Abstract: A spinal decompression apparatus includes a horizontal base having left and right sides, a front end and a rear end and having an upper surface upon which a patient can lie on his back. Left and right horizontal guide rails are located adjacent the left and right sides of the base and left and right uprights are adjacent the rear end thereof. Left and right inclined rails have their upper ends movably attached to the uprights and their lower ends movable horizontally along the guide rails. A knee bar extends horizontally across the apparatus between the inclined rails and is positioned so as to permit a person lying on the base to place the back of his knees around the knee bar. A motor connected to the knee bar and operated by the patient moves the knee bar up or down the inclined rails. The angle of inclination of the inclined rails is manually adjustable.

Abstract: A surgical assembly (20) comprises a post (100) having a longitudinally extending axis (104), a support (56) for resisting movement of the post in a negative longitudinal direction, and a platform (70) offset from the support in a positive longitudinal direction. The platform includes an opening (82) through which the post projects. The opening includes a throat (86). The post has a first dimension which renders the post incapable of passing through the throat and a second dimension which renders the post capable of passing through the throat. Alternate embodiments in which the post can be removably engaged with the support and platform and disengaged therefrom without translating the post in the longitudinal direction are also disclosed.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for use with a head fixation device allows for a stabilizing fixture, such as a rocker arm having a pair of skull pins, to be selectively secured so that the stabilizing fixture can be adjustably rotated to a desired position. In some version the locking apparatus includes a connector that is retained within an opening in a portion of the head fixation device. The connector can translate within the opening and is restricted from rotation. The translating of the connector permits the connector to engage an arch member that retains the stabilizing fixture. The engagement of the connector and arch member is accomplished, in some versions, by way of matching axial oriented toothed portions or starburst features. In some versions the teeth on the starburst features include a chamfer surface.

Abstract: A traction apparatus which impresses a desired traction force to a body to be pulled is provided.

Abstract: A traction exercise apparatus comprises a rectangular shaped metal frame including a pair of metal vertical members, a metal horizontal member on a bottom side, and a pair of metal horizontal members on a top side. A first rotating metal shaft and a second rotating metal shaft are located across the pair of metal horizontal members. Further a pair of ankle braces is attached to a snap hook. A cable pulley on each side of the first rotating metal shaft supports a first metal cable attached to the snap hook. A first cable reel on each side of second rotating metal shaft supports the first metal cable. A second cable reel on each side of the second rotating metal shaft supports a second metal cable attached to a hand grab bar. Second rotating metal shaft rotates to transmit a tension to the first metal cable to perform different traction exercises.

Abstract: A therapeutic traction device for increasing intervertebral spaces along a cervical spine of a user includes a user interface, a controller, a neck rest section, a crossbar provided with first and second clamps, a curvilinear back pad connected to an anterior side of the crossbar, and a utility box connected to a posterior side of the crossbar. The utility box includes a rectilinear driven rod partially seated within the utility box and statically mated to the neck rest section, and a mechanism for linearly reciprocating the driven rod along a first vertical travel path defined posterior of the back pad such that the neck rest section is synchronously raised and lowered above the crossbar. In this manner, the back pad remains statically mated to the crossbar while the neck rest section is raised and lowered along a second vertical travel path defined anterior of the first vertical travel path.

Abstract: A traction device includes a base panel having a frame member pivotally attached to an edge thereof. The frame member is formed of a telescoping leg with a telescoping arm extending from its upper end. The frame member supports a tensioning cable having a neck harness at a distal end for fastening to a patient's head. A proximal end of the cable is attached to a tensioning mechanism slidably mounted on the leg. The tensioning mechanism includes a telescoping, pneumatic cylinder that is extended with a compressible bulb. The cylinder engages a pivotal lever that pulls the cable downwardly when the cylinder is extended, thereby applying tension to the harness.

Abstract: A method for treating a user's back, a user's neck, or combinations thereof. The method can include the steps of: inserting a traction device into a pouch of a fabric garment; disposing the fabric garment over a user; engaging the traction device with a surface; and applying a pressure to the traction device using the user's back. The traction device can provide a therapeutic pressure to the user's back, to the user's neck, or to combinations thereof. The method can use a customizable traction device having a shearable fraction head and body. The shearable traction head and body can each be cut to a custom size to fit a user. The method can use a removable fabric chair cover disposed over a chair. A user can sit on the chair and apply a pressure to the traction device using the user's back.

Abstract: Patient body part traction exerting and control kit apparatus, comprising in combination a motor driven rotary drive means to tension a traction exerting line; a support means carrying rotary drive means and configured to be attached to equipment at an attraction exertion site, to present drive means for traction line operation attached to aid rotary drive means; the support means having a first section attached to the equipment, and a second section carrying rotary drive means for displacement enabling sideward shifting of a traction line to accommodate patient body shifting, while under traction.

Abstract: A stretcher may stretch a lower body of a user laying down in a state in which the stretcher is arranged adjacent to, arranged on, or integrally attached to a bed. The stretcher includes an upper body movement restraint configured to prevent an upper body from being moved in the direction of stretching, a friction reducer configured to reduce a friction between the lower body and a lower body contact surface, and a tension generator configured to give a stretching force to the lower body when the upper body is held by the upper body restraint with the lower body arranged on the friction reducer. A user may be able remain flat on his or her back after using the stretcher. This may allow the user's joints to rest and/or heal in a relaxed state.

Abstract: A hyperextension brace with a frame construction has adjustable upper and lower supports as well as adjustable side members. The frame comprises a sub-clavicula support and a pelvic and pubic support connected by side members. The height of the side members and the width of the sub-clavicula support and the pubic support are adjustable by using non-rotational telescopic and lockable connections. The sub-clavicula support may be connected by a turnbuckle screw arrangement to the side members. The frame may be made of composite material, suitably a polymer reinforced by glass fiber and/or carbon fiber. All adjustments may be made without requiring any tools.

Abstract: An orthopedic device includes at least one torque band disposable around a users' body and having opposing ends extending outwardly from the users' body and generally transverse to a user's spine along with apparatus applying counteracting forces to the ends in order to torque the body to the corrective posture. In addition, a support table may be provided along with a cervical device disposed on the table drop leaf and a pelvis/leg/feet carrier slidably disposed on the table. A lumbar sacral unit is disposed on the table between the cervical device and the pelvis/leg/feet carrier and a movable thorax carrier may be disposed on the support table between the sacral unit and the cervical device.

Abstract: A surgical tool holder that includes a holding member with a clamping jaw, which is movable between open and clamping positions. A gripping member is configured to supportingly grip a surgical tool and is selectively placed in a rotatable or fixed association with the holding member. Engagement portions of the holding member and gripping member are engagable to block rotation therebetween to obtain the fixed association.

Abstract: A surgical support for a femur utilizing a shaft having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The shaft lies along an axis which is coincident with a first plane. A hook connects to the shaft through an intermediate portion and lies in a second plane which intersects the first plane. The hook includes a flattened portion for support of the femur.

Abstract: An orthopedic traction tower system, and components thereof, for use in surgery, fracture repair, and/or radiography. The traction tower system may include a base for receiving the proximal end of a patient's limb, a tower arm for applying tractive forces to a distal end of a patient's limb, and a joint that movably connects the base and the tower arm such that the tower arm can be positioned for surgical access and/or for applying different types of traction, among others.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a device and method for providing a lateralization effect such as in a medical procedure. The lateralization device can have a supporting member, which can be adapted to be supported in a fixed position. A lateralization member can be provided to at least partially wrap around the supporting member and be mounted thereto to provide a lateralization effect. The lateralization member can be formed and/or adjusted to provide a variable lateralization. For example, the lateralization member can comprise a cylindrical member with an eccentric cut-out portion adapted to fit over the supporting member. The inter wall of the cut-out portion and the outer wall of the supporting member can be formed with interference fittings so that the lateralization member can rotate in relation to the supporting member to provide a variable lateralization.

Abstract: A traction table (200) include a frame having a base-frame portion (202) rotabably coupled to a top-frame portion (250) at a pivot point 214, a seat back portion (208) coupled to the top frame portion, and a seat-bottom (204) slidably coupled to the frame top portion. The seat-bottom can rotate about a pivot point (262) and tilt about at least one axis (260 and/or 264). The seat-bottom can further slide forwards or backwards relative to the top frame portion. The traction table can include an optional neck piece (210) coupled to the top frame portion that can move parallel relative to the seat back portion and constructed to rotate, tilt side to side or forward and backward. The traction table can include at least one actuator motor (245 or 244) for moving the seat-bottom or neck piece relative to the top-frame portion and a controller (212) for controlling such actuator(s).

Abstract: A traction force is applied at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the patient's spine and progressively increased over a period of time. A fulcrum member is applied against the posterior portion of the cervical region of a person's spine while the traction force pulls the cervical region and bends it rearwardly about the fulcrum member to stretch the soft tissues of the spine. In preferred embodiments the fulcrum member applies a progressively increasing fulcrum force, and the traction force likewise progressively increases during the treatment period. An electronic control system may be used to automatically control application of the fulcrum and traction forces.

Abstract: The pneumatic lumbar traction device comprises two separable parts, namely an upper hollow part and a lower frame, the frame having a pneumatically operated piston and cylinder mechanism fixed in and located centrally therein with a piston rod extending outwardly to engage a bar positioned to engage and move a loop fixed to a pelvic traction belt outwardly of a foot end of the device; the upper hollow part having an upper surface on which a user will lie during use; a generally elongate chest belt having opposite end portions with a strap fixed on each end portion with a first clip on said strap and a mating second clip fixed on the opposite end portion, each strap, after said mating clips are fixed together, being capable of being pulled through said first clip to tighten it on the first clip against said fixed mating second clip thereby to tighten the chest belt around a users chest; two, spaced apart, elongate strips of hook or loop material fixed to a central area of the upper surface for engaging with an

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.

Abstract: The pneumatic lumbar traction device comprises two separable parts, namely an upper hollow part and a lower frame, the frame having a pneumatically operated piston and cylinder mechanism fixed in and located centrally therein with a piston rod extending outwardly to engage a bar positioned to engage and move a loop fixed to a pelvic traction belt outwardly of a foot end of the device; the upper hollow part having an upper surface on which a user will lie during use; a generally elongate chest belt having opposite end portions with a strap fixed on each end portion with a first clip on said strap and a mating second clip fixed on the opposite end portion, each strap, after said mating clips are fixed together, being capable of being pulled through said first clip to tighten it on the first clip against said fixed mating second clip thereby to tighten the chest belt around a users chest; two, spaced apart, elongate strips of hook or loop material fixed to a central area of the upper surface for engaging with an

Abstract: A device to support the human back/spine and provide assistance in bending, lifting and standing upright comprises a strap and belt system for attachment to the body and one or more bias/tension member to provide the force necessary to urge the user's back to remain or return to a straight position. When used as intended, the device serves to encourage a healthy body position for lifting, and/or to alleviate or prevent back pain associated with bending or lifting. The bias/tension member preferably comprises at least one tension rod that is adjustably fixed to a waist belt, and slidably received by an upper bracket at or near the shoulder blade region of the back. The length of the preferred two tension rods, in effect, may be adjusted by adjusting how or where the rods are fixed to the waist belt, for example.

Abstract: An intraoperative leg stabilizing system has a platform with a slidable brace received in a longitudinal groove. The slidable brace supports the patient's foot. The platform also has an outrigger that pivots about a base in the platform. The outrigger can pivot up to a desired orientation. The longitudinal position of the slidable brace and the orientation of the outrigger can be fixed through locking mechanisms. The system includes a support belt that can be wrapped around the patient's thigh and then connected to the outrigger. The combination of components allows the patient's leg to be stabilized in a desired position and degree of flexion during knee arthroplasty, and to be easily released when desired for evaluation of the patient's leg in extension.

Abstract: An orthopedic distraction sock for circumscribing at least a portion of an appendage, the distraction sock comprising a hollow braided sleeve having opposing open ends and including a non-braided tether mounted to the sleeve so that tension on the tether constricts the sleeve.

Abstract: A vertical traction assembly for using gravity to stretch a person's spine comprises a frame structure and a torso harness combination coupled to depend from the frame structure. The harness combination is effective to maintain a person in a vertical traction position after the person dons the harness combination. A focused traction force mechanism is attached to the frame structure for applying a predetermined amount of focused traction pressure directly to a selected location along the spine of the person who is in the vertical traction position. A feature of the traction force mechanism may include its ability to be adjusted to different locations along the frame structure depending on the location of the afflicted area along the spine of the person being treated.

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.

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.

Abstract: A medical device for overcoming upper airway obstruction when a patient is placed in supine position. A cradle receives the patient's head, and the patient's head rests on and is secured to the cradle. Specifically, the head rests upon a first portion. The weight of the head upon the first portion anchors the entire device. A second portion has an adjustable band that generates an upward pull on the patient's chin, thereby opening the patient's upper airway. The first and second portions are generally perpendicular to each other.

Abstract: A device for exercising a patient's leg, including rehabilitating a patient's knee joint following knee surgery is disclosed. The device comprises an elongated member with a handle at one end, a harness for holding the patient's foot attached to the other end, and an adjustable slider assembly that can be positioned at a variety of locations along the elongated member. A fulcrum, which is attached to the slider assembly rests on the top of the patient's leg, either above or below the knee, while the harness holds the patient's foot. The device is operated by the patient pulling on the handle, thereby straightening the leg, which increases the range of motion of the knee joint following knee surgery. The device is adjustable to accommodate patients of varying heights and leg lengths and also to provide greater leverage in operating the device.

Abstract: An traction apparatus for use in manipulating a patient's arm and wrist bones comprises a traction assembly having a plurality of finger traps, a plurality of springs with each spring capable of releasably associating with at least one trap, and a swivel base secured to each of the springs. Also, included are a traction force scale coupled to the traction assembly, a first traction force generating mechanism linked to the traction force scale, a second traction force generating mechanism coupled to the patient's upper arm, and a support attachment system for securing the subject apparatus components to a support. Additionally, a spacer for separating and positioning the patient's fingers is included.

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.

Abstract: A vertical traction assembly for using gravity to stretch a person's spine comprises a frame structure and a torso harness combination coupled to depend from the frame structure. The harness combination is effective to maintain a person in a vertical traction position after the person dons the harness combination. A focused traction force mechanism is attached to the frame structure for applying a predetermined amount of focused traction pressure directly to a selected location along the spine of the person who is in the vertical traction position. A feature of the traction force mechanism may include its ability to be adjusted to different locations along the frame structure depending on the location of the afflicted area along the spine of the person being treated.

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.

Abstract: A free-standing head support frame for passively inducing cervical and thoracic flexion while maintaining traction includes a base support platform for placement on a 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 block with engagement edges extending transversely on opposite sides of the occipital center line, 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 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.

Abstract: A vertebral traction device for applying traction to the cervical vertebral column. A method for applying traction to the cervical vertebral column.

Abstract: The invention relates to an exercise device capable of entirely supporting a person's head, back and buttocks (seat) through the use of a carriage (located and moving on the inclined semi-circular tracks) and the feet through the use of the foot rest. The semi-circular tracks and the foot rest are mounted on vertical posts which are connected to a solid rectangular frame. The movement of the carriage is made possible by four small wheels fastened at the bottom of the carriage, which roll in corresponding partially covered grooves of the semi-circular tracks. The body weight of a person is used as a resistance for the exercises which can be varied by changing the inclination of the tracks. When a person is properly positioned in the device, the person's body moves the carriage up the tracks by the interaction between the torso and the legs. The flexed legs extend and the head and back resist the leg action by pressing against the carriage.

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.

Abstract: A vertebral traction device for applying traction to the lower vertebral column. A method for applying traction to the lower vertebral column.

Abstract: An foldable electric traction machine comprises a front beam, a rear beam and a joint connecting the front beam and the rear beam. A motor is mounted beneath the rear beam. A sliding bracket is mounted on an extension beam and can be moved by the motor. The body of a patient lying on the traction machine will be stretched by the motor driving the sliding bracket along the extension beam. A rope is provide under the front and the rear beam and will be gradually tensioned with the movement of the sliding bracket. Therefore, when the motor is operated, the traction machine not only can improve the user's body condition, but also raise the user's waist.

Abstract: A centrifugal force device and method for treating neck and back pain associated with intervertebral disc disorders is described. The patient is secured to a table in vertical position with the table being oriented about its vertical axis so as to maximize the delivery of centrifugal force along an appropriate vector. The patient is then rotated about the vertical axis of the device in a speed and time duration controlled manner so as to subject the patient's spinal column to a predetermined level of centrifugal force. Under these conditions intervertebral discs and/or disc material pathologically displaced in a manner to cause the patient signs or symptoms will be forced away from the pathological positions within the spinal column toward a more desirable position as determined by an appropriate clinician. The table can be made with a top section movable upwards in relation to a fixed bottom section.

Abstract: A spinal joint separator device and method for exercising a spine to promote spinal health are provided. The device may generally include a frame and a first and a second bladder secured to the frame for separating vertebrae in the spine in order to promote fluid imbibition therethrough. The bladders provide diverging directions of force against a lordotic arc in the spine of a user, for example against the lumbar or cervical spine. When in an uninflated state the second bladder is disposed on the frame such that it overlaps the first bladder. In addition, a pump and valve may be provided for allowing independent and sequential inflation of the bladders. In accordance with a method of the invention, the first bladder may be inflated against the spine in a first direction to lift and hold the spine in a lordotic arc. Subsequently, the second bladder is inflated against the spine in a second direction to further lift the spine, stretch the spine linearly and gently separate the vertebrae.

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.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a traction force to an appendage of a subject which includes a one-way gripping device having a channel and a cam. The cam is pivotal so that a gripping surface of the cam can be positioned in the channel. A force applicator which can be a rope or cable extends through the channel of the one-way gripping device. The force applicator is free to slide through the channel of the one-way gripping device in one direction, but is gripped by the cam and prevented from moving in an opposite direction. One end of the force applicator is secured to an appendage of a subject. A traction force is applied to the appendage by pulling the force applicator through the one-way gripping device.

Abstract: A knee extension device and method for using same for rehabilitating an injured knee by gradually extending the knee into a straightened position is disclosed. The knee extension device includes an elongated body member, a lower leg support member attached to the body member, and pressure applying strap capable of being wrapped around the body member. A leg is positioned on the body member with the lower portion of the leg resting on the support member. Pressure is selectively applied to the leg using the pressure applying strap to gradually force the knee towards a straightened position.

Abstract: A leg suspension device is provided enabling rehabilitative exercise of the leg, and specifically enabling passive or active range of motion exercise of the knee or hip joint. The leg suspension device includes a bar having proximal and distal segments, and a fulcrum rotatably engaging the bar between the proximal and distal segments to permit rotation of the bar about the fulcrum in a vertical plane. Upper and lower leg cuffs are connected to the proximal and distal segments, respectively, suspending the upper and lower legs while isolating the knee joint. A base is provided to free-standingly support the device during use, or, alternatively, the device is adapted for affixing to an overhead anchor. For passive motion exercise, the thigh and ankle are suspended from the cuffs and the user drives rotation of the bar solely with the upper body muscles about the fulcrum in alternate opposing directions, causing alternate passive flexion and extension of the knee and hip joint.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying cervical traction to a user (22) with a head halter (24) is disclosed. The apparatus includes a frame (24), a tensioner assembly (34), a cord (42), and a pulley (44). The frame has a generally straight section (28), a curved section (32), and a shoulder brace (30). The straight section has a head portion (68) extending behind the head of the user and a tail portion (70) extending behind at least a portion of the back of the user. The shoulder brace is coupled to the straight section at the end of the head portion opposite the connection to the curved section and is oriented generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the straight section. The curved section generally forms a C-shape. The C-shape of the curved section opens toward the head of the user. The tensioner assembly is coupled to the end of the curved section opposite the attachment to the straight section. The tensioner assembly is also coupled to the halter through the cord.

Abstract: A cervical visualization harness for use in applying traction to sedated and/or anesthetized patients. The cervical visualization harness includes a body portion and a pair of straps which extend from the body portion up over the shoulders of the patient and down the patient's body to appropriate points either between the patient's feet or to either side of the foot of the operating room table, to achieve a desired position of the patient's shoulders. The straps are secured to the OR table by hook and loop type fasteners. The hook and loop type fasteners allow for easy adjustment and removal of the straps. A string tie at the chest joins the two straps, keeping them centered relative to the patient. The patient's own weight holds the body portion of the cervical visualization harness intact. This cervical visualization harness and a method of using the same maximize patient care by increasing efficiency and minimizing incidental trauma which occurs during conventional treatment.

Abstract: The X-ray exposure in lateral projection of the cervical spine region of a traumatized patient resting on a trauma board or like emergency carrier is facilitated by an applicance in the form of a traction board having a flat base plate adapted to fit in telescoping relation slidingly beneath an end portion of the trauma board and an integral upstanding traction plate projecting upwardly from the base plate for abutting contact with the end edge of the trauma board or other carrier. The traction board is equipped with e.g. a belt or a C-shaped channel for engaging the same to an overlying portion of the trauma board.

Abstract: An apparatus operable in cooperation with a bed having a top surface and opposite head and foot ends for applying traction to a patient's lower back, including a lower sheet extending from the head end lengthwise to the foot end, said sheet including excess length at the head end of said bed, pulling means for pulling said lower sheet lengthwise toward the foot end of said bed, and an upper sheet having one end fixedly attached to said head end of said bed and extending lengthwise about halfway to said foot end, said upper sheet positioned above and lying on said lower sheet said pulling means adapted to periodically pull said lower sheet lengthwise in the foot end direction a predetermined distance, wherein movement of the lower sheet with the patient's buttocks and legs lying thereon effects a frictional pull in the foot end direction on said buttocks and legs, and wherein the weight of the patient's upper body on the fixed upper sheet effects a frictional resistance in the opposite direction on the patient

Abstract: A portable rehabilitation device employing a suspension system to enable passive or active range of motion exercise of the knee or hip joint. The device has a base adapted to support the suspension system while the patient reclines to perform the respective leg exercises. The suspension system includes a linear track that retains three shuttles slidably positioned in series along the track attached to flexion, extension and leg support lines respectively. A pair of leg cuffs are connected to the leg support line and suspend the leg while isolating the knee joint. For passive suspension exercise, the leg support line is secured and the leg is suspended by only a single cuff at the ankle with the knee joint in a position of full extension. For passive motion exercise, the leg is suspended by both cuffs and the patient alternately pulls on handles attached to the flexion and extension lines causing alternate passive flexion and extension of the knee and hip joint.