Stretching Patents (Class 482/907)
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Patent number: 6354983Abstract: An exercise wheel comprises a housing, two grip rods secured to two sides of the housing, respectively, a chassis housed by the housing, a main shaft supported by the chassis, a main gear mounted around the main shaft, and two wheel assemblies rotatably mounted to the chassis and each including a shaft with a toothed portion for meshing with the main gear. Two torsion springs are mounted around the main shaft and respectively located on both sides of the main gear. Each torsion spring includes a first end securely attached to the chassis and a second end securely attached to the main gear. The main gear further comprises a peripheral stop surrounding at least one of the torsion springs to thereby avoid radial outward expansion of the torsion springs.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2001Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Inventor: Chin-Tsun Lee
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Patent number: 6352495Abstract: A leg stretching device includes a base unit, a connecting frame, a control mechanism, and a pair of leg support rods. The control mechanism includes a slide rod having a frame connecting portion mounted non-rotatably on the connecting frame, and a rack portion extending slidably into a stationary tube of the base unit. A ratchet wheel is mounted rotatably on the stationary tube and meshes with the rack portion. A control lever is mounted pivotally on the stationary tube, and a pawl unit is mounted on the control lever. The pawl unit engages the ratchet wheel to transmit a forward turning force applied on the control lever to the ratchet wheel, thereby enabling the ratchet wheel to rotate in a direction for retracting the slide rod into the stationary tube, and disengages the ratchet wheel when a rearward turning force is applied on the control lever. Each of the leg support rods is mounted pivotally on the connecting frame at one end, and is provided with an ankle support at the other end.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2001Date of Patent: March 5, 2002Inventor: Frank Hsu
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Patent number: 6338700Abstract: A leg stretcher used to stretch a user's hamstring muscles when the user is lying in a supine position. The leg stretcher including a conventional pulley suspended from any convenient support at a position above the user's head. A rope is threaded through the pulley, and at one end thereof has an adjustable stirrup to be placed around the user's ankle. The stirrup is adjustable in size to accommodate a particular user's ankle. The opposite end of the rope is then threaded through a cord lock and a handle bar with the cord lock fixedly attached to the handle bar. This end of the rope is then secured to an adjustment handle which is used to adjust the length of the rope and also prevents the rope from slipping through the handle bar.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2000Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Inventor: Todd E. Pollock
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Patent number: 6309330Abstract: A device which will allow the user to perform inverted ab crunches and has a frame which is attached to a base with a padded mat. The frame has two padded supports at the top for the user to place his knees and ankles on to support himself in an inverted position and the frame has hand holds along the frame to help himself into and out of the exercise position.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1999Date of Patent: October 30, 2001Inventor: Thomas L. Thornton
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Patent number: 6287244Abstract: A construction and mode of use of an exercise device primarily for extension exercise routines which hold each knee of the exerciser, by a restraint, at an obtuse angle or in an injury-obviating position during repetitive opposite direction bending at the waist during which, the weight-shifting of the upper torso, can cause injury to an unrestrained knee.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2000Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Inventor: John L. Boos
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Patent number: 6273841Abstract: A twisting exercise apparatus is provided which enables the user to exercise both upper and lower body muscle groups. The apparatus includes a frame means, with a hand engagement means, a seat support means, and a power transfer means are all pivotally mounted to the frame means. The user may alternately push and pull backward and forward upon two handle members of the hand engagement means. This motion is transferred by a power transfer means into twisting or pivoting motion of a seat of the seat support means. Also, pivoting movement of the seat will produce alternating backward and forward movement of the handle members. Optional items include a back support means, inner and outer thigh engagement means, and a resistance means.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1999Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Inventor: Gary L. Johnston
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Patent number: 6270448Abstract: Disclosed is a device for use by a person to perform leg stretching exercises. In one embodiment, the device comprises a first support member, a second support member, a third support member and a fourth support member. Each of the first, second, third and fourth support members. Each of the first, second, third and fourth support members further comprise first and second mounting portions. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth support members further comprise a leg support member moveable by the person from the first mounting portion to the second mounting portion. The first support member is engaged to the second support member. The second support member is engaged to the third support member. The third support member is engaged to the fourth support member. The fourth support member is engaged to the first support member.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 1999Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Inventor: Duane E. Smith
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Patent number: 6264587Abstract: An exercise wheel includes a housing, a chassis housed by the housing and including a compartment, a pair of rollers rotatably mounted in the compartment of the chassis and connected by a shaft, a main gear rotatably mounted in the compartment of the chassis, and a transmission gear for providing transmission between the shaft of the rollers and the main gear. Two torsion springs are respectively mounted to two sides of the main gear and each has a first end and a second end. The first end of each torsion spring is attached to an associated side of the main gear. The second end of each torsion spring is attached to the chassis. Each of the torsion springs is deformed to store resilience when the main gear is turned, thereby returning the main gear. Two grip rods are secured to the two sides of the housing, respectively. A universal caster is mounted to an underside of the chassis, thereby allowing the user to change moving direction of the exercise wheel.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2000Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Inventor: Chin-Tsun Lee
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Patent number: 6244994Abstract: An exercising device includes a non elastic strap that fits around the upper back, shoulders and upper arms of a user. The ends of the strap are coupled with a hand grip. The strap may form part of an upper torso body garment. In use, the upper torso is twisted and the handgrips pushed while tensioning upper body muscles and arms.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1998Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Inventor: Andrew Tilberis
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Patent number: 6245000Abstract: An exerciser with an inclined adjustable roller platform assembly comprising a base module, a roller platform assembly, a foot support, a roller platform assembly support, an overhead hand bar assembly and an overhead hand bar assembly support, one end of the roller platform assembly is pivotally connected to the base, the foot support fastened to and extending forwardly of the base of the roller platform assembly, the adjustable roller platform assembly is maintained in one of many variable inclined positions by the roller platform assembly support extending between the roller platform assembly and the base module, the roller platform assembly support being variably vertically adjustable; the overhead hand bar assembly having a lower end pivotally connected to the roller platform assembly, overhead hand bar assembly supports extending between the overhead hand bar assembly and the roller platform assembly, the overhead hand bar supports being variably vertically adjustable.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Inventors: Anna Saakian, Guido Perrella
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Patent number: 6241644Abstract: A stretch exercise device is molded in one piece of a material having the physical properties of a soft, flexible, deformable rubber. Two elongate, spaced apart side members extend along a long axis. Many finger grips or rungs are arranged parallel to one another attached at their ends to the side members. The rungs are spaced apart by a distance small enough so that a hand grasping a first rung may reach out with some fingers to reach an adjacent rung without first releasing a secure grip on the first rung. This enables a user to exert continuously increasing tension in stretching exercises. Grooves on the rungs and grooves on the side members provide finger gripping surfaces to facilitate this progressive tensioning movement.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2000Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Inventor: Phillip S. Tepperberg
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Patent number: 6234942Abstract: A compound exercise apparatus for extension, stretching and rowing-type exercises where the user's body weight provides a component of the resistive force against which the user exercises. The apparatus includes a base having a pair of stationary foot pedals, a cushion mounted to the top of a support bar for supporting the user's upper body. A lower end of the support bar is mounted to the base and an upper end of the support bar is pivotally mounted to an upper end of a twin-wheeled push rod. The twin-wheeled push rod is biased to a retracted position by an extension spring anchored within the support bar and connected to a cable anchored to a connection post of the twin-wheeled push rod. A fork member having a U-shaped bar at a lower end and a T-shaped connection member at an upper end is pivotally connected to the connection post of the twin-wheeled push rod. A lower end of the U-shaped bar of the fork member is pivotally connected by a linkage to the support bar.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Inventor: Cheng-hui Yang
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Patent number: 6231489Abstract: An exercise device comprising a frame structure constructed and arranged to be supported in an operative position on a horizontal surface so as to extend longitudinally therealong. An exercise support is fixedly mounted on one longitudinal end of the frame structure in a position spaced above the horizontal surface when the frame structure is supported thereon in an operative position. The exercise support is constructed and arranged to enable a user to engage the user's feet with the exercise support or grip the user's hands on the exercise support. A seat is carried on the one end portion of the frame structure in longitudinally spaced relation with respect to the exercise support. A plurality of rollers made of yieldable material is rotatably supported on the frame structure in an upwardly arched array extending longitudinally upwardly from the seat and arching downwardly toward an opposite longitudinal end of the frame structure to rollingly support a user thereon.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1999Date of Patent: May 15, 2001Assignee: Stamina Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert W. McBride, Newton Lin, Marjolein Brugman
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Patent number: 6228005Abstract: A multiple station exercise and stretching apparatus is described. A first exercise station includes a plurality of spaced apart horizontal bars. A second exercise station includes a foot support and at least one horizontally extending grasping bar. A third exercise station includes at least one foot stirrup and at least one horizontally extending bar which is in a spaced apart relationship to the foot support. A fourth exercise station has an upper grasping member having bars which angle in a rearward and downward direction and at least one lower grasping device which is positioned at an angle to the upper grasping device. A fifth exercise station includes a plurality of vertically extending bars. A sixth exercise station includes a plurality of angled overhead bars. Each station preferably includes a support platform having a first angled mat which angles upwardly from a midline and a second angled mat which angles upwardly in an opposite direction from the first angled mat.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 1999Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Inventor: Gary W. Gray
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Patent number: 6224524Abstract: A shoe, preferably an athletic shoe, with an attachment designed to give people who have just begun an exercise program, and have not yet achieved sufficient flexibility to be able to comfortably touch their toes, something to grab onto that is attached to the toes of their shoes. The attachment consists of two side members that go on each side of the shoe from the toe to the opening for the leg, and a front piece and several cross-pieces connecting the side members, like rungs on a ladder. The side members, front piece and cross-pieces can be sewn together, or cut from one piece of material. The front piece is sewn to the toe of the shoe or otherwise permanently attached. A person using the invention may begin by reaching the cross-piece furthest from the toe, and work his or her way downward, one rung at a time, until they are able to touch their toes. The side members may be removably attached to the shoe by strips of hook and loop fasteners, when the attachment is not in use.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Assignee: All Starts, Inc.Inventor: Philip Ignatius Singh
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Patent number: 6203473Abstract: A stretching and exercise apparatus (10) includes a pair of parallel legs (11a, 11b) having first ends and second ends. The first ends of the legs define arcuate rocker portions (12a, 12b) having straight distal ends (22a, 22b). A top crosspiece (16) is secured transversely across the legs is attached. The apparatus further includes a pair of handgrips (20a, 20b) that extend generally perpendicularly from the legs pointing in the same direction as the straight distal ends. Optionally, a lower crosspiece (18) may be provided across the legs in parallel with the top crosspiece. Preferably, the top crosspiece is pivotally attached to the legs for selective angular adjustment, and the handgrips and the lower crosspiece are slidably attached to the legs for selective longitudinal positioning. The axis of rotation of the rocker portions closely coincides with the pivot axis of a person's hip joint. The apparatus is used to provide support, control, and leverage during various stretching exercises.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1998Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: PearTree Systems, Inc.Inventor: Duncan F. Atwood
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Patent number: 6196955Abstract: An exerciser has a rod engaged through a frame, and a wheel rotatably engaged on the rod and having one or more holes for threading a resilient belt which is received in the rod and which has two ends retained to the ends of the rod. The middle portion of the belt is engaged through either of the holes of the wheel and may be wound around the rod when the wheel is rotated relative to the rod. The frame has one or more wheels for facilitating moving of the frame and has one or more pulleys for winding the belt. Two pulleys are rotatably engaged on the rod for winding the belt.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1999Date of Patent: March 6, 2001Inventor: Jin Chen Chuang
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Patent number: 6135931Abstract: A physical therapy device for correcting gait and balance. The device generally includes a rectangular frame having front, back, right and left sides, a vertical member extending downwardly from a center of the back side of the frame and longitudinal grips extending downwardly from intersections of the front side with each of the left and right sides. In use, the user stands within the generally rectangular frame with his forearms extending forward perpendicularly from the body and gripping the longitudinal grip members with the back side of the frame extending substantially horizontally across the shoulder blades of the user and the vertical member extending downwardly between the shoulder blades of the user.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1999Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Inventors: William V Padula, Od, II, William V Padula, I, William V Padula, III
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Patent number: 6129650Abstract: A shoulder exercise bar intended for use with hemiplegic patients is provided which maintains a patient's hands in proper position during shoulder exercises and may also be used for elbow and wrist exercises. The shoulder exercise bar includes a crossbar which is adjustable in length to fit a particular patient. A plurality of handles are provided at each end of the crossbar to be grasped by the patient demonstrating weakness. One of the handles is angularly offset at each end with respect to a longitudinal axis defined by the crossbar and provides for versatile strengthening and stretching exercises for the patient. The orientation of the handles also encourages self resisted or isotonic strengthening exercises.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1998Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Inventor: Roy D. Wedge, Jr.
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Patent number: 6117057Abstract: There is provided an abdominal exercise system (10) for aiding a user in performing exercises to strengthen and tone his or her abdominal muscles. Abdominal exercise system (10) generally includes a base assembly (100) adapted for angular displacement responsive to a force applied by the user; and, an engagement assembly (150) coupled to the base assembly for transferring the user-applied force thereto. Base assembly (100) includes a pelvic support structure having a substantially planar guide panel portion (130) for supportingly engaging and guiding the user's pelvic region during its angular displacement.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1998Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Inventors: Brad Olschansky, Scott Olschansky
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Patent number: 6117052Abstract: An aerobic exercise device for performing lateral swinging or swaying motions is disclosed. The device has a base with an upright tubular steel frame and integral handles. A swing assembly or pendulum is pivotally suspended from an upper portion of the frame. The pendulum comprises a pair of vertical bars which are pivotally joined to a short horizontal bar at their lower ends. A pair of foot pad assemblies are pivotally mounted to the horizontal bar. Each foot pad has a shock absorber mounted between it and its adjacent vertical bar for creating resistance to the motion of the pendulum. The user grips the a handle with each hand and places one foot on each foot pad. By moving the legs and lower torso from side to side, the user can exercise by swaying or swinging the pendulum from side to side while the frame remains stationary.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1999Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: Bollinger Industries, L.P.Inventors: Howard M. Frost, George D. Stickler
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Patent number: 6113564Abstract: Disclosed is a portable apparatus for providing lumbar traction in the home or while traveling which is used in conjunction with a door or gate. The apparatus includes an anchoring device which fits over the top of an ordinary door. The anchor is connected to an adjustable support strap which is attached to a junction box. An adjustable rope passing over a pulley in the junction box is provided with a grip at one end, and a pelvic traction belt at the other end. A locking mechanism is provided on the junction box to set the adjustable rope attached to the traction belt in a desired position. The device is attached over a door, and the user puts on the traction belt and lies down on the floor with knees bent, the soles of both feet flat against the door. By pulling the grip of the rope, the traction belt can be raised to a desired position for traction, and then locked in place. After an appropriate period of traction, the user disengages the lock, and lowers the traction belt.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1998Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Inventor: Leif McGuire
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Patent number: 6110078Abstract: A device consisting primarily of two hinged plates with a variable tensioning mechanism. Applied to the foot and lower leg the device provides a progressive stretch for planter fascia, Achilles tendon and gastrocnemius muscle. Enhancements, comprised of an adjustable toe support, adjustable arch support and foot strap enable maximization of stretch for various foot types and conditions. A method of setting tension levels allows for application of protocol and, in conjunction with the use of a system to measure angular displacement of the plates, provides a method of evaluating flexibility and flexibility gains of the plantar fascia/Achilles tendon system.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1999Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Inventor: Allen Miles Dyer
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Patent number: 6110083Abstract: A portable stretching apparatus can be deployed in a manner that allows one limb of a user to be restrained on a base unit supporting the user's body while another limb is stretched by pulling a cable at one end to move the other limb attached at the other end of the cable. A cable handling device is arranged so that it can be moved at any position across the width of the stretching device. A measuring device allows a user to measure the relative extent of a stretching exercise.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1999Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Inventor: Dan Riser
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Patent number: 6106490Abstract: An exercise and rehabilitation machine for strengthening the torso muscles and rehabilitating back injuries includes an optional leg support and an angled torso platform further having attached a plurality of vibrational therapy pads and body pads whereby the angled torso platform cradles and supports that portion of weight attributable to the upper body, or torso, of a user, and if the leg support is not used, the user supports that portion of weight attributable to the lower body with the user's feet against the bottom surface of a room, or otherwise, if the leg support is included, the user supports that portion of weight attributable to the lower body with the user's legs draped over the leg support.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 1999Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Inventor: George B. Shaw
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Patent number: 6068580Abstract: An exercise device comprises a relatively large diameter ball having a pair of handles projecting from opposite sides of the ball. To use the device, one may grasp one or both handles and manipulate the device following specific exercise routines.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1998Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Assignee: Hedstrom CorporationInventors: Randy J. Myers, Karl M. Fickenscher, James E. Cotter
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Patent number: 6063015Abstract: An exercise assembly 10 includes a support platform 12 for resting upon a floor and an arcuate section 14 extends upwardly and rearwardly from the platform 12 to define a storage space 16 between the platform 12 and the arcuate section 14. And a foot section 18, comprising an intermediate portion 24 and a toe portion 26, extends from the arcuate section 14 to a distal end 20 for resting upon a floor in a use position. The assembly is characterized by a first pivot joint 22 interconnecting the sections 14 and 18 for folding the foot section 18 into the storage space 16 in a storage position. A second pivot joint 28 interconnects the toe portion 26 and the intermediate portion 24 for folding the toe portion 26 under the intermediate portion 24 and into the storage space 16 in the storage position.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1998Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Inventor: Stevent D. Johnston
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Patent number: 6059699Abstract: An exercise device for use with a medicine ball utilizing a support frame with a seat thereon. A medicine ball track is mounted to the frame and is pivotal to a user selectable position of a plurality of positions at which one end of the track is higher than the opposed track end. A seated user facing away from the track initially places the medicine ball at the elevated track end upon torso rotation in one direction. The incline of the track causes a rolling movement of the ball to the lower track end for recovery by the user upon the user oppositely rotating the torso in order to reach the ball at the lower track end. Either end of the track may be elevated so as to provide a balanced exercise. The degree of elevation of the upper track end is adjustable which varies the speed of the ball rolling movement and thus the speed at which the user must rotate between the ball placement and recovery positions. A selector plate positions and maintains the track at a desired inclination.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1998Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Inventor: Anthony Ramsey
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Patent number: 6056675Abstract: An exercise device particularly adapted for an isometric workout of lower body muscles includes a seating plate. Releasably attached to a front wall of the seating plate is a fixed bar. Then, pivotally attached respectively to top and bottom ends of the fixed bar are inner ends of upper and lower movable support members. On an outer end of the upper support member is a fastener. This fastener includes a pin for selective insertion in one of a set of spaced apart holes in an outer end of the lower support member to join the member ends. Finally, a sleeve-type fastener of a leg engaging member is slidably disposed on the upper support member. Leg engaging member positioning is secured by a further pin insertable in one of a set of holes in an outer end of the upper support member. The leg engaging member includes a pair of padded ends piece spaced apart by a transversely positioned middle padded piece. Contact discs of the end pieces abut the middle padded piece.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1998Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Inventors: Alexander S. Aruin, John J. Nicholas
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Patent number: 6050926Abstract: A push-up device includes a base that has a rubber-padded bottom and opposed long flanges rising from the bottom. A series of apertures is formed in each flange to establish a series of aperture pairs, such that two wood dowels can be positioned through respective aperture pairs to establish respective hand holds for the left and right hands of a user. The distance between the dowels can be established as desired by the user by positioning the dowels in the appropriate aperture pairs. Alternatively, the apertures in each flange can be connected to each other to establish a long channel having a series of enlarged bays. In still another embodiment, an elongated rectangular base with opposed long flanges rising from the bottom of the base includes transverse hand ramps that span the flanges, with the hand ramps being angled relative to the base. The angle of successive hand ramps relatively to the horizontal plane becomes increasing acute, moving from the center of the base outwardly.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1998Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Assignee: Joe E. Purdie, D.D.S. A Dental CorporationInventor: Joe E. Purdie
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Patent number: 6042520Abstract: Device for stretching and increasing the flexibility of a human foot and leg including an elongate member including a first recess arranged proximate a first end and adapted to receive the sole of the foot, a second recess arranged alongside the first recess closer to a second end of the member opposite the first end and adapted to receive the heel of the foot, a projection arranged alongside the second recess closer to the second end of the member, and a third recess arranged alongside the projection closer to the second end of the member and adapted to receive a calf of the foot. An elastic band is provided to secure the foot in contact with the member.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1998Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Inventor: David Campos Cantero
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Patent number: 6027434Abstract: A device for relieving leg cramps, which is comprised of a shaft, a handle at a proximal end of the shaft, and a stirrup attaching to a distal end of the shaft. The device is comprised of rigid, lightweight, plastic tubing and is detachable and portable for the safety, comfort and convenience of the user. While lying in a supine position, e.g. in bed, a user experiencing a leg cramp (or charley horse) extends the affected leg, places the stirrup of the device over the toes so that the cushion covering the transverse bar bears against the sole of the foot. The user then pulls the handle proximally to pull the foot upwards and hyper-extend the cramped muscles until the cramp is relieved. Assistance of another person is rendered unnecessary.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1998Date of Patent: February 22, 2000Inventor: Thomas J. Gibbons
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Patent number: 6019740Abstract: The present invention is directed to a complete body strengthening and stretching apparatus which relies on passive motion provided by a drive mechanism to direct the movement of the back, legs, arms and torso. The apparatus may include a support frame including a base adapted to rest on a floor and provided with a body support for supporting the user in a seated position. In the preferred embodiments, the support frame may include a back rest and seat, or further a body rest and a leg support surface for supporting and working of the lower body. An exercise bar is positioned in conjunction with the frame and is grippable by the user for stretching and exercising the upper body by means of movement of the exercise bar. A linear actuator is coupled to the frame and operates to cause movement of the exercise bar for imparting passive motion to the arms and upper body of the user.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1997Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Inventor: John M. Hausman
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Patent number: 6017296Abstract: An exercise wheel comprises a housing provided therein with a receiving compartment, a grip rod which is put through the housing such that both longitudinal ends thereof are left out in the outerside of the housing, a main wheel rotatably mounted on the grip rod such that the main wheel is located in the receiving compartment of the housing, two auxiliary wheel sets pivoted in the housing such that they are linked with the main wheel, and at least one elastic recovery device disposed between the main wheel and the housing for providing the main wheel with a recovery force enabling the main wheel to return to its original angular position.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1999Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Inventors: Jack Tang, Hui-Nan Yu
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Patent number: 6010431Abstract: A hand stretching method and apparatus mimics a well known exercise to reduce the problems with repetitive stress injury. A body of resiliently deformable material has flat and parallel top and bottom surfaces, with a cutout at one edge of the body. A user's hand is placed on the body, with the palm of the hand spanning the cutout. By pushing down on the hand, the opposite sides of the palm are urged apart, opening the carpal tunnel and relieving compression on the blood vessels and nerves. A user may place one hand on each surface of the body and urge the hands towards each other for treatment of both hands simultaneously. The body is preferably made of an expanded polymeric material such as polyurethane. Layers having different compression factors may be utilized; and, darker colored surface layers of material may be adhered to the top and bottom surfaces so the surfaces will not readily show dirt.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1999Date of Patent: January 4, 2000Inventor: Donald N. Taylor
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Patent number: 6007568Abstract: A table that corrects postures when looking at the anterior aspect of the person. The table will be mirror-imaging their postures including: Right and left head translations, right and left thoracic translations, and right and left lateral bending of the thorax. The table is made up of two movable sections (cervical and thoracic) and a stationary seat having a pelvic support. The head is placed in between two padded walls, and the cervical section is slid to one side and gets locked down, placing the head of the patient in the mirror-image translation. The thorax of the person is strapped down to the thoracic support, which is then slid to one side and locked in place, causing the thorax to be in mirror-image translation and/or lateral bending posture.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1998Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Inventors: Eric A. Harrell, Robert H. Berry
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Patent number: 5997451Abstract: Disclosed is a device for performing exercises to stretch the muscles in the leg of a person. In one embodiment, the device comprises a main support member having a first end portion and a second end portion engaged upon a floor. The main support member also has first and second mounting members. The device further comprises a leg support member adapted to be selectively positioned by the person along the main support member from a first position wherein said leg support member is engaged with the first mounting member to a second position where the leg support member is engaged with the second mounting member. The leg support member is adapted to support the leg of the person. After the person selects the position of the leg support member, the person's leg may be supported by the leg support member so that the person may stretch the leg.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1997Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Inventor: Duane E. Smith
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Patent number: 5989168Abstract: An exercise bed is composed of a front bed frame, a rear bed frame fastened pivotally with the front bed frame, a movable frame fastened with the rear bed frame and provided with a plurality of soft rollers arranged at various levels, a transmission motor mounted under the rear bed frame and connected with the movable frame, and an elastic cord fastened under the front bed frame and the rear bed frame. As the transmission motor is started, a pivoting portion of the front bed frame and the rear bed frame is actuated to bulge to urge the backbone and the back muscles of a person lying on the exercise bed.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Inventor: Long-Tan See
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Patent number: 5971901Abstract: The present invention provides an exercise apparatus which utilizes gravity to create a gentle tension upon the lower back. This gentle tension is used in combination with stretching and toning exercises to strengthen and rehabilitate the lower back. The present invention further provides an attached vibratory device attached to the exercise apparatus. The attached vibratory device is used in conjunction with lower back exercises and stimulates the muscle tissue and blood circulation. The apparatus of the present invention comprise the primary structures: a body support structure, a leg support structure and a base connected to both the body support structure and the leg support structure. The apparatus of the present invention further provides for a multitude of different positions in which the therapeutic stretches and exercises may be performed.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 1996Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Inventor: George B. Shaw
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Patent number: 5971902Abstract: The present invention resides in an exercise apparatus for individuals with chronic back pain. The apparatus comprises an elongated base frame that is rectangular in configuration and has a U-shaped front portion and a T-shaped back portion. An inverted Y-shaped, lower support shaft having three members with rectangular configurations is removably attached to the base frame. An elongated, rectangular shaped upper support shaft attached to an angle adjustment cam is attached to the inverted Y-shaped lower support shaft with rotation and locking means. The upper support shaft contains, near the bottom portion thereof, a restraint stand having foot boards and lower extremity restraint. The upper support shaft is hollow on the inside and is slidably connected to a telescoping pelvic restraint stand, which contains hip pads, pelvic restraints and bicycle like handle bars near the top portion thereof.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1998Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Inventors: Virgil L. Robertson, Joe L. Verna, Eric A. Pierra
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Patent number: 5957955Abstract: A back stretching system is provided including a stationary rest. A movable rest is slidable with respect to the stationary rest in constant coplanar relationship therewith. The movable rest and stationary rest further reside in a common angled plane during use.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1998Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Inventor: James Thomas
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Patent number: 5938573Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Inventors: D. Robert Davies, III, David Dise
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Patent number: 5931768Abstract: An abdominal exercise apparatus has an elongated rigid member for positioning between a user's back and a support surface for executing a crunch. A grasping mechanism, such as a strap member, is attached to the rigid member to allow the user to lift the head end of the rigid member from the support surface by contracting the abdominal muscles. A pivot member is connected to the rigid member adjacent the user's lower back and positioned to engage the support surface. A weight retaining mechanism, such as a post, adapted to receive weighted plates, may be attached to the rigid member to enhance the workout to the abdominal and lower back muscles.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1996Date of Patent: August 3, 1999Inventor: Robert Amesquita
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Patent number: 5928119Abstract: A new inclined pushup device for allowing persons with knee and back problems to safely perform pushups. The inventive device includes a base member. A pair of outer legs extend upwardly from the base member. A first pair of inner legs extending upwardly from the base member. An upper cross bar extends between the upper ends of the pair of outer legs and the first pair of inner legs. A second pair of inner legs extend upwardly from the base member. A lower cross bar is secured to upper ends of the second pair of inner legs. A pair of angularly disposed support bars have lower ends secured to the base member opposed from the first pair of inner legs. Upper ends of the support bars are secured to the upper cross bar. Intermediate portions of the support bars are secured to the lower cross bar.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1998Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Inventor: Edward K. Dinkel
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Patent number: 5921901Abstract: An exercise apparatus of a push-pull type for exercising a person's abdominal muscles includes a track unit formed by a track board having an upper, body supporting surface extending between front and rear ends; an elongate, track-supporting base board for extending horizontally across a floor; a knee support on the base board adjacent the rear end of the track board; and, a support member for supporting the track board pivotally connected to overlie the base board with the rear end adjacent the base board and the front end at selected elevations. A hand-grip carriage unit with a pair of hand grips and an elbow support aligned rearward of the hand-grips is removably mounted by rollers on the body supporting surface for reciprocal rolling movement therealong. An anchoring unit for a person's legs or hands, alternatively, can be releasably mounted to the front end of the track board, when elevated.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1998Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Inventor: Nestor J. Palacios
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Patent number: 5913759Abstract: Apparatus for stretching the thigh muscles on the front side of one leg (4) of a user, wherein the apparatus includes a back support bench (10, 11), a foot support (19) which lies in a region above one short end (11) of the bench in a position such that the lumbar region (7) and hip of the user (1) will lie generally flat against the bench (10, 11) when the foot of the other leg (3) rests against the foot support (19). One end of a pivotal arm (30) is pivotally mounted (31) on the apparatus and extends generally away from the short end (11) of the bench (10, 11), wherein the underside of the pivotal arm (30) is adapted to support against the upper side of the thigh of the user's one leg (4). The apparatus includes a drive motor (40, 41) which is adapted to swing the pivotal arm (30) such that when swinging downwards about its pivot axis the pivotal arm will swing said one leg (4) rearwardly such as to stretch the thigh muscles on the front side of said one leg.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1997Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Inventor: Bo Yngve Bostrom
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Patent number: 5913755Abstract: A portable stretching device includes a seat portion on which the athlete sits so that an upright axle frame of the stretching device extends in an upwardly vertical direction from the area between the athlete's thighs. The athlete then grips a handle which is located at the end of a "swing" arm of the stretching device, which extends outwardly from the upright axle frame, away from the athlete, at approximately chest-level. The stretching device also includes thigh supports on the seat portion, which enable an athlete user to stabilize the device while performing stretching exercises. The athlete user then grips the handle, and then allows a retracting force applied to the swing arm to twist his/her torso to either side while the seat portion of the device remains stationary, thus simulating a full shoulder turn required for an optimal swing for golf, hockey, tennis (and other racquet sports) and baseball and softball.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1998Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Inventor: John H. Chung
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Patent number: 5904641Abstract: A body exerciser includes two leg-supporting members having first proximate ends pivoted to a seat member, and first distal ends swingable relative to the seat member on a horizontal plane. A guiding member has a second proximate end secured to the seat member between the first proximate ends, and a second distal end. A sliding member is mounted slidably on the guiding member, and is connected pivotally to the first distal ends of the leg supporting rods by two connecting members, respectively. When the user sits on the seat member and bends forward to move the sliding member toward the second distal end, the connecting members will cooperate to spread apart the leg supporting members for spreading apart the user's legs so as to exercise the user's trunk and legs.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1998Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Inventor: Ming-Hui Huang
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Patent number: 5902220Abstract: A reclining chair with exercising function includes symmetrical front and rear chair frames, and an adjusting rod pivotally connected to said front and rear chair frames by connecting plates. The adjusting rod is connected by springs to the rear chair frame. Both sides of the front chair frame are respectively provided with connecting plates to pivotally connect to a securing rod and a front support rod. The rear chair frame is pivotally connected to a rear support rod at both sides thereof by connecting plates. When the adjusting rod is retained at a bottom rod, an ordinary reclining chair is accomplished. When the adjusting rod is pulled upwardly, the reclining chair will bent downwardly or upwardly for V-shaped or inverted V-shaped body exercises.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1998Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Inventor: Chen-Da Lin
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Patent number: 5897472Abstract: An abdominal exercise apparatus (52) comprising an adjustable upright stand (54). A multi-contoured back pad base structure (56) is for positioning, preparing and isolating various muscles of the abdomen of a person (58) during exercise. A component (60) is for mounting the multi-contoured back pad base structure (56) to the adjustable upright stand (54), so that a back (62) of the person (58) can be placed against the multi-contoured back pad base structure (56). A force resistance assembly (64) is affixed onto a top end of the adjustable upright stand (54). A facility (66) is for connecting an upper body (68) of the person (58) to the force resistance assembly (64). When the person (58) moves forwardly away from the multi-contoured back pad base structure (56), the force resistance assembly (64) will apply a force resistance to the upper body (68) of the person (58), to exercise the abdominal muscles of the person (58).Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1997Date of Patent: April 27, 1999Inventor: Suresh Thulasingam