Abstract: A back stretching device includes a curved cushion having an elongated slot through top and bottom sides thereof, a housing mounted on the bottom side of the curved cushion, a motor mounted in the housing, and a rotating member accommodated in the housing and eccentrically connected with an output shaft of the motor. Thus, the back stretching device of the invention can be used to effectively stretch and relax a user's back muscles.

Abstract: A proactive machine is used for assessing and improving a user's proprioception. The machine has a tilting platform upon which the user stands, a non-rotating tilting means connected to the platform for tilting the platform along a first axis and along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, and a control means for controlling the tilting means.

Abstract: A therapeutic method and apparatus intended for enhancing blood circulation, and lymph and neural fluid flow throughout a person's body. The person is placed supinely in a comfortable and relaxed state on a support member, such as a bed which is operated by a controllable motor driven drive mechanism. The support member tilts cyclically like a seesaw to alternatively raise the person's upper torso and head about the lower extremities, and vice-versa.

Abstract: A continuous passive motion device for providing oscillatory motion of a patient's foot to mobilize the patient's toe through a variable range of orientations about a pivot axis. The device may include a foot base having one or more hinged toe plates pivotably attached to the foot base. The foot base may be attached to a support assembly such that the foot base may be pivoted about a horizontal axis. A drive motor may be connected to the support assembly to continuously oscillate the foot plate up and down through a predetermined range of angles about the horizontal axis. The hinged top plate may be attached to the support assembly such that rotation of the foot plate will cause the toe plate to hinge in the opposite direction of the rotation of the foot and resulting in the patient's toe being oscillated through a range of flexion and extension. This range of angles of motion for the toe will be a function of the range of motion of the footplate.

Abstract: A treadmill is provided that has a treadmill drive motor carriage that can pivot relative to a frame of the treadmill such that the incline of the treadmill can be controlled while the carriage can be moved to a position that permits upright storage of the treadmill on the carriage. This arrangement advantageously permits a walk through treadmill design to be used that can be stored uprightly. The treadmill can be equipped with a console and stanchion that can be folded against the deck of the treadmill. One incline arrangement pivots the carriage using an incline drive carried by the carriage that engages a gear grounded to the treadmill frame. Another preferred incline arrangement uses a four bar linkage movable carried by the frame that is driven by a linear actuator to pivot the carriage.

Abstract: A passive motion exercise and/or treatment apparatus is provided which includes a main support assembly for supporting at least the head and torso of a user. The main assembly includes three support members which, in one mode of operation, are disposed in a common plane. The second and third members are movably connected to the first member, which is a backrest support member, and are movable relative thereto so as to respectively provide passive movement of both the head and, and the lumbar region, of a user. Cervical side bending and rotational movements and lumbar side bending and rotational movements can all be provided. A separable leg support assembly is adjustable to support the calves of the user in a plane elevated with respect to the common plane while the apparatus provides the aforementioned passive body movements.

Abstract: A continuous passive motion device for providing oscillatory motion of a patient's foot to mobilize the patient's toe through a variable range of orientations about a pivot axis. The device may include a foot base having one or more hinged toe plates pivotably attached to the foot base. The foot base may be attached to a support assembly such that the foot base may be pivoted about a horizontal axis. A drive motor may be connected to the support assembly to continuously oscillate the foot plate up and down through a predetermined range of angles about the horizontal axis. The hinged top plate may be attached to the support assembly such that rotation of the foot plate will cause the toe plate to hinge in the opposite direction of the rotation of the foot and resulting in the patient's toe being oscillated through a range of flexion and extension. This range of angles of motion for the toe will be a function of the range of motion of the footplate.

Abstract: A device includes a support shaft that has upper and lower sections extending orthogonal to each other and defining an arcuate elbow therebetween. The upper section defines a height of the device and a lower section defines a depth of thereof. A handle bar section is conjoined to the upper section of the support shaft and extends rearwardly therefrom. A seat section is connected to the lower section of the support shaft. The device further includes frame members that have end portions situated medially and laterally beneath the handle bar section. The medial end portions are pivotally conjoined to the support shaft and wheels are connected to the lateral end portions. Each frame member further includes a padded layer centrally registered along a longitudinal length thereof. The frame members have rectangular shapes for providing sufficient surface area on which the user's legs can be supported.

Abstract: Resonant and powered rhythmic blood pressure modulation (hereinafter “RBPM”) and “Legshaking” apparatus are provided for implementing either hand or powered RBPM, or Legshaking operation as intended for therapeutic treatment of cardiovascularly or neurologically compromised patients via enhancing blood flow through portions of a patient's cardiovascular system comprised in his or her torso, neck and head and specifically through, or around, partially clogged coronary arteries as well as through, or around, “plaques and tangles” in the arteries of his or her brain.

Abstract: According to the invention, there is disclosed a leg stretching device 10 characterized by a leg support arm 34 mounted to a primary shaft 36 at a first end, the leg support arm having a leg support 38 secured to the leg support arm at a second end; and structure for rotating the primary shaft from an initial position to a final position so that the leg support arm moves through a range of about 30 to 70 degrees and preferably about 40 to 60 degrees. In addition, there are provided structure for adjusting the location of the initial position of the leg support arm 34. In addition, the length of leg support arm 34 is adjustable.

Abstract: This present invention relates to a digitized control three-dimensional spinal orthopaedic device for cure injured spinal. The device comprises a bed body, a head-chest plate and a breech-leg plate. The bed body has a frame configuration, and comprises a top bed body and a bottom bed body. The head-chest plate is fixed on the top bed body. A traction means of the head-chest plate and an angle means of the breech-leg plate are fixed into the top bed body. The breech-leg plate is supported by a swinging arm. A left-to-right angle means is located under the breech-leg plate. A connecting shaft of the angle means is connected to the up-to-down swinging arm by a cross rod, so the head-chest plate is integrated with the breech-leg plate. The present spinal orghopaedic device can enable the bed body to go up and down automatically, the head-chest plate can vibrate and be drawn at a high or low speed, and the breech-leg plate moves up to down, rotates left to right and vibrate.

Abstract: A rotary device of a chair comprises that has a chair body having a seat. A resisting body extends from a rear end of the seat. An annular handle is installed on the resisting body. The chair body has a driving means mechanism which is installed at the seat. The driving mechanism means has a deceleration motor, a worm rod, a worm gear and a chain. The deceleration motor has a deceleration gear. One end of the deceleration motor has a driving spindle. After the driving spindle is connected with the worm rod, the worm gear will be driven to rotate. The worm gear has a protruded driving shaft. One end of the chain is engaged to the driving shaft, while another end of the chain is engaged to the resisting body. The worm gear indirectly drives the resisting body and the handle.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for applying desired stretch exercises while a user is sitting down on a chair or laying on his back. The exercise apparatus includes a portable frame, a leg supporting bag for fixedly supporting the legs of the user in the frame, and a sole pressing bag for pressing the soles of the user in the direction stretching the Achilles tendons. When the legs are fixed by the leg supporting bag, the soles of the user are pressed by inflating bags formed in the frame to stretch the Achilles tendons. The user can enjoy desired degrees of stretch exercises as well as massage on his legs.

Abstract: A physical therapy chair-bed is a patient bed consisting of three parts, the first, the second and the third parts. The first can also be used as backrest of a physical therapy chair with its flanking parts arranged as armrests. The second part can also form a seat. The third part can be kept inside a case underneath the first and the second parts. All the other components are kept inside the case. There are wheels and wheel-locks mounted under the case at each corner. The chair-bed is equipped with a foot-leg exercise set having a footwear set to help the seat occupant exercise his feet and legs in a bicycling manner. The armrests can move to have the patient's arms exercise. Rack guards and footrests are provided. The chair-bed can be mechanically or electrically and electronically controlled where a remote control may be applied.

Abstract: An orthotic apparatus for use in providing improved range of motion is provided which allows the amount of stretch to be hydraulically powered and measured by the device, but controlled by the user. Because the apparatus accurately calculates the amount of stretch, the user, together with the user's physician and therapist, can develop a rehabilitation plan based on accurate measurements. Progress is based on tangible results rather than the user's ability to tolerate pain. This knowledge provides the incentive the user needs to work toward and achieve the user's goal.

Abstract: Apparatus for cervical region diagnostics and training. The apparatus comprises a head unit for receiving the head of a patient, wherein the head unit is connected to a support device with a flexible connection such that the head unit is rotatable and translatable in all three dimensions to provide complete freedom of movement for the patient's head.

Abstract: A rotary device of a chair comprises a chair body having a seat. A resisting body extends from a rear end of the seat. An annular handle is installed on the resisting body. The chair body has a driving means which is installed at the seat of the driving means. The driving means has a deceleration motor, a worm rod, a worm gear and a chain. The deceleration motor has a deceleration gear. One end of the deceleration motor has a driving spindle. After the driving spindle is connected with the worm rod, the worm gear will be driven to rotate. The worm gear has a protruded driving shaft. One end of the chain is engaged to the driving shaft, while another end of the chain is engaged to the resisting body. The worm gear indirectly drives the resisting body and the handle to generate a predetermined reciprocal motion.

Abstract: A leg exerciser includes a casing having a slot in a top thereof, a transmission mechanism mounted in the casing, a legrest, and at least one massage rod. The transmission mechanism includes a motor and a movable block extending through the slot of the casing. The movable block moves reciprocatingly along the slot of the casing when the motor is turned on. The legrest is fixed to the movable block to move therewith. The legrest has two recessed portions for supporting a user's legs. The massage rod is attached to the movable block to move therewith and includes at least one massage portion for providing a massaging function. At least one wheel is mounted to the massage rod and in rolling contact with the casing.

Abstract: A postural awareness apparatus includes a pad, signal means for producing a signal, detection means for determining a weight applied to the pad and activating the signal means when the weight exceeds a predetermined weight, means for producing an output when the detection means determines the weight, and means for recording the output.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device that stimulates and provides chiropractic therapy to the neck and head area of the body. Using a hand-held remote control 68, the doctor or patient 12 utilizes a toggle stick 64 to perform single directional movement of the head 14 in a forward, backward, or side to side motion, or in a clockwise or counter clockwise rotational motion. The head cushion 16 includes a vibration and heating element 58 that is applied to the neck area that can be used alone or in conjunction with the directional and rotational movement. The present invention 10 cradles the head 14 within a cushion 16 that is adjustable vertically and laterally to optimize the positioning of the head and allow for comfort. The vibrating and heating element 58 is isolated from the rest of the head cushion 16 to eliminate transmission of vibrations or heat.

Abstract: Continuous passive body motion is efficiently and effectively treated by a therapy device which includes at least one movable body carrying element which is driven by a controlled motion drive to produce the desired movement. The motion drive controller includes at least data reading element which cooperates with a program data media to provide individualized control of the therapy device. This individual control will be specifically adapted for each particular patient, thus allowing therapy to occur without the need for operators.

Abstract: An apparatus for preventing congestion comprises a seat body 1, air bags 5g and 5h for energizing muscles of the legs of an occupant seated on the seat body 1, air supply/ exhaust device 6 for expanding and shrinking the air bags 5g and 5h and a control circuit 8 for controlling the air supply / exhaust apparatus 6.

Abstract: A passive motion exercise and/or treatment apparatus is provided which includes a main support assembly for supporting at least part of the body of a user of the apparatus. The assembly includes a first support member and a second support member disposed in a common plane. The second support member is pivotably connected to the main support member and is movable relative thereto so as to provide passive movement of a part of the body of a user supported by the second support member relative to a part of the body supported by the first support member. A separable leg support assembly is adapted to be connected, in use, to the main support assembly at either end so as to support the calves of the legs of the user in a plane parallel to, and elevated with respect to, the common plane while the apparatus provides the passive body movement referred to above. A motorized drive arrangement is used to provide the aforementioned relative movement of the second support member.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus which actively moves the legs of a disabled person in a movement pattern that is similar to physiological walking. The inclination of the standing table can be adjusted between a horizontal and a vertical position as desired. The patient is fixed to the standing table by means of a belt gear. The aim of this kind of rehabilitating locomotion therapy is to activate the locomotion structures in the spinal cord in order to improve the muscular situation in a time optimal manner, to prevent the intensity of spasticity and to improve the circulatory conditions.

Abstract: A passive exercise apparatus for use in an erect, non-recumbent seating position that provides an unstable platform capable of encouraging an omni-directional involuntary rocking motion that will result in the involuntary contractions of muscles involved in maintaining muscle tone and promoting proper posture (viz., the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus muscles, external oblique muscles, and other muscles in the abdominal, lumbar/sacral, and pelvic regions) in order to counterbalance the rocking forces. The purpose of the device is to provide continuing involuntary contractions of these muscle groups (a recognized form of EXERSITTING, which is the combined execution of concentric and isometric muscle exertion and contractions performed while sitting on the apparatus of the present invention in order to help maintain muscle tone and encourage good seated posture.

Abstract: Rehabilitation of an upper limb. The splint comprises: an arm (8) that is supported by a frame (10) consisting of at least one upper extension (20) that is provided at the end of a pivot (21) of a substantially vertical axis, an arch that is mounted on the pivot by means of a flexion-extensional drive motor (26) for the upper member, and an upper structure (31) that supports the anti-brachial and brachial segments and is comprised of a housing (34) that is adapted onto said arch, an abduction-adduction drive motor for the upper arm and an arm (40) that links said motor to the brachial segment. The invention can be used for passive motion splints.

Abstract: A portable intelligent stretching device for use by patients suffering from spastic and contractured joints and limbs. The intelligent stretching device has a motor and a motor shaft for rotating the joint or limb. The variable velocity and stretch distance of the device is determined by a torque sensor on the joint or limb that communicates information to a controller which subsequently instructs the motor as to the variable velocity and stretch distance.

Abstract: A neuro-fuzzy exerciser instrument panel installed in an exerciser, including a housing, a main control circuit, a set of control buttons, a massager unit, the massager unit having energy generating means adapted to generate an energy for stimulating the muscles of the user and at least one massaging device adapted to transmit the energy from the energy generating means to a part of the body of the user, switch means adapted to switch on/off the massager unit; and power source means adapted to provide the necessary working voltage to the main control circuit and the massager unit.

Abstract: This invention relates to an electromechanical arm and accessories which are mountable on a battery powered wheelchair and used to grasp objects in the personal environment of the operator. The device is designed for simplicity of operation and comprises lower arm, mid arm, and forearm components which are rotationally and pivotally interconnected and selectively rotated through the utilization of a controller which is preferably disposed upon the battery powered wheelchair. The accessories include end-effectors (also called grippers), with features that are task specific or for general manipulation, other tools and means of holding tools, baskets, pouches, holders and other means of storing objects and tools, a variety of input devices that are tailored to the needs of the operator, a sleeve for protection, aesthetics, and increased functionality (with pockets and other means of holding objects), and mounting hardware for the electromechanical arm and associated components.

Abstract: Machines for treating or preventing neuromuscular pain conditions and injuries by slow patientcontrolled stretching of a muscle or group of muscles when they and surrounding muscles are in a relaxed state (i.e., with little or no extrafusal muscle fiber contractions). The machines include a fixed support such as seat. An adjustable support, such as a back or side rest is adjusted for the particular patient. A controllable support moved in an alternating motion, under the patient's control, allows the injured or painful muscle to be slowly stretched by gravity, while the muscles are relaxed. The controllable support is preferably moved by a hydraulic cylinder.

Abstract: A device for preventing or relieving pain in the lower back of a human subject includes a body-engaging element configured for engaging a region of the subject's body inferior to the lumbar vertebrae while the subject lies in a supine position. A drive mechanism is configured to move the body-engaging element through a repetitive cyclic motion which includes an operative motion along a first path including a primarily vertical lifting motion followed by a primarily horizontal tensioning motion, and a return motion along a second path, the second path lying generally below the first path. The body-engaging element preferably includes at least one surface configured for engaging a rear surface of both of the subject's legs from the knees downwards.

Abstract: An exercise method and device for alleviating lower back stiffness through continuous passive motion (CPM) mimicking that experienced by a person mounted on a horse at the walk. The device and method of the present invention are envisioned as being used in gymnasiums as well as health practitioners' offices, by trainers and physical therapists treating subjects with lumbar stiffness and pain, on the one hand, and by those subjects themselves who may seek relief and greater range of motion without professional assistance. With the subject seated upright on a backless seat, with his or her spine self-supported and in proper vertical alignment, the seat is accelerated, alternatingly, forward and backward, thus imposing a horizontal to-and-fro force to the lower part of the subject's body at such frequency and excursion-amplitude that that part of the body is caused to move with respect to the upper part of the body.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a portable massaging machine to a support member having a seat portion. The apparatus includes anchor structure for being held fixed to the support member by the person using the apparatus; a backboard member attached to the anchor structure; and securing structure for movably securing the portable massaging machine to the backboard member.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.

Abstract: Machines for treating neuromuscular pain conditions and injuries by slow patient-controlled stretching of a muscle or group of muscles when they and surrounding muscles are in a relaxed state (i.e., with little or no extrafusal muscle fiber contractions). The machines include a fixed support such as seat. An adjustable support, such as a back or side rest is adjusted for the particular patient. A controllable support moved in an alternating motion, under the patient's control, allows the injured or painful muscle to be slowly stretched by gravity, while the muscles are relaxed. The controllable support is preferably moved by a hydraulic cylinder.

Abstract: An apparatus for imparting a rocking motion to the legs and torso of a user includes a base, a leg rest removably mounted on the base to support the legs of the user, and a drive system positioned within the base for driving an upper portion of the base to impart a rocking motion to the user.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.

Abstract: A device for motioning selected body portions and supporting other body portions of a user seated thereon is provided. The device comprises a base member, a peripheral member, and an ischial pad. The ischial pad is operably connected to the body member and at least partially surrounded by the peripheral member. The ischial pad undulates about two orthogonal axes and relative to the peripheral member. The ischial pad isolates and engages the right and left ischial tuberosities of the user seated on the device for simulating the natural motion of the user's spine. The peripheral member supports the user's body portions proximate the ischium.

Abstract: A rotary apparatus gives a patient a rotational motion at a discretionary controlled speed suitable to medical treatment and at the same time can continuously supply the patient in rotation with oxygen for inhalation by means of oxygen supply equipment. The apparatus is characterized in that a chair 1 on which a patient is sitting is driven, via a rotary shaft 6, by a driving system 3 installed in a control base 2 to rotate, and oxygen for inhalation to be supplied to the patient in rotation is guided to pass through the interior of the rotary shaft 6 and supplied by a mouthpiece 23 provided at the top end of an oxygen supply tube 21 to a position suitable for the patient to breathe.

Abstract: A stretching device for stretching and massaging the back of a user. The stretching device includes a base frame and a back rest pivotally coupled to the top of the base frame. The lower end of a support shaft is pivotally coupled to the top of the base frame while the upper end of the support shaft is slidably mounted to the back face of the back rest to permit movement of the upper end of the support shaft between the top and bottom ends of the back rest when the support shaft is pivoted. A pivoting device is provided for pivoting the support shaft to move the upper end of the support shaft between the top and bottom ends of the back rest.

Abstract: A torso trainer has a user platform mounted on a pivoting, rotating shaft. The lower torso of the user is strapped to the platform with the upper torso supported by the user who employs the waistline muscles. As the platform rotates, different muscle groups are worked so that during the course of a complete 360.degree. revolution all the waistline muscles are exercised. The user effort required varies with the degree of tilting of the shaft and platform. At a nearly vertical tilting position user effort is minimal, while, at a horizontal tilting position, user effort is maximum. A user hand control starts platform rotation and overrides the stopping of platform rotation so that there can be multiple rotations.

Abstract: In order to therapeutically move and flex limbs of a person who has undergone severe trauma and who is in need of the assistance of a therapist, a table, which is slidably supported on a tiltable chassis, is connected with a drive mechanism which allows the stroke of reciprocative movement of the bed back and forth along the chassis, to be adjusted so that one or more pieces of supportive apparatus cyclically bend and straighten the arms and legs of a person on the bed in a manner which flexes the joints and muscles in the limbs and promotes blood circulation and other beneficial effects. The support structure, which supports the limbs of the patient, can be adjusted with respect to the chassis so that degree of limb flexure can be varied in accordance with individual/current needs.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a portable massaging machine to a support member such as a chair or the like. The apparatus includes a backboard member for attachment to the support member; and securing structure for adjustably securing the portable massaging machine to the backboard member.

Abstract: A machine for rehabilitating and exercising the lower back. The machine includes a stationary seat having an adjustably positioned footrest, and a pivotally mounted seatback. The seatback has adjustably positioned handgrips and a dead man switch. A motorized hydraulic system moves the seatback to incline forwardly from the vertical, and to return to the vertical. The degree of pivot is adjustable. A pelvic restraint secures the user'sbody in operative position, so that all work must be performed by the back. A strain gauge provides an input to a microprocessor, which in turn activates a display indicating effort. The hydraulic system is powered so as to move the body either in the absence of muscular resistance and in the presence of even maximal resistance.

Abstract: For the treatment of spinal damage in medical physiotherapy, the patient's spine is stressed via the pelvis by longitudinal forces on the legs in such a way that the setting of displaced spinal components is promoted and the muscles are strengthened. With this device the tensile forces are applied to the feet by spring components which are tensioned by means of cables from the movements of the pins of linear movement components driven by an electric motor. The frequency and amplitude of these tensile forces can be changed via a control unit and thus phase shifts between the forces acting on the legs can be adjusted. During the exercises the patient can adjust the exercise programme by actuating controls connected to the supporting grips. The success of the therapy can be improved by fitting heating elements in the backrest to provide heat treatment for the patient's muscles.

Abstract: A lower-back therapy apparatus that alternately stretches and strengthens lower-back, leg, and abdominal muscles, the apparatus is constructed with a platform unit having a flat cushioned platform table hinged to a motor-actuated, pivoting platform that can be pivotally raised and lowered by a control switch operated by the user, providing the user with complete control of the range, frequency and duration of the articulation of the pivoting platform for a user-defined stretching-strengthening sequence.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a power assist device for a partially or totally disabled body member, including: detection apparatus to detect position of the body member; and power assist apparatus, responsive to the detection apparatus, to provide powered assistance to move the body member in response to detection of the position of the body member and in response to the rate of change of position of the body member reaching a predetermined limit and/or in proportion to the rate of change of position of the body member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for relieving symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome includes restraining the elbow of the patient from movement while applying pressure to the wrist to move the wrist in a direction away from the elbow. The method further includes rotating the wrist during movement of the wrist away from the elbow.

Abstract: An apparatus for relieving symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome includes restraining the elbow of the patient from movement while applying a controllable tension to the wrist in a direction away from the elbow. The apparatus further includes a mechanism for rotating the wrist while the forearm is under tension.