Abstract: An apparatus is described for decompressing the spine from a seated position. Two triangular sides having forearm supports which can be set at an angle to the horizontal plane with the angle having a range of 20.degree.-45.degree. and is attached through cross members and have hand grips mounted adjacent the forearm supports. The apparatus rests on a floor, the ground, a chair or similar subsurface. The user positions himself in a seated position between the sides and raises his body by pressing downward with his forearms and hands, thus unloading and decompressing the spine and lumbar back. An optional harness suspended from above the person may be used to maintain continuous decompression of the lower spine between the upward movements executed by the user, or lower body restraints may be used to permit decompression of only the upper spine. An optional back flexion bar may be used to provide additional directions of movement to the spine.

Abstract: Apparatus is described which allows a user to simulate crawling motions and provides enhanced movements of the person's truncal spinal muscles and joints. The apparatus comprises a first means for supporting a person in position where there is minimal axial gravity loading of the spine and second means to permit relative motion between axial portions of the spine trunk, especially the upper (thoracic) and lower (pelvic) portions of the person's trunk, while the person remains in the gravity unloaded position. The device contains a fixed portion and a pivoting or swiveling portion, the swiveling portion comprising a pair of pivoted supports which can move in circular lateral paths independent of each other. In the preferred embodiment the user assumes an all fours position and by kneeling or leaning on the swiveling portion engages in a crawling motion alternating movements of each leg or arm, which causes the upper and lower portions of the trunk to move relative to each other.