An electrode assembly is described, which allows close and robust contact with a biological structure such as a nerve while simultaneously preventing compressive injury to the biological structure. The electrode assembly includes a compliant cuff body and at least one reinforcing element in an aspect. The reinforced compliant cuff body may expand and contract to accommodate swelling of underlying biological structures, to accommodate movements of the biological structures associated with body movements, and to closely fit biological structures with irregular or non-uniform cross-sectional profiles. The electrode assembly further includes at least one electrode for sending and/or receiving electric impulse data to/from the biological structure such as a nerve.