Abstract: In accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosed embodiment, a cervical collar includes a semi-rigid collar substantially conforming to the back of a neck, an occipital locking mechanism coupled to the semi-rigid collar, configured to generally conform to and engage with the base of a skull at the occipital or mastoid region without engaging the temporomandibular joint, jaw or chin of the skull and a traction mechanism coupled to the semi-rigid collar, the at least one traction mechanism configured to provide cervical traction through the occipital locking mechanism of the semi-rigid collar against the base of the skull without pressure against the temporomandibular joint, jaw and chin.

Abstract: An apparatus—which could be a chair (10), but could also be an apparatus that supports a person in other than a seated position—comprising a moveable platform (including a seat (12) in case of a chair) urged always toward a neutral position when a person is seated or otherwise positioned on the apparatus (10). The motion of the platform/seat (12) toward and away from the neutral position is constrained so that the platform/seat (12) remains at least approximately horizontal in its orientation relative to the floor on which the apparatus/chair (10) is positioned even when traveling along a path not horizontal to the floor, i.e. e.g. along a path inclined to the floor. A method is also provided in which the apparatus/chair (10) is used to provide lower-back therapy.

Abstract: A device for improving posture by providing thoracic extension, having a base portion with a head support and arm supports disposed at the head-end section of the base. A flexible membrane is provided which extends upward from the surface of the base on which the patient reclines. As posterior forces are applied to the arm rests, a system of pulleys and cables effects an upward displacement of the flexible membrane into the back of the patient. The flexible membrane is projected into the thoracic spine of the patient and effectively stretches certain of the back muscles in order to strengthen them for posture purposes. Furthermore, the device allows the patient to isolate either a middle or lower trapezius muscles of the back so as to apply the thoracic extension by the flexible membrane.

Abstract: A portable cervical traction device for applying tractive forces to the cervical spine of a patient, having a head support means for the neck and head of the patient, including an occipital pad which has a reversed angled surface which causes increased cervical flexion when the device is in use and while ensuring contact between the back of the head and the occipital pad for comfort. The angle of the tractive force is also adjustable so as to isolate portions of the cervical spine for application of the traction. The invention further allows the patient to vary the tractive force applied through the use of an air cylinder, which is directly affixed to the head support means.