Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for subjecting a body part to a vacuum, engorging blood veins and reducing neurophatic pain. The body part is inserted through a donut like inflatable seal which is attached to an opening in the cylindrical rigid hypobaric chamber. The seal is inflated and the chamber evacuated utilizing a single air pump. The seal pressure and chamber vacuum are controlled and adjusted using preset or adjustable pressure release valves.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cross-country ski boot, wherein said boot comprises a shell in rigid plastic material, removably fittable over an inner shoe in supple material which is relatively thick for comfort and size-compensation, the upper part of said shell being entirely cut out in the area where the boot is required to bend at the same time as the metatarsus, substantially through to the outer sole and the inner shoe, which is in closed-pore wear-resistant foam, more densified in some parts than in others, comprising a thicker and compressible part which encloses the top of the foot and which presents, in facing relation to the metatarsal perforations, of the shell, transverse grooves which also help antero-posterior bending.

Abstract: A spike, preferably made entirely of plastic material, for a sport shoe having a tapping in the sole thereof, the spike including a head portion which is capable of being rotated for locking same onto the tapping, a threaded stem extending from the head portion for engagement within the tapping, and the threaded stem being provided with a blind axial conduit for engagement by a spanner of corresponding configuration upon breakage of the spike and exposure of the blind end of the conduit.

Abstract: The mold according to the invention is in two opening parts. Its first part defining the lower sole face and presenting spiked holes, delimits receiving recesses shaped to complement the molded heads of the spikes and adapted to receive the corresponding heads while ensuring a perfect contact capable of preventing any of the molding material from filtering in, whereas the second part of the mold, defining the upper sole face and provided with bosses projecting opposite the said holes, comprises push-rods on the bosses conjugated with the recesses, to hold the corresponding heads in position inside the latter when the mold is closed.