regarding the third frequency may be a parameter in a formula relating to the third frequency. It may be understood that, alternatively or in addition, the second data may provide an input which would, absent the first physiological data, cause the first algorithm to control the first electrical signal to comprise said third frequency. Alternatively, or in addition, the second data comprises averaged physiological data generated by a population of N reference subjects, where N > 10 (or even where N > 1 or 2), or reference physiological data.

[0035] For example, disclosed embodiments include comparing the subject’s rhythms to the average or standard rhythms for all aspects of their personal sleep cycle (duration; sequence of different phases of sleep; duration of the different phases; best time to go to sleep; best time to get up); and/or circadian rhythm including blood pressure cycle and/or pulse rate including pulse rate cycle, and/or electro-magnetic pulse rates (e.g. frequency of brain waves) including how this varies throughout the day according to different functions e.g. highly active thinking; physically active; in the zone; resting; meditating; deeply rested; falling asleep; asleep; deep sleep; rapid eye movement sleep; non rapid eye movement sleep, waking and/or Female hormonal cycles including the Menstrual cycle and/or Male hormonal cycles including Testosterone production and/or the pattern of hair growth and hair follicle growth in humans.

[0036] As explained earlier, the standard or average data when used alone is a blunt tool for determining an effective algorithm and the resultant PEMF treatment is likely to have a sub-optimal effect on the physiology of the individual. This is because a PEMF having a parameter (for example pulse frequency) very far removed from a corresponding parameter (for example brain wave frequency) in the subject is less effective at altering the parameter in the subject than a PEMF having a parameter which is closer in value to the corresponding parameter in the subject. On the other hand, the physiological data of the individual (i.e. the subject) alone in some cases provides sub-optimal guidance in determining the most effective algorithm for producing a PEMF which is likely to change the physiology of the individual in the most advantageous way. In this way, the combination of standard or average data with physiological data obtained from the subject produces a synergistic effect. Advantageously, the use of standard or average states or data in this way results in a more effective PEMF treatment.

[0037] Standard or average states can be stored on a smart phone or other mobile device (e.g. in a database or memory) or can be obtained by accessing another device (e.g. a server or other device) or service (e.g. a computing cloud). The standard or average states may also be input by a user having knowledge of the standard or average states. The skilled person may have knowledge of standard or average states or may obtain them from a standard textbook or other reference source.

[0038] That is, the controller (e.g. processor) of the mobile device may have access to, for example, the standard or average human cycle for a given parameter (as this can be made available from a database accessible by the controller). The controller may also receive data from a sensor or other data input supplied by data transmission having been collected to describe the individual’s personal cycle. From this, the controller will be able to calculate a difference, variation or correlation between the standard or average data and the physiological data of the subject. If the individual’s data is materially different to the standard data, the standard protocol (e.g. PEMF parameters) will be adjusted to allow for this deviation/delta so as to produce an individualised protocol or algorithm. The individualised algorithm will be stored on the mobile device and then the user may choose between using the standard protocol or their own personalised protocol or alternatively the mobile device may transmit the standard protocol and the required delta so that the two transmissions combined produce a personalised protocol.

[0039] That is, the second data may be used to create a primary algorithm for controlling the transmitter to generate a primary electrical signal, and the first physiological data from the subject may be used to create a secondary algorithm for controlling the transmitter to generate a secondary electrical signal which interferes with the primary electrical signal to produce the desired PEMF output at the antenna. It may therefore be said that the combination of the first physiological data and second data may take place by a combination of the result of the primary and secondary algorithms outside of the processor. However, a further algorithm is inevitably required to synchronise the primary and secondary algorithms to cause the primary and secondary electrical signals to combine in the desired manner. Therefore, it may still be understood that an algorithm (said further algorithm) is determined via the processor based on the first physiological data and the second data.

[0040] That is, the obtained output (i.e. physiological data) from the subject may be used to modify one or more PEMF parameters which have been predetermined based on the standard or average data. Any mathematical operation suitable for modifying a PEMF parameter based on physiological data may be used. For example, modifying a PEMF parameter can be carried out by applying a scale factor to the PEMF parameter based on an output from a subject, by adding or subtracting a value from the PEMF parameter based on an output from a subject, or by applying an algorithm to the PEMF parameter value based on one or more inputs (said inputs being based on at least one output from the subject).

[0041] In another embodiment the combination, relativity or correlation between two or more parameters (e.g. the standard or average data and the physiological data obtained from the subject) may be compared to adjust one or more of the protocols or the algorithm.

[0042] The PEMF may be emitted according to the electrical signals (i.e. according to the algorithm) until a first reference time has elapsed or until a command is issued within or to the processor to cause a command to be sent to the transmitter to cease providing electrical signals or at least cease providing electrical signals according to the algorithm. Advantageously, ceasing emission of the PEMF according to the algorithm after a first reference time has elapsed allows a PEMF treatment program to be curtailed without the subject needing to enter an input to the mobile device. This allows control of the PEMF treatment even though the subject may have become unable to enter an input into the mobile device during treatment, for example if the subject has fallen asleep.

[0043] The inventors have recognised that obtaining a further indication(s) concerning the physiology of the subject during the PEMF treatment can improve the effectiveness of the treatment. Therefore, in the methods described herein, it may be understood that the step of generating the first electrical signal is continued until a first reference time has elapsed, after which second physiological data is obtained from the subject.

[0044] Alternatively, a step of obtaining second physiological data from the subject is carried out while the first electrical signal is generated and the step of generating the first electrical signal is continued until a difference between the value of a parameter of the second physiological data and a target value is less than or equal to a reference value.

[0045] Alternatively, further physiological data is continuously or continually obtained from the subject while the first electrical signal is generated and the step of generating the first electrical signal is continued until a difference between the value of a parameter of the further physiological data and a target value is less than or equal to a reference value.

[0046] The subject’s physiology may change between phases, for example in a physiological cycle such as in a sleep cycle. That is, the physiology indicative of one phase may change to be indicative of a different phase between one time period and the next. An example of this is the change from a phase of light sleep to a phase of deep sleep or REM (rapid eye movement) sleep during a sleep cycle. The inventors have recognised that a method of treating the subject which accounts for such changes produces a superior effect to a method which does not. Furthermore, the inventors have recognised that the method itself may be used to cause the state of the subject to be changed from a first phase to a second phase different from the first phase. Optionally, following that, the method may be used to cause the state of the subject to enter a third phase different from the second phase.

[0047] In the methods described herein, it may therefore be understood that if a difference between (e.g. a parameter of) the second physiological data and (e.g. a parameter of) the second data is greater than a reference value, the step of generating the first electrical signal is repeated. Alternatively, if a difference between the second physiological data and the second data is less than a reference value, the step of generating the first electrical signal is ceased, optionally ceased after a second reference time has elapsed.

[0048] Alternatively or in addition to the conditional method steps above, the method further comprises a step of determining a second algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a second electrical signal for causing the transmitter to drive the antenna to emit a second PEMF having at least one parameter which is different from the first PEMF, optionally wherein the second electrical signal has a frequency which is different from that of the first electrical signal. This step is optionally carried out once the step of generating the first electrical signals has ceased. The inventors have recognised that by determining an algorithm to vary a time dependent parameter of the electrical signal generated by the transmitter gradually over time, incremental changes in the physiology of the subject can be achieved which result in a large aggregate change in the physiology. For example, determining an algorithm to vary the frequency of the electrical signal to incrementally or gradually increase (or decrease) over time will cause the frequency of the emitted PEMF to increase (or decrease) over time. The algorithm may be determined in this way by varying a frequency of the aforementioned third pattern associated with the second data on which the algorithm is based. It may therefore be understood that in the methods disclosed herein, the third pattern may further comprise a fourth frequency which is different from the third frequency and a fifth frequency which is different from the fourth frequency, wherein the third frequency, fourth frequency and fifth frequency may be arranged in the third pattern in order of ascending or descending magnitude with time. Alternatively, to achieve the same effect, second data comprises instructions for the second pattern to include a first series of frequencies arranged in order of ascending or descending magnitude with respect to time. [0049] For example, in order to cause a subject to move from an awake state in which brain activity has a frequency 8-14 Hz into a state of sleep in which brain activity has a frequency of 1-4 Hz, the second data includes instructions for the second pattern to comprise frequencies which begin at 6 Hz and gradually or incrementally decrease over time to 2 Hz. Advantageously, this may cause the physiology of the subject to change more rapidly than in a comparative case in which the frequency of the PEMF does not change with respect to time. [0050] The inventors have also recognised that by determining an algorithm to vary a time dependent parameter of the electrical signal generated by the transmitter randomly or in a fixed pattern around a fixed frequency, the subject can be maintained in a fixed physiological state (e.g. an alert and awake state or a meditative state). For example, determining an algorithm to vary the frequency of the electrical signal randomly or in a fixed pattern within a range above and/or below a fixed frequency over time will cause the frequency of the emitted PEMF to vary correspondingly.

[0051] It may therefore be understood that in the methods disclosed herein, the third frequency, fourth frequency and fifth frequency are arranged in the third pattern so that the frequency of the PEMF is varied randomly or in a fixed pattern with respect to time within a range above and/or below a fixed frequency.

[0052] Alternatively, to achieve the same effect, the second data comprises instructions for the second pattern include a second series of frequencies which are arranged in random order of magnitude with respect to time within a range above and/or below a fixed frequency. The magnitude of the range may be less than 50% of the fixed frequency, optionally less than 20% of the fixed frequency, further optionally less than 10% of the fixed frequency. Alternatively, or in addition, second data comprises instructions for the second pattern include a third series of frequencies, which frequencies are arranged to be alternately above and below a fixed frequency with respect to time. For example, a subject may be kept in an alert or awake or meditative physiological state by configuring the second data in any of the ways described above, wherein the fixed frequency is a frequency in the range 10-60 Hz. [0053] There is provided a mobile telecommunications device having a processor configured to determine an algorithm(s) as herein described to provide instructions to a transmitter of the mobile telecommunications device to produce an electrical signal configured to drive an antenna to emit a PEMF according to any of the methods described herein. The mobile telecommunications device may also be configured to control components (e.g. the processor and/or sensors and/or user interface) of the to obtain or access subject data or first or second physiological data for use in any of the methods described herein. The mobile telecommunications device may also be configured to control components (e.g. the processor and/or the transceiver and/or a memory component) of the mobile telecommunications device to obtain, access, determine or provide the respective second data, target values, reference values and reference times for use in any of the methods described herein.

[0054] There is, the mobile telecommunications device is configured to: (i) determine via the processor a first algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a first electrical signal to be generated by the transmitter based on first physiological data obtained from a subject; and (ii) generate the first electrical signal to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, wherein the antenna in response to the first electrical signal emits a first pulsed electromagnetic field “PEMF. Optionally, the mobile telecommunications device (via a controller or processor therein) is further configured to control the respective components of the mobile telecommunications device to carry out any of the methods described herein in any of the described implementations and combinations.

[0055] There is also provided an app or computer software program for a mobile telecommunications device, the mobile telecommunications device including a processor, and a transmitter for generating electrical signals adapted to be coupled to an antenna, wherein the app or computer program is configured to control the processor of the mobile telecommunications device to determine any of the algorithm(s) as herein described to provide instructions to a transmitter of a mobile telecommunications device to produce an electrical signal configured to drive an antenna to emit a PEMF according to any of the methods described herein. The same computer program or app may also be configured to control components (e.g. the processor and/or sensors and/or user interface) of the mobile telecommunications device to obtain or access subject data or first or second physiological data for use in any of the methods described herein. The same computer program or app may also be configured to control components (e.g. the processor and/or the transceiver and/or a memory component) of the mobile telecommunications device to obtain, access, determine or provide the respective second data, target values, reference values and reference times for use in any of the methods described herein.

[0056] That is, the app or computer software program is configured to control the mobile telecommunications device to: (i) determine via the processor a first algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a first electrical signal to be generated by the transmitter based on first physiological data obtained from a subject; and (ii) generate the first electrical signal to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, wherein the antenna in response to the first electrical signal emits a first pulsed electromagnetic field “PEMF. Optionally, the computer program or app is further configured to control the mobile telecommunications device (by controlling via the processor the respective components of the mobile telecommunications device) to carry out any of the methods described herein in any of the described implementations and combinations.

[0057] The advantages of this invention are that each user will be able to receive a pulsed electromagnetic field based on an algorithm (or algorithms) that is/are synchronised to their own body rhythms and therefore will be easier to adjust to and more likely to produce an optimal result for the individual. An example of this might be that an individual has a sleep cycle with say 5 shorter deep sleep phases compared to a standard sleep cycle protocol with 3 long deep sleep phases, the personalised protocol would be adjusted to reinforce the 5 shorter deep sleep phases and not just transmit the standard protocol which that individual’s sleep cycle does not synchronise with.

[0058] Embodiments can be used for the following purposes.

a) Measuring aspects of sleep (e.g. using monitoring means such as means for monitoring movement, sound, blood pressure cycle, pulse rate cycle, electromagnetic brain wave emissions] to assess when they are in certain phases of the sleep cycle) to capture (e.g. assess and plot/characterise) their personal sleep cycle so as to adjust the pulsing of electro-magnetic fields to better fit their cycle and thereby improve the quality of their sleep or their ability to get to sleep or their ability to remain asleep.

b) As in (a), (and/or measuring aspects of these metrics during the day) but to improve their blood pressure.

c) As in (a), (and/or measuring aspects of these metrics during the day) but to improve their glucose levels in the blood.

d) As in (a), (and/or measuring aspects of these metrics during the day) but to improve melatonin production.

e) As in (a) (and/or measuring aspects of these metrics during the day) but to improve stress and cortisol levels.

f) As in (a) regarding Menstrual cycle.

g) As in (a) (and/or measuring aspects of these metrics during the day) but to improve their weight, in particular reduce it towards and or maintain an optimal weight.

h) As in (a) (and/or measuring aspects of these metrics during the day) but to improve their mood during the day, reduced irritability, increased happiness, less anxiety, less depression.

i) As in (h). but to improve their waking mental function, ability to concentrate, alertness, or lack of sleepiness.

j) As in (a), (and/or measuring aspects of these metrics during the day) but to regulate body temperature.

k) As in (a-j), but to improve a post-concussion protocol or posttraumatic stress protocol.

l) As in (a), but to increase or decrease testosterone or other hormone levels.

m) As in (a), but to improve hair growth or prevent reduction in hair growth rates.

n) As in (a), but to reduce or reverse the rate of deterioration in telomere length.

o) As in (a), but to alter the microbiome.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0059] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0060] Figure 1 shows an example mobile telecommunications device for emitting

PEMF for providing treatment to a subject;

[0061] Figures 2-6 show methods according to embodiments.

[0062] In the figures, like reference numerals refer to like parts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0063] Example embodiments are described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to designate similar or equivalent elements. Illustrated ordering of acts or events should not be considered as limiting, as some acts or events may occur in different order and/or concurrently with other acts or events. Furthermore, some illustrated acts or events may not be required to implement a methodology in accordance with this disclosure.

[0064] Also, the terms coupled to or couples with (and the like) as used herein without further qualification are intended to describe either an indirect or direct electrical connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection can be through a direct electrical connection where there are only parasitics in the pathway, or through an indirect electrical connection via intervening items including other devices and connections. For indirect coupling, the intervening item generally does not modify the information of a signal but may adjust its current level, voltage level, and/or power level. The terms antenna and electrode are used interchangeably herein to refer to a direct or indirect transmitter of PEMF.

[0065] In overview, this disclosure relates to converting a personal radio device such as a smart phone into pulsed radio wave therapy devices. Disclosed embodiments include a mobile telecommunications device configured for use in a method of treating the human body, but it may be appreciated that this disclosure is equally applicable to the treatment of an animal body.

[0066] Figure 1 shows an example mobile telecommunications device 101 arranged to emit a PEMF. The mobile telecommunications device is shown comprising a processor 110 (shown as a microprocessor), a speaker 115 and a microphone 120 coupled by an analog to digital converter (ADC) 135 to the processor 110, at least one memory shown as flash memory 125a and SRAM 125b that are both accessible by the processor 110. A RF transceiver 130 is coupled to the processor 110 and includes a receiver, and a transmitter for generating pulsed electrical signals, both coupled to an antenna 144, where the transmitter is configured to emit (i.e. generate) a PEMF 103 for use in a method of treating an individual (e.g., the human body). The mobile telecommunications device 101 is also shown including a keypad 155, LED screen, and a subscriber identification module (SIM) card 165. The mobile telecommunications device is shown including a camera 149, an accelerometer 139 and a light meter 169. These components either on their own or in combination with each other are suitable for use as a monitor (or sensor) for capturing output from a subject as described above. The microphone 120 may also be used as a monitor in the same way. Other sensors (not shown) may be linked with the mobile telecommunications device to be used as a monitor in the same way. For example, a device comprising electrical sensors (e.g. electrodes) for attachment to the skin of the subject may be linked via a wired or wireless connection to the mobile telecommunications device.

[0067] A commercially available mobile telecommunications device (smartphone) can be modified to emit a PEMF. Such a commercially available mobile telecommunications device (smartphone) is configured to receive and emit carrier (sine) waves such as GSM, WIFI, NFC and Bluetooth. These carrier waves are typically used to carry content such as sound or video data. It may be understood that these devices and other mobile devices such as tablets and laptops can make use of their internal antenna to emit the PEMF. The PEMF is therefore delivered using a carrier frequency which is different from standalone PEMF devices. The carrier frequency of the aforementioned mobile devices may have antenna configured to emit PEMF in the range 300 MHz to 6 GHz.

[0068] Software can be used to control existing hardware of the mobile telecommunications device in such a way that the carrier sine waves are pulsed (i.e. turned on and off) such that the periods of activity (ON periods) and inactivity (OFF periods) provide a cycle of activities that have been found to have a therapeutic effect.

[0069] This results in the transformation of high frequency non-pulsed waves, into targeted pulses of low frequency square waves, which the body perceive in line with a range of electrical frequencies commonly found in, or created by the systems of the subject, such as the human body.

[0070] Disclosed embodiments can use a smartphone to pulse the carrier wave at specified frequencies so as to produce waves at the specified frequencies. This creates a desired functional (or working) wave by using a higher frequency carrier wave. To do this the smartphone is programmed so as to turn the carrier wave on and off at the desired functional frequencies. A binary on/off modulation of the carrier wave will produce a square wave, whereas it is also possible to use other forms of digital or analogue amplitude modulation of the carrier wave to produce a different shaped wave (e.g. sine wave or sawtooth wave). For example, an 8-bit digital modulation can produce a stepped wave approximating a sine wave. In this way for example a smartphone that emits for example BLUETOOTH at a carrier frequency of 2.4 GHz can be used to produce functional waves at a pulse frequency of between 1Hz and 300Hz which are more useful to humans and other animals, particularly in the range of between 3Hz and 100Hz. As known in the art of communications the BLUETOOTH protocol is a standardized protocol for sending and receiving data currently via a 2.4GHz wireless link that utilizes a carrier frequency in a band from 2.4 GHz to 2.483 GHz. Without this method a commercially available smartphone cannot produce functional waves (PEMF) at these low pulse frequencies. Furthermore, the modification can provide for the rapid change from one functional frequency to another many times during a duty cycle.

[0071] In some embodiments, the mobile telecommunications device is arranged for wireless telecommunication with other mobile telecommunications devices. In embodiments, the mobile telecommunications device is a mobile telephony device. However, it will be appreciated that the present disclosure extends to the modification of any mobile device, or any mobile telecommunications device.

[0072] In some embodiments, the PEMF is configured to interact with the human body. A method of treating a subject can comprise positioning the mobile telecommunications device proximate to the subject, beginning generating pulsed electrical signals to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, and the antenna in response emits a pulsed electromagnetic field that reaches the subject. The subject as used herein can refer to a human being or an animal such as a dog or a cat. As used herein, the mobile telecommunications device being “proximate to the subject” generally refers to a distance less than 2 meters, generally less than a meter that can include direct physical contact. The PEMF can be at a carrier frequency between 300 MHz and 6 GHz, and, optionally emitted as a series of pulses at a pulse frequency 1 to 300 Hz, such as at 3 to 100 Hz.

[0073] In embodiments, the PEMF has at least one parameter selected to enhance the interaction of the PEMF with the human body. Such parameters include functional wave frequency, changes of functional wave frequency, pulse width (time), pulse rest width (time), duty cycle, and power (which is a function of the selected carrier frequency and the duty cycle). The power of the PEMF emitted by the mobile telecommunications device 101 is generally in the range of 0.25mW to 100 mW, and more usually in the range of 0.5mW to 5mW, and most commonly currently in the range 2mW to 3mW when emitting BLUETOOTH but may be between 0.5W and 2.5W (or most common currently between 1W and 2W) when emitting in the GSM frequency band. In embodiments, the carrier wave has a frequency in the GSM frequency band which is currently generally about 380 MHz to 1900 MHz.

[0074] In embodiments, the carrier wave has a frequency of 300 to 3000 MHz (3

GHz), optionally, 2300-2500 MHz, further optionally, 2400-2483.5 MHz which corresponds to the current BLUETOOTH protocol standard.

[0075] In embodiments, the PEMF is emitted in 5- tol5-minute bursts separated by rest periods of 1-10 minutes, optionally 9- toll-minute bursts separated by rest periods of 4 to 6 minutes. In other embodiments, the PEMF is emitted in 1 to 120 second bursts separated by rest periods of 1 to 120 seconds. In other embodiments, the PEMF is emitted in 2- to 5minute bursts separated by rest periods of 1 to 300 seconds. In embodiments, the PEMF is emitted in pulses at a pulse frequency of 1 to 300 Hz, optionally 1 to 40 Hz, further optionally 3 to 13 Hz, further optionally, 1 to 20 Hz. In embodiments, the pulse bursts are emitted for a total time duration of 0.1 to 12 hours, such as 0.5-4 hours, 1.5-2.5 hours, or 3 to 9 hours.

[0076] In embodiments the mobile telecommunications device is arranged to vary the pulse frequency of the PEMF during treatment. It may be understood that the PEMF is emitted at a first pulse frequency for a first time period, followed by a second pulse frequency for a second time period, wherein the first pulse frequency is different from the second pulse frequency. In embodiments the first pulse frequency is lower than the second pulse frequency. In other embodiments, the first pulse frequency is higher than the second pulse frequency.

[0077] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the antenna 144 is an internal antenna of the mobile telecommunications device 101. In embodiments, the antenna is a radiofrequency mobile telecommunications antenna of the mobile telecommunications device. In embodiments the antenna is a BLUETOOTH™ antenna. In embodiments the antenna is a Wi-Fi antenna. In embodiments the antenna is a near field communications (NFC) antenna which is known in the art to comprise a ferrite antenna including a primary antenna coil wound on a ferrite core of the ferrite antenna, and a loop coil provided on a side of the ferrite antenna in a position where the loop coil is interlinked with magnetic flux generated by the ferrite antenna.

[0078] It may be understood that, in embodiments, the antenna is an external antenna wired to an input-output port of the mobile telecommunications device the external antenna may be wirelessly-coupled to the mobile telecommunications device. In embodiments, the external antenna is wirelessly-coupled to the mobile telecommunications device by BLUETOOTH, WIFI or NFC. In embodiments, the external antenna further comprises an intermediary controller or an intermediary power source.

[0079] In embodiments, a peripheral device arranged to receive the human body houses the external antenna. In embodiments, the peripheral device is a device arranged to be laid on, a device arranged to wrap around the head or a device arranged to be placed under a pillow. In embodiments, the peripheral device is a wearable device such as a watch.

[0080] An embodiment is shown in Figure 2. As illustrated in Figure 2, obtained subject data 201 is used in the determining of an algorithm at step S203. Determining the algorithm may take place in the processor or in a proxy device or service such as a computing cloud. As interactions between a mobile device and such other device or services are governed by the processor, it may therefore be understood that the algorithm is determined via the processor in the sense that the processor is the means by which the algorithm is obtained. In step S205, the antenna emits the first PEMF according to the algorithm. Not shown in Figure 2 is the interim step of providing electrical signals to the antenna from the transmitter. The processor generates commands in accordance with the algorithm to control the transmitter to provide the electrical signals to the antenna. The PEMF is emitted according to the electrical signals (i.e. according to the algorithm). The emitting of the PEMF then ends by any of the aforementioned means.

[0081] A method is shown in Figure 3. The method shown in Figure 3 is identical to that described in relation to Figure 2 but for the following modifications.

[0082] The method in Figure 3 can be modified from the method in Figure 2 in all the ways described above.

[0083] In addition, Figure 3 shows that the step of determining the algorithm S203 comprises determining the algorithm based on obtained physiological data 201 from the subject and second data 204. Although in the Figure this is shown as standard/ average data 204, it may be understood that the second data 204 can take any form. That is, the second data 204 can be based on the average of physiological data from more than one subject or can be based on artificial or contrived data designed or selected by a programmer, medical practitioner, therapist or even the subject themselves. The second data can comprise any of the following: an expression, a formula, a formula comprising a time dependent parameter, a data array, a matrix or matrix array, a 2D or 3D plot or any data suitable for providing an input to the algorithm so as to affect a time dependent property of the electrical signal generated by the transmitter.

[0084] In a variation of the method shown in Figure 3, the second data comprises an input or instructions to the step of determining the first algorithm, which would, absent the first physiological data from the algorithm, cause the algorithm to control a time dependent property of first electrical signal to conform to an idealised pattern. The influence of the first physiological data in the algorithm (when the second data is also input to the algorithm) is to tune the first electrical signal to conform to an altered pattern which is different from the idealised pattern. The altered pattern may be an intermediate pattern between the first physiological data and the idealised pattern. That is, a difference between a parameter of the altered pattern and a corresponding parameter of the first pattern may be less than a difference between the same parameter of the idealised pattern and the corresponding parameter of the first pattern.

[0085] By way of example, the first physiological data may represent the subject’s state of being awake as indicated by a brainwave pattern represented in the first physiological data. The subject’s brainwave pattern may comprise a first frequency of, for example, 8 Hz and the aim of the PEMF treatment may be to increase that frequency to 20 Hz. In this case the idealised pattern may comprise a second frequency of, for example, 20 Hz. However, the altered pattern taking into account the first frequency comprises a lower frequency than the second frequency, for example a frequency of 16 Hz. The effect of this is that the physiology of the subject will respond more readily to the altered pattern than the idealised pattern.

[0086] In the method shown in Figure 3, emitting of the first PEMF S205 according to the algorithm is continued until a first reference time has elapsed. Alternatively, emitting of the first PEMF S205 according to the algorithm is continued until an input to the processor (e.g. via a user interface of the mobile device) causes the first PEMF to cease.

[0087] Further methods are shown in Figures 4 and 5. The methods shown in Figures and 5 are identical to the methods described in relation to Figure 3 but for the following modifications.

[0088] The methods shown in Figures 4 and 5 can be modified from the method illustrated in Figure 3 in all of the ways described above.

[0089] In addition, after the step of emitting first PEMF S205 (optionally for a first reference time), the method of Figure 4 includes a step of obtaining subject data S207. That is, a step of obtaining second physiological data from the subject. Obtaining second physiological data may be carried out in any of the aforementioned ways described for capturing output (or first physiological data) from the subject. It may be understood that the second physiological data is representative of the physiological state of the subject after or during the step of emitting first PEMF S205.

[0090] Once the step of obtaining subject data S207 has been carried out, the second physiological data may be compared to target data. If a difference between the second physiological data and the target data is less than or equal to a reference value (or simply less than a reference value) the step of emitting first PEMF S205 may be ceased or, as illustrated in Figure 5, a step of continuing emission of the first PEMF S209 is carried out until a second reference time has elapsed or until a command is issued to the processor to cease emission of the first PEMF.

[0091] The target data may be set by the first algorithm. The target data may represent idealised data indicative of a desired physiological state of the subject. For example, the target data may be a target frequency value indicative of a certain idealised state and the second physiological data may include a frequency indicative of the physiological state of the subject. Alternatively, the target data may represent an incremental step in the direction of idealised data relative to the first physiological data. For example, the target data may comprise an intermediate frequency value between a frequency of the first physiological data and a frequency indicative of an idealised state. Optionally, the target data has a frequency which is related to or equal to the frequency of the first electrical signals.

[0092] By way of example only, the target data may include a frequency of 2 Hz, which is indicative of a certain phase of sleep. If the obtained second physiological data comprises a frequency of 4 Hz and the reference value is set at 1 Hz, the step of emitting first PEMF S205 is continued (or begins again). However, if the obtained second physiological data comprises a frequency of 2.9 Hz, the step of emitting first PEMF S205 is ceased (or optionally continued in step S209 only until a second reference time has elapsed). This occurs because the difference between the frequency in the second physiological data and the frequency in the target data is 0.9 Hz, which is less than the reference frequency value of 1 Hz.

[0093] A further method is shown in Figure 6. The method shown in Figure 6 is identical to that described in relation to Figure 5 but for the following modifications.

[0094] The method in Figure 6 can be modified from the method in Figure 5 in all of the ways described above.

[0095] In addition, Figure 6 shows a step of determining a new PEMF algorithm based on new target data S211. That is, a step of determining a second algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a second electrical signal for causing the transmitter to drive the antenna to emit a second PEMF having at least one parameter which is different from the first PEMF. Optionally the second electrical signal has a frequency which is different from that of the first electrical signal (i.e. the second PEMF has a frequency which is different from that of the first PEMF).

[0096] The new target data may be generated from or may include a portion of the second data. Alternatively, new target data may be set by the second algorithm. The new target data may represent idealised data indicative of a desired physiological state of the subject. For example, the new target data may be a target frequency value indicative of a certain idealised state. Alternatively, the new target data may represent an incremental step in the direction of idealised data relative to the second physiological data. For example, the new target data may comprise an intermediate frequency value between a frequency of the second physiological data and a frequency indicative of an idealised state.

[0097] Figure 6 shows a step of emitting PEMF according to the new algorithm S213.

That is, a step of generating the second electrical signal to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, wherein the antenna in response to the second electrical signal emits a second pulsed electromagnetic field “PEMF”. The step of emitting PEMF according to the new algorithm S213 may be carried out after the step of determining a new PEMF algorithm based on new target data S211.

[0098] In the method shown in Figure 6, the step of emitting PEMF according to the new algorithm S213 is carried out until a third reference time elapses. Alternatively, the step of emitting PEMF according to the new algorithm S213 is continued until an input to the processor (e.g. via a user interface of the mobile device) causes the second PEMF to cease.

[0099] Although not shown in Figure 6, after or during the step of emitting the second

PEMF S213 (optionally for the third reference time), the method of Figure 6 may further include a step of obtaining subject data in the same manner as in step S207. That is, a step of obtaining third physiological data from the subject. Obtaining third physiological data may be carried out in any of the aforementioned ways for capturing output (or first physiological data) from the subject. It may be understood that the third physiological data is representative of the physiological state of the subject after or during the step of emitting second PEMF S213.

[00100] Once the step of obtaining subject data has been carried out, the third physiological data may be compared to target data in the same way as described above for the second physiological data. If a difference between the third physiological data and the target data is less than or equal to a reference value (or simply less than a reference value) the step of emitting second PEMF S213 may be ceased or a step of continuing emission of the second PEMF S209 is carried out until a fourth reference time has elapsed or until a command is issued to the processor to cease emission of the second PEMF.

[00101] It may therefore be understood that, by repeating the following steps A-D n times (where n > 1 or n > 2) a markedly more versatile method may be provided:

A. obtaining physiological data from a subject,

B. determining if a difference between the physiological data and target data is less than or equal to a reference value and

C. determining via the processor an algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of an electrical signal to be generated by the transmitter based on the physiological data obtained from the subject; and

D. generating the electrical signal to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, wherein the antenna in response to the electrical signal emits a pulsed electromagnetic field “PEMF.

[00102] In each repetition of the steps A-D above, a new algorithm in step C may be determined based on new physiological data obtained from the subject in step A.

[00103] Advantageously, the subject may be guided through a series of different physiological states by the method.

[00104] Alternatively, in each repetition of the steps A-D above, a new algorithm in step C may be determined based on new physiological data obtained from the subject and other data, such as the aforementioned second data (having any of its aforementioned attributes). This is highly beneficial for guiding the subject using PEMF through multi-stage physiological states.

[00105] In each successive repetition, a new electrical signal can be generated which is different form the last. That is, each emitted PEMF may be different from that in the previous repetition. This may be achieved by changing the second data used in determining each successive algorithm or may happen as a result of the changing physiological data obtained from the subject or both. For example, each PEMF may have a different frequency from that in the preceding repetition.

[00106] An overarching protocol or algorithm may be determined to control the second data used in determining each successive new algorithm in each successive repetition. For example, the overarching protocol or algorithm may be operable to select a series of different second data such that in each repetition the electrical signal (and hence the emitted PEMF) has a different time dependent parameter (e.g. frequency) than that in the preceding repetition.

[00107] The overarching protocol or algorithm may be determined such that the subject is guided through a series of physiological states by a series of successive PEMF frequencies. The series of frequencies can be arranged in order of ascending or descending magnitude with respect to time or can be varied in any other desired pattern. For example, the

PEMF frequencies can be varied randomly or alternately above and below a fixed frequency with respect to time or in a fixed pattern over time within a range above and/or below a fixed frequency or arranged in random order of magnitude with respect to time within a range above and/or below a fixed frequency. The magnitude of said range may be less than 50% of the fixed frequency, optionally less than 20% of the fixed frequency, further optionally less than 10% of the fixed frequency.

[00108] By way of example only, the overarching protocol or algorithm can be used to guide the subject through a sleep cycle pattern as follows. A sleep cycle can include stages of light sleep, deep sleep, and REM sleep. The number and duration of these stages can vary from person to person in any one sleep cycle. In a first set of one or more repetitions of the steps A-D, the determined algorithm(s) may guide a person from an awake state into a state of light sleep. If the first set includes more than one repetition, a series of PEMF frequencies decreasing in magnitude can be used to guide the subject more effectively into the state of light sleep. In a second set of one or more repetitions of the steps A-D, the determined algorithm(s) may guide a person from a state of light sleep into a state of deep sleep. In a third set of one or more repetitions of the steps A-D, the determined algorithm(s) may guide a person from a state of deep sleep into a state of REM sleep. In a fourth set of one or more repetitions of the steps A-D, the determined algorithm(s) may guide a person from a state of REM sleep into a state of being awake. If the fourth set includes more than one repetition, a series of PEMF frequencies increasing in magnitude can be used to guide the subject more effectively into the state of being awake.

[00109] The ordinary skilled person will understand that this configuring or reconfiguring of a mobile telecommunications device may be achieved using any one of a variety of different hardware and software solutions. In embodiments, an additional driver is coupled to the mobile telecommunications device to provide the appropriate signals to a telecommunications antenna. The ordinary skilled person understands how to design an additional driver to provide the appropriate pulsed electrical signals for an antenna. In embodiments, the driver is controllable by an Application installed on the mobile telecommunications device. The ordinary skilled person knows how to provide an Application for driving the additional driver.

[00110] The ordinary skilled person will understand that in embodiments it may be necessary to disable a telecommunication function of the device whilst the electrical signal in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is provided to the antenna. The ordinary skilled person understands how any necessary switching might be provided to accommodate the driver in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[00111] It may be understood that in any given time period (e.g. a time period during which a treatment is delivered to the subject), the antenna can be dedicated to emitting (i.e. generating) a PEMF without being driven for another purpose. For example, a mobile device can be configured to switch off, divert or cancel out a first input configured to drive the antenna to emit an electromagnetic field for the purposes of communication (e.g. with another device, cloud, server or terminal), while a second input drives the same antenna to emit a PEMF for delivery to the subject. Optionally, disclosed embodiments include restricting the mobile device to only operate with one of its antennae and for that antenna to be exclusively dedicated to emitting a specified pulsed. That is, the mobile device can be configured to switch off, divert, or cancel out all inputs configured to drive any antenna of the mobile device to emit an electromagnetic field for the purposes of communication (e.g. with another device, or a cloud, server or terminal), while another input drives an antenna to emit a PEMF. For example, the mobile device can be configured to activate ‘airplane’ mode to stop all antennae from transmitting in their normal mode (e.g. for telecommunications), while a controller in the mobile device controls one or more of the antenna to emit a pulsed electromagnetic field for therapeutic purposes. Advantageously, this reduces noise and prevents interference with the pulsed electromagnetic field, which improves the signal definition so as to provide an enhanced interaction with the subject (e.g. with the cells, organs or brain activity of the subject).

[00112] Alternatively, the antenna could be driven to emit a PEMF in one part of a cycle and in another part of the same cycle may be driven for at least one other purpose wherein the whole cycle takes place during a given time period (e.g. a time period during which a treatment is applied). That is, the antenna may work in intermittent mode between emitting (i) a PEMF and (ii) generating electromagnetic fields for other purposes (e.g. telecommunications or other communication purposes). Advantageously, this allows other functions to be carried out using the antenna while the PEMF is delivered.

[00113] There is provided a computer program or application arranged to provide instructions to a transmitter of a mobile telecommunications device to produce an electrical signal configured to drive an antenna to emit a PEMF configured for use in a method of treating the human body.

[00114] In an embodiment, the computer program or app is further arranged to receive user-selection of a treatment program from a plurality of treatment programmes wherein the treatment program is used as a further input in the determining of the algorithm for controlling the time dependent property of the first electrical signals which defines the parameters of the PEMF.

[00115] In an embodiment, the computer program or app is further arranged to receive payment from a user for the user-selected treatment program.

[00116] In an embodiment, the computer program or app is further arranged to store or upload data related to use of the treatment programmes. In an embodiment, the computer program or app is further arranged to store or upload medical data (e.g. the aforementioned first physiological data) obtained from a user of a treatment programme. Advantageously, this data is then used to update the aforementioned standard or average data (i.e. the second data) so as to improve the accuracy of the standard or average data for a particular group or sub group of individuals.

[00117] There is provided an installed application or modification to a smart phone or mobile telephone that when operated takes control of the radio frequency transmitter portion of the device to provide pulsed radio waves at a signal strength appropriate to treat a subject within a few meters of the device according to any of the methods described herein.

[00118] In embodiments, various applications are installed for various therapies that modify the pulse radio-wave profile to suit. In embodiment, the application:

a. provides a selection of therapies to the user and thus tells the control application which program to apply (for example, varying the voltage, current, length of treatment, pulsing of current (time of pulse and time between pulse), etc.);

b. enables the user to purchase and download additional therapy programmes;

c. enables micropayments to be taken, for example:

i. in-App pay-per use for the programs ii. download top up credits to enable the use of program (e.g., pay-as-you-go phones) [00119] In embodiments, the application is designed to arrange micropayments for pay-per-use or top up credits.

[00120] It may be recognised that generally any device with a RF transmitter for generating a radio signal can be modified to provide the device in accordance with the present disclosure. It may also be recognised that the present disclosure extends to exploiting any EM transmitter e.g. Wi-Fi or BLUETOOTH functions.

[00121] There is provided an installed application on a mobile device (e.g. tablet or ‘phone) that can control the voltage and current output from either the USB/MHL socket (5V output max., Android and alike) or the headphone/microphone jack (2V output max.).

[00122] There is also provided an accessory electrode or electrodes, or intermediate control device that terminates in coils, that plug into the controlled socket to enable delivery of PEMFs to the body of the subject.

[00123] In embodiments using the 3.5mm headphone jack, this may pick up on the “live” microphone contact in the socket, thus the accessory may also retain a pass-through headphone jack to enable to user to continue to listen to music etc.

[00124] There is further provided an application that provides a selection of therapies to the user and thus tells the control application which program to apply (for example, varying the voltage, current, length of treatment, pulsing of current (time of pulse and time between pulse), etc.).

[00125] The application may allow enable the user to purchase and download additional therapy programmes. The application may enable micropayments to be taken, for example: (i) in-App pay-per use for the programmes; and (ii) download top up credits to enable the use of programmes (cf. pay-as-you-go phones).

[00126] There is yet further provided an application that is installed on a smartphone or tablet that effectively acts as a remote control for a new or existing electronic therapeutic or diagnostic device and that:

a. provides a selection of therapies /diagnostic tests to the user, compatible with the capabilities of the target device and thus tells the control application which program to apply (for example, varying the voltage, current, length of treatment, pulsing of current (time of pulse and time between pulse), etc.);

b. enables the user to purchase and download additional therapy programmes as they are developed;

c. enables micropayments to be taken, for example:

i. in-App pay-per use for the programs;

ii. download top up credits to enable the use of programs (cf. pay-as-yougo phones); and iii. top up credit vouchers/codes to be supplied with consumables (electrodes, gels, test strips etc.) to enable the device and ensure brand loyalty vs generic versions of consumables;

d. enables a recording of use to be archived / sent to care provider so that:

1.

care provider can verify that a prescribed therapeutic regime has been properly followed ii. diagnostic results can be sent to a care provider - alerts could be sent.

The described methods may be implemented by a computer program. The computer program which may be in the form of a web application or ‘app’ comprises computer-executable instructions or code arranged to instruct or cause a computer or processor to perform one or more functions of the described methods. The computer program may be provided to an apparatus, on a computer readable medium or computer program product. The computer readable medium or computer program product may comprise non-transitory media such as semiconductor or solid-state memory, magnetic tape, a removable computer memory stick or diskette, a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disc, and an optical disk, such as a CD-ROM, CD-R/W, DVD or Blu-ray. The computer readable medium or computer program product may comprise a transmission signal or medium for data transmission, for example for downloading the computer program over the Internet.

[00127] An apparatus or device may be configured to perform one or more functions of the described methods. The apparatus or device may comprise a mobile phone, smart phone, tablet or other mobile processing device. The apparatus or device may take the form of a data processing system. The data processing system may be a distributed system. For example, the data processing system may be distributed across a network or through dedicated local connections. The apparatus or device typically comprises at least one memory for storing the computer-executable instructions and at least one processor for performing the computer-executable instructions.

[00128] Although aspects and embodiments have been described above, variations can be made without departing from the inventive concepts disclosed herein. For example, it may be understood that the aspects and embodiments described above are equally suitable for the body of an animal.

Claims (28)

1. A method comprising:

(i) providing a mobile telecommunications device including a processor, and a transmitter for generating electrical signals adapted to be coupled to an antenna;

(ii) determining via the processor a first algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a first electrical signal to be generated by the transmitter based on first physiological data obtained from a subject; and (iii) generating the first electrical signal to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, wherein the antenna in response to the first electrical signal emits a first pulsed electromagnetic field “PEMF”.

2. The method of claim 1 further comprising a step of obtaining the first physiological data from the subject using the mobile device before the step of determining the first algorithm.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2 wherein the step of obtaining the first physiological data comprises monitoring the subject using a sensor connected to the processor.

4. The method of claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the step of obtaining the first physiological data comprises recording information entered into the processor via a user interface of the mobile device.

5. The method of any preceding claim wherein the first physiological data comprises a first pattern having a first frequency, and the first electrical signal comprises a second pattern having a second frequency different from the first frequency so that the first PEMF has a pulsing frequency equal to the second frequency.

6. The method of claim 5 wherein the first frequency and/or the second frequency is in the range 1 to 300 Hz.

7. The method of any preceding claim wherein the algorithm is determined based on both the first physiological data and second data which is different from the first physiological data.

8. The method of claim 7 wherein the second data comprises a third pattern having a third frequency which is different from the first and second frequencies.

9. The method of claim 7 or 8 wherein the second data comprises instructions for the second pattern to include a first series of frequencies arranged in order of ascending or descending magnitude with respect to time.

10. The method of claim 7 or 8 wherein the second data comprises instructions for the second pattern to include a second series of frequencies which are arranged in random order of magnitude with respect to time within a range above and/or below a fixed frequency.

11. The method of claim 7 or 8 wherein the second data comprises instructions for the second pattern to include a third series of frequencies, which frequencies are arranged to be alternately above and below a fixed frequency with respect to time.

12. The method of any of claims 7-11 wherein the second data comprises averaged physiological data generated by a population of N reference subjects, where N > 1, or reference physiological data.

13. The method of any preceding claim wherein the step of generating the first electrical signal is continued until a first reference time has elapsed, after which second physiological data is obtained from the subject.

14. The method of any preceding claim wherein a step of obtaining second physiological data from the subject is carried out while the first electrical signal is generated and the step of generating the first electrical signal is continued until a difference between the value of a parameter of the second physiological data and a target value is less than or equal to a reference value.

15. The method of any of claims 1-13 wherein further physiological data is continuously or continually obtained from the subject while the first electrical signal is generated and the step of generating the first electrical signal is continued until a difference between the value of a parameter of the further physiological data and a target value is less than or equal to a reference value.

16. The method of claim 13 or 14 when dependent on claims 7 to 12 wherein if a difference between the second physiological data and the second data is greater than a reference value, the step of generating the first electrical signal is repeated.

17. The method of claim 13 or 14 when dependent on claims 7 to 12 wherein if a difference between the second physiological data and the second data is less than a reference value, the step of generating the first electrical signal is ceased, optionally ceased after a second reference time has elapsed.

18. The method of any preceding claim wherein the method further comprises a step of determining a second algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a second electrical signal for causing the transmitter to drive the antenna to emit a second PEMF having at least one parameter which is different from the first PEMF, optionally wherein the second electrical signal has a frequency which is different from that of the first electrical signal.

19. The method of any preceding claim wherein the first physiological data represents a sleep cycle or brain activity.

20. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the first algorithm is determined to control the time dependent property of the first electrical signal such that the emitted first PEMF is configured to cause a physiological state indicated by the first physiological data to be altered in the subject.

21. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the antenna is an internal mobile telecommunications antenna of the mobile telecommunications device.

22. The method of any preceding claim, wherein a carrier wave for the first PEMF comprises a frequency between 300 MHz and 6 GHz.

23. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the first PEMF comprises 1- to 120second bursts separated by rest periods of 1 to 120 seconds, optionally 2- to 60minute bursts separated by rest periods of 1 to 10 minutes.

24. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the first PEMF is emitted for a total time duration of 1 to 12 hours.

25. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the first PEMF is emitted at a first pulse frequency for a first time period, followed by a second pulse frequency for a second time period, wherein the first pulse frequency is different from the second pulse frequency.

26. The method of any preceding claim, wherein said mobile device is configured to operate using a Bluetooth protocol.

27. An app or computer software program for a mobile telecommunications device, the mobile telecommunications device including a processor, and a transmitter for generating electrical signals adapted to be coupled to an antenna;

wherein the app or computer software program is configured to control the mobile telecommunications device to:

(i) determine via the processor a first algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a first electrical signal to be generated by the transmitter based on first physiological data obtained from a subject; and (ii) generate the first electrical signal to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, wherein the antenna in response to the first electrical signal emits a first pulsed electromagnetic field “PEMF; and optionally wherein the app or computer software program is further configured to control the respective components of the mobile telecommunications device via the processor to carry out the method steps of any of claims 2-26.

28. A mobile telecommunications device including a processor, and a transmitter for generating electrical signals adapted to be coupled to an antenna, wherein the mobile device is configured to:

(i) determine via the processor a first algorithm for controlling a time dependent property of a first electrical signal to be generated by the transmitter based on first physiological data obtained from a subject; and (ii) generate the first electrical signal to cause the transmitter to drive the antenna, wherein the antenna in response to the first electrical signal emits a first pulsed electromagnetic field “PEMF, and optionally wherein the mobile telecommunications device is further configured via the processor to carry out the method steps of any one of claims 2-27.