Bedstead Associated Traction Apparatus Patents (Class 602/33)
  • Publication number: 20090240282
    Abstract: Therapeutic, tilting, split table, traction apparatus for home use manually operated by the user to relieve back pain and/or stretch, lumbar/spine/exercise back muscles/and provide mechanical traction with person in supine position. Apparatus having a upper tilting frame (one end being back and head support and opposing end being a rolling or sliding carriage), pivotally hinged on base frame with approximately 13 kilograms of upper body weight offset unto the back support to offset the effect of the 13 kilogram spring used to retract rolling or sliding carriage and keep body weight balanced for ease of use. Lower body is anchored by pelvic or waist harness to rolling or sliding carriage, As person releases latch, frame tilts (head lower then feet) and simultaneously pushes rod and roller assembly (hinged to under back support and under rolling carriage) up the 35 degree incline track pushing carriage away from back support creating traction/distraction force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Zoltan Joseph Mayer
  • Publication number: 20090227929
    Abstract: A traction device for use in surgery is disclosed with the traction device being secured to one side of a surgical table. The traction device includes one or more traction lines which include a line-tensioning device at one end thereof and a connector at the other end thereof for attachment to the limb of a patient undergoing surgery. A tension meter is associated with each of the traction or lines with the tension meter being connected to a readout which indicates the tension or traction force being imposed in the traction line. The traction device may be used for patients undergoing shoulder surgery or other types of limb surgery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Chad J. Gondringer
  • Publication number: 20090209895
    Abstract: The traction device using a winch employs an array of components including winches, pulleys and elastic bands mounted on an upright frame. The arrangement of the components allows the device to be utilized for traction without the use of cumbersome weights. The upright frame is configured to ensure stability. The components, including scales and cables, are mounted on the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Renee A. Tornatore, Neil Munhofen
  • Patent number: 7544175
    Abstract: A traction device for use on a support surface which includes a body contacting assembly which releasably contacts the a suitable anatomical region of the patient, a gas spring and associated assembly, the gas spring variable between an extended rest position and a retracted force exerting position, and means of relieving traction force exerted by the gas spring and associated assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Anthony T. D'Amico
  • Patent number: 7540877
    Abstract: A therapeutic table construction which isolates a first portion of the patient's body to a fixed table portion and a second portion of the patient's body to a moveable table portion, and applies a distraction force to the moveable portion of the patient's body while positioning the portion of the patient's spine that is to be treated at an angle so as to isolate the portion of the patient's spine which receives the distraction force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Timothy R. Emsky
  • Patent number: 7462189
    Abstract: A spinal treatment apparatus for applying a force to a patient includes a base portion, a telescoping support, a spinal distraction device and an actuator. The telescoping support is mounted on the base portion and includes a bottom member and a top member. The top member is engaged with the bottom member so that the top member has a retracted position and an extended position. The telescoping support is capable of withstanding a force, corresponding to the spinal treatment force, imparted on the top member, while in both the retracted position and the extended position. The spinal distraction device is mounted on the top member and applies the spinal treatment force to the patient. The actuator moves the top member vertically relative to the bottom member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: North American Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Norman A. Smith, Carlos Becerra, Shelly O'Neil-Flemming
  • Publication number: 20080188780
    Abstract: A spinal treatment system for applying a preselected force regimen to a spine of a patient includes a treatment bed, having a head end and a foot end, is configured to support the patient. A harness is configured to transmit force to a portion of the spine of the patient. A cable having a first end is coupled to the harness and is configured to apply force to the harness. A matrix head is coupled to the cable and is configured to apply a force, having a force magnitude and a force direction, to the cable, so that the force direction varies along more than one axis. A vertical displacement drive is disposed adjacent to the foot end of the treatment bed and is configured to support the matrix head and to displace the matrix head along a vertical axis. A computer is programmed to drive the vertical displacement drive and the matrix head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: NORTH AMERICAN MEDICAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Carlos Becerra
  • Publication number: 20080177212
    Abstract: The present The present invention relates to a medical apparatus for spinal therapy, which is a bed-type apparatus equipped with a treatment head and performs message and acupressure while moving along the length of the spine, and more particularly to a fixing structure of a treatment head in the medical apparatus, which wears out slowly and allows the treatment head to move in a vertical direction. The medical apparatus for spinal therapy having the fixing structure of a treatment head is advantageous over known apparatuses in that it can give various types of stimulation to human body parts and incurs lower maintenance expenses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Applicant: HAPPY MEDICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Doo Sang KIM, Heung Gu IM, Se Yun KIM
  • Publication number: 20080149115
    Abstract: A limb supporting apparatus adaptable for use during orthopedic surgery on a patient's limb having a platform base; an appendage rest supported by the platform base and adapted to immobilize the limb; an access port supported by the platform base; and a curved cannula supported by the access port and adapted to facilitate access to target bone during orthopedic surgery. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of performing an orthopedic procedure on a limb including the steps of immobilizing the limb on an appendage rest of a platform base; aligning a curved cannula supported by an access port with a target bone of the limb; and performing an orthopedic procedure on the target bone through the cannula.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: SONOMA ORTHOPEDIC PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Brian Hauck, Heber Saravia, Christopher Staudenmayer, Kai U. Mazur
  • Patent number: 7357777
    Abstract: A spinal traction/decompression device suitable for home or clinical treatment of lumbar and cervical spine pathology. The traction apparatus has a substantially flat upper body support that is moveable with respect to a fixed base. The upper body support is adapted to receive the upper torso of an individual leaning forward in a prone position while kneeling on a knee cushion. A pelvis/hip restraining portion holds the individual's lower torso in position with respect to the fixed base when the upper body support is moved. Lumbar traction may be induced by a user positioning their upper torso on the upper body support and moving it forward or backward with respect to the fixed base. The upper body support may also be divided into two independently moveable sections such that cervical traction can be induced in a neck region of a user. The traction force is preferably supplied by the individual pushing or pulling the upper body support forward with their arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Ryan Meyers
  • Patent number: 7351216
    Abstract: Apparatus for suspending the calf and foot of a patient recumbent on a bed to relieve pressure on the thigh of the patient includes a leg lift unit in the form of a rigid, trough-like posterior shell shaped to engage under the patient's calf and foot. A bail having opposite ends is connected to the side walls of the shell so that the bail loops above the shell and a support frame extends up and over the bed. A cord hanging from the frame is releasably connected to the bail. By appropriately adjusting the position of the frame, the patient's calf may be subjected to the necessary amount of lift and/or tension to minimize localized pressure on the patient's thigh and buttock areas and to relieve compression forces on the patient's spinal column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew C. Walsh
  • Patent number: 7341567
    Abstract: A traction device for use on a support surface which includes a body contacting assembly which releasably contacts the a suitable anatomical region of the patient, a gas spring and associated assembly, the gas spring variable between an extended rest position and a contracted force exerting position, and means of relieving traction force exerted by the gas spring and associated assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventor: Anthony T. D'Amico
  • Patent number: 7282039
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for self administration of adjustable lumbar traction by a user in a supine position upon a support. The device comprises an upper body harness releasably encircling the torso and anchored to the support spacedly outwardly of the user's head, a lower body harness releasably encircling the user's waist and anchored to a support spacedly outwardly of the user's feet and user adjustable elastically biased tensioning members extending between the lower body harness and the support to which it is anchored. The device is preferably carried on a bedstead or table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Inventor: David E. Henke
  • Patent number: 7201729
    Abstract: A therapeutic table construction which isolates a first portion of the patient's body to a fixed table portion and a second portion of the patient's body to a moveable table portion, and applies a distraction force to the moveable portion of the patient's body while positioning the portion of the patient's spine that is to be treated at an angle so as to isolate the portion of the patient's spine which receives the distraction force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Cert Health Sciences, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy R. Emsky
  • Patent number: 7156820
    Abstract: A portable extremity support rack that offers a quick, easy, accessible and effective way to apply the standard RICE principle for post traumatic injury management. The extremity support rack collapses into a portable carrying case so it can be easily stored when not in use or quickly transported to different settings where injury management may take place. An upper surface and a lower surface in the extremity support rack are adjustably elevated and positioned to comfortably fit injured limbs of any shape and size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: Jeanna S. Polonchek
  • Patent number: 7108671
    Abstract: A low-cost, light weight portable lumbar fraction device for home use by a patient including a support structure having a longitudinal axis and a carriage slidable along a portion of the support structure parallel to the longitudinal axis. The carriage includes a restraining mechanism adapted to releasably restrain a portion of a patient's body to the carriage. The pneumatic fraction force generating apparatus includes at least one pneumatic chamber and at least one air inlet. The pneumatic traction force generating apparatus is operatively coupled to both the carriage and the support structure to move the carriage relative to the support structure when the at least one pneumatic chamber is in a pressurized state. The pneumatic fraction force generating apparatus is adapted to maintain a generally static fraction force for a period in excess of 10 minutes when in the pressurized state without additional pressurized air being supplied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: The Saunders Group, Inc.
    Inventors: H. Duane Saunders, Mark R. Stultz
  • Patent number: 7060046
    Abstract: A pelvis correction apparatus is disclosed, by which appropriate pelvis correction therapy is performed with application of sufficient pressing force at a predetermined angle to a patient by simple operation irrespective of therapist's skill. The apparatus includes a bed, pressing bars which moves from both sides of the bed toward a pelvis of the patient on the bed with a predetermined inclination angle, the pressing bars having pressing members on one ends, the pressing members brought into contact with the patient to convey pressing force to the pelvis, and a member for urging the movement of the pressing bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventors: Masaru Tanaka, Masato Tanaka
  • Patent number: 7052479
    Abstract: A traction device for applying traction to a patient's leg while supporting the patient's foot to avoid foot drop and heel or lateral malleolar pressure ulcers. The device includes a body having forefoot and lower leg portions, a continuous cavity within the forefoot and lower leg portions, and an anterior opening sized to permit a patient's foot and lower leg to pass therethrough into the cavity. The body supports the patient's lower leg so that the patient's heel is suspended within the cavity. Elements adjustably close the anterior opening and traction straps are removably attached to lateral regions of the body and extend from the forefoot portion. The interior surface of the cavity provides a sufficiently high friction interface with the patient's lower leg to prevent sliding of the body on the lower leg when full traction loads are applied through the traction straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Denis Burke Drennan
  • Patent number: 6994683
    Abstract: A portable lumbar traction device wherein a variable tension system allows the user to manually manipulate a level of tension using a ratcheting device while undergoing a traction procedure. The invention easily and quickly anchors to a door frame and includes one or more springs to create tension in the device. A belt or harness worn by the user couples to a cable or tether in tension with the spring, and the ratcheting device incrementally increases the tension when actuated by the user until the desired tension level is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: David Starr
  • Patent number: 6984217
    Abstract: A cervical traction device includes a base, a cervical force application member, and a motor operably attached to the cervical force application member. The motor preferably drives the cervical application member through a direct drive system in order to provide a force to a person's cervical vertebra. The cervical traction device may also include a linear actuator for elevating the person's head to direct the force applied to the cervical vertebra. When integrated on a vertebral distraction machine, the cervical traction device includes its own motor for applying force to the cervical vertebra.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: North American Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Carlos Becerra, Norman A. Smith, Markus Randel, Tony Copeland
  • Patent number: 6953443
    Abstract: A simple tibial distraction device includes a simple height-adjustable limb support triangle for positioning a patient's knee during surgery. The triangle includes a slidable support plate for carrying a Steinman pin, as well as a foot support strap to apply traction to the patient's lower leg and/or ankle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Imp Inc.
    Inventor: Michael T. Hay
  • Patent number: 6899690
    Abstract: A portable traction device suitable for cervical traction powered by a pneumatic cylinder. The portable traction device includes a support structure having a longitudinal axis and a carriage slidable along a portion of the support structure parallel to the longitudinal axis. The carriage including restraining mechanism for releasably restraining a portion of a patient's body to the carriage. A pneumatic cylinder includes a cylinder housing attached to the support structure. The cylinder housing contains a piston and piston rod. The piston rod is attached to the carriage for moving the carriage along the longitudinal axis relative to the support structure when pressurized air is injected into the pneumatic cylinder. The piston has at least one pressure activated seal extending circumferentially around the piston for engagement with an inside surface of the cylinder housing. A bicycle-style hand pump fluidly connected to the pneumatic cylinder is provided for injecting pressurized air into the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: The Saunders Group, Inc.
    Inventors: H. Duane Saunders, Mark R. Stultz
  • Publication number: 20040186404
    Abstract: The arm of a patient undergoing wrist arthroscopy or other procedures that involve traction on the forearm, wrist or hand in a vertical position is immobilized in a device containing a stabilizing arch that can be readily secured to an arm board. The device offers multiple degrees of freedom to accommodate arm boards of different widths and heights, and secures the arm of the patient without attaching anything to the arm that might affect the circulation to the involved extremity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventor: Robert R. Slater
  • Publication number: 20040171974
    Abstract: A therapeutic table construction which isolates a first portion of the patient's body to a fixed table portion and a second portion of the patient's body to a moveable table portion, and applies a distraction force to the moveable portion of the patient's body while positioning the portion of the patient's spine that is to be treated at an angle so as to isolate the portion of the patient's spine which receives the distraction force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Cert Health Sciences, LLC
    Inventor: Timothy R. Emsky
  • Publication number: 20040143206
    Abstract: A portable traction device suitable for cervical traction powered by a pneumatic cylinder. The portable traction device includes a support structure having a longitudinal axis and a carriage slidable along a portion of the support structure parallel to the longitudinal axis. The carriage including restraining mechanism for releasably restraining a portion of a patient's body to the carriage. A pneumatic cylinder includes a cylinder housing attached to the support structure. The cylinder housing contains a piston and piston rod. The piston rod is attached to the carriage for moving the carriage along the longitudinal axis relative to the support structure when pressurized air is injected into the pneumatic cylinder. The piston has at least one pressure activated seal extending circumferentially around the piston for engagement with an inside surface of the cylinder housing. A bicycle-style hand pump fluidly connected to the pneumatic cylinder is provided for injecting pressurized air into the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Applicant: The Saunders Group, Inc.
    Inventors: H. Duane Saunders, Mark R. Stultz
  • Patent number: 6764458
    Abstract: A portable extremity support rack that offers a quick, easy, accessible and effective way to apply the standard RICE principle for post traumatic injury management. The extremity support rack collapses into a portable carrying case so it can be easily stored when not in use or quickly transported to different settings where injury management may take place. An upper surface and a lower surface in the extremity support rack are adjustably elevated and positioned to comfortably fit injured limbs of any shape and size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Jeanna S. Polonchek
  • Patent number: 6758827
    Abstract: An improved angularly adjustable traction apparatus (10) including a generally rectangular platform member (20) having an elongated track groove (30) disposed in one side (23) for slidably receiving a limb immobilizing unit (12) and a pulley unit (13) having a traction device (90). Both the limb immobilizing unit (12) and the pulley unit (13) are provided with securing elements (50), (50′) etc. for captively engaging the limb immobilizing (12) and pulley (13) units at selected locations within the track groove (30) and a pair of anchor units (15) associated with portions of the limb immobilizing (12) and pulley (13) units to maintain their angular orientation relative to the platform member (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: John S. Moss
  • Publication number: 20040049143
    Abstract: A distal end of a staff is placed in the armpit under the dislocated shoulder while the proximal end is braced against the stomach of a skilled medical worker, who then pulls on a pulling end of a traction cord having a distal end connected to the patient's wrist by a wrist cuff. The traction cord may have a fixed end attached to the proximal end of the staff and may be operatively routed through a rachet mechanism, allowing the medical worker to relax during the procedure. A single person can reduce dislocated shoulders using the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: David L. Short
  • Publication number: 20040049135
    Abstract: A knee extension therapy apparatus is described. The apparatus is designed for use by a patient in a recumbent position having the foot of his leg to be treated elevated to a level above the surface upon which the patient user is resting. The knee extension therapy apparatus can be collapsed for easy transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Keith E. Callanan, K. Donald Shelbourne
  • Publication number: 20030093022
    Abstract: A back stress relief system for alleviating stress and pain within an individual's back. The back stress relief system includes a support frame, a platform attached to the support frame, an opening within the platform, a first extended member and a second extended member extending upwardly from the platform, a sliding member slidably positioned within the support frame below the opening, a pair of leg cuffs attached to the sliding member and extending through the opening, and a drive unit mechanically attached to the sliding member for manipulating the sliding member along a longitudinal axis of the support frame. An individual lays flat upon the platform and positions the extended members within the axilla defined by the junction between the arm and shoulder. The legs of the individual are secured within the leg cuffs and then the drive unit is operated to extend the legs away from the extended members thereby alleviating stress within the back and joints of the individual.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Paul Sund
  • Publication number: 20030088200
    Abstract: A portable traction device suitable for cervical traction powered by a pneumatic cylinder. The portable traction device includes a support structure having a longitudinal axis and a carriage slidable along a portion of the support structure parallel to the longitudinal axis. The carriage including restraining mechanism for releasably restraining a portion of a patient's body to the carriage. A pneumatic cylinder includes a cylinder housing attached to the support structure. The cylinder housing contains a piston and piston rod. The piston rod is attached to the carriage for moving the carriage along the longitudinal axis relative to the support structure when pressurized air is injected into the pneumatic cylinder. The piston has at least one pressure activated seal extending circumferentially around the piston for engagement with an inside surface of the cylinder housing. A bicycle-style hand pump fluidly connected to the pneumatic cylinder is provided for injecting pressurized air into the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: The Saunders Group, Inc.
    Inventors: H. Duane Saunders, Mark R. Stultz
  • Patent number: 6533743
    Abstract: An angularly adjustable traction apparatus (10) for applying traction forces to a patient's limb wherein the apparatus (10) includes a base platform member (20) provided with a rail unit (14) that is raised relative to the base platform member (20) and a limb immobilizing unit (12) and pulley unit (13) slidably disposed on the rail unit (14) and adapted to be angularly adjusted relative thereto; wherein, the pulley unit (13) includes a support post member (50) and a pulley member (60) suspended from the support post member (50) and provided with a bracket element (61) whose height can be varied to the base platform member (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: John S. Moss
  • Patent number: 6533744
    Abstract: Portable traction apparatus for applying traction forces to a human or animal body includes a support member and an elongated, double-ended traction arm pivotally connected to the support member. The traction arm is mounted for movement about orthogonally disposed pivots. A lock is employed to selectively lock the traction arm against movement relative to the support member at selected orientations. An attachment clamp is connected to the support member for releasably attaching the support member to a structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventors: Walt Stanish, Scott Steinheiser
  • Patent number: 6511450
    Abstract: The invention proposes a device for spinal column extension (1), in which the carrier part (4) bearing the attachment point (40) or the attachment element (45) for the transfer part (451) for the traction to be applied to the area of the spinal column of the patient (10) to be treated is pivotably mounted (70) relative to the base part (2). Thereby it is possible for the device (1) to be used more simply for cervical spinal column extension in various areas and even additionally for lumbar spinal column extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: Wolfgang Bauermeister
  • Patent number: 6506174
    Abstract: A portable traction device suitable for cervical or lumbar traction powered by a pneumatic cylinder. The portable traction device includes a support structure having a longitudinal axis and a carriage slidable along a portion of the support structure parallel to the longitudinal axis. The carriage including restraining mechanism for releasably restraining a portion of a patient's body to the carriage. A pneumatic cylinder includes a cylinder housing attached to the support structure. The cylinder housing contains a piston and piston rod. The piston rod is attached to the carriage for moving the carriage along the longitudinal axis relative to the support structure when pressurized air is injected into the pneumatic cylinder. The piston has at least one pressure activated seal extending circumferentially around the piston for engagement with an inside surface of the cylinder housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: The Saunders Group, Inc.
    Inventors: H. Duane Saunders, Mark R. Stultz
  • Patent number: 6467713
    Abstract: A traction device has a casing, a drum mounted in the casing for undergoing rotation, and a traction rope having a first end connected to the drum and a second end extending through an opening in the casing. A roller is disposed in the casing for guiding the traction rope and a biasing member for resiliently biasing the traction rope onto the roller. A spring has a first end connected to the drum for urging the drum in a direction of rewinding the traction rope on the drum. A rope coupling is connected to the second end of the traction rope for preventing the second end of the traction rope from passing through the opening of the casing. A tension meter is disposed between the traction rope and the rope coupling for measuring a tension of the traction rope. A shaft is supported by the casing for undergoing rotation relative to the drum and is connected to a second end of the spring. A ratchet mechanism rotates the shaft to apply an initial load to the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Kabushikikaisha Nihon M.D.M.
    Inventors: Yasuo Watanabe, Satoshi Ishida
  • Publication number: 20020128576
    Abstract: An exercise table and exercise routine usefull in the treatment of low back pain is disclosed. The table design permits a user to apply low levels of traction to the lower back by pushing lightly on adjustable arm support posts. The table design permits the user to have complete control of the level of traction applied to the lower back. An exercise routine uses the methodology of relaxing the user and applying very low levels of traction to the lower back. The low level of traction is alternated every few seconds and utilizes deep breaths to keep the user in a relaxed condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Billy Jack Mayes
  • Patent number: 6302859
    Abstract: The present invention utilizes a user's arm strength opposed by large stretch bands attached to the harness to achieve 100% of the traction force or “pull-weight.” The principal components of the device are an anchoring system, such as a frame, and a harness, which are used simultaneously as part of a single system. The user lies upon a body support atop the frame and uses his/her arm strength to slide forward by pulling with his/her hands against a harness fastened around the user's waist. The user accomplishes the sliding forward by pulling on handles attached to the top of the frame, while the harness is attached to the bottom of the frame. The effect is distraction of the lower spine. The unique mode of action of the device utilizes the user's own arm strength to achieve a completely variable traction force. The user is in complete control of the amount of traction force to be delivered at all times without any dependence upon electricity to generate force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventor: Ralph B. Cushman
  • Patent number: 6258050
    Abstract: A vertebral traction device for applying traction to the cervical vertebral column. A method for applying traction to the cervical vertebral column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph E. Henderson
  • Patent number: 6238361
    Abstract: An orthopedic apparatus for treating a child afflicted with the Legg Calves Perthes disease. The apparatus includes a telescopic cross-bar adapted to be attached at each ends to the feet of a patient's resting on a bed, to keep his legs spread apart. A post upstands from the foot of the bed and carries pulleys; a rope is trained on the pulleys and is connected at one end to the center of the cross-bar while a weight is attached to the other end of the rope. A constant pull is exerted on the patient's legs while the legs are kept spread apart. The amounts of pull and of leg spread are both adjustable. The present apparatus is destined to be used mainly at the child's home, but only shortly at the hospital, under the supervision of the parents. This apparatus is foldable and is easily carriable in a relatively small case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: François Poirier
  • Patent number: 6217538
    Abstract: A portable, free-standing head support frame for passively inducing cervical and thoracic flexion while maintaining traction includes a base support platform for placement on the floor or other stable treatment surface, an upright head support frame that projects transversely with respect to the base platform, a head cradle including a V-shaped occipital engagement block with engagement edges extending transversely on opposite sides of the occipital center line, a strap to immobilize the patient's head, and an adjustable coupling for holding the head cradle at a desired elevation above the base platform. The patient assumes a static, semi-reclined position with the patient's upper torso and head being elevated and inclined with respect to the support surface. The weight of the patient's upper torso induces a gentle stretch and traction in cervical and thoracic flexion, providing relief of cervical and upper thoracic muscle spasm, and facet joint, costovertebral joint and soft tissue conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Mark A. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6190345
    Abstract: A vertebral traction device for applying traction to the lower vertebral column. A method for applying traction to the lower vertebral column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph E. Henderson
  • Patent number: 6149690
    Abstract: A flexible urethane suspension sleeve for use in attaching a below the knee prosthesis to the remaining portion of the patient's limb. The sleeve has a generally tubular shape and includes a preflexed portion. A reinforced intermediate portion provides for abrasion resistance in the portion of the sleeve covering the socket "ears" and is disposed intermediate first and second reinforced end portions having different elasticities. A pair of non-compressive portions are disposed intermediate the reinforced intermediate portion and the reinforced end portions and provide for a non-compressive suction adhesion to the thigh of the user and the prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Hugo Belzidsky
  • Patent number: 6113563
    Abstract: A cervical traction device which can be used on a elevated support surface such as a bed which applies a tractive force to the back of the patient's skull approximate to the occipital bone through the use of contoured blocks which can preferably be positioned behind the patient's head and mounted on a head rest assembly. The tractive force can be continuous or cycled on and off manually during a cervical traction session. The head rest assembly slides on the bed or similar surface and can be vertically and laterally adjusted to vary the flexion-extension angle. The cervical traction device can be operated by the patient with or without the help of a second party.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventors: Anthony D'Amico, Joseph D'Amico
  • Patent number: 6085749
    Abstract: A device is provided for stabilizing and positioning an otherwise hand-held medical instrument, such as a biopsy power driver and probe, to ensure the ability to accurately place the probe into the breast and maintain position relative to a particular tissue site from any desired entry point. The device comprises a main arm having a generally vertical portion and a generally horizontal portion. A clamping assembly permits attachment of the apparatus to a stationary object, which is preferably an examination table, and includes a locking clamp having a gripping mode and a releasing mode for alternately gripping and releasing the main arm, and a lever assembly for actuating the locking clamp between the gripping mode and the releasing mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: John L. Wardle, Mark A. Ritchart
  • Patent number: 5991651
    Abstract: Compression/traction device for use with internal imaging devices including a stabilizing member for engaging a portion of the thorax of a patient's body and a force generating device to apply a force to the patient's body remote from the thorax. A load simulation table for imaging devices such as X-ray, CAT scan, MRI or tomography instruments is also disclosed, which includes a thorax engaging member and a force generating device to apply a force to the patient's body remote from the thorax portion. A method for simulating a load on a patient's body during imaging procedures is also disclosed and includes the steps of positioning a patient on a flat surface to subject the patient to an imaging procedure, engaging a portion of the thorax of the patient's body, applying a force to a portion of the patient's body at a location remote from the thorax and performing an imaging procedure while applying the force to the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph A. LaBarbera
  • Patent number: 5957876
    Abstract: A cervical traction device which can be used on a support surface such as a bed which applies a tractive force to the back of the patient's skull approximate to the occipital bone through the use of contoured blocks which can preferably be positioned behind the patient's head and mounted on a head rest assembly. The tractive force can be administered in a continuous cyclical or intermittent manner controlled by the patient during a cervical traction session. The device has an integrated damping system which permits return of tractive force to the patient during each cycle in a gradual fashion. This gradual return enables this unit to closely simulate cyclic, and cyclic intermittent traction performed in the more expensive in-office equipment used by physical therapists. The head rest assembly slides on the bed or similar surface and can be vertically and laterally adjusted to vary the flexion-extension angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Anthony T. D'Amico
  • Patent number: 5895367
    Abstract: Medical therapeutic equipment for applying tension or compression to various body parts of a patient, the equipment being a rectangular frame structure made up of a plurality tubular elements intended to be placed around the patient lying on a horizontal surface, the rectangular frame structure having an elongated post member with a ring at the end thereof in a generally parallel relationship intended to extend between the legs of the patient, and a pair of anchorage devices, a first adapted to fasten a first selected body part of the patient to the ring, and a second adapted to fasten a second selected body part of the patient to a transverse end member opposite the elongated post member, and further including an apparatus for mechanically drawing the post member and ring away from the opposed transverse end member to activate the equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Milton Mautoni
  • Patent number: 5865781
    Abstract: An electro-mechanical traction device is provided which includes a motor driven linear actuator connected to a guided carriage. A second carriage is mounted in tandem with the first on a common guide. The two carriages are connected by a spring. A patient engaging device is connected to the second carriage. The linear actuator and carriage guide are mounted to a common surface. When power is provided to the linear actuator motor, it moves the first carriage. The motion is transmitted through the spring to the second carriage and patient engaging device to provide traction to the patient. Reversing the motor relieves the traction force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventors: Mark E. Lieber, John H. Petruch
  • Patent number: 5730706
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Krahnen GmbH
    Inventor: Dieter Garnies