Abstract: An exercise machine having a band connected at a first end to a longitudinally recipricable foot rest and sequentially extending around a first roller located at a first end of the machine, underneath the foot rest, and around a second roller located at a second end of the machine. A pair of handles is attached to the second end of the band.

Abstract: An abdominal exercise device to assist in exercising all three abdominal muscles includes a platform which is placed on a flat supporting surface. A substantially U-shaped body cage is pivotally mounted on the platform and extends outwardly therefrom and includes a U-shaped neck and head support portion and a pair of platform connecting portions adjustable connected thereto. A padded cushion mounted on the support portion supports the head of the user. A pair of pivot members pivotally connect the body cage to the platform. Each pivot member includes a cylindrical portion for pivotally rotatably mounting the body cage to side walls of the platform, and a semispherical portion which connects to free ends of the body cage. A user reclines on the platform and grasps the body cage and performs a sit-up type of motion with the body cage ensuring a full range of motion in the proper plane of movement to maximally recruit the abdominal muscles.

Abstract: A portable exercise device for use by a human in a seated position in a seat is provided herein. The exercise device includes a pair of grips, a flexible member interconnecting the grips, a pivot and a connector. Each of the grips is suitable for interacting with a human hand or foot. The pivot, i.e., a roller contacts the flexible member and allows for movement of flexible member over the pivot. The connector retains the pivot proximate the human while the human is in the seated position. The connector is typically attached to a seatbelt and exercise device functions somewhat similar to a stationary cycle. Alternately, the connector is attached to one of the feet of the human and the exercise device is useful for exercising the upper body of the human. A tubular housing can be used for positioning the pivot above the seat and storing the grips, flexible member, pivot and connector when the exercise device is not in use.

Abstract: An exercise method beneficially and safely affects the lumbar spine and muscles of a human. The method uses a simple exercise device having a substantially rigid body with top and bottom surfaces, and a front and back. The top surface is configured and dimensioned to safely passively extend a human's lumbar spine when the human lays with her or his stomach on the top surface (e.g. by providing a concave surface with a total angle of concavity of about 10.degree.-30.degree., preferably about 12.degree.-17.degree.). The bottom surface of the device is configured and dimensioned to allow rocking action in a dimension extending from the front to the rear of the device, and may include two or more spaced rocking strips with front and rear stops.

Abstract: An abdomen fitness equipment including a front base frame unit carrying a cushion, a substantially U-shaped handle fixed to the front end of the front base frame unit for pulling, a rear base frame unit pivoted to the rear end of the front base frame unit, a movable frame unit pivoted to the front end of the rear base frame unit, and a movable leg frame unit pivoted to the rear end of the rear base frame unit, the movable leg frame unit having an adjustable extension rod equipped with a pulley, the pulley being moved along a longitudinal rod in the rear base frame unit when the movable leg frame unit is pulled with the legs to lift the movable frame unit.

Abstract: An exercise device that can be used to increase cardiovascular conditioning and weight reduction, primarily through the strengthening of the abdominal muscles. The exercise device includes a foot retaining member having a pair of foot straps. The foot retaining member and foot straps retain and hold the user's feet in contact with the foot retaining member during the exercise movement. A pair of adjustable side straps extend from the ends of the foot retaining member and are adjustably connected to a handle. Preferably, the pair of side straps and the pair of foot straps are constructed of a single piece of material. When the foot retaining member is positioned on the user's feet, the user grasps the handle and begins the exercising movement. By moving his or her legs from an upright position to a generally seated position, the user can exercise his or her abdominal muscles without exerting stress on his or her back or neck muscles.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for performing forward and/or lateral extension type exercises has one or more grip means in combination with a guide means. The grip means comprises a handle means, such as a shaft, around which the hand can be wrapped during use, and upon which the weight of the user can be applied through the hands. The grip means also comprise a means for permitting sliding or rolling movement of the grip means within conforming guide means. These movement means may be wheels located rotatably on the handle shaft, or simply a low-friction undersurface for sliding movement. The guide means also has adjustable stop means for fixing the distance along which the grip means are permitted to move within the guide means.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing multiple therapeutic and physical conditioning exercises includes a shaped base defining two pairs of C-shaped rails interconnected by metal crossbeams thereunder. This structure is closed both in the front and rear by finishing plates including tubular segments at each end. A pair of inverted U-shaped skates provided with tubular segments on their outer walls move independently over the rails. A pair of tilted poles extend upwardly from the skate tubular segments. A pair of parallel bars may extend parallel to the base at various regulated heights thereabove and are supported by and connected to poles or pairs of U-shaped bars fixed in the base tubular segments. The U-shaped bars may support a pair of upper rails over which a weight-supporting skate is moved. The support skate is provided on its top with a transverse rod for the attachment of a suspension vest worn by the exercising person or person performing therapeutic exercises.

Abstract: A stretch therapy apparatus is disclosed which provides for enhanced physical fitness as well as rehabilitation and medical treatment. The stretch therapy apparatus includes both a leg stretching component and an arm and back stretching component. The leg stretching component allows the user to easily and safely separate his or her legs by 180.degree. or more using hand crank or motorized mechanisms. Sliding leg deck construction reduces the pressure on the user's knees during leg stretching exercises. The arm and back stretching component allows the user to maintain his or her arms and back muscles in a fully extended position without applying undue force during stretching. The arm and back stretching component includes a platform on which the user is seated and a stretching pole which can be selectively oriented in three dimensional space relative to the user's waist.

Abstract: The subject invention provides an apparatus for stretching muscles. The apparatus comprises a plurality of means for engaging a limb connected adjacent to one another. Preferably, the engaging means comprise loops or pockets. The apparatus is used by engaging a portion of a limb with one of the engaging means, and grasping and pulling engaging means on each side of the "engaged" engaging means in a direction opposite or the same as the direction the engaged limb is being moved. In this manner, stretching of muscles in the engaged limb is enhanced.

Abstract: The present device, which includes four accessories, incorporates in one machine that which is required for the elongation of muscles in all parts of the body, namely: the static, the dynamic, and the 3s or PNF Methods. The device consists of a main frame (1), a seat with a back (2) mounted on the frame's upper surface, two lateral foot supports (3), and a rolling car (13), which when pulled, operates a load-reducing mechanism (18) which includes two pulleys (7) connected to two supports (5), which open laterally or sidewise, and carry with them two supports (3). Each foot support (3) is equipped with hand grips (12). The accessories include two additional foot supports (29, 33) attachable to the car (13), two modules (35) fitted laterally into the frame (1) and used to support the legs when bent or flexed, and a support accessory connected to the frame (1) through the supporting column (43).

Abstract: A leg stretching apparatus comprises an L-shaped, leg and foot support assembly for receiving the leg in straight and bent positions, and the foot in varying positions, including positions of inversion and eversion, to stretch the muscles of the lower leg. The extended portion of the foot support member is pivotally connected to the leg support member, and is adjustably connected by second-class levers to the leg support member to enable a debilitated person to easily exert sufficient force to stretch the various muscles of the lower leg by causing the foot support member to rotate the foot of a patient about the axis of the patient's ankle and to quickly release the exerted force which is exerted by the second-class lever.

Abstract: A spine therapy and exercise device (10) for conditioning and exercising the muscles associated with the back, abdomen and legs. The device (10) of the present invention includes a belt member (12) and a harness (14). The harness (14) is carried by the belt member (12) and is provided for receiving the arms of the wearer. The harness (14) of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a pair of straps (16), each being secured at one end (18) to the belt member (12), crossing each other to form an "X" configuration, and are then being releasably secured to the belt member (12) at their distal ends (20). Adjustment members (26) are provided on each strap (16) for adjusting the size of the harness (14) to the particular wearer by varying the length of the particular strap (16). The belt member (12) includes a torso engagement portion (28), and a leg engagement portion (34) connected in an end-to-end fashion such as to form a continuous loop.

Abstract: Assistance in the restoring of genetic loss of function is achieved by a method providing incremental controlled movements of the head and neck muscles and wherein the body assumes the supine, prone and left and right lateral positions, all in a horizontally aligned disposition while atop a plane surface. Head/neck lift movements are executed in an exercise series involving successive movements in a vertical and left to right direction, initially terminating with a rest pause following each head/neck lift. Following a sequence of a plurality of levels, the full muscular range of motion is obtained, in an incremental manner, through the use of a firm support element inserted beneath the upper back in certain of the levels involving the supine position, beneath the chest in certain of the levels involving the prone position and beneath the head in certain of the levels involving the left and right lateral positions.

Abstract: A fitness device is disclosed. A first contracting member is provided for contacting the back of a user. A second contacting member is provided for contacting the legs of the user. The first contacting member is pivotable relative to the second contacting member. A user-operable lever pivots the first contacting member so that in use, the back of the user is applied a pressure by the pivoting first contacting member so that the chest of the user is urged toward the legs of the user. Thus the user bends at the waist in response to the operation of the lever, and the back and leg muscles of the user are stretched. The inventive fitness device is constructed so as to fold up for easy storage and shipping. Also, a user-operated position locking mechanism maintains the position of the pivoted first contacting member so that an adequate stretch can be applied to the back and legs of the user.

Abstract: Exercised systems are disclosed which are adapted for connection to at least one structural component of a building to provide a framework for kinesthetic exercises. Structures are disclosed which define a plurality of fixable locations for the connection of various kinesthetic exercising apparatus in arrangements suitable for a variety of kinesthetic exercises. The systems further include mechanisms for quick releasable and replaceable coupling of exercise apparatus in a freely rotatable manner to accommodate a wide range of body motions.

Abstract: Rehabilitation method of a patient by constraining part of an impaired limb of a patient to part of a corresponding unimpaired limb of the same patient. This is done to cause the impaired and unimpaired limbs of the patient to remain symmetrically disposed. The constrained parts of the unimpaired and impaired limbs are then moved together, relative to the trunk of the patient by the muscles of the patient. The movement may be performed repetitively in series of identical repetitions, and the movement may be repeated more than one hundred times daily. The legs of the patient may be rehabilitated in this way, and the limbs may be constrained with a rehabilitative device.A rehabilitation device that includes a left cuff to receive a left limb of a patient, and a right cuff to receive a right limb of the same patient. The right cuff is rigidly attached to the left cuff. The cuffs include constraining surfaces to prevent longitudinal and lateral motion of the limbs with respect to the cuffs.

Abstract: A stretch therapy apparatus is disclosed which provides for enhanced physical fitness as well as rehabilitation and medical treatment. The stretch therapy apparatus includes both a leg stretching component and an arm and back stretching component. The leg stretching component allows the user to easily and safely separate his or her legs by 180.degree. or more using hand crank or motorized mechanisms. Sliding leg deck construction reduces the pressure on the user's knees during leg stretching exercises. The arm and back stretching component allows the user to maintain his or her arms and back muscles in a fully extended position without applying undue force during stretching. The arm and back stretching component includes a platform on which the user is seated and a stretching pole which can be selectively oriented in three dimensional space relative to the user's waist.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus and method for exercising are disclosed which utilize a conventional staircase to provide varying degrees of inclination during push-up exercises. An exercise apparatus consistent with the invention is specifically adapted for use on a conventional staircase such that it reduces rocking while performing push-up exercises. The level of difficulty of the push-up exercises is varied by placing the exercise apparatus at one of the plurality of elevations along the staircase, thereby allowing different users of different physical capabilities to perform push-up exercises with the same apparatus.

Abstract: A self-assistive shoulder stretching and rotation machine for physical therapy of the shoulder wherein a supine person's forearm is secured to a forearm support that is attached to a horizontal support such that the forearm support may be moved in a 90.degree. arc from vertical in either the left or right direction by the supine person's pulling on a rope. One end of the rope is attached to each side of the forearm support such that a continuous loop is formed. The loop is supported on one side by passing it through pulleys or eyelets attached to a vertical support at one end of the horizontal support. The patient lies in a supine position securing one forearm to the forearm support. When the patient pulls near one end of the rope, the forearm support may be moved in as much as 90.degree. or more to one direction. When the person pulls on the opposite end of the rope, the forearm support is moved back through the vertical position, 90.degree. or more in the opposite direction.

Abstract: An inexpensive, light-weight, easy to use exercise device which is comprised of a harness having an adjustable flexible, inelastic strap with and adjustable foot loop at one end and a hand grip at the other end. Most exercises are performed using two exercise harnesses. While holding the hand grips and having placed the feet in the foot loops, the user exerts opposing forces between the arms and legs in a variety of exercises while lying down, standing, or sitting. By varying the strength of the forces exerted and the speed of the motion, the user can do isometric, isotonic, stretching, or aerobic exercises.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for exercising the subtalar complex with controlled triplaner motion. The principal embodiment includes a standing platform and handrail in association with a rotatable foot plate. The foot plate is controllable and adjustable in three planes with fixed settings in all planes, including the oblique. The exerciser provides a method for isolating specific muscle groups involved with foot, ankle and calf extensions or where combinations of muscles are used, such as, with dorsiflexion-eversion or plantarflexion-inversion, while preventing tibial rotation of the foot. A second embodiment provides a more portable exercise apparatus utilizing the concepts employed with the principal embodiment wherein a rocker member is provided, attached to a support member. A foot plate attaches to the support member opposite the rocker and is pivotal in the transverse and frontal planes.

Abstract: The leg stretching device includes a slidable foot supporting plate mounted on a pair of rails extending between a pair of blocks. A person straddles one end of the device, places a foot on the plate, and obtains the desired stretch by urging the plate toward the other end.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for stretching and exercising the soft tissue surrounding the shoulder girdle and back, while stabilizing the upper extremities. In a preferred embodiment, a pair of elbow/forearm cuffs are mounted on a lower horizontal bar, and a second horizontal bar is attached above the lower horizontal bar. The users elbows/forearms are placed in the cuffs on the lower bar, while their hands slide back and forth along the upper bar.

Abstract: An exercise device of the push-pull type is disclosed. The device consists of a pair of parallel channels, knee rest unit, and hand grip unit. Either the hand grip unit and the knee rest unit can slide freely along the length of the channels, while the other unit is held stationary. Both the knee rest unit and hand grip unit have user-variable resistance means. The invention may be disassembled and folded for easy storage and transportation.

Abstract: An exercise and stretching apparatus including a base, a pair of adjustable vertical uprights, and a cross-bar extending the uprights. The ends of the upper transverse bar are pronged and engage a movable retainer on each of the uprights. A handle and a rotatable bearing or releasable grip on each adjustable retainer helps raise or lower the cross-bar. The apparatus further includes a hinged, collapsible platform which may overlie or form part of the base.

Abstract: Disclosed is a horizontal exerciser bike which mainly consists of a main support, a counter, a pair of linkages, and other related components. The main support is so designed that it horizontally extends along a longitudinal axis thereof and therefore has a low center of gravity. The linkages are separately disposed at two sides of the main support and each comprises a foot pedal post pivotally connected to a front end of the main support, an n-shaped bracket fixedly attached to a lower portion of the foot pedal post, a link pivotally connected at a front end to the n-shaped bracket and at a rear end to an inverted T-shaped coupler pivotally attached to one side of the main support, a cylinder pivotally connected at a front extension end to the inverted T-shaped coupler and fixedly connected at a rear end to a fixed pin disposed near a rear end of the main support, and a grip post adjustably connected to a middle portion of the inverted T-shaped coupler.

Abstract: According to the invention, a stretching machine is provided that can be used both for physical therapy/rehabilitation and for physical fitness. The stretching machine includes both an arm and back stretching component and a leg, thigh, and calf stretching component. The arm and back stretching component includes a mechanism for allowing the user to sit and fully extend his arms either directly above his head, directly in front of his torso, or at any angle therebetween. In addition, the arm and back stretching component can be pivoted to an angular orientation with respect to the user's waist, thereby allowing different muscle groups to be stretched. The leg, thigh, and calf stretching component includes a pair of leg supports which when moved apart holds the user's legs in a spread orientation for a period of time to stretch the muscles.

Abstract: A frictional exercising device includes a shell body which can be attached to a substantially stationary object, for instance a door, a doorjamb or a floor. A core cylinder is rigidly mounted in the shell body. The core cylinder has a wall with an arcuate friction surface having bumps formed thereon. A space is defined between the friction surface and the shell body through which a flat strap extends. The flat strap is partially wound around the core cylinder and hugs the friction surface. When one of the ends of the flat strap is pulled and a resistive force is applied at the other end, a frictional force increases between the friction surface and the flat strap.

Abstract: A joint device is provided for treating a patient who is unable to flex and extend an arm, leg or other jointed member through its normal range of movement about the patient's joint. The joint device includes two extending sidearms. Each sidearm is secured by a sleeve, cast, brace or the like to the patient's limb so that the sidearms are on opposite sides of the afflicted joint. The joint device pivotally connects the two sidearms, and includes a selectively actuated one-way clutch which allows movement in one direction while inhibiting it in the other.

Abstract: A knee stretching machine for physical therapy of the knee is set forth wherein a padded thigh seat is adjustably attached aft on a body length shaft oriented on the floor. Attached across the body length shaft is a transverse member with an eyelet at each end. A winch is secured to the fore of the body length shaft. Aft and in front of the winch are two other eyelets for receiving two ropes. One of the ropes is connected to an ankle collar via the eyelet on one end of the transverse member and the other rope is independently connected to the ankle collar via the eyelet on the other end of the transverse member. A patient lies face down and places the thigh of the knee requiring therapy in the seat and secures the ankle in the collar. The winch is cranked to bend the knee joint behind the patient's back through a tolerable degree of flexion.

Abstract: A leg muscle stretching and conditioning device in the form of a belt made from flexible material, and a pad member having a slot through which the belt is passed. The pad member is slidable along the belt and preferably includes a plurality of alternating ridges and grooves along its lower surface to permit the pad member to be slidable over a wide variety of surfaces. In use, the user applies one foot on the belt to hold the belt in position and to prevent movement of the belt in a direction along the belt longitudinal axis. The other foot of the user is placed on the pad member so that the user's heel is received within a recess formed on the top surface of the pad member. This foot is moved to convey the pad member along the belt and support surface employing the frictional force between the pad member lower surface and the surface over which the pad member is moved to insure stability during performance and to guarantee gains achieved.

Abstract: A plurality of leg straps are arranged for securement about an individual's legs to permit manual manipulation of the legs to enhance circulation for individuals lacking control of their lower limbs. The strap members include cooperative fastening surfaces for securement about the lower limbs, with each strap member having a top surface loop, with each top surface loop interconnected by a connecting belt. The connecting belt permits ease of manual manipulation upon grasping the belt and manipulation of each limb.

Abstract: A traction device for relieving back pain has a flexible strip (1) which is held around a person's waist by a belt (2). Two adjustable straps (3) are attached at one end to the belt (2) and are provided with stirrup loops (12) at their opposite ends. The stirrup loops (12) fit around the person's feet and the person can self-apply a traction force to his spinal column by extending his knees.

Abstract: A device for flexing a person's knee joint is described. The device contains a seat harness, an element for grasping the foot of a user, line cord, and an element for connecting the seat harness to the line cord. Movement of the line cord by the user causes movement of the foot grasping element.

Abstract: An infant entertainment and development device (10) is disclosed which in its preferred embodiment includes a sliding inclined bed (11) which has a stationary perpendicularly disposed kick board (25) positioned at the lower foot end of the bed (11). The infant (1) is secured to the inclined carriage bed (11) using traps (19) attached to a cushion (18) which is in turn attached to the upper surface (12a) of the bed (11). The carriage bed (11) is slidably secured to a main frame (22) which includes an inclined base board (23). The carriage bed (11) is attached to the base board (23) using ball bearings (24). The inclined base board (23) is supported by a main frame incline support (29) which can be of adjustable height to adjust the angle of incline of the sliding carriage bed (11). A positive reinforcement sensory signal generator (30) is attached between the carriage bed (11) and the base board ( 23).

Abstract: An apparatus for stretching and strengthening leg muscles, particularly in use in martial arts endeavors, is provided to include a framework having a reciprocating carriage mounted slidably in a vertical orientation, with the carriage including a foot plate selectively and rotatably mounted relative to the carriage. The carriage is formed with a handle yoke operative through cable structure to effect lifting of the carriage when an individual's foot is positioned thereon. The carriage includes latching mechanism cooperative with a release mechanism mounted within the handle yoke to effect release of the carriage relative to the framework.

Abstract: A proprioceptive exercise, training and therapy apparatus is disclosed for supporting and stabilizing at least a portion of the user's body and limbs from at least one elongated flexible support member. Each flexible support member is releasably secured to a selected structural support means. A plurality of attachment points are provided in sequential linear alignment on the flexible support member. An adjustable positioning means is provided on each flexible support member. A first user engagement member is in the form of a rigid, rectangular bar. A second user engagement member is in the form of a flexible body sling, with ends adapted for releasable securement to at least one flexible support member. A third user engagement member comprises at least one hand and foot coupling member, releasably secured to the flexible support member or to a suitable retaining means.

Abstract: An abdominal exercising device having two identical structures, each comprised of a rigid member, pressure pad and handle, are connected by an adjustable strap adapted to partially encircle the users abdominal area. After the user obtains the standard sit-up crunch or leg lift position, the adjustable strap is placed under the lower back while the two structures are brought across the abdominal area with each structures pressure pad contacting the users abdominal muscles. The user holds both handles and applies pressure to the abdominal muscles by simultaneously pulling the handles in toward the torso while performing the exercise movement.

Abstract: Exercise systems are disclosed which are adapted for connection to at least one structural component of a building to provide a framework for kinestetic exercises. Structures are disclosed which define a plurality of fixable locations for the connection of various kinesthetic exercising apparatus in arrangements suitable for a variety of kinesthetic exercises. The system further include mechanisms for quick releasable and replaceable coupling of exercise apparatus in a freely rotatable manner to accommodate a wide range of body motions.

Abstract: A hip mounted, springable frame that compresses between the chest and thighs of a worker when he stoops over so as to help the worker to stand erect again and ease back strain. The center of the frame comprises a pair of arc-shape springs that wrap around cylindrical spools of elastomer. The spools are attached to a belt surrounding the worker's waist at hip level. The frame is easily removed and reattached by snapping the springs over the spools. Wear is reduced since there are no moving parts, and the spring forces are adjustable with the use of variable compliance and or springs having different spring constant such as priorities by different spring geometry.

Abstract: A portable pulley exerciser body fitness apparatus is provided and consists of an elongated bar, a pair of pulleys, each affixed to one end of the elongated bar, a cord extending about the pulleys and a pair of handles, each removably affixed to one end of the cord so that a person can grip the handles to do exercises.

Abstract: A support body of a flexible material has a first handle extending from one end of the body and a second handle extending from the second end. The support body is disposed in engagement with one part of an exerciser and the handles are grasped in the hands of the exerciser. Thus, the driving force of the arms of the exercise are used against the restraining force of the one part of the body. The support body may be made up of two flexible members which are detachably and adjustably attachable to each other. Alternatively, it may comprise a single flexible member.

Abstract: A stretching machine for performing the Chinese split includes a base, two generally horizontal tracks extending colinearly from the base, a foot platform sliding on each track, and a vertical column with handles. The user stands on the platforms, which travel outward from the base while the split is performed, and maintains balance by holding the handles. The platforms are moved along the tracks by cables fixed to either side of each platform. The cables run over pulleys to a drum mounted in the column, which can be turned by a crank. A novel aspect is a slight angular inclination between the tracks, allowing a deeper split.

Abstract: A device for applying localized forces to portions of the human anatomy, such as the spine, to treat physical conditions and disorders requiring some degree of mechanical manipulation of therapy, comprising an outer roll of pliable material having a resiliently deformable surface for comfortably but firmly engaging a body portion of a user in a surrounding manner; a supporting member extending within the roll and of a stiffer but bendable material so as to provide support for and wrappingly press the roll against the effected body portion; and drawing members extending from the ends of the supporting member and grippable by the user for applying the required force to the supporting member to press the roll against the body portion. The drawing members may be hand grips or a belt member to tie the roll about the user's waist.

Abstract: A stretching machine comprising a seat having a base and a backrest which is pivotally mounted to the base, a first leg platform having a pivot end and a free end, the pivot end being connected to the base of the seat and a second leg platform having a pivot end and a free end, the pivot end being connected to the base of the seat. The stretching machine includes a mechanism for rotating the backrest relative to the seat as well as a mechanism for rotating the leg platforms about their respective pivot ends such that the free ends move in a generally arcuate path.

Abstract: A stretching apparatus (10) includes a base structure (12) for supporting an individual in supine position. One leg of the individual is disposed within a cradle (14) pivotally mounted on the base structure (12) by a pair of arm assemblies (16a, 16b) which are powered by a hydraulic actuator (20) to rotate about an axis (22) extending generally transversely to the individual's body at a location coinciding with the hip joints of the individual. The cradle (14) includes a foot cup (18) for receiving and supporting the rear and side portions of the individual's foot through which a stretching load is applied to the individual's leg for stretching the muscles, tendons and joint capsules of the lower back, hip, leg, and foot.

Abstract: The present invention is an ergometer for isometrically exercising one or more leg muscles of a patient undergoing rehabilitation of the knee joint following knee ligament surgery. The ergometer has an upper leg restraint and a lower leg restraint which are positioned on the leg above and below the knee respectively. The leg restrains are maintained in a fixed position relative to the leg by a rigid crossbar and a bolster positioned behind the knee. Exercise of the hamstring or quadriceps muscles is performed by isometrically contracting the desired muscles while the knee is at an extension angle which does not stress the ligament under repair. Muscle contraction can be artifically induced by an electrical stimulator, which in concert with a closed-loop control system, effectively regulates the exercise level.

Abstract: An exercising device in the form of a stationary rowing unit which can be used as a physical therapy aide having its main body portion lying substantially in a horizontal plane. The unit including a seat and arm assemblies foot pedal which are pivotally connected by a reciprocating cable and a pivotal tube assembly. The foot pedals being pivotally connected to the arm assemblies by rigid connecting rods and a pair of resistance cylinder means each pivotally mounted between respective foot pedals and the frame on opposite sides of the body for providing a desired resistance to movement by the user.

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.