Abstract: An apparatus for enabling the patient himself or herself to engage the skin on his or her back to locate and treat trigger points thereunder, using a source of pulsed voltage. The apparatus includes a wand having a generally rigid and electrically-conductive arcuate handle of about an arm's length or less in length, a spade-shaped electrically-conductive extension with a free end formed with tapering straight edges merging in a rounded point and welded on its other end to the handle, and a cable secured on the other end of the handle to connect to connect the extension electrically to the source of pulsed voltage. A somewhat comparably-shaped sponge is fixed to the extension.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: The present invention is a facial iron comprising a heating element and separate charging base. The facial iron heating element has a spoon shaped heating surface for applying heat to a users skin. The heating surface is attached to a handle having LED's for indicating the charge state of the heating element. The facial iron is constantly being recharged when it is in the charging base. A thermostatically controlled circuit activates the heating element when the temperature of the heating surface falls below a certain temperature. It activates the heating element when the temperature of the heating element reaches a preset temperature. The invention also comprises a three position switch allowing the invention to be shut off and stored in a charged condition for later use.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A hot and cold massaging unit (10) comprises a housing (12) having a receptacle (26) therein. A plurality of vibrators (36) are surrounded by padding (34) in the housing. A plurality of gel packs (32) which are capable of retaining heat and cold, are insertable within receptacle (26) which is then closable by a zipper (28). Gel packs (32) can therefor also be removed from and replaced in the receptacle.

Abstract: A new heating band device for providing both heat and pressure to sore muscles and sprains. The inventive device includes an elongate elastomeric band member for wrapping around a body part and an elongate heating coil member embedded in a serpentine arrangement within the band member. A hook member secures the heating band device in place on the body part. A temperature control switch selectively controls the heat output of the heating coil member.

Abstract: An inflatable boot and method for its manufacture, in which the boot includes a bladder for encasing at least a portion of a human foot and at least a portion of an ankle. The bladder is defined by an inner and an outer layer of substantially gas-tight material, and includes fluidically interconnected wall and sole portions. The wall portions are sized and shaped for collectively encasing a human ankle and the sole portion is sized and shaped for encasing a sole of a human foot. A structural interconnection joins the inner layer of the bladder substantially directly to the outer layer at a location interposed the sole portion and one of the wall portions to create a foot-supporting contour for the sole portion of the bladder when the bladder is inflated. The bladder for the boot is manufactured in a flattened condition, and then folded over and joined at seams to define a boot.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: This invention comprises a hand held device for deep tissue massage and/or for augmenting lymphatic drainage which also utilizes negative ionic therapy, having a tool part with a head end of a preselected shape that is removably attached to a handle part. The handle part has an ergonomic, substantially oval shape of a predetermined diameter and thickness. The device further has a negative ion emitting surface covering at least a portion of the tool part or the handle part. A method of deep tissue massage and negative ionic therapy is also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the treatment of myofascial pain, RSI and mechanical injury to soft tissue. The apparatus includes a treatment tool having a construction and design so as to enable high pressure deep tissue massage sufficient to reduce both edema and nerve sensitivity. The treatment tool is constructed and arranged to provide a predetermined contoured treatment surface. Method steps are provided utilizing the treatment tool for soft tissue injury.

Abstract: A method for treating cellulite is provided involving deep heating of the cellulite afflicted areas on the body. A preferred method of deep heating is by applying electromagnetic waves in a pulsed manner.

Abstract: The invention relates to medical technology, specifically to devices for local massage of the skin, especially facial skin. The purpose of the invention is to improve the effectiveness of the massage while making the device more ergonomic. The device comprises identical massaging heads (1, 2), each of which consists of the following: heating elements which are in contact with a thermal contact plate (8); a heat dissipation system (9) designed, for example, in the form of an air radiator; a housing (10) with a convex spherical surface (11) and a holder made up of the plates (12, 13) with an aperture (14) whose wall has a spherical concave surface, the aperture forming an articulated joint with the surface (11) and thereby ensuring close contact throughout the massage session between the thermal contact plate (8) and the area being massaged.

Abstract: A massaging device includes a plurality of displaceable massaging members mounted on a universal head, each of the massaging elements is rotatable about a respective orbit and movable toward and away from a center of the head head, and magnetic elements creating magnetic vortexes upon displacement of the massaging members.

Abstract: A lower back heater mat with a leg support comprising a ladder shaped leg support and an electrical heater mat pivotally connected to the leg support. A person with lower back pain lying on the electrical heater mat is forced to elevate his or her legs on the leg support. The leg support and the electrical heater mat fold making allowing for easy transportation.

Abstract: There is provided an exercise/therapy apparatus for human limbs, in particularly, hands. A sealed container forming an interior space is provided having an opening therein. A glove for receiving the hand is attached to the container near the opening and extends from the opening into the interior space. A viscous material which resists the movement of the hand is received in the interior space.

Abstract: A computer pad is heated for reducing repetitive motion stress and increasing comfort for a user and for providing potential therapeutic treatment by warming the hand(s) and/or wrist(s) of the user while operating a computer input device such as a mouse or a keyboard. The pad includes an electrical heating device such as a resistance-type heating element embedded in it. If a mouse is used as the input device, it can be either a stationary mouse or a conventional movably positioned mouse that is operated on the level section of the top surface of the pad's upper layer. If a stationary mouse or a keyboard is utilized, the user's hand(s) and/or wrist(s) can be supported by a suitably shaped area within an elevated section of the working surface of the pad. The lower layer of the pad may conveniently include a non-skid bottom surface.

Abstract: There is provided a tampon applicator, particularly an applicator barrel, comprising a unique compound to provide a soft, flexible applicator barrel that is more comfortable and has improved ease of insertion. The polymeric compound primarily comprises a thermoplastic resin and a block copolymer that exhibit unique load, energy and modulus of elasticity properties. The polymeric compound should also include a plasticizer and a compatibilizer/flow modifier, and may include a slip/mold release agent, and antioxidants, and even a pigment. There is also provided a method for making the polymeric compound that will be formed into an applicator or applicator barrel in which all of the above ingredients, except for the thermoplastic resin, are combined and formed into soft pellets. The soft resin pellets are then dry blended with pellets of the thermoplastic resin.

Abstract: A physical therapeutic instrument for treatment of hemorrhoids is disclosed. The instrument treats existing hemorrhoids through a nonoperative method and prevents possible anal diseases. The instrument has a rectal insert having a shape agreeable to the anal anatomy of the human body. The rectal insert is carried on a carriage and is movably orthogonally received in a through hole of a seat of the instrument. The rectal insert is lifted and inserted into the rectum by a lifting unit and vibrated vertically and/or horizontally by a vibration unit. The rectal insert also heats the rectum at about 36.degree.-60.degree. C., thus providing a heating effect for the rectum. Insertion of the rectal insert into the rectum also pushes up drooping anal sphincter muscles, thus strengthening the anal muscles. The instrument thus maintains and strengthens active contractible motion of the anal muscles.

Abstract: A computer mouse pad is heated for reducing repetitive motion stress for a user and for providing potential therapeutic treatment for the user's hand and wrist while operating a mouse thereon. The pad has a resistance-type heating element which is embedded in the rubber material of the pad. The mouse is either a stationary mouse or a conventional movably positioned mouse and is operated on the level section of the top surface of the pad. If a stationary mouse is utilized, the user's hand and wrist are support by an elevated section of the top surface of the pad. A non-skid surface is on the bottom of the pad. A conventional electric power outlet is utilized as the power source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus applies radiant energy through the skin to an underlying subcutaneous layer or deeper soft tissue layers that includes loculations of fat with fibrous septae made of collagen tissue. This creates a desired contour effect without substantially modifying melanocytes and other epithelial cells in the epidermis. A membrane conforms a contacting exterior surface of the membrane to a skin layer. One or more thermal electrodes positioned in the membrane. A focussing element focuses thermal energy to the underlying collagen tissue. The focusing element and the electrolytic solution create a reverse thermal gradient from the skin to the collagen tissue. A thermal power source is coupled to the thermal electrodes.

Abstract: A magnetic massage wand apparatus with a motorized revolving wand including magnetic units aligned and spaced to obtain constantly alternating polarity fields at 90 degrees angles about the wand creating a general therapeutic effect of magnetism. The wand is operated by waving or holding it above or near the body tissue, so that blood circulation is effectively enhanced due to the alternating magnetic polarity occurring at a rapid and consistent rate which therapeutically effect blood vessels to increase blood flow irrespective of the orientation of any blood vessel with respect to the magnetic wand or how deep in the body the blood vessel may be.

Abstract: The present invention comprises homeopathic dilutions of growth factors and methods for their use. Disorders which may be effectively treated with the compositions of the present invention include chronic viral disorders, such as HIV, AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome and Epstein-Barr viral infections, cancer and diabetes. Homeopathic dilutions of growth factors are preferably administered orally. In an alternative embodiment, patients are treated with electromagnetic signals, preferably radiofrequency signals, corresponding to homeopathic dilutions of growth factors.

Abstract: A therapeutic wrist device is provided having a body made of foam or other soft material. At least one cavity is provided in the body for housing an electrical vibrating device. Electrical heating elements are also incorporated in the body. A control unit is provided for controlling the vibrating devices and heating elements. The wrist device may be used with a computer keyboard and one mode of operation elevates the side of the keyboard closest to the user so that the keyboard slopes away from the user.

Abstract: A footstool extension comprising a leg support assembly attachable to a footstool. In the preferred embodiment the leg support assembly comprises a platform, of a size and shape to correspond to the footstool to which it is attached and made of wood, plastic or other such material, with a pad or cushion covered with a suitable fabric, leather, plastic, or other covering attached to the top surface of the platform, and with the platform slideably mounted on one or more rails or runners bendably attachable to the footstool. A folding prop or brace is bendably attached to the rails allowing the leg support assembly to be folded out of the way when not in use.In other embodiments the pad or cushion is filled with a fluid or gel resulting in a more comfortable cushion that can be heated or cooled to provide some therapeutic value. An oscillator or vibrator can also be coupled to the gel filled cushion to gently massage the user's legs and/or feet.

Abstract: A reconfigurable physical therapy apparatus and a method of providing operator-selected stimuli to a patient are provided. The apparatus preferably has a physical therapy applicator including a transducer for applying a therapeutic treatment to a patient, and a memory for storing identification data representative of a plurality of physical ailments for each of a plurality of human body areas and a set of transducer operational parameters associated with each predetermined physical ailment and each predetermined body area. The apparatus also has an ailment display screen responsive to the memory device for displaying at least one of the identification data representative of a plurality of physical ailments which are associated with at least one of the identified human body areas.

Abstract: A heated massage therapy device has a hand-held housing, a mechanical vibration generator disposed within the housing, the mechanical vibration being transmitted to at least a heat-conductive, preferably infrared transparent portion thereof, and at least one source of infrared radiation disposed within the housing, the infrared radiation being applied to at least the heat-conductive portion of the housing. A corresponding number of first fresnel lenses formed in the heat portion of the housing concentrates infrared radiation such that it may more efficiently be applied to the user. Second fresnel lenses may be formed about all of the individual infrared radiation sources as a group to further concentrate the infrared radiation applied to the user. An infrared reflective member disposed proximate the infrared radiation sources reflects infrared radiation not incident upon the heat-conductive portion of the housing theretoward.

Abstract: A back brush with a generally U-shaped handle such that the user can manipulate the brush or other back-treating appliance by using one of his hands in front of his body to manipulate the appliance.

Abstract: A device is provided for therapeutically treating a desired region of a patient's body with a nonambient temperature treatment fluid circulated through a pliant heat transfer element positioned on the treatment region. In accordance with one embodiment, the device has a fluid inlet line supplying the treatment fluid to the heat transfer element from a fluid reservoir, and a fluid outlet line returning the treatment fluid to the fluid reservoir from the heat transfer element. The inlet and outlet lines are enclosed within a unitary sheath and a manual bulb pump is provided for driving the nonambient temperature treatment fluid between the reservoir and the heat transfer element. In accordance with another embodiment, fluid drive is provided by a motor-driven submersible pump positioned in the reservoir. Temperature control of the heat transfer element is enabled by adjusting the fluid flow rate therethrough. In accordance with yet another embodiment, the device has a pump and a single fluid flow line.

Abstract: A hydromassage pillow comprising a sealed hollow cushion filled with water for placement under a head and neck, or lower back of a person. A framework is within the sealed hollow cushion. An assembly is coupled to the framework, for heating and pulsating the water within the sealed hollow cushion to provide a warm water jet-type massage to the head and neck, or lower back of the person resting on the sealed hollow cushion, so as to relieve muscle tension by greatly reducing and in some circumstances eliminating low back pain, neck pain and a headache in the person.

Abstract: A hammer-like tool for relieving stiffness in the neck and shoulder with an improved therapeutic and prophylactic effect. A cylindrical space is provided in the head of the hammer-like tool, a free-flowing magnet provided in the cylindrical space, an induction coil provided near the periphery of the cylindrical space to surround it, a load coil provided near the face of the hammer-like tool, and a high-frequency oscillator circuit. The load coil generates a high-frequency electromagnetic wave by supplying an electromotive force to the load coil via the high-frequency oscillator when the magnet moves within the cylindrical space.

Abstract: A massaging electrode is pressed against discrete areas of a subject person's scalp or body and worked from side to side or in a preferred or random massage pattern to thereby move the skin and its underlying layers relative to the underlying area. The electrode is a gold plated phonojack which is encased in silver solder to optimize transmission of electrical current. Electrical current is passed through the electrode and into the subject person's scalp by connecting the electrode to an electrical conductor from an electrical current generating device which generates oscillating voltage to the pad in a low range and at a variation of voltages. The ground contact is hand held by the subject person so that electrical current is directed down through the skin layers during the massaging process.

Abstract: A thermal compress cuff for treating an injured knee has a fluid impervious chamber of flexible material with an upper transverse portion and depending arms extending from the transverse portion. The transverse portion is adapted to encompass a portion of a limb above the knee and the depending arms are adapted to encompass the limb along the sides of the knee and a portion of the limb below the knee while exposing the patella of the knee. The chamber is adapted to receive and contain a thermal fluid for abutting contact with the encompassed portion of the limb and the chamber further contains a plurality of tethers to constrict the amount of thermal fluid which may enter the cuff. In addition, the cuff is provided with elastic straps which hold the cuff on to the knee and allow compression to be exerted on the suprapatellar region of the knee while limiting the pressure exerted on the distal and popliteal areas of the leg.

Abstract: An iontophoresis device comprising a drug reservoir containing the drug in ionic form and in communication with the skin, a skin permeation enhancing agent contained in the reservoir or in a second reservoir also in communication with the skin, an electrode in contact with the drug, another electrode in contact with the skin, a D.C. power source connected to the electrodes and an electrically sensitive membrane interposed between the reservoir and the skin that is impermeable to drug in the absence of a voltage difference between the electrodes and permeable to the drug in the presence of a voltage difference. The skin permeation enhancing agent eliminates the skin as a rate-controlling element, thus making the rate of drug administration dependent upon the membrane permeability, which in turn is controlled electrically.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for treating a patient by electrotherapy and fluidized bed thermal therapy. A body portion of a patient is submerged in a fluidizable bed of solid particles, and the bed is selectively fluidized and de-fluidized as desired while controlling the temperature of the bed of solid particles. Electrotherapy treatment is applied to the portion of the body of the patient submerged in the bed of solid particles through electrodes attached to the body part which are connected to an electrical generator which produces radio frequency signals in continuous or modulated modes. The electrotherapy and fluidized bed thermal therapy may be applied consecutively or concurrently to the body part for treatment thereof.

Abstract: A multi-function cushion is provided having a slip cover, a soft pad enclosed within the slip cover, and having a plurality of magnets on the front side. A control panel with an outer instruction cover coupled to an inner housing chamber is disposed within a recess formed in the soft pad. The control panel includes a vibration switch, a heating switch and a power socket. A heating device is mounted between the front side of the soft pad and the slip cover, and is electrically connected with the heating switch of the control panel. A vibration motor disposed in the rear side of the soft pad is electrically connected with the vibration switch and the power socket of the control panel. A pressure switch is installed in the rear side of the soft pad and electrically connected with the power socket, the vibration switch and the heating device, whereby the cushion not only can support the user's lumbar region, but can also provide heating and massaging effects, and magnetic stimulation of the user.

Abstract: A portable fluid therapy device comprising a flexible bladder member defining independently inflatable inner and outer chambers. Fluidly coupled to inlet and outlet valve ports of the inner chamber is a portable water pumping apparatus for selectively infusing hot or cold water into the inner chamber or circulating the water therethrough, The bladder member is adapted to be used in association with a brace member or cast and may be configured to accommodate a desired region of the body.

Abstract: A massaging apparatus employing a voltage producing device is provided. The voltage producing device produces an instantaneous impulse voltage for passing a current to the veins, arteries and vital points of a human body to stimulate the function of the internal organs.

Abstract: A device is provided to enable simultaneous application of continuous passive motion therapy and thermal therapy. The device specifically provides an improved fluid transfer pad having a first membrane in a sealed cooperation with a second membrane to form a fluid receiving cavity, and the device having a fluid conduit means comprising an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit. The device further includes an internal reinforcement which telescopes within the fluid inlet conduit and extends beyond the inlet conduit into the fluid containing cavity. The internal reinforcement is lobed to form open flow surfaces or alternatively, is a spiral cut tube which allows an enlarged area of fluid diffusion.

Abstract: A massaging device including a massaging pad having a spherical surface on which there are a recess and a plurality of hollow protuberances around the recess, a plurality of magnets each mounted into one of the hollow protuberances and the recess, a bottom cover mounted on the bottom cover of the massaging pad, and a retainer having a chain engaged with the hook of massaging pad, whereby the device may be conveniently used to scrape certain parts of the body to obtain relief from nausea or sunstroke, or massage the palm or sole.

Abstract: A heated back support comprising an elongated strap having a securement means at one end and a securable means at the other end, the strap adapted to be worn around a user's body, a plurality of heating elements coupled to the strap such that the elements are positionable adjacent to a user's back, a power source, and a switch means coupled to the power source and heating elements for selectively energizing the elements to heat a user's back.

Abstract: An infrared massager includes two massaging devices respectively locked in two receiving chambers on a casing by lock hoods, which include each a plurality of silicon rubber massage elements on a vibrating plate reciprocated by a motor through a cam. Two infrared devices are respectively received in the receiving chambers and are attached to the vibrating plate of each massaging device. The infrared devices include a plurality of infrared light emitting elements controlled to emit infrared light through the silicon rubber massage elements for heating the muscles as the muscles are massaged by the massaging devices.

Abstract: An electronic massage device with cold/hot compress function includes an eccentric wheel driven by a motor to rotate and thereby generates vibration, a thermoelectric module used to provide the cold or heat source needed by the cold or hot compress, respectively, a cooling fan used to exhaust extra hot air generated during cold compress, and a set of thermoswitches used to control the hot compress temperature. The massage device may be used to soothe general body impairments through sports by cold compress alone or by hot compress together with massage.

Abstract: An integrated stress reduction system detects the stress level of a subject and displays a light pattern reflecting the relationship between the subject's stress level and a target level. At the same time, the system provides relaxing visual, sound, tactile, environmental, and other effects to aid the subject in reducing his or her stress level to the target level. In one preferred embodiment, the intensity, type, and duration of the relaxing effects are controlled by a computer program in response to the measured stress level. The light pattern stress level display uses a laser which is deflected on one axis by a measured stress level signal and on a second axis perpendicular to the first by a target signal representing the target stress level. The pattern produced is more complex when the two signals do not coincide, and becomes a less complex geometric figure as the subject's stress level approaches the target.

Abstract: Surgery is performed with pulsed heat means that selectively destroys tissue in a region within a patient. The size of the region destroyed is dependent upon the frequency of the pulses of the pulsed heat means and thermal conductivity of the tissue of the patient. The pulsed heat means can be a coherent optical source that is guided by laser fiber to the tissue to be destroyed. In another embodiment the pulsed heat means is a focussed ultrasound transducer that dissipates ultrasonic energy at a focal point within the region of tissue to be destroyed. A magnetic resonance imaging system employing a temperature sensitive pulse sequence creates an image of the tissue and the region being heated to allow a surgeon to alter the position of the pulsed heat means or vary the pulse frequency.