For Foot Or Ankle Patents (Class 482/79)
  • Publication number: 20110224049
    Abstract: A device (10) for exercising a foot (12) has a base (16) onto which the foot (12) to be exercised is located and an upper (18). A number of resilient members (20) are secured to the upper (18) and on moving the foot (12) between an extended position and a retracted position, the resilient members (20) provide a resistive force on the foot (12) which opposes the movement of the foot (12) between the extended and retracted positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventor: Gerrard Farrell
  • Patent number: 8006795
    Abstract: A device and method for assisting a user in regaining his balance is disclosed. The device comprises: at least one sensor for sensing changes in weight distribution on any of the feet of the user, at least one propulsion unit to be coupled to any of the feet of the user for displacing a foot of the user when a change in the weight distribution on that foot reaches a predetermined condition; and a controller for receiving signals from the sensor indicative of the predetermined condition and activating the propulsion unit. When the predetermined condition is determined the propulsion unit displaces a foot of the user mechanically in a direction that results in the repositioning of the support area of the user beneath the center of mass of the user, thus allowing the user to regain balance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Yonatan Manor
  • Patent number: 8002675
    Abstract: Described is an exercise tool. More particularly, it is a therapy and exercise tool specifically devised as a foot-therapy and toe-aligning device to align, separate, and stretch toes. The foot-therapy and toe-aligning device comprises a frame with a plurality of posts connected with the frame. The device is formed of an elastic material such that a user may place at least one of the plurality of posts between a user's toes and pull the post to stretch and elongate the post between the toes. Upon release, the elastic material of the post causes the post to attempt to return to its original shape, thereby causing it to expand out and conform its shape to fit snugly against the user's toes. Additionally, the elastic material allows the toe posts to be positioned and maintained at numerous locations between the user's toes for customizable positioning between the toes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: FenF, LLC
    Inventor: Frederic Ferri
  • Patent number: 7988602
    Abstract: A device and method for treating and preventing plantar fasciitis includes a wedge adapted to be placed under the big toe. The wedge has a top surface for supporting the big toe, a first support surface separated from the top surface by a first angle, and a second support separated from the top surface by a second angle. The first and second support surfaces are perpendicular with each other so that one rests on the floor and the other serves as a backstop. The wedge has a first position for inclining the top surface upwardly at the first angle to provide moderate stretching of the plantar fascia, and a second position for inclining the top surface upwardly at the second angle to provide maximum stretching. The first angle is within a range of 20 to 25 degrees, and the second angle is within a range of 65 to 70 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Michael L. Janzen
  • Publication number: 20110183815
    Abstract: A device and method for treating and preventing plantar fasciitis includes a wedge adapted to be placed under the big toe. The wedge has a top surface for supporting the big toe, a first support surface separated from the top surface by a first angle, and a second support separated from the top surface by a second angle. The first and second support surfaces are perpendicular with each other so that one rests on the floor and the other serves as a backstop. The wedge has a first position for inclining the top surface upwardly at the first angle to provide moderate stretching of the plantar fascia, and a second position for inclining the top surface upwardly at the second angle to provide maximum stretching. The first angle is within a range of 20 to 25 degrees, and the second angle is within a range of 65 to 70 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventor: Michael L. Janzen
  • Publication number: 20110152041
    Abstract: A foot stretcher for use with a rowing vessel or a mechanical rowing apparatus, and being especially useful in rowing vessels designed and equipped for professional or competitive racing. The foot stretcher includes a shoe support having attachment means for attaching the support to a rowing boat or rowing apparatus and having a mounting for the shoe for the rower. The shoe support is rotatable relative to the attachment means to suit individual rowers. The shoe support includes a sole plate having a forefoot portion and a heel portion, wherein the heel portion extends at an angle relative to the forefoot portion of the sole plate. The angular position of the heel plate relative to the forefoot portion of the sole plate is adjustable to suit individual rowers and their requirements. Adjustment of the angular position of the heel plate can be conducted using a locking arrangement, a screw arrangement, or by insertion of detachable heel member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Paul James Francis
  • Patent number: 7955230
    Abstract: A device for promoting proper walking-related muscle development is disclosed. In various embodiments, the device can be worn on the foot of a patient undergoing walking therapy. The device includes a toe section that can be secured to the foot, and provides a relatively slidable surface that allows relatively easy sliding of the toe section on the floor. Such a configuration facilitates easier execution of a step movement that promotes walking-related muscle development. The device can also include one or more attachments configured to allow a therapist to assist and/or guide the steps of the patient. In one embodiment, the attachment can be a loop attached to the toe section so that the therapist can insert his/her foot and guide/assist the patient's steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Waleed Al-Oboudi
  • Patent number: 7951050
    Abstract: An apparatus for aerobic leg exercise of a seated user includes a first unit having means for supporting a first linear track on a floor, means for joining a first unit to the first linear track for non-resistive movement and means for enabling the seated user with a multi-positional contact for moving the first unit along the first linear track without substantial vertical movement of the seated user's knee. A second unit has means for supporting a second linear track on the floor, means for joining a second unit to the second linear track for non-resistive movement and means for enabling the seated user with a multi-positional contact for moving the second unit along the second linear track without substantial vertical movement of the seated user's knee. A means secures the first unit and the second unit at a desired splay angle and a means stabilizes the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventors: Kelvin A. Raumann, Wanda L. Raumann
  • Publication number: 20110124473
    Abstract: An exercise device for a lower leg and foot is provided. The exercise device provides a user with the ability to exercise multiple muscles in both lower legs and both feet, and provides the user with multiple exercises with a single exercise device. Additionally, the exercise device is capable of providing variable resistances during exercise to accommodate users of different strength and to accommodate a user's increase in strength. To provide variable resistance, the exercise device includes a plurality of resilient resistance member interchangeably coupled to a housing of the exercise device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Ryan Michael Kole, Naftali Mayer Garber
  • Patent number: 7901336
    Abstract: The present invention is for the rehabilitation of stroke, brain or nerve damaged patients whose feet are paralyzed or unresponsive and must relearn lower leg and foot muscle control. A foot box can support a patient's foot with the foot box mounted above a flat base plate for movement by the patient. The foot box can be pivotally mounted by a swivel bearing to a shaft on the base plate with a forward end of the foot box supported by a wheel. A hemisphere support on the lower surface of the foot box permits movable support of the foot box when the swivel bearing is disengaged from the shaft and the wheel is raised. Attachments for the ends of handled pull cords are provided on the front corners and sides of the foot box. Pulleys on the base plate guide the pull cords.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: John Michael McDuffie
  • Patent number: 7901331
    Abstract: In the embodiments and methods described, a device is employed having a first multi-bar linkage in mechanical communication with a frame. At least one mechanical input component is in mechanical communication with the multi-bar linkage. The multi-bar linkage is selectively adaptable to provide at least three different motions for the mechanical input component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Henry William Stoll
  • Patent number: 7892152
    Abstract: A structural improvement for stretching exercise apparatus comprises a carry handle pivotally connected symmetric long bottom seats, upper surfaces of the long bottom seats having symmetric guiding slots near two long side edges; at least two sets of symmetric casters, disposed to bottom portions of two pedals, for fitting the symmetric guiding slots; and two flexible riggings disposed inside the two long bottom seats. The feature of the apparatus is that a long channel is disposed between the symmetric guiding slots and upper surfaces of the symmetric long bottom seats. A plurality of symmetric positioning circular holes is disposed to two sides of the long channel. A limit seat has four end angles equipped with cylinders. Accordingly, the distance variations generated by the pedal relatively moving within the guiding slot can be changed by regulating the cylinders of the limit seat inserted into the positioning circular holes at different positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Ju-Chuan Teng
  • Patent number: 7892154
    Abstract: An apparatus and method designed to strengthen, develop, and rehabilitate the anatomy of the human ankle is herein disclosed, comprising a large stable floor base and a plurality of resistant shock absorber-like members extending therefrom a foot securing platform. A user's foot is placed thereon and connected thereto the foot platform by toe and heel cuffs. Each motion resistant cylinder has adjustment means for reducing or adding resistance. In use, the attached lower leg and foot is restrained in all planar and vertical axes; however, the user is able to move their foot in a vertical and orbital manner against the resistance of the cylinders resulting in rehabilitation and/or strengthening of the muscles, tendons and ligaments surrounding the ankle. Improving ankle strength and mobility using this apparatus would have athletic, fitness, and therapeutic benefits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Austen Alexa
  • Publication number: 20110040225
    Abstract: An ingenious calf, shin and ankle rehabilitation and exerciser apparatus for engagement with the lower leg muscles and ankle comprising of a rigid sole plate member (12) having a sole plate protective pad 40 and affixed fastening sole straps (52) for securing foot to sole plate member (12), an attachable fulcrum heel ball member (18) for attaching to the bottom of heel section (16). Sole plate member (12) is pivotally attached to a rigid cross brace member (20) which is comprised of a fastening shin straps (50) affixed to a shin protective pad member (36) to secure the lower leg to a rigid pivoting back support member (22) that is pivotally engaged to cross brace member (20). Cross brace (20) engages the toe section (14) of sole plate member (12) via an engaging biasing resistance means (48) that provides posterior and anterior resistance not limited to isotonic and isometric for the flexing of the foot and ankle not limited to dorsi-flexion, plantar-flexion, inversion or eversion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: Vincent B. Gibbons
  • Publication number: 20110003666
    Abstract: An apparatus for aerobic leg exercise of a seated user includes a first unit having means for supporting a first linear track on a floor, means for joining a first unit to the first linear track for non-resistive movement and means for enabling the seated user with a multi-positional contact for moving the first unit along the first linear track without substantial vertical movement of the seated user's knee. A second unit has means for supporting a second linear track on the floor, means for joining a second unit to the second linear track for non-resistive movement and means for enabling the seated user with a multi-positional contact for moving the second unit along the second linear track without substantial vertical movement of the seated user's knee. A means secures the first unit and the second unit at a desired splay angle and a means stabilizes the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventors: Kelvin Raumann, Wanda L. Raumann
  • Publication number: 20100331150
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a ungrounded, reconfigurable, parallel mechanism based, force feedback exoskeleton device for the human ankle. The primary use for the device is aimed as a balance/proprioception trainer, while the exeskeleton device can also be employed to accommodate range of motion (RoM)/strengthening exercises. This device is also used for metatarsophalangeal joint exercises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: Sabanci University
    Inventor: Volkan Patoglu
  • Patent number: 7857733
    Abstract: A device for stretching or flexing the calf muscles and tendons of the lower leg, the device in one embodiment having a base member formed with a 90 degree angle for positioning at the intersection of two walls and a floor, the base member having elevated non-skid planar surfaces emanating from the 90 degree angle to the edge of the base plate allowing a user to stand on the elevated non-skid surfaces with both feet and use one's body weight to stretch the calf muscles by lowering or raising ones heels below or above the plane of the elevated non-skid surface. In another embodiment, the device consists of a base member having a straight wall engaging edge with an upstanding wall, terminating in a flat planar surface and an angled ramp surface communicating between the flat upper surface and the base member, the calf stretcher allowing the user to stand on the base member and place selective right or left foot onto the ramp section for the respective stretching of the calf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Peter Tsakiris
  • Patent number: 7857776
    Abstract: An adjustable orthosis for, among other functions, flexing or extending a users joint, positioning a limb or digit during or after a surgical procedure, correcting foot drop due to soft tissue contraction, and augmenting soft tissue during weight bearing therapies. In a preferred form, the orthosis includes a padded shell adapted to be worn on a user's limb and a distal support to be worn on one or more digits of the hand or foot or on the forefoot or body of the hand. The padded shell is connected to the distal support solely via an elastic member such as surgical tubing, which also applies a tension force between the two supports. One end of the elastic member carries teeth that mate with a ratcheting device that permits the wearer (1) to gradually increase the tension between the supports and (2) to quickly release the tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Robert M. Frisbie
  • Patent number: 7857740
    Abstract: A bench platform assembly, which has a rectangular deck having a plurality of spaced apart holes therein for permitting the free passage therethrough of an elastic cord or tubing or rope; and a semicircular rocker assembly affixed to a central bottom portion of said deck. Two removable rectangular blocks allow the bench platform to become a fixed platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Vencompass Group Enterprises
    Inventor: Hector Alejandro Suaste
  • Patent number: 7846073
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a leg exerciser device offering a pair of footplates arranged for inward and outward reciprocal movement along a respective pair of rails and whereby each of the footplates is operatively connected by way of support arms to a variable number of weights so as to increase the resistance offered by apparatus during an exercise routine. The path of travel of each footplate and the configuration of each arm is such that the vertical distance moved by the weights is greater than the vertical distance moved by each footplate during its reciprocal motion along the rails so as to enhance the degree of work undertaking during an exercise routine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: ENANEF Limited
    Inventor: Neil Summers
  • Publication number: 20100304937
    Abstract: Improvements in a foot exerciser are presented that provides variable resistance for foot extension and flexing. The improvements are presented with two varieties where a first variety is fit onto an existing shoe and a second variety that is a complete shoe with the resistance elements built into or on the shoe. The amount of resistance can be changed or varied based on the abilities of the athlete by changing the resistance material, length, number and or the attachment location of the resistance element on the shoe or foot exerciser. The Speed Doctor speed builder foot exerciser provide athletes with a simple and effective way to improve the strength, agility and jumping ability of their legs by wearing shoes that offer resistance and tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: CLEVON SPENCER
  • Patent number: 7833137
    Abstract: An exercise system includes a flexible attachment member sized for positioning between a shoe's tongue and laces that extends beneath a majority of the laces. The attachment member includes opposed first and second faces, the first face having hook and loop coupling elements of a first configuration, the second face having hook and loop coupling elements of a second configuration. The exercise system includes a plurality of weight members, each having a first face with hook and loop coupling elements of the first configuration and a second face with hook and loop coupling elements of the second configuration. The hook and loop coupling elements of the first and second configurations are complementary to one another to couple at least one weight members to the attachment member first or second face and couple at least one the weight members atop a respective weight member coupled to the attachment member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Shawn Garnuette
  • Patent number: 7827992
    Abstract: An article and method for preventing a continuous passive motion (CPM) device from moving out of position or alignment that include a holding member adapted to pass around a portion of the CPM device and an anchoring member coupled with the holding member for retaining the CPM device holding member in position. The anchoring member is adapted to be placed under the user of the device and held fast by the weight of the user, thereby assuring secure control of the CPM device position by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Lori L. Sieber
  • Publication number: 20100274166
    Abstract: A device which restricts movement of the knee during lunge and squatting exercises prevents weight imbalance which may result in undue strain and knee injury. The device has a foot engagement member which is either stepped upon by the user and held in place by the user's weight, or the foot engagement member conforms to the side of the user's foot and is held in place by a strap or other means. Attached to the foot engagement is a vertical member which extends upwardly from the foot engagement member. A shin engagement member attached to the vertical member. The shin engagement member is generally positioned in a position along the lower leg of the user, below the knee and laterally adjacent to the user's tibia. As the user does a lunge, squat, or similar exercise, the shin engagement member prevents the user's knees from forward movement which extends forward of the user's feet. The device also has structure which prevents inward collapse of the knees during the exercise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Timothy Terrio
  • Publication number: 20100261583
    Abstract: A foot, toe, and ankle exercise device provides variable resistance to movements of the foot, ankle and toes in multiple directions. Embodiments of the device comprise a flexible forefoot support to allow for full toe and foot range of motion. Resistance is provided by resistance members that may comprise elastic banding or tubing. The forefoot support may be suspended by the resistance members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: PROGRESSIVE HEALTH INNOVATIONS INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Matthew Earle Crozier Ferguson, Richard Stephen Hall, Jordan Aldon Myers, Scott Howard Phillips, Christopher Grant Denny
  • Patent number: 7806807
    Abstract: An exercise device for improving balance, comprising a platform; a balancing element mounted to the platform so as to permit angular displacement of the balancing element relative to the platform; an adjustable angular displacement limiter for determining a limit of the angular displacement of the balancing element relative to the platform; and an adjustment access path to provide adjustment access to the limiter while the balancing element is operably mounted to the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Genua
  • Publication number: 20100242310
    Abstract: Therapeutic devices and methods suitable for stretching the Achilles tendon. Each device includes a base portion and at least one wedge portion. The wedge portion has heel and toe ends, inside-foot and outside-foot edges, and an upper surface. The upper surface has a nonuniform elevation relative to the base portion as a result of the wedge portion having a fore-aft taper in the fore-aft direction and a lateral taper in the lateral direction, wherein the inside-foot edge has an increasing elevation toward the toe end. The wedge portion further has a nonconstant lateral width as a result of the toe end being wider than the heel end. The fore-aft and lateral tapers are sufficient so that placement of a user's foot on the upper surface causes supination and locking of the foot and enables stretching of the Achilles complex.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Prasad Gourineni
  • Patent number: 7803089
    Abstract: Described is an exercise apparatus that includes reciprocating foot pedal structures where the pedal structures include various mechanisms for absorbing foot impact or forces on the foot. The pedal structures can also include a mechanism for generating a biasing force generally normal to the upper surface of the foot pedal effective to restore the pedal to its normal position after foot impact. The impact absorbing mechanisms can include resilient members, fluid filled bladders and hinge arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Marcos D. Roimicher, Joseph Immordino, Eric White, Thomas J. Danowski, Rachel L. Holik, Juliette Daly, Cory H. Lazar, John C. Olson
  • Publication number: 20100234189
    Abstract: A walkable plate is provided for assisting the motor function of living creatures, especially human motor function. The plate has positions of different hardness across its surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: TEO INDUSTRIEDESIGN GMBH
    Inventor: Jens FREITAG
  • Patent number: 7794368
    Abstract: Insole constructions for shoes including articulated components that allow for the connection of attachments having various devices are described. The insole constructions provide a supported attachment point for various components while not compromising the flexibility of the shoe. The insole constructions allow for attachment of devices at the heel, toe or sides of the shoe. Devices for attaching to shoes having the insole construction are also described, along with apparatuses for use with shoes having the insole construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Ralph A. Rutherford
  • Patent number: 7794367
    Abstract: A foot, toe, and ankle exercise device provides variable resistance to movements in multiple directions. The device comprises a flexible forefoot support to allow for full toe and foot range of motion. The forefoot support includes a raised surface under the toes used to help align anatomical landmarks to delineate the resistance for the toes from that of the foot/ankle. Resistance may be provided by elastic banding or tubing that is mounted on an octagonal frame. Tensioners are provided to adjust the magnitude of the resistance. A height adjustable heel cup is mounted on a horizontal track to adjust the apparatus for use by different users with different size feet. A vertical track is provided to raise or lower the forefoot support and system of elastic banding or tubing so that full range movements are possible. In another version of the invention, inelastic banding along with weights is used to provide resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Progressive Health Innovations Incorporated
    Inventors: Richard Stephen Hall, Matthew Earle Crozier Ferguson, Jordan Aldon Myers, Christopher Grant Denny
  • Publication number: 20100227741
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus and method for isolating an ankle during aerobic exercise on a bicycle configured to be worn on the leg of a person having an ankle injury so that the person may operate the bicycle with the leg having the ankle injury without pressure on the ankle, wherein weight and force are distributed from the pedal to the calf and thigh without implicating the ankle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventors: LEON ROSENBERG, STEPHEN COHEN
  • Publication number: 20100212068
    Abstract: Foot Alignment Socks are a uniquely designed adaptation of regular socks used to alleviate minor foot problems. Foot Alignment Socks differ from traditional socks in that there is no covered toe assembly. Instead the socks have four separators which fit in between the toes. They are cylindrical and sturdy yet soft and yielding as they are constructed from the same fabric as the body of the sock. The separators stretch and align toes into proper position in respect to the rest of the foot. This toe alignment counters the harmful effects of daily foot compression and stress caused by tight and ill-fitting shoes as well as relieving foot pain from excess walking, standing, jogging, or strenuous sports and activities. With consistent use Foot Alignment Socks soothe and straighten crooked and deformed toes. They are ideal as an over-night foot maintenance treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Eva Nemcik
  • Patent number: 7749141
    Abstract: A kick training apparatus includes; a foot-receiving receptacle, which receives at least a front portion of a foot, and a band including a first end coupled to the foot-receiving receptacle, wherein a second end of the band is configured to be restrained by a hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Eric Meisterling
  • Patent number: 7744513
    Abstract: A leg lift device is provided for attachment to a shoe. The leg lift device includes a sole, an optional lift insert and a shoe receiver attached to the sole. The shoe receiver includes a first section to engage a toe of a shoe and a second section to engage a heel of a shoe. The device also includes an attachment strap. A selected method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: Bradley Castellano
  • Patent number: 7740567
    Abstract: The shoe accessory includes a platform for supporting a conventional shoe. The shoe accessory's base has a convex or other non-planar surface that causes the shoe accessory to be stable in a longitudinal (heel-toe) direction, and unstable in a lateral (medial/lateral) direction. The non-planar surface may be defined by a ridge segment on the platform's bottom side. One or more straps are provided to temporarily secure the wearer's conventional shoe to the platform in a non-destructive manner. A generally U-shaped heel retainer may be provided adjacent a rear portion of the platform for receiving the heel of the shoe. The shoe accessory makes a flat-soled shoe laterally unstable while allowing for longitudinal stability and a naturalistic gait, and thus facilitates exercise of leg and foot muscles during normal walking, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Benjamin Bailar
  • Patent number: 7736285
    Abstract: A portable exercise device, for use in exercising an abdominal portion and a lower portion of a body, includes a base, a frame assembly and an exercising assembly. The frame assembly is detachably coupled to the base. The frame assembly includes a first support member and a second support member. The second support member is coupled to the first support member for configuring an intermediate support member therebetween. The exercising assembly includes a first stretchable member coupled to the first support member and the intermediate support member, a first platform coupled to the first stretchable member, a second stretchable member coupled to the second support member and the intermediate support member, and second platform coupled to the second stretchable member. The portable exercise device further includes a fastening mechanism configured on each of the first platform and the second platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Edward Brown, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100130332
    Abstract: An ankle exercise device increases user comfort and is capable of exercising each ankle without having to switch a fulcrum from one side to the other. The exercise device includes an upper section having a first stiffness characteristic and a lower section that is connected to upper section and has a second stiffness characteristic that is different than the first stiffness characteristic. A fulcrum extends from the lower section and is adapted to support the exercise device for pivoting movement relative to a floor or other support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: JELAGA, INC.
    Inventors: David A. Seel, Jerry E. Seel, Gary W. Gray
  • Patent number: 7722514
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus for providing multi-directional training to the body of a user is disclosed. The exercise apparatus allows the user to exercise the mid-section, hips, legs, ankles and connective tissues enjoining all the muscles in these areas. The exercise apparatus comprises a main frame, a foot platform (preferably two) and means for attaching the foot platforms to the main frame. The exercise apparatus is designed to be free standing or to be mounted onto other supporting structures. The apparatus has multiple interchangeable parts, attachments and accessories for allowing several types of exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: BVP Holding, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Paine, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7713182
    Abstract: An exercise device comprises a frame, including a pair of arcuate rails having a central curved portion, a first end, and a second end. The pair of rails are disposed in fixed parallel relation with one another with a first end member interconnecting the first ends of the rails and a second end member interconnecting the second ends of the rails. The exercise device further comprises a platform operatively connected to the frame for supporting a person thereon. The device may be oriented in various orientations including: 1) a rocking orientation wherein the curved portions of the pair of rails abut a surface on which the device is placed such that the device may move in a rocking motion relative to the surface and 2) a stationary orientation wherein the first end member and the second end member abut the surface on which the device is placed such that the device is stationary relative to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Edison Nation, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Lee Bizzell, Andrew Donati, Ryan Gorman, Chris Hoy, Todd Stancombe
  • Publication number: 20100094181
    Abstract: An apparatus for stretching and strengthening extremities includes a foot placement foundation having an inversion plane, a neutral plane, and an eversion plane. Support elements for the foot placement foundation include a front element, a back element, and two side elements connecting the front element to the back element, where the front element is shorter than the back element, forming an incline in the foot placement foundation. The foot placement foundation can have an incline of 15 or 20 degrees from horizontal, the apparatus can include an adjustment mechanism used to modify the incline in the foot placement foundation, and the side elements can be wedge-shaped. In addition, the front, back, and side elements can together include a flat bottom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: Rehab United Sports Medicine & Physical Therapy, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Hill, Gerald Giraud, Bryan Hill
  • Publication number: 20100075813
    Abstract: A housing 1 is provided with a left foot support 2a and the right foot support 2b each of which is provided for bearing the user's foot thereon. A drive unit 3 is configured to vary an upper surface angle of each of the left foot support 2a and the right foot support relative to horizontal plane. Each of the left foot support 2a and the right foot support 2b is driven to move within a swing range. When one of the left foot support 2a and the right foot support 2b has its front end being located at an upper end of the swing range, the other of the left foot support 2a and the right foot support 2b has its front end being located at a lower end of the swing range. Both of a left ankle joint and a right ankle joint are alternately dorsiflexed and plantarflexed. Consequently, it is possible to obtain an exercise assisting device being configured to bend and stretch lower legs to stimulate lower leg muscles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2007
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Ochi, Youichi Shinomiya, Takahisa Ozawa, Takao Goto, Atsuhiro Saitou, Haruo Sugai
  • Publication number: 20100035733
    Abstract: A device for stretching or flexing the calf muscles and tendons of the lower leg, the device in one embodiment having a base member formed with a 90 degree angle for positioning at the intersection of two walls and a floor, the base member having elevated non-skid planar surfaces emanating from the 90 degree angle to the edge of the base plate allowing a user to stand on the elevated non-skid surfaces with both feet and use one's body weight to stretch the calf muscles by lowering ones heels below the plane of the elevated non-skid surface. User hangs heels over edge and lowers leg, stretching calf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Peter Tsakiris
  • Publication number: 20100035734
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a rocker boot for stretching or strengthening muscles. The rocker boot may include a base having a arcuate surface and a footrest attached to the base. The footrest may be adjustable to provide one or more different configurations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Craig S. DiGiovanni
  • Patent number: 7645221
    Abstract: An exercise device has a base, an exercise platform (which can be split into a left and right platform) and two or more springs that connect the base and the exercise platform(s) and hold the exercise platform(s) substantially parallel to the base when the exercise device is not in use, preventing the exercise platform(s) from coming into contact with the base when the exercise device is in use and allowing the position of the exercise platform to vary relative to the base as weight is applied to the exercise platform(s) at different points apart from a center point of weight balance while straps can be used to stabilize or selectively vary the center point of weight balance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Inventor: Mike Curry
  • Patent number: 7635321
    Abstract: An apparatus for stretching and strengthening extremities includes a foot placement foundation having an inversion plane, a neutral plane, and an eversion plane. A selectively actuatable adjustment mechanism is connected to the foot placement foundation to permit a user of the apparatus to adjust the incline of the foot placement foundation as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Rehab United Sports Medicine & Physical Therapy, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Hill, Gerald Giraud, Bryan Hill
  • Patent number: 7632218
    Abstract: A surfing trainer apparatus comprises a board and a generally hemispherical fulcrum with the fulcrum attached to the lower surface of the board at the fulcrum's diametrical plane. The fulcrum is made of non-resilient material and has second planar surface distal to its diametrical plane and parallel to the lower surface of the board providing both a simulated point of limited stability as well as simulated instability in both pitch and roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventors: James Sannes, Amy Sannes
  • Patent number: 7621861
    Abstract: A rotational exercise apparatus (10) for strengthen and toning the human body which consists of a collapsible stationary support frame (20) with horizontal gripping arms (22) and a base plate (52) attached in a horizontal position to the frame. A rotatable platform (54) is positioned on top of the base plate and freely rotates with a pair of swiveling foot plates (56) mounted on the platform upper surface. During use, a person places their foot on each foot plate (56) and exercises by rotating and counter rotating both the platform (54) and the foot plates (56) simultaneously while maintaining balance by holding onto the gripping arms (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Robert S. Kalember, Michael W. Knight
  • Patent number: 7614990
    Abstract: Disclosed is a twist exercise machine for waist and leg exercise. The twist exercise machine composed of base, rotation panel and rotation axis, once the user goes up on the machine and steps on it, the rotation panel receives the force of the weight and the opposing force of spring or compressed air, moving the panel upwards or downwards, and coupled with the vertical movement of the rotation panel, it allow at least 1 unit of 4 step left-right rotation cycle methods as the following: once the rotation panel moves down it rotates left (downwards-left rotation step), when it moves up it rotates right (upwards-right rotation step), when it moves down it rotates right (downwards-right rotation step), and when it moves up it rotates left (upwards-left rotation step), forming a complete cycle of 4 steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventor: Kyoung-Gil Baek
  • Publication number: 20090270231
    Abstract: A foot, toe, and ankle exercise device provides variable resistance to movements in multiple directions. The device comprises a flexible forefoot support to allow for full toe and foot range of motion. The forefoot support includes a raised surface under the toes used to help align anatomical landmarks to delineate the resistance for the toes from that of the foot/ankle. Resistance may be provided by elastic banding or tubing that is mounted on an octagonal frame. Tensioners are provided to adjust the magnitude of the resistance. A height adjustable heel cup is mounted on a horizontal track to adjust the apparatus for use by different users with different size feet. A vertical track is provided to raise or lower the forefoot support and system of elastic banding or tubing so that full range movements are possible. In another version of the invention, inelastic banding along with weights is used to provide resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Progressive Health Innovations Incorporated
    Inventors: Richard Stephen Hall, Matthew Earle Crozier Ferguson, Jordan Aldon Myers, Christopher Grant Denny