Abstract: A device and method for the application of pressure to a location where muscle pain exists, including at a trigger point. The device and method provide gradual, uniform and systematic progression of pressure and release. The device and method enable the application of pressure in a manner that allows a patient to tolerate the pressure without tensing the relevant muscles and/or causing the locus of pain to become hyperirritable and painful. The device and method also enable the gradual selectable increase in that applied pressure while still preventing the tense response from the patient so that the optimal or desired amount of focused pressure is tolerated. The device enables progressive deep tissue massage in systematic and progressive steps that enhances the treatment of myofascial trigger points in skeletal muscles and other forms of muscle pain. The device includes a plurality of terminal configurations that differ in hardness and/or dimensions.

Abstract: A needle and sharps disposal container (10) specifically designed to prevent accidental and intentional contact with biohazardous waste. The disposal container comprising a hollow container body (12) having a barrier means at the top (14) for allowing the deposit of contaminated material while maintaining a constant barrier between the contents of the container and the outside environment. The barrier means includes: a manually rotatable cylinder (22) with a slot (34) rotatable between a downward and an upward position, a slightly larger fixed partial cylinder (24) which surrounds and encases the rotatable cylinder and which provides an elongated convex surface (18) to constrict the rotatable slot (34) through certain degrees of rotation. A torsional spring (46) is provided for biasing the rotatable cylinder toward the downward position to ensure effective disposal of contaminated sharps and needles with each use of the container.