Abstract: A neck rehabilitation device for exercising the muscles of a person's neck and upper back is provided. The device has a rear neck-engaging assembly that can be positioned at least partially about the person's neck for engaging a rear side of the person's neck. The rear neck-engaging assembly includes an elastic strap for extending and being stretched about the rear side of the person's neck to exert a forward-directed force on the person's neck. The assembly also includes a resilient compressible member providing resistance to compression for use in exercising the muscles of the person's neck and upper back while the elastic strap is stretched about the person's neck. A method of cervical curve restoration of a person's neck is also provided. The method includes stretching a reversed cervical curve forward and simultaneously exercising the muscles of the person's neck and upper back.

Abstract: A compact and easy-to-use isometric and isokinetic exercise apparatus that is particularly applicable to exercising the neck to improve strength and flexibility and to help alleviate neck pain. Different embodiments provide different arrangements that allow the user to control the level of exercise resistance to meet the tolerance or desires of the user. In all embodiments, the apparatus allows for controlled and graded resistance to the neck that allows the user to regulate the amount of resistance in an incremental manner. One embodiment of a neck exercising apparatus according to the present invention comprises an attachment mechanism for attaching to a user's head. Actuating mechanisms can also be included that allow the user to provide a movement force to the apparatus, wherein the movement force is transferred to said attachment mechanism. The apparatus is arranged such that movement from the actuating mechanisms in one direction causes movement of the attachment mechanism in a different direction.

Abstract: An exerciser for muscles that protract and depress the mandible. A headpiece is adapted to fit around an upper rearward portion of a human head. A chin strap extends around the chin and is coupled to the headpiece at such an angle that the chinstrap is urged against the chin in opposition to both protraction and depression of the chin. The exerciser finds an application in treating temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD).

Abstract: A rehabilitation exercise device includes a head support unit having a head cushion adapted to support the head of a user, and a frame holding the head cushion and having two opposite connection ends. Two side cushions are disposed respectively on two opposite sides of the head cushion, and are connected pivotally and respectively to the connection ends so that the side cushions are rotatable toward or away from the head cushion. A biasing unit is connected to the side cushions to bias the side cushions to rotate toward the head cushion.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a multipurpose therapeutic device for managing musculoskeletal pain and administering traction. In one embodiment of the present invention, a multipurpose therapeutic device includes a front side, a rear side, a first end, and a second end. An outer gripping surface is positioned in proximity to each of the two ends and a number of invaginating contact surfaces extend from the perimeter of the front side and/or the rear side. In one embodiment of the present invention, a user may place his or her neck against one of the contact surfaces. The user may then grip the outer gripping surfaces with his or her hands and move the multipurpose therapeutic device superiorly and inferiorly along his or her neck while applying pressure against his or her neck to massage sore neck muscles or to stretch his or her spine.

Abstract: A headgear device for assisting a user in performing bridge exercises to strengthen the muscles of the neck, and exercises performed using the device. The headgear outer surface has an area of low-friction material to allow the headgear to slide on an exercise surface while the user's head supports a portion of his body weight in the bridge position. This allows the user to introduce dynamic resistance into the exercise by moving around on the surface. One or more straps connectable to the user's arms and/or legs can be used to provide stability and/or resistance during the exercise. A friction pad adapted to be removably attached to the outer surface of the headgear can be used to provide resistance to the headgear sliding.

Abstract: A face exercising device comprising: a stretchable mask having a central aperture for a wearer's face; two connectable top straps connectable behind the wearer's head for securing the top to the wearer's forehead; two connectable bottom straps for attaching the mask to the wearer's chin; and a top strap affixed to the top of the mask for attaching to the back of the wearer's head.

Abstract: Shoulder-Neck-Shaper is designed mainly to alleviate the discomfort of upper back and neck in workers. Since the revolution of “IT” and “service industries” more and more of the workers sit at the desk hours and hours with neck bent and shoulder drooping forwards. Similarly workers working over the counter tops have similar complaints. SNS unit will help in squaring the shoulders relieving the constant stretch of upper back of the top and inner connecting muscles of the shoulder blades. Similarly a more natural position of the neck will help to relieve the discomfort at the junction of neck and upper thoracic spine. It may also relieve any pins and needles in arms by opening numeral foramina of the neck bones by relieving any stretched nerves of neck and upper back.

Abstract: A neck exercise machine including a frame, a seat, a set of pulleys, a head band, an adjustable tensioner, and a cable adjustably attached to the head band, threaded through the pulleys, and removably connected to the adjustable tensioner, such that when a user sits in the seat and attaches the head band, they can exercise their neck muscles in a variety of different angles, rotations, and tensions. Elastic bands, an analog/digital force gauge, or hydraulic cylinder may be used as the adjustable tensioner and incorporate processor, memory, and data output mechanisms for performance analyses. The machine can also be broken down into numerous parts for easy transport and reassembly.

Abstract: A neck trainer for alleviating head, neck, and shoulder pain, and stretching, strengthening, and developing the core muscles of the neck includes an annular headband section configured to fit snugly on a forehead of the user, around a head of the user and above ears of the user; and an annular weight section delineated from and connected to the annular headband section, above the annular headband section. The annular weight section with the headband section is vertically spaced upwardly so that the annular weight section is disposed substantially at a top of or above the forehead of the user, increasing the moment of force provided by the annular weight section when the user moves the user's head, alleviating head, neck, and shoulder pain, and stretching, strengthening, and developing the core muscles of the neck.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a multipurpose therapeutic device for managing musculoskeletal pain and administering traction. In one embodiment of the present invention, a multipurpose therapeutic device includes a front side, a rear side, a first end, and a second end. An outer gripping surface is positioned in proximity to each of the two ends and a number of invaginating contact surfaces extend from the perimeter of the front side and/or the rear side. In one embodiment of the present invention, a user may place his or her neck against one of the contact surfaces. The user may then grip the outer gripping surfaces with his or her hands and move the multipurpose therapeutic device superiorly and inferiorly along his or her neck while applying pressure against his or her neck to massage sore neck muscles or to stretch his or her spine.

Abstract: A machine and method of stretching and exercising the human body, specifically the head, neck, and upper shoulder region. The machine employs three separate user-controlled actuators to allow the user to move and adjust her head, neck, and upper shoulders to almost limitless positions and with utmost precision, thereby effectively stretching and exercising the user's occipital region to achieve the desired comfort level. Because the user is in control of the precise actuator movements, and hence the exact positioning of her occipital region, the machine is much easier and safer to operate and more effective than other exercise and/or physical strengthening devices.

Abstract: An adjustable apparatus for exercising the neck including an assembly connected to an anchor by a tether that has an elastic portion. The assembly includes a cap, a harness to secure the cap on the head, and a saddle piece that extends across the back of the neck. The cap can be a helmet that forms a cam surface with a channel for slideably receiving the tether and a frontal extension forming a continuation of the cam surface. The tether is secured to the posterior of the helmet so as to extend over the cam surface to the anterior portion. The head assembly further includes a tether attachment adjustment mechanism, a harness adjusting ratchet, and a semi-rigid saddle to apply pressure to the neck of the person when the harness is tightened by the harness adjusting ratchet and when the head is tipped backwardly pulling on the tether.

Abstract: A neck exercise machine including a frame, a seat, a set of pulleys, a head band, an adjustable tensioner, and a cable adjustably attached to the head band, threaded through the pulleys, and removably connected to the adjustable tensioner, such that when a user sits in the seat and attaches the head band, they can exercise their neck muscles in a variety of different angles, rotations, and tensions. Elastic bands, an analog/digital force gauge, or hydraulic cylinder may be used as the adjustable tensioner and incorporate processor, memory, and data output mechanisms for performance analyses. The machine can also be broken down into numerous parts for easy transport and reassembly.

Abstract: A hula-hoop is disclosed to include a hula-hoop body that is formed of two symmetrical halves that can be collapsed when not in use or locked in shape when in use, a plurality of sliding members respectively coupled to and movable along the periphery of the hula-hoop body, and weights selectively mounted in the sliding members.

Abstract: Apparatus for exercising the neck includes a head assembly connected to an anchor assembly by a flexible tether that has a resilient elastic portion. The head assembly includes a cap portion, an adjustable harness to secure the cap portion on the head and a saddle piece that extends across the back of the neck along the atlanto occipital joint when mounted. The cap portion can be a rigid helmet that forms a cam surface with a channel for slideably receiving the tether and may include a frontal extension forming a continuation of the cam surface. The tether is secured to the posterior of the helmet so as to extend over the cam surface to the anterior portion. The method includes engaging the atlanto occipital joint region with a saddle coupled to a source of variable force and extending the head and neck into an extension orientation against the force.

Abstract: An exercising machine is provided that has a head engaging member that can provide a hemispherical movement. The head engaging member is attached to rollers that can roll on a pivotable arcuate track. As an exerciser moves the head engaging member in the X-Y plane, the machine forces movement in the Z plane such that the head engaging member can maintain a point of contact on the user's head as the exerciser rotates his head during exercise. The track can be arced or formed in a radius such that the head engaging member traverses a motion approximate to a radius of a neck rotation as measured from the forehead to the base of the neck.

Abstract: A neck exercise apparatus comprises a thin elongate leaf spring spanning between two supports. One or both of the supports includes a clamping actuator configured for clamping the leaf spring to the support during exercise. The actuator is also configured for releasing the clamping force, thereby permitting adjustment of the position of the support along the length of the leaf spring. Lower ends of the supports are configured to permit the supports to pivot over a flat support surface as the leaf spring is flexed during exercise.

Abstract: Disclosed and claimed are cap (120), skullcap (200), hat (270), and hat insert (350) devices comprising a weight-increasing layer, such as an elastomeric weight layer (114, 214, 350, 414, 454, 514). The elastomeric weight layer (114, 214, 350, 414, 454, 514) is comprised of an elastomer and weighted bodies. In some embodiments the weight-increasing layer is shaped to conform to the crown of the head of a person wearing headwear of the present invention. In other embodiments a weighted component fits within a hat. Other forms of the weight-increasing layer include a double-walled bladder structure (700), shaped to conform to a person's head, into which weighted material is added. Exercise with such devices serves to increase the bone strengthening weight stress experienced by the wearer's spinal column and to encourage the wearer to maintain an improved, healthier posture.

Abstract: This invention is an adjustable weight exercise device such as a bar bell or a dumbbell in which a handle is provided with fixed weights permanently coupled to each end of the handle and a collar is provided having a first portion for detachable threading engagement with the fixed weights and the collar has a second portion with external threads for detachable threading engagement with a threaded aperture in add on weights.

Abstract: An exercise device for improving head, neck, and spinal alignment preferably includes a bracket having a pair of spaced apart pulleys and a U-shaped base which is adapted to fit over a door, a rope having at least one hand grip attached to one end and a coupler attached to the other end, and a head harness having at least one coupler for mating with the coupler on the rope. The apparatus is used by coupling the bracket to a door, attaching the harness to the user's head and coupling the rope to the harness. From either a standing or sitting position, the user pulls on the hand grip(s) to effect a lifting of the harness. According to the presently preferred embodiment, the location of the pulleys is adjustable to suit the user and the harness is provided with both front and rear couplers.

Abstract: Apparatus for exercising the neck includes a head assembly connected to an anchor assembly by a flexible tether that has a resilient elastic portion. The head assembly includes a cap portion, an adjustable harness to secure the cap portion on the head and a saddle piece that extends across the back of the neck along the atlanto occipital joint when mounted. The cap portion can be a rigid helmet that forms a cam surface with a channel for slideably receiving the tether and may include a frontal extension forming a continuation of the cam surface. The tether is secured to the posterior of the helmet so as to extend over the cam surface to the anterior portion. The method includes engaging the atlanto occipital joint region with a saddle coupled to a source of variable force and extending the head and neck into an extension orientation against the force.

Abstract: An exercising machine is disclosed which can move in any direction in the X-Y plane on a multi-directional track. The head engaging member is coupled the multi-directional track and the multidirectional track is coupled to an arm that is moveable up and down on a frame to accommodate users of different heights. In one embodiment the multidirectional track is a swivel-able on the arm and as a user pushes the head engaging apparatus in a direction, the track will align with the direction of the user's push and then the rollers will start rolling on the track. In another embodiment the multi-directional track includes a first track mounted to a second track and the second track is mounted to the head engaging harness, wherein the first track can move in a first direction and the second track can moves in a second direction allowing the head engaging member to move in an infinite amount of directions in the X-Y plane.

Abstract: An exercise device for improving head, neck, and spinal alignment preferably includes a bracket having a pair of spaced apart pulleys and a U-shaped base which is adapted to fit over a door, a rope having at least one hand grip attached to one end and a coupler attached to the other end, and a head harness having at least one coupler for mating with the coupler on the rope. The apparatus is used by coupling the bracket to a door, attaching the harness to the user's head and coupling the rope to the harness. From either a standing or sitting position, the user pulls on the hand grip(s) to effect a lifting of the harness. According to the presently preferred embodiment, the location of the pulleys is adjustable to suit the user and the harness is provided with both front and rear couplers.

Abstract: An apparatus that preferably takes the form of a collar for exercising or assessing the upper cervical flexor muscles to assist with headaches. The apparatus includes a resiliently compressible cushion that fits under the mandible of the user but not extending as far as the chin. The user bends their head against the cushion to achieve an elevated pressure and preferably maintains the pressure for a period of time. The absence of sensory feedback of pressure against the chin inhibits the drive to use muscles ofther than the upper cervical flexor muscles. The cushion may be an inflatable bladder so that the pressure against which the head works can be varied. The cushion preferably includes pressure measuring means to measure changes in pressure within the cushion to monitor the performance of the upper cervical flexor muscles.

Abstract: A cervical therapy device for providing continuous passive motion to the head or neck of a patient includes a patient's support such as a chair and an upwardly extending frame which extends upwardly above the chair. The frame supports a two piece neck bracket for fitting around a patient's neck. The neck bracket also includes a chin support and occipital cuff for positioning the patient's head within the bracket. The device also includes an actuator and controller for providing continuous passive motion to the head and neck of the patient. The device also includes a pair of double pivotal joint assemblies which allow a movement about two perpendicular axes with linear movement along one of the axes so that the head and neck are moved through a series of prescribed movements to relieve neck pain and/or disfunction.

Abstract: Apparatus for exercising the muscles around the cervical spine and/or the motional pattern of the cervical spine with a rotation exercise movement of the head, said apparatus comprising an equipment frame (1), a turning arbor (2) mounted on the equipment frame with bearings permitting rotation of the arbor about a vertical axis, a head rest element (3) for holding the head, said head rest element being connected to the turning arbor (2) and comprising means for holding the head of the person performing the exercise movement substantially immobile in the head rest element.

Abstract: A mechanism to be grasped by the lips for the purpose of developing strength and endurance in muscles that control the embouchure. The mechanism consisting of a rigid segment (20) either made of or coated with a material suitable for use in the mouth (10). The mechanism further consisting of a projecting segment capable of imparting an appropriate weight and torque to the segment which is held in the mouth. The projecting portion might support an additional weight that may be either fixed (30) or movable (31).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for enhancing isometric exercises and methods of using same. In particular, the apparatus for enhancing isometric exercises includes a substantially rigid annular exercising assembly which is placed in a user's mouth and held in place by a user's lips. The substantially rigid annular exercising assembly has an exterior and an interior member which connect and thereby form a trough. The anterior, medial and posterior surfaces of the user's lips fit within the trough thereby providing the mechanism for holding the substantially rigid annular exercising assembly in the user's mouth. In this manner, the substantially rigid annular exercising assembly is essentially freestanding and does not require the user to tense, grind, or strain the jaw or Templar-Mandibular Joint. When in place, the substantially rigid annular exercising assembly increases isometric resistance during exercise, weight training, or facial toning.

Abstract: An equipment comprising a body (1) that defines a seating (2) intended to encircle the head of the user, within said body there being provided an annular channel (5) that runs around the seating (2) and accommodates at least one cursor (6) arranged in a fully mobile manner, so that to a rotatory movement of the user's head around the axis of the spinal column there corresponds a motion of said cursor (6) along said channel (5) and the user, perceiving the vibrations and/or the noise produced by said motion, receives indications regarding the symmetry and uniformity of the rotatory movement of his head.

Abstract: The apparatus includes a link rod (5) pivoted by its first end (6) on the equipment frame via a first joint (7) permitting a turning motion about a swing axis (8) perpendicular to the vertical middle plane of the seat. A head rest (9) is functionally connected to the link rod (5) so that the link rod participates in turning the head rest during an exercise movement while the person's head is leaning against the head rest. The apparatus also includes a multi-joint angular linkage mechanism (12), of which the link rod (5) constitutes a part. The multi-joint angular linkage mechanism (12) is connected to the head rest (9) so as to cause it to move during an exercise movement along a curved path that substantially coincides with the natural path of the neck.

Abstract: Disclosed is an entertainment and exercise device which allows exercise by placing it on a person's body and swiveling the body. The entertainment and exercise device has a flexible circular belt and a turning member rotating along the periphery of the belt. When the user wears the entertainment and exercise device on his body and swivels the body, the turning member rotates about the belt, thereby the user obtains an exercise effect and a finger-pressure effect. Also, the entertainment and exercise device of the present invention is convenient to carry and store, thereby being used for exercise irrespective of the exercising area.

Abstract: A chin and neck exercising device made from foam and which may be in the shape of a ball is disclosed. One half of the ball may be made from one type of foam and the other half of the ball may be made from another type of foam. In this way, different resistance is provided to the person using the device. The device also has a side which is cut-out so that the device is contoured to fit under the person's chin and rest on his or her neck and clavicle. The cut-out area is covered with fabric so as to provide a better grip and to prevent perspiration from contacting the ball. Various exercises may performed by the person in order to tone and strengthen his or her chin and neck muscles. While the device has been described as being formed in the shape of a ball, other sizes and shapes may be used. In an alternative embodiment, the exerciser may include a vibrator located therein.

Abstract: A collar of lambswool in a silk sleeve is wrapped around the neck to promote sweating and therefore a reduction of the size of the neck.

Abstract: A one piece face and neck exerciser (10), specifically configured to tone the muscles of the forehead, face, chin and neck, comprising a head band (12) to which two elongated beginners head resistance bands (88) are attached into head grooves (20) extending outwardly and down to be permanently attached to the lateral parts of the chin cup (38). Also comprising a neck band (57) to which two elongated beginners neck resistance bands (104) are attached into neck grooves (64) extending outwardly and up to be permanently attached to the lateral sides of the chin cup (42). The frontal head band (14), and lateral head band (16), the frontal neck band (58) and lateral neck band (60) are made of a strong, durable, lightweight material, the posterior head band (32), and posterior neck band (76) are made of velcro fasteners (34), (36), (78), and (80).

Abstract: The chin exercise device in a first embodiment of the present invention includes an elongated handle having a top end, a bottom end, a front side, and a rear side; a pair of curved members extending outwardly from the top end of the handle; and an arm which is pivotally attached to the curved members. The arm has a foam pad for receiving a person's chin. Attached to the rear side of the elongated handle is a foam pad which is placed against a person's clavicle or chest when the device is used by a person to exercise. In order to use the device a person holds the handle and places the foam pad of the handle against his or her chest. The person then places his or her chin into or on the foam pad on the arm. The person moves his or her chin downwardly, toward his or her chest. The springs create resistance as the person brings his or her chin down, thereby exercising the muscles of the chin.

Abstract: Apparatus for exercising the face and neck comprises a frame with multiple perforations in its upper and lower parts for fastening flexible bands of various size and elasticity horizontally, vertical or at angles to produce elastic resistance fields for receiving a person's face to exercise facial muscles. Two ocular accessories with adjustable sockets are positioned within the frame on the flexible bands for exercise of the opening and closing of the eyelid. Support and fastening elements firmly retain the bands and accessories in place on the frame for exercising the facial muscles. A portable version of the apparatus provides handles for manually controlling the muscular pressure of the flexible bands on the facial and neck muscles.

Abstract: A new therapeutic headpiece for applying a mechanic load to a cervical and upper thoracic spine to promote bone development. The inventive device includes a cap portion dimensioned for receiving a user's head therein. A plurality of sleeves are secured to the cap portion. Each of the sleeves have open opposed ends. The open opposed ends receive weights therethrough for positioning within the sleeves. At least one cover member is provided which is removably attached to the cap portion and has a plurality of tubular sleeves for receiving weights to provide additional weight to the cap portion.

Abstract: The neck therapy exercise apparatus comprises a resistance frame in the form of a circular ring at head level of the user. The resistance frame carries pulleys thereon. The user wears a helmet with attachment eyes thereon. Weights are attached to cords which pass through the pulleys and are hooked to selected eyes on the helmet so that cervical spine muscle exercises are done against resistance which is in the plane of the head to prevent downward loading on the spine. More than one weight and cord can be used at the same time to provide torque resistance about a vertical axis. Hand grips are provided to maintain position of the torso.

Abstract: A system and method of objectively testing the functional capacity of a patient over a range of motion and with a limited resistance are provided. A selected number of visual indicators are applied and maintained at selected points with respect to the patient. The patient is directed through a series of exercise movements. The patient's movements are captured on a video record. This video record is digitized. The motion of the indicators is tracked in the digitized video record. A patient data set is developed including performance parameters based, at least in part, on the position and the time of each indicator during the movements. The patient data set is compared to a base data set. If the patient's performance parameters fall within certain ranges, it can be determined that the patient is or is not exerting a true effort. The functional capacity of the patient is determined based, at least in part, on the comparison of the patient data set with the base data set.

Abstract: The exercise helmet of the present invention includes an outer shell which would preferably be constructed of a sturdy plastic, and an inner shell which would function as an impact absorbing liner. Support plates are provided at the sides of the helmet to support shafts which extend outwardly from the support plates. Weighted plates may be placed on the shafts to provide resistance for exercise when the helmet is worn. A yoke accessory is provided for attachment to a cable of a conventional weight machine, for providing resistance instead of the weighted plates. An adjustable chin strap is provided for securing the helmet more securely to a wearer's head, and for increasing the exercise effect on facial muscles.

Abstract: A cervical muscle evaluation apparatus comprises a head station which is adjustable to different head sizes and shapes, a body positioning unit which positions the user's body for head placement in the head station and an indicator which indicates cervical muscle controlled head movement of the user's head within the head station.

Abstract: A neck exercise apparatus for developing strength, endurance, and flexibility in the neck. The apparatus comprises a leaf spring that is held by a support at each end. The leaf spring and its supports are mounted on a base. The distance between the supports can be adjusted to vary the force necessary to deflect the leaf spring. A gauge block may be placed beneath the center of the spring to measure and to limit the range of motion of the exercise. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, a single semielliptical leaf spring replaces the leaf spring and two supports of the preferred embodiment.

Abstract: An exercise device is provided including a head, neck and thoracic supporting member spaced apart from a force receiving or hand grip member. A connecting member extends at a pre-selected angle between the head, neck and thoracic supporting member and the hand grip member. The connecting member includes at least one pivot for cooperating with a portion of a user to provide leveraging of the head, neck and thoracic supporting member via the hand grip member.

Abstract: An exercise device that includes a support member disposed in a predetermined position by a mounting unit. A resistive ring secured to the support member, wherein the resistive ring includes a first ring and a plurality of resistive members connected to the first ring. A head harness connected to the other ends of the plurality of resistive members. The resistive ring further includes a second ring for attaching the head harness to the resistive members.

Abstract: A chin and neck exercising device made from foam and which may be in the shape of a ball is disclosed. One half of the ball may be made from one type of foam and the other half of the ball may be made from another type of foam. In this way, different resistance is provided to the person using the device. The device also has a side which is cut-out so that the device is contoured to fit under the person's chin and rest on his or her neck and clavicle. The cut-out area is covered with fabric so as to provide a better grip and to prevent perspiration from contacting the ball. Various exercises may performed by the person in order to tone and strengthen his or her chin and neck muscles. While the device has been described as being formed in the shape of a ball, other sizes and shapes may be used.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes an inner frame which the user attempts to move during an exercise routine performed with the apparatus and an outer frame which generally encompasses the inner frame. A tensioned cable joins the inner and outer frames and resists the movement of the inner frame relative to the outer frame during an exercise routine.

Abstract: The exercise device of the present invention has an elongated member that extends from a user's head to the user's upper back for providing back support during abdominal crunches. The member is curved to conform to the user's cervical lordosis and kyphotic curve formed by the user's thoracic vertebrae and has a tapered lower portion to provide freedom of movement.

Abstract: An axial loading apparatus for applying a continuous compressive force on top of a patient's head which is aligned with the top of the patient's head. The compressive force serves to strengthen the spine. The patient can direct how much force is applied and for how long the force is applied and as the patient's strength and resistance increase, the weights can be increased and the length of time can be increased. The axial loading apparatus comprises a frame member which has a base portion, a vertical portion affixed, and a top inclined portion connected to the vertical portion. The axial loading apparatus further comprises an actuator mechanism for actuating the load onto the patient's head, a locking mechanism for preventing undesirable loading, and a loading and holding mechanism for loading onto the patient's head.

Abstract: A neck treatment apparatus for patient self-treatment, and a method for its use, with which a patient can apply repeated amounts of deep concentrated pressure to muscles in the area between the base of the skull and the first vertebra to lengthen the muscles therein and provide the patient with relief from tension and pain. The apparatus is compact in design, made from lightweight easy-to-clean materials, and comprises a single treatment member upwardly depending from the center portion of the upper surface of a base support. In the preferred embodiment the treatment member has a width dimension of approximately six inches, a thickness dimension of approximately one-half of an inch, and a height dimension of approximately four inches. In transverse cross-section, the top of the preferred embodiment of the treatment member tapers to a point to act as a wedge, having the configuration of an equilateral triangle with side dimensions each measuring approximately one-half of an inch.