Abstract: Methods for improving respiratory effectiveness including inhaling a breath and, while continuously holding the breath, swimming for a period of at least 10 seconds without exhaling or further inhaling, and inhaling a breath and, without exhaling or further inhaling, adopting, and holding for a period of at least 3 seconds, at least one stretch position, which requires constant muscular exertion to maintain.

Abstract: Patients having exercise limiting conditions and those at risk of developing such conditions are exposed to a regimen of hypoxic conditions that simulate various altitude conditions. The exposure is of a temporary nature, being from a few hours to most of a day or night in any one day and repeated on a personally worked out regimen of from a series of consecutive days to a regular number of “on” and “off” days, to a random number of days. An alternate regimen is such exposure for a few minutes at a time followed by normoxic rest period of a few minutes, with the cycle repeated multiple times over the course of a treatment session. The conditioning treatment strengthens the cardiac tissue and skeletal muscle and the results extend beyond the treatment periods whereby the patient's condition is substantially improved.

Abstract: An abdominal breathing training apparatus, an abdominal breathing training system and the method thereof are provided. The abdominal breathing training apparatus is adapted for training a trainee how to perform an abdominal breathing and includes a trainer unit, a sensor unit, a data acquisition and conversion unit and a display unit. The trainer unit generates training waveforms and indications. The sensor unit directly measures abdominal movement signals from the trainee, and is positioned adjacent to the abdominal portion of the trainee. The data acquisition and conversion unit is coupled to the sensor unit and generates a trainee abdominal movement waveform according to the measured abdominal movement signals of the trainee. The display unit is coupled to the trainer unit, and displays the training waveforms and the indications to the trainee, who follows the training waveforms on the display unit to perform the abdominal breathing.

Abstract: Herein we describe a nasal inspiratory resistance trainer (“NIRT”) that increases the difficulty of nasal breathing. The device is specially designed to limit the cross-sectional area of the nostril, which decreases the volume of air a person can easily intake per unit time, typically achieved by reducing tidal volume per breath, reducing respiratory rate, or a combination thereof. Specific implementations are described.

Abstract: A device for abatement to snoring and snoring disorders which tones and strengthens soft palate muscles. The device comprises inserting a tube into one's mouth; pressing the tube up to the hard palate; holding the tube in the mouth at the hard palate using the tongue; and initiating a sucking process over the tube. The sucking process requires the person to maintain constant suction on the tube member for between about 5 to 15 seconds followed by a relaxation for between about 5 to 20 seconds and repeating this process of suction, hold, and relaxation for between about 10 to 20 times. The device automates the process and records and stores data personal to the person.

Abstract: An active respiratory therapeutic device for clearing breathing passages, loosening and breaking up mucus plugs and phlegm in a patient's sinuses, trachea, bronchial passages and lungs while a patient is breathing normally through the device is disclosed. The apparatus preferably includes a C shaped curved hollow housing having a closed end portion and an open threaded end portion. The open end portion forms at least part of an acoustic coupling chamber. A generally funnel shaped tapered mouthpiece tapers to a small end portion sized to be inserted into a patient's mouth. The mouthpiece forms another part of the acoustic coupling chamber. An acoustic signal generator housed within the hollow housing generates and directs acoustic vibrations into and through the coupling chamber. The mouthpiece preferably includes a valve permitting a patient to breathe through the mouthpiece while at the same time coupling the acoustic coupling chamber into the patient's airways.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus accommodates a user and a resilient and resistive pivot such as an exercise ball within its structure. The pivot may have various dimensions based on the size and needs of the user and the exercise program chosen to be performed. The shape and inner dimension of the apparatus is designed to exploit the inherent instability of pivoting exercises such as twists, rolls and lifts. Various configurations of horizontal and vertical apparatus members offer the user a wide range of gripping and leverage points. A variety of exercise positions and motions may be used with this device to increase muscle flexibility and strength.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for motivating a user of a spirometry system having a display screen, an air-tube, a flow measurement sensor operatively associated with the air-tube, a display screen, and an associated processor. A motivational animation is displayed on the display screen having a first aspect that reflects a relative evaluation of a determined peak flow rate to a goal value therefor and having a second aspect that reflects a relative evaluation of a determined total flow volume to a goal value therefor. The processor repeatedly updates the motivational animation during the period of use of the spirometer to reflect the degree of achievement of both of the goal values by the user.

Abstract: A training device for diaphragmal breathing exercises, the device including (a) a beaker having a substantially cylindrical shape, with a bottom on one end and an opening on the other end; (b) an inner chamber within the beaker, the inner chamber having a bottom end and an open end on the same side as the open end of the beaker; (c) a lid having inner and outer circumferential ridges, wherein the lid fittingly mounts over the open end of beaker using an outer ridge and fittingly mounts over the inner chamber using the inner ridge; and (d) the lid further having a tubular coupling portion. A breathing tube is fittingly coupled to the tubular coupling portion on one end. A mouthpiece mounted on the other end of the breathing tube. The bottom end of the inner chamber has a stepped shape with a plurality of openings on each step. The lid has a plurality of openings.

Abstract: An oscillating positive expiratory pressure apparatus having a housing defining a chamber, a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, a deformable restrictor member positioned in an exhalation flow path between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, and an oscillation member disposed within the chamber. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member are moveable between an engaged position, where the oscillation member is in contact with the deformable restrictor member and an disengaged position, where the oscillation member is not in contact with the deformable restrictor member. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member move from the engaged position to the disengaged position in response to a first exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet, and move from the disengaged position to an engaged position in response to a second exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet.

Abstract: A respiratory muscle endurance training device (RMET) includes a chamber and a patient interface. In one implementation, one or both of a CO2 sensor or a temperature sensor can be coupled to the chamber or patient interface to provide the user or caregiver with indicia about the CO2 level in, or the temperature of, the chamber or patient interface, and/or the duration of use of the device. In another implementation, the RMET may have a fixed volume portion adjustable to contain a measured portion of a specific patient's inspiratory volume capacity. Methods of using the device are also provided.

Abstract: A respiratory muscle endurance training device (RMET) includes a chamber and a patient interface. In one implementation, one or both of a CO2 sensor or a temperature sensor can be coupled to the chamber or patient interface to provide the user or caregiver with indicia about the CO2 level in, or the temperature of, the chamber or patient interface, and/or the duration of use of the device. In another implementation, the RMET may have a fixed volume portion adjustable to contain a measured portion of a specific patient's inspiratory volume capacity. Methods of using the device are also provided.

Abstract: A breathing exercise apparatus comprises a chamber having a vent open to the atmosphere, a mouthpiece having an opening, a first member having a plurality of apertures positioned in the chamber between the opening in the mouthpiece and the vent, a second member having a plurality of apertures positioned in the chamber adjacent the first member, and a motor coupled to the second member and operable to move the second member with respect to the first member such that the apertures in the second member intermittently align with the apertures in the first member to vary the resistance a user experiences when both inhaling and exhaling through the apparatus.

Abstract: A positive oscillatory expiratory air pressure respiratory therapy device which is adapted to receive a nebulizer for administering aerosolized medicant for selective administration during oscillatory positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy.

Abstract: An oxygen trainer assembly for use in athletic activities to increase inspiratory muscular endurance, the assembly comprising: a mouthpiece having a mouthpiece opening; a circulation chamber housing having a circulation chamber in fluid communication with the mouthpiece opening; a first endcap having a first endcap aperture and a second endcap having a second endcap opening in fluid communication with the circulation chamber housing; a first endcap insert disposable in the first endcap operative to control the level of air resistance in the assembly during inhalation and exhalation; a one-way valve disposable in the second endcap sized and configured to allow the flow of air away from the circulation chamber during exhalation.

Abstract: An oxygen trainer assembly for use in athletic activities to increase inspiratory muscular endurance, the assembly comprising: a mouthpiece having a mouthpiece opening; a circulation chamber housing having a circulation chamber in fluid communication with the mouthpiece opening; a first endcap having a first endcap aperture and a second endcap having a second endcap opening in fluid communication with the circulation chamber housing; a first endcap insert disposable in the first endcap operative to control the level of air resistance in the assembly during inhalation and exhalation; a one-way valve disposable in the second endcap sized and configured to allow the flow of air away from the circulation chamber during exhalation.

Abstract: A respiratory inhalation resistence exercise device with a separate air inlet and air outlet. A mask, which provides a substantially airtight perimeter seal during inhaling and lung expansion, is provided which covers at least the user's nose and mouth. Multiple air inlet inserts are provided for interchangeable use in the air inlet, allowing different rates and resistence to airflow, as provided. The device is held in place, hands free, by straps around the user's head. The device may also cover the entire face of a user, with lenses in eye openings for sight. The device may be utilized continually in vigorous exercise, without use of a mouthpiece, without significant protruding parts, without movable valves or parts, and held in place without limitation on the user's activity.

Abstract: A device, for performing certain ancient yogic breathing practices of Pranayam without involving the use of hands, is controlled by a programmable controlling unit. The device is integrated onto the frame of a supporting base, worn on the nose, and uses battery-operated artificial fingers to block or unblock nostrils in programmable patterns, cycles and durations. This facilitates a precise and hands-free routine of alternate nostril breathing or single nostril breathing, in the most precise style, following techniques of ancient yogic Pranayam. The sensors of the device sense/measure the force and flow of the breath into and out of each nostril, and can automate and synchronize the artificial fingers to the normal breathing pattern of the user.

Abstract: A respiratory muscle endurance training device (RMET) includes a chamber and a patient interface. In one implementation, one or both of a CO2 sensor or a temperature sensor can be coupled to the chamber or patient interface to provide the user or caregiver with indicia about the CO2 level in, or the temperature of, the chamber or patient interface, and/or the duration of use of the device. In another implementation, the RMET may have a fixed volume portion adjustable to contain a measured portion of a specific patient's inspiratory volume capacity. Methods of using the device are also provided.

Abstract: A device comprising a unit (1) through which a subject can breathe, the unit comprising: an opening (AA) to allow airflow communication to the outside of the device; a mouthpiece element (2) through which the subject can breathe air in from and out into the device; and means for providing resistance (4) to airflow positioned between the opening and the mouthpiece element, said means being arranged to controllably vary the resistance to airflow during inspiration or expiration. Also provided are methods for the use of such a device.

Abstract: An active respiratory therapeutic device for clearing breathing passages, loosening and breaking up mucus plugs and phlegm in a patient's sinuses, trachea, bronchial passages and lungs while a patient is breathing normally through the device is disclosed. The apparatus preferably includes a C shaped curved hollow housing having a closed end portion and an open threaded end portion. The open end portion forms at least part of an acoustic coupling chamber. A generally funnel shaped tapered mouthpiece tapers to a small end portion sized to be inserted into a patient's mouth. The mouthpiece forms another part of the acoustic coupling chamber. An acoustic signal generator housed within the hollow housing generates and directs acoustic vibrations into and through the coupling chamber.

Abstract: In a therapeutic device (1) for assisting respiration, clearing of mucus and expectoration by a patient by means of which an oscillating air resistance can be generated in the air flow during exhalation and inhalation, with a mouthpiece (2) having an inlet opening (7) provided at one end of it and an elastically deformable hose piece (3) attached to its other end opposite to the inlet opening, it should be possible to adjust the respiration frequencies and pressure amplitudes for the individual patient during inhalation and exhalation.

Abstract: The inventive breath training device comprises a respiratory tube, a low-frequency mechanical air oscillation generator provided with an oscillation chamber embodied therein and provided with an input channel which is embodied in the form of an upwardly extending saddle-shaped body of revolution, contains a spherical ball and is connected to the respiratory tube and to an output channel communicating with ambient air, wherein the respiratory tube is provided with a jacket in which the body of the low-frequency mechanical air oscillation generator rotatable about a horizontal axis is fixed and a bypass chamber provided with an inspiratory tube is formed, said inspiratory tube comprises an inspiratory valve provided with a tubular attachment and the output channel of the oscillation chamber of the low-frequency mechanical air oscillation generator is also provided with an expiratory valve.

Abstract: An intra-repetition exercise system which allows comparison of actual performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (2) to pre-established target performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (3) by an exerciser (1).

Abstract: Manual exercise device that is comprised of a combination mouthpiece and top cap, a soft-rubber check-valve, a hard plastic hollow spherical bulb, and a soft plastic washer with a minuscule hole at its center held in position by an open-faced cap. A preferred embodiment affords a user a means through which to manually create and maintain a slowly depleting vacuum within the hard plastic bulb, exercising flaccid tissue and musculature in the process.

Abstract: A pair of adjustable belts adapted to encircle the human torso provides training in proper breath control techniques while singing. Mating fasteners at the free ends of each belt releasably secure the free ends together so that each belt forms a closed loop. A method includes securing the belts around the middle of the torso, expanding the first belt, having the person inhale with the intercostals and lateral muscles to expand the ribcage and fastening the first belt into the expanded position around the torso, in a horizontal line at the breastbone. In one embodiment, the top belt is placed around the subject at the middle of the chest fastening at the breastbone and the bottom belt is placed around the subject angling upward from the lower back, to fasten also at the breastbone. A final step may be to have the person maintain pressure on both straps while singing.

Abstract: An oxygen trainer assembly for use in athletic activities to increase inspiratory muscular endurance, the assembly comprising: a mouthpiece having a mouthpiece opening; a circulation chamber housing having a circulation chamber in fluid communication with the mouthpiece opening; a first endcap having a first endcap aperture and a second endcap having a second endcap opening in fluid communication with the circulation chamber housing; a first endcap insert disposable in the first endcap operative to control the level of air resistance in the assembly during inhalation and exhalation; a one-way valve disposable in the second endcap sized and configured to allow the flow of air away from the circulation chamber during exhalation.

Abstract: A foam sword having a sword blade made from a flexible, soft foam material having a blade-shaped, generally constant cross-section with a major dimension and a minor dimension is provided, having blade edges defined in a direction of the major dimension. The blade has first and second ends, and a longitudinally extending opening extends therethrough from the first end to the second end. The blade includes a reinforcing rod that extends partially therethrough from the first end to provide some rigidity and to which the sword handle is connected, and a plug closes the opening in the second end of the foam sword blade to present a sword-like appearance.

Abstract: An exercise device in the form of a yoga bag having two ends that hang down over the sides of the chest of a user and provide resistance to the lung cavities during while breathing exercises are performed is set forth. Each end of the bag is provided with compartments for selectively receiving flowable weighted substances. The center of the bag is contoured to fit around the neck.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a method and device for treatment of children suffering from conditions or diseases which cause delayed neuromuscular development. A neck flotation device such as an inflatable collar is affixed around the child's neck. The child wearing the aforementioned neck flotation device is immersed into the pool of water in which the water has been heated to approximately 92-94 degrees Fahrenheit. The child's head is supported by the neck flotation device to ensure safe breathing. The child's torso and extremities are suspended vertically in the therapy tank filled with warm water. The child can move in the pool of warm water without being restrained by gravity. By the method disclosed herein, children suffering from diseases and conditions which cause delayed neuromuscular development are permitted to exercise their muscles to develop muscle tone, increase lung function and promote neuromuscular coordination.

Abstract: A respiratory muscle training device includes a chamber (1) containing a variable orifice valve assembly (3). An inlet (9) is provided at a first side of the valve assembly permitting air to be inhaled into the chamber, and an outlet (11) is provided at a second side of the valve assembly permitting air that has passed through the valve assembly to be inhaled by a user. A pressure sensor (7) determines a pressure differential across the valve assembly. Means is provided for determining the opening area of the valve assembly, and control means (15, 47, 49) is provided for varying the orifice of the valve assembly in dependence upon a pressure differential determined by the pressure sensor and upon an opening area of the valve assembly.

Abstract: The disclosed apparatus, systems and methods are effective in treating snoring behavior. Exemplary embodiments of the disclosed treatment apparatus include a mouthpiece, a first chamber in communication with the mouthpiece, and a displaceable member mounted with respect to the first chamber for applying a resistive force as gas is withdrawn from the first chamber. A second, substantially airtight chamber is generally defined on the opposite side of the displaceable member. The evacuation force required to deflect, deform or otherwise is increased due to the force required to displace the displaceable member positioned within the disclosed treatment apparatus. In exemplary embodiments of the disclosed apparatus, the displaceable member may take the form of a flexible membrane, piston or diaphragm that is mounted with respect to the inner wall of the first chamber or the second chamber. Use of the treatment apparatus is effective in reducing and/or eliminating snoring behavior for extended periods.

Abstract: A breathing exerciser includes: a display unit for displaying information for guiding an exercise pattern of breathing to a user; and a state switch which is capable of detecting an operation by the user and which is for accepting an operation according to a breathing state. By this, the breathing exerciser distinguishes during an exercise period during which the exercise pattern is guided, whether it is an exhalation state or an inhalation state, based on a signal from the state switch.

Abstract: A medical respiratory apparatus includes a chamber (10) which is at least in part at least translucent. The chamber (10) includes a float member (12) formed of an inert material and contains, in use, a fluid intended for inhalation. The float member (12) is adapted to float upon the fluid intended to be contained within the chamber (10) and has a peripheral dimension adjacent, but less than, the internal peripheral dimension of the chamber (10). At least the outer peripheral surface of the float member (12) has a coloration distinct from that of the fluid to be contained within the chamber such that the level of the fluid within the chamber (10) can be readily observed.

Abstract: A foam sword having a sword blade made from a flexible, soft foam material is provided. The blade includes a reinforcing rod that extends partially therethrough to provide some rigidity and to which the sword handle and hilt guard are connected.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for motivating a user of a spirometry system 20 having a display screen 12, an air-tube 22, a flow measurement sensor 24 operatively associated with the air-tube 22, a display screen 26, and an associated processor 30. A motivational animation is displayed on the display screen 12 having a first aspect that reflects a relative evaluation of a determined peak flow rate to a goal value therefor and having a second aspect that reflects a relative evaluation of a determined total flow volume to a goal value therefor. The processor 30 repeatedly updates the motivational animation during the period of use of the spirometer to reflect the degree of achievement of both of the goal values by the user.

Abstract: An active respiratory therapeutic device for clearing breathing passages, loosening and breaking up mucus plugs and phlegm in a patient's sinuses, trachea, bronchial passages and lungs while a patient is breathing normally through the device is disclosed. The apparatus preferably includes a C shaped curved hollow housing having a closed end portion and an open threaded end portion. The open end portion forms at least part of an acoustic coupling chamber. A generally funnel shaped tapered mouthpiece tapers to a small end portion sized to be inserted into a patient's mouth. The mouthpiece forms another part of the acoustic coupling chamber. An acoustic signal generator housed within the hollow housing generates and directs acoustic vibrations into and through the coupling chamber.

Abstract: An exercise device in the form of a bag having two ends that hang down over the sides of the chest of a user during use. Each end of the bag is provided with a cavity for receiving weighted substances such as sand or lead. The center of the bag is contoured to fit around the neck and is padded for comfort.

Abstract: Training the inspiratory muscles using a training device includes evaluating the endurance of the inspiratory muscles of the patient, including the time to the onset of exhaustion, setting parameters of the training device, directing an monitoring endurance training sessions using the training device, providing feedback to the patient during the training and repeating the testing, setting, directing and providing steps as periodically.

Abstract: A breathing exercise apparatus comprises a chamber having a vent open to the atmosphere, a mouthpiece having an opening, a first member having a plurality of apertures positioned in the chamber between the opening in the mouthpiece and the vent, a second member having a plurality of apertures positioned in the chamber adjacent the first member, and a motor coupled to the second member and operable to move the second member with respect to the first member such that the apertures in the second member intermittently align with the apertures in the first member to vary the resistance a user experiences when both inhaling and exhaling through the apparatus.

Abstract: A respiratory muscle endurance training device (RMET) includes a chamber and a patient interface. In one implementation, one or both of a CO2 sensor or a temperature sensor can be coupled to the chamber or patient interface to provide the user or caregiver with indicia about the CO2 level in, or the temperature of, the chamber or patient interface, and/or the duration of use of the device. In another implementation, the RMET may have a fixed volume portion adjustable to contain a measured portion of a specific patient's inspiratory volume capacity. Methods of using the device are also provided.

Abstract: A breathing exerciser includes: a guide unit for guiding an exercise pattern of breathing to a user; a breathing sensor for detecting breathing of the user; a breathing index calculating unit for calculating, based on a signal from the breathing sensor, a breathing index at least one of before and after an exercise period during which the exercise pattern is guided, the breathing index representing a characteristic of a breathing state of the user; and an outcome index calculating unit for calculating an outcome index based on at least two breathing indices, the outcome index representing an outcome of breathing exercise; and an informing unit for informing the outcome index to the user.

Abstract: A method for the video display of exercises by an instructor, to a person performing the exercises, whereby digitized animation is utilized to depict energy flow in relation to the body to enable the exerciser to combine movement, breathing and visualization of energy flow, to achieve improved exercise results.

Abstract: In a therapeutic device (1) for assisting respiration, clearing of mucus and expectoration by a patient by means of which an oscillating air resistance can be generated in the air flow during exhalation and inhalation, with a mouthpiece (2) having an inlet opening (7) provided at one end of it and an elastically deformable hose piece (3) attached to its other end opposite to the inlet opening, it should be possible to adjust the respiration frequencies and pressure amplitudes for the individual patient during inhalation and exhalation.

Abstract: An intra-repetition exercise system which allows comparison of actual performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (2) to pre-established target performance of intra-repetition exercise characteristics (3) by an exerciser (1).

Abstract: A deep breathing training device includes a band worn around the abdomen which carries a switch. The switch is connected to a human-perceptible indicator. When the wearer of the device takes a deep breath and expands their abdomen, the expansion of the belt activates the switch and causes the indicator to activate. Conversely, if the wearer merely expands their chest without expanding the abdomen, the band is not stretched and the indicator does not activate.

Abstract: Systems and methods for promoting ischemic preconditioning in individuals are provided. Ischemic preconditioning is provided by exercise treatments. The exercise treatments consist of breathing exercise regimens with breathing sequences of oxygenating and non-oxygenating phases co-ordinated with stress-relaxation cycles. The breathing sequences are designed to induce periods of ischemia. The individualized exercise treatments can induce optimal number of periods of ischemia separated by suitable intervals to provide effective ischemic preconditioning.

Abstract: A device for thinning lung secretions comprises a housing, a reed disposed in the housing, and an acoustical resistance. The reed produces a low-frequency audio shockwave in a range of about 12 Hz to about 30 Hz when vibrated. The acoustical resistance couples a patient lung cavity to the audio shockwave, thereby vibrating the patient's lung cavity to thin lung secretions.

Abstract: An oral application for snoring prevention which has a flattened tube with an unobstructed airway and ridges on the inferior surface for pulling the tongue forward out of the path of the airway while the superior surface of the tube follows closely the hard and soft palate. The tube is short and extends in the oral cavity or mouth to a location which will not cause a gag reflex.

Abstract: An improved insufflation-exsufflation system with percussive assist for removal of broncho-pulmonary secretions includes a conduit for connection to a patient's airway; a pressure source for providing to the conduit alternating positive and negative pressure fluctuations at a first rate corresponding to patient insufflation-exsufflation; and a control mechanism for varying pressure during positive and negative pressure fluctuations at a second higher rate to periodically decrease the positive pressure during positive fluctuations and decrease the negative pressure during negative fluctuations to provide percussive pulses during at least one of insufflation-exsufflation to clear broncho-pulmonary secretions from the patient's airway.