Kneading Or Deep Pressure Patents (Class 601/134)
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Publication number: 20010041851Abstract: A device for relieving headache and other cranio-cervical pain, through the application of static occipital accupressure, consists of a pair of posts projecting from a supporting housing. The posts are laterally adjustable, for varying their mutual spacing, and they are fitted with contact elements of selectively differing hardness for control of the character and magnitude of the pressure applied.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2001Publication date: November 15, 2001Inventors: Ronald G. Peyton, John C. Evans
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Patent number: 6315743Abstract: An apparatus for applying substantially constant pressures to the temple areas of a user's head, thereby relieving the user's headache is provided. A preferred embodiment of the apparatus comprises a C-shaped frame member which fits over the top of the user's head such that each end of the frame member is substantially aligned with a respective one of the user's two temple areas. Each end of the frame member is further coupled to a head contact assembly which, in use, is pressed against a respective one of the two temple areas of the user's forehead. Each head contact assembly is user-adjustable, preferably comprising a threaded screw member which screws through a corresponding threaded hole in a respective end of the C-shaped frame member. This allows the user to turn the head contact assembly either clock-wise or counter clock-wise, effectively increasing or decreasing the amount of pressure applied by the apparatus to each of the user's respective temple areas.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1998Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Inventor: Jack Guest
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Publication number: 20010034497Abstract: A foot nerve pulsator device for massaging soles which includes an assembly having a molded upper shell structure contoured to the plantar and transverse arch regions of the foot. The upper shell structure is secured at its base perimeter, to a molded base platform, being attached to the base platform by screws. Enclosed within this two piece assembly are an array of hollow massaging pistons having a closed top end and an open flanged end. The pistons are movable within an array of holes in the upper shell structure. The holes extend downward through cylindrical sleeves molded to the underside of the upper shell structure. The array of holes contain a plurality of rows, in which alternate rows have hole diameters corresponding to one of two different massaging piston diameters. The base structure includes an array of upwardly extended posts matching the array of holes in the upper shell structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2001Publication date: October 25, 2001Applicant: ROTOL (Singapore) Ltd.Inventor: Tan Khee Bak
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Patent number: 6306109Abstract: A hand held manual massager is constructed as a cylindrical cage with a series of axles arranged in a circular or near circular array. Each of the axles provides a series of side-by-side massaging wheels. The wheels have a ridged circumference for rolling on the surface of the skin in a manner for stimulating the muscles and circulatory system.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 1999Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Inventor: Gus Polychronis
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Patent number: 6299586Abstract: An acupressure point treatment apparatus including an acupressure pointer including a pellet on a finger strap, a finger grounder including a grounding plate on a finger strap, and a Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) monitor electrically connected to the acupressure pointer and the finger grounder.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1998Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Inventor: Thanh D. Cao
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Patent number: 6299585Abstract: A finger pressure device 1 including semi-spherical bodies 10, 10′ with a plurality of protuberances 11 on the outer surface, penetrating grooves 12, 12′ in upper/lower part, a concavity 13, a convexity 14 in the internal center and circular groove 15; a circular rim 20 with a plurality of protuberances 21 on the outer surface, a projection 22 on the inner circumference and a space 23 to be placed between the two semi-spherical bodies; a coupling rod 30 with circular protuberances 31 on both sides to be inserted into the circular groove 15 of the semi-spherical bodies 10, 10′ through the space 23 of the circular rim 20; and a cap 60 covering the upper/lower grooves 12, 12′ after fastening with the bolt 40 and the nut 50.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1999Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Inventor: Dong-hoon Yoo
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Publication number: 20010027281Abstract: An apparatus and method for alleviating excessive pressure development on a body area includes a cushion having bottom and top surfaces which are spaced apart. The top surface has a plurality of channels formed therethrough. A compressible inner layer is disposed between the top and bottom surfaces, and a plurality of elongate, inflexible members are supported by the inner layer and are disposed at least partially within the channels. The members have first ends that extend through the channels to project beyond the top surface. Pressure applied to the first ends causes the members to be displaced axially along the channels toward the bottom surface without deformation. Pressure produced by body contact creates point pressures on the body area, and displacement of the members maintains the plurality of point pressures on the body area, alleviating excessive pressure. The apparatus includes a enclosure cover and the members have large, tapered ends.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Inventor: Reza R. Dabir
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Patent number: 6293916Abstract: A procedure for self-treating the bony architectural alignment of human feet. The methodology providing a panel with a series of pads thereon to permit adjustment of the bony architecture of a person's feet simply by standing in sequence on the various pads. Preferably the pads are sized and employed to adjust a succession of regions of the arches of the foot medial longitudinal arch, then the lateral longitudinal arch, then the transverse arches, thereby to assist in restoring and maintaining the natural architecture of the foot. Preferably the pads are supported by foam washers enabling the user to add or remove washers to increase or decrease the height of the pads to accommodate a variety of foot types and intensities of desired stimulation.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1999Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Inventor: Todd Alexander Alviso
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Publication number: 20010011160Abstract: A first drive shaft having a pair of eccentric shaft portions at its middle part and a second drive shaft on which a pair of eccentric cum bodies having eccentric cum portions are provided, are provided in a holding body. A pair of arms are provided on the eccentric shaft portions of the first drive shaft so as to freely oscillate and main massage rollers are provided on each of the arms. The kneading movement is assigned to the main massage rollers by a drive mechanism by selectively rotating the first drive shaft or the second drive shaft. Each arm is composed of an arm housing having a first opening portion, and an arm cover which forms a holding portion having a second opening portion, being bonded to the arm housing and holding a slider so as to freely slide between the bonded surfaces.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2001Publication date: August 2, 2001Applicant: France Bed Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshio Oguma, Shoji Oshita
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Patent number: 6267737Abstract: A robotic muscular therapy system, and method of use, for applying repeated amounts of concentrated pressure to targeted muscles one-at-a-time to lengthen even deeply positioned muscle tissue layer by layer and thereby reduce limitations on joint extension and flexibility as well as eliminate pain caused by excess muscle contraction. The system comprises a beveled treatment probe designed to concentrate pressure without breaking the skin of an average patient, a probe column assembly for fine X, Y, and Z probe movement over a patient, and a plurality of interchangeable column assembly supports for coarse X, Y, and Z probe movement. Patient safety limitations include a torque-limited and current-limited motor with a slip clutch, a probe which withdraws from its treatment position when a patient grabs it or a pre-set maximum tissue pressure is encountered, and a swivel fitting which allows the probe to give when a patient sneezes and allows patients to easily push the probe away upon demand.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1997Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Inventor: Algis A. Meilus
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Patent number: 6261251Abstract: A personal massage device that allows a person to apply a vibrating massage to his own back. The unique shape of the device allows the operator to hold it comfortably with one or both hands, while pressing the vibrating head of the device against his back. The device has a modified “J” shape, containing a straight main handle, a curved extension with a vibrator device located at the end, and a straight supplementary handle attached to the main handle at a right angle. A conveniently placed switch in the supplementary handle allows the operator to turn the vibrating device on or off while it is being held in its operating position. Interchangeable massage heads can be employed to vary the type of massage available from the device.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1998Date of Patent: July 17, 2001Inventor: Andrew P. Meyers
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Patent number: 6254555Abstract: Presented are novel instruments intended for use in the diagnosis and treatment of fibrotic soft tissue through soft tissue mobilization therapies performed on, particularly, a human patient. Three such instruments are provided by the invention including a variety of curvilinear and linear tissue-engaging edges and converging surfaces accommodating their use on the irregular contours of numerous soft tissue areas of the human body.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1996Date of Patent: July 3, 2001Assignee: Primary Care Delivery CorporationInventors: Thomas L. Sevier, Robert H. Helfst, Jr., Sue A. Stover, Eric W. Tisdale
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Patent number: 6254554Abstract: A compression sleeve for treating lymphedema is provided. The compression sleeve is comprised of an outer inelastic fabric layer and an inner flexible sheet padding layer. A plurality of tightening straps are laterally disposed in vertical succession along an exterior side of the sleeve to independently apply circumferential pressure along the length of the sleeve. The sleeve is able to apply a consistent gradient pressure from a distal part of the limb to a proximal end of the limb to help squeeze excess lymph from the limb. The inner padding layer is comprised of a high density foam material provided in a thin, continuous surface, flat sheet and has a high degree of firmness capable of evenly distributing the pressure generated by the tightening straps to prevent pockets of swelling within the sleeve. The compression sleeve can be configured for use with both arms and legs.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 1999Date of Patent: July 3, 2001Assignee: MEDassist-OP, Inc.Inventor: Craig H. Turtzo
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Patent number: 6251089Abstract: This invention is a body and joints massage device having changeable massage heads to obtain selected stroking, rubbing and/or kneading massaging effects of all body parts including body joints. The body and joints massage device comprises a shaft housing (22) engaging a main rotating shaft (24), the shaft housing being formed suitable to grip by a user and may be engaged with different types of massage heads. One type includes actively rotating and actively self-rotating massage elements (40) each equipped with passively rotating rollers for body stroking and rubbing massage effects. Another type includes actively rotating, flexible and/or extended massage elements (74) each of which also performs an active or passive reciprocal linear or arc movement for body and/or joints massage effect. Yet another type includes actively rotating extended massage elements (176), in which each also performs an active or passive reciprocal arc movement for body and joints massage.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1998Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: Vital-Tech Ltd.Inventors: Lev Kuznets, Yoram Chen
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Patent number: 6241694Abstract: An aesthetic and highly functional massage tool is disclosed which comprises a generally triangular frame adapted to be held in the palm of one hand. It has three leg members, each leg member extending generally from a bottom side corner portion of the frame a height generally exceeding the thickness of a finger. Each leg having a generally rounded bottom portion. The legs and triangular frame are monolithically molded from plastic. The frame has a generally triangular opening so that one may extend their fingers therethrough and around a side portion of the frame. This triangular design enables one to securely and comfortably hold the massage tool in multiple positions while during use. This is important because use in any one position tires particular muscles of the massageur. It also facilitates massaging different body portions in differing manners. The triangular void facilitates wrapping one's fingers around the massage tool. It enables one to slide the tool along while pushing downwardly on it.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1996Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Inventors: Bonnie L. Goulding-Thompson, Michael Thompson
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Patent number: 6241695Abstract: An apparatus and method for alleviating excessive pressure development on a body area are provided. The apparatus is preferably embodied in a cushion, and includes a bottom surface and a top surface which is spaced from the bottom surface and has a plurality of channels formed therethrough. A compressible inner layer is disposed between the top and bottom surfaces, and a plurality of elongate, inflexible members are supported by the inner layer and are disposed at least partially within the channels. The members have first ends that extend at least partially through the channels to project beyond the top surface, where the members are located at a neutral position in the absence of pressure. In operation, pressure applied to the first ends causes the members to be displaced axially along the channels away from the neutral position and toward the bottom surface without deformation.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1999Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Inventor: Reza R. Dabir
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Patent number: 6196984Abstract: A portable massage device having kneading, finger rolling and tapping rolling features, so as to provide three kinds of massage effects. In order to provide these massage effects, a driving mechanism is disposed on a fixed plate and includes a driven rotary shaft. The speed of the driving mechanism can be changed, and two drum shaped tube members are provided which include a plurality of kneading members. The drum shaped tube members are oriented adjacent opposite ends of the driven shaft, and a pair of round plates are provided at the inner ends of the respective drum shaped members so that kneading massage can be provided. Finger rolling and tapping rolling massage can be provided by the kneading members.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1998Date of Patent: March 6, 2001Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Protec FujiInventor: Kouji Hashimoto
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Patent number: 6183429Abstract: An abdominal massaging device includes a support and a first plate rotatably mounted on the support. At least one projection extends from and is rotatably mounted upon the first plate. In this way, the projection is effective to rotate with respect to the surface of the plate. In an alternative embodiment a plurality of second plates are disposed on the first plate and projections are disposed on the second plates. The supports for the device further include concave portions for receiving a user's pelvis and rib cage.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1997Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Inventor: Dominique Dervieux
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Patent number: 6171269Abstract: A podiatric device (2) for use in bathtubs or shower cabinets for instance, wherein the device includes a mat (3) which is provided with resilient, elongated bosses (10) on two-thirds of its upper surface, said bosses acting on the sole of a foot resting on the mat. The entire undersurface of the mat is provided with suction cups (18) which function to secure the mat firmly to a smooth undersurface. The mat also includes a foot-filing part (5) which includes a convex, dome-shaped filing element (6). The outer surface of the filing element has affixed thereto an abrasive agent such as abrasive paper or abrasive granules. The device also includes an arrangement of brushes by means of which the upper and bottom surfaces of a foot can be cleaned simultaneously, including between the toes, while leaving the hands free to soap the body or shampoo the hair.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1996Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Inventor: Mona Norin
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Patent number: 6162150Abstract: A foot massaging exercising apparatus includes a base, a pair of upright rocker bars, a pair of foot pedals, and massaging boards. The base has securing seats at a front end thereof and bearing frames at a rear end thereof. The rocker bars are pivotally mounted at the securing seats such that the user may swing them forwardly or rearwardly. The foot pedals are mounted at the bearing frames and are capable of free swinging movement. Two massaging boards, one inclining forwardly, the other inclining rearwardly, are pivotally mounted in the bearing frames below each foot pedal. One side of each foot pedal extends downwardly to form a flange. The flange is connected via a link to the lower portion of the corresponding rocker bar. When the user swings the rocker bars, due to the arrangement of the links, the foot pedals may be caused to swing forwardly and rearwardly therewith in turn.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1998Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Inventor: Joseph Chen Lung Lee
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Patent number: 6159169Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for treating whiplash injury. The apparatus comprises a base unit having an upright surface, a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the upright surface adjoins the top surface and the bottom surface. The top surface declines radially to the bottom surface to allow rotation of a person's neck substantially coaxially along its own axis.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Inventor: Brian D. Lambden
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Patent number: 6083180Abstract: A massaging device is so arranged to allow a massaging member thereof to simultaneously perform a vibrating action and a kneading action on the same body part to be massaged, and not to require any increase in the size thereof. The present invention provides a vibrator-type massaging device including a casing and a vibrating plate provided on top of the casing so as to vibrate at a high speed. A massaging member is provided on the vibrating plate and includes a top surface serving as a contact surface for contact with a human body. A kneading means having a pair of kneading balls which swing in the same plane as that of the contact surface of the massaging member is provided inside the casing so as to knead a human body.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 1998Date of Patent: July 4, 2000Assignee: Daito Electric Machine Industry Company LimitedInventor: Nobuzo Shimizu
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Patent number: 6077239Abstract: A rubbing plate of flat, elongated shape having a plurality of recessed portions and flat peripheral edges at the peripheral sides thereof and massaging area formed of raised portions at the outside wall for massing the head, the palms, the neck, orbital region, the fingers and acupuncture points of the body. The recessed portions preferably have different curvatures and lengths.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1998Date of Patent: June 20, 2000Inventor: Jung-Miin Lin
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Patent number: 6066106Abstract: A system for performing chest compression for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. The system includes a motor and gearbox including a system of clutches and brakes which allow for controlling and limiting the movement of the compressing mechanism and includes a control system for controlling the operation and interaction of the various components to provide for optimal automatic operation of the system.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Emergency Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Darren R. Sherman, Kenneth H. Mollenauer
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Patent number: 6056709Abstract: A portable massage device for providing effects of finger pressing massage and kneading massage (like fingers of a person repeatedly gripping and separating from each other) by kneading members including a driving mechanism 2 which is disposed on one of a pair of fixed plates 11 of a frame 1, a driven rotary shaft 3 which is rotatably held on the frame and driven to rotate by the driving member 2, driven rotary plates 4 which are disposed on the center part of the driven rotary shaft 3 and driven to rotate by the driving member 2, cam parts 41 which have a convex and concave surface 42 formed on one end, kneading members 5 which are disposed on shaft 3 and slide freely thereon, and have cam receiving parts 51 to contact the cam parts 41 of the driven rotary plates 4 for moving the kneading members toward and away from each other on the shaft 3, and a power spring member 6 which is disposed on the two kneading members 6 to make the motions of the kneading members 5 repeat continuously.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1998Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Protec FujiInventor: Kouji Hashimoto
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Patent number: 6056704Abstract: A foot-pressure massage stand and method effectively massages parts of a patient's body by using foot pressure either directly upon the patient by an operator or indirectly when a patient massages himself. The foot-pressure massage stand makes it possible for an operator and a patient or a patient alone to select an appropriate width between the friction wall and the reaction wall. One disclosed method is for the patient to massage himself while sitting on the floor plate, by using various auxiliary tools to massage areas of his or her body such as the back and lateral chests. Another method involves an operator applying foot pressure to a patient permitting the force to be increased by a magnitude of ten. By exerting foot pressure using the massage stand, stronger foot pressure can be achieved than by just using body weight or by leaning against only one wall, thereby achieving a more effective massage than is possible with conventional methods.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1999Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Inventor: Masatake Ide
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Patent number: 6053881Abstract: An ankle massaging device which is constructed in the general shape of a "U" while the curved position of the massaging device rests on a top of a user's foot, each end of the massaging device is positioned on opposite sides of a user's ankle while battery powered massaging devices are located in each end of the device and soft massaging protrusions are located on interior surfaces of the ends and corresponds with menstrual cycle pressure points located on a user's ankle whereby the massaging device helps relieve menstrual cycle cramps for the user.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1998Date of Patent: April 25, 2000Inventors: Anil Boodramsingh, Michele Ribalaigua
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Patent number: 6041457Abstract: A backrest device having a supporting surface presenting two elongate continuous or discontinuous protuberances which extend alongside one another and are arranged to engage the back of a person, resting in use against the supporting surface, on each side of the spine, with a channel between the protuberances to accommodate the bony part of the spine with substantially no pressure on the bony part of the spine.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1998Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Inventor: Neil Summers
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Patent number: 6039703Abstract: A double-sided massager includes a housing with a slot sized for receiving a hand. Opposing sets of massaging members are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the slot for simultaneously massaging both sides of the hand. The massaging members are driven in a reciprocating up and down motion by crankshafts driven by a motor. One set of massaging members is attached to a movable carrier, which is adjustable so that the spacing between the opposing sets of massaging members can be varied for fitting hands of different thickness. In a second embodiment, the housing is wide enough for massaging both hands simultaneously. In a third embodiment, a pair of housings, each sized for receiving one hand, are hinged together for massaging the hands in a vertical position.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1998Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Inventor: Bernard Badilla
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Patent number: 6036719Abstract: A muscular therapy treatment apparatus for patient self-treatment in applying concentrated pressure to deep muscle attachments in the lamina groove on either side of the spinous processes of spine vertebrae to relax and lengthen the muscles therein and cause vertebrae alignment without the forcing of bone. Each embodiment of the apparatus has a rigid planar base support and a treatment member depending upwardly therefrom with a pair of sharp edges on its curved upper peripheral surface. A groove separates the sharp edges and receives the spinous processus of vertebrae when a patient becomes positioned on top of or against the peripheral surface during use. The groove can have straight interior walls intersecting at an angle between 60.degree. to 70.degree., or it can have an arcuate configuration. The present invention discloses a variety of partial-spine treatment embodiments, as well as a whole-spine treatment embodiment that allows all of the muscles flanking the spinal column to be treated at once.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Inventor: Algis Albert Meilus
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Patent number: 6013042Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a massaging device for feet and legs comprising a number of bosses each having a spherically headed portion on the top and lined on platforms of a certain height in plural rows, characterized in that the users can casually use it concurrently with their work in the office and not only the vital points of those body portions can be comfortably and adequately stimulated from an optimum angle with respect to those vital points just by statically placing them against those bosses in their seating and lying postures, but also load angle with respect to those vital points can be freely adjusted at their disposal.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1998Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Assignee: Todoroki Sangyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Sadami Sakai
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Patent number: 6013041Abstract: An apparatus and method are shown for simulating therapeutic manipulations with reduced risk of injury. The apparatus of the present invention includes a reciprocating body which fits into an axial bore of an elongate housing. A biasing member also fits within the axial bore and generates elastic resistance force in response when the reciprocating body and elongate housing are compressed together. A measuring device is included which measures the speed and amplitude of an impulse of the simulated manipulation and displays the results of the impulse on a display. The method of the present invention includes delivering an impulse of a therapeutic manipulation to the apparatus above rather than a training partner or an inanimate object, measuring the speed and amplitude of the impulse, and displaying the result of the measurement.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 1998Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Inventor: Kevin P. Leathers
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Patent number: 6007503Abstract: An acupressure device is especially adapted for use as an anti-nausea prophylactic. The device comprises a substantially flat base having first and second opposing surfaces and a central aperture. A rounded button is disposed within the central aperture, the rounded pressure-applying surface of the button facing in the same direction as the first surface of the base. A pluraliy of spokes extend from the button to the perimeter of the central aperture, thereby supporting the button within the aperture. The first surface of the base has an adhesive coating so that the device may be adhered to the skin with the button contacting a desired acupressure point.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1998Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: Cirrus Air Technologies LLCInventors: Allen Berger, Chris Johnson, Drew O'Connell
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Patent number: 6007501Abstract: A therapeutic massaging apparatus having a pair of resilient balls adjustably positioned in a flexible container, wherein a strap assembly is connected to opposing ends of the container so as to maintain the container in a pre-selected position upon the user. The present invention also integrates other therapeutic principals by utilizing a pocket formed in the container for allowing the user to enjoy the benefits of traditional acupressure therapy while simultaneously enjoying the well known therapeutic effects of magnetism, gemstones, crystals and/or herbs.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Inventors: Rick Henry Cabados, Susan Ann Burke
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Patent number: 5989203Abstract: A steam massaging device includes a steam generator, a main tube and a massaging means. The steam generator comprises a boiler, a seal lid and a steam outlet. The steam outlet has one end located above the boiler and the other end connected to one end of the main tube. The main tube has the other end connected to the massaging means for conducting steam to an interior of the massaging means. The massaging means comprises at least one massaging plate assembly or one massaging rod assembly. The massaging plate assemblies are interconnected, and the massaging rod is connected to the massaging plate assembly/assemblies so that steam can flow through them. The massaging device may be used to massaging the back and waist as well as the soles.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1996Date of Patent: November 23, 1999Inventor: Chun-chung Wang
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Patent number: 5984883Abstract: A neck massager for mounting in the sidewall of a spa. The neck massager is enclosed in a housing which holds an electric motor with a drive shaft. The drive shaft is connected through gears to a pair of massage arms each of which have offset knobs at the end thereof. The knobs are covered by a flexible diaphragm and the device is mounted in the sidewall of a spa in such a way that it may be contacted by a user's neck.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1997Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventor: Joseph G. Elnar
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Patent number: 5978965Abstract: An upper body garment which is provided with strips of muscle relaxing pads arranged to face areas of the body in which muscle tension is likely to be a problem. The muscle relaxing pads are in the form of arrays of resilient nodules which extend inwardly to face the muscles of a wearer. The pads are placed sequentially along a strip which is inserted into a pocket in the garment. The strip is formed to present a convex curved profile to the wearer of the garment, thereby enhancing the therapeutic benefits of the garment.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1998Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Inventor: Neil Summers
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Patent number: 5935090Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a device is provided for treating muscular ailments. The device has a generally U-shaped frame. The frame has an elongated cross-member with a handle extending perpendicularly outwardly from each of two terminal ends of the cross-member. The device has a protrusion extending perpendicularly outwardly from the cross-member in the same direction as the handles. The protrusion can be either of a rectangular block or a roller and can be positionable along the longitudinal axis of the cross-member. In another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for using a device with a U-shaped frame and a protrusion to self-administer treatment for muscular and spinal ailments. The method involves locating a body part needing treatment and positioning the protrusion directly over the body part. Pressure is then applied to the body part by the protrusion. Additional pressure may be applied if necessary by using the handles and the cross-member of the device as levers.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1996Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: Joseph L. Kennon
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Patent number: 5935150Abstract: A backbone straightening device includes a base plate, a platform member firmly secured to the base plate, and a plurality of circular ring-shaped supporting members. The platform member has a vertical cavity and two obliquely angled cavities. The vertical cavity is formed in a generally central area on a top surface of the platform member and has a rectangular opening in plan view, and the two obliquely angled cavities are respectively formed on opposite sides of the vertical cavity.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1997Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: Katumi Kousaka
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Patent number: 5925003Abstract: An orthopedic traction device includes a frame having two side supports spaced from one another to provide an open area between them. Each of the side supports has a flat bottom wall and an arcuately shaped upper wall. Between the side supports, two rows of spaced protuberances are provided, with each row being arcuately disposed in a manner generally parallel to the arcuately shaped upper walls of the two side supports. Each row consists of a multiplicity of spaced generally rectangular protuberances with each rectangular protuberance being elongated in a direction perpendicular to the axis of elongation of the frame. Between adjacent protuberances, a scalloped portion is provided. The radius of curvature of each row of spaced protuberances varies from a relatively large radius of curvature adjacent one end of the rows to a smaller radius of curvature at the other end thereof.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Assignee: Manualidades de Mimbre de Costa Rica, S.A.Inventors: Rodney Vincent, Marco Herrera Parrales
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Patent number: 5916183Abstract: This invention is an apparatus for treating lymphedema having a sleeve with inwardly projecting-elastomeric fingers and externally fitted pressure adjusting circular bands. When the sleeve is fitted to a patient's limb, the fingers impose a grid pattern of pressure points against skin of swollen limb. Space around and between the pressure points provide channels under the skin through which lymphatic fluids are able to migrate up the arm to the shoulder where healthy nodes process it and channel it to the large veins. Similar applications are applied to other limbs, hands, and feet with sleeves, and to the shoulder, chest wall, and back with vests.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Inventor: Tony Reid
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Patent number: 5913837Abstract: An automatic cardiac compression system that is portable, simple to install on a patient and provides effective cardiac compression on a wide range of patient sizes. The inventive device includes a housing including a removable board with straps, an arcuate arm pivotally attached to the housing, a reciprocating transmission attached to the arcuate arm by an adjustable connector, a variable speed motor mechanically connected to the reciprocating transmission, and a battery electrically connected to the variable speed motor. The user positions the patient upon the removable board with the sternum positioned directly below the distal end of the arcuate arm. The user then manipulates a control switch which operates the variable speed motor. The motor manipulates the arcuate arm so that the arcuate arm repeatedly engages the patient's chest to provide cardiac compression.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1998Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Inventor: Dexter M. Smith
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Patent number: 5913839Abstract: A ball-massaging board (14) molded out of plastic with a curved surface to comfortably support a person's spine in the supine position. Attached to the surface of board (14) are a number of rubber balls (15/16) that have a bolt head (18) bonded inside them, and a threaded portion (19) protruding outside them. Threaded portion (19) is inserted through a hole (21) in board (14), then secured in place by a lock nut (20). Because hole (21) is larger in diameter than the diameter of threaded portion (19) balls (15/16) are able to freely spin about the surface of board (14). Balls (15/16) are able to spin and roll simultaneously along the surface of board (14) while remaining attached to board (14). As an individual lies on the massaging board (14) and swivels his or her hips a combined spinning and rolling effect is created by balls (15/16) on the user's back and neck, simulating a real life massage.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1996Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Inventor: Christopher P. Wincek
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Patent number: 5902258Abstract: A massaging device driven by a water wheel and having a plurality of fingers spread in concentric rings about an arched cover. The fingers are supported in and actuated by a rotating camming platform including a series of concentric camming surfaces with curved bases and irregularly shaped annular sidewalls. The fingers are reciprocated along their vertical axes to create a wave-like motion relative to the cover. Concurrently, the fingers are actuated to pivot about a central transverse axis defined by pin members located on opposite sides of the fingers. When driven by a water wheel, the device contains a water channel along its base, which channel extends to a water chamber containing the water wheel. The wheel is turned by water flow through the chamber thereby rotating the camming platform to which it is coupled by way of gears.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1995Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Inventor: Attila Cziriak
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Patent number: 5899868Abstract: A deep muscle knot relaxing device and corresponding method is advanced comprising a flat base from which extends two or more protuberances positioned a fixed distance apart. The protuberances are substantially hemispherical in shape and are of different heights and diameter, enabling the protuberances to be properly matched with the muscle knot characteristics of the user. The base may be formed with a plurality of through openings to prevent the buildup of hydrostatic pressure under the base when used in a bathtub. The base and protuberances are preferably integrally formed in a single molding process with sufficient spacing between the protuberances so as to discourage the user from using more than one protuberance at a time. The surface of the base opposing the protuberances may be equipped with an anti-skid surface, thereby preventing movement of the device during therapy.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 1996Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Inventor: Martha E. VandeBerg
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Patent number: 5873846Abstract: A neck treatment apparatus for patient self-treatment, and a method for its use, with which a patient can apply repeated amounts of deep concentrated pressure to muscles in the area between the base of the skull and the first vertebra to lengthen the muscles therein and provide the patient with relief from tension and pain. The apparatus is compact in design, made from lightweight easy-to-clean materials, and comprises a single treatment member upwardly depending from the center portion of the upper surface of a base support. In the preferred embodiment the treatment member has a width dimension of approximately six inches, a thickness dimension of approximately one-half of an inch, and a height dimension of approximately four inches. In transverse cross-section, the top of the preferred embodiment of the treatment member tapers to a point to act as a wedge, having the configuration of an equilateral triangle with side dimensions each measuring approximately one-half of an inch.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1997Date of Patent: February 23, 1999Inventor: Algis A. Meilus
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Patent number: 5865774Abstract: A lumbo-sacral support has a support, comprising a supporting element placeable on a user's body and having an outer surface and an inner surface adapted to face a user's body, the supporting element having opposite ends connectable with one another and being provided on the inner surface with a plurality of projections to apply pressure to the user's body.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1997Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Inventors: Leonid Brenman, Jack D'Angelo
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Patent number: 5848981Abstract: A cold pressure apparatus for relieving headache pain including an elongate member constrictively engagable about a head, and a cooling material carried by the elongate member for compressive and cooling engagement with the head.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 1996Date of Patent: December 15, 1998Inventor: Larry W. Herbranson
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Patent number: 5843006Abstract: A massaging device comprises a case; at least one pair of fingers having outer ends and being mounted within and extending from the case to the outer ends; a drive means; and a cam means operably connected to and driven by the drive means for actuating the pair of fingers to transversely reciprocate so that the outer ends move toward and away from one another. In the disclosed embodiments, the fingers are pivotally mounted and the cam means comprises a cam disk with at least one irregular surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1996Date of Patent: December 1, 1998Inventors: Reuben E. Phillips, Dorothy D. Phillips
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Patent number: 5836901Abstract: A hand held massaging device includes a support body and a plurality of contact elements extending from the support body. The support body has a top facing the palm of a hand of a user, a bottom facing away from the palm of the hand of the user, a plurality of peripheral sides surrounding the top and the bottom of the support body, and a plurality of corners defined at adjacent ends of the peripheral sides. The plurality of contact elements are attached to the respective corners of the support body and extend downwardly from the bottom of the support body at the plurality of corners thereof. The plurality of contact elements define a plurality of cavities closed at bottom ends and having openings at the top ends of the contact elements adjacent to the top of the support body for receiving some of the fingers and thumb of the hand of the user therein for directing the plurality of contact elements over the surface of a body during a massage.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1997Date of Patent: November 17, 1998Assignee: Myra S. Per-LeeInventors: Yuval Shenkal, Myra S. Per-Lee