Body Attachment Means Patents (Class 602/36)
  • Publication number: 20140100503
    Abstract: A lumbar traction device includes a tabular base, an indentation, a lumbar tracking base, tightening pieces, a weight member, a driving member and a controller. The lumbar tracking device allows the user to grip the controller to control the rotation of the rotation axis, and drive the threaded rod to rotate spirally forward and backward so as to synchronously drive the lumbar tracking base to move forward and backward for stretching or releasing. Hence, the user can independently operate the lumbar traction device for optimal applicability and safety. The weight member is further provided with a weight adjustment component to adjust the weight levels required by the user for lumbar traction. A warning part emit warning signals to inform the user that the preset weight value is reached, helping to avoid discomfort or secondary injuries resulting from overload.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventor: Chung-Fong LIAO
  • Patent number: 8657774
    Abstract: There is provided a device for use with a patient. The device includes a first load line including an anchor attachment end and a first inline end. The anchor attachment end is sized and configured to be attachable in a terminating manner to an anchor object. The device further includes a second load line including a head attachment end and a second inline end. The head attachment end is sized and configured to attach to a head of the patient. The device further includes an elastomeric member disposed between and attached to the first and second inline ends. The elastomeric member has a significantly lower linear elastic modulus than each of the first and second load lines. The device further includes an adjustment element sized and configured to adjust the tension in an effective tension length of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Jeff Fisher
  • Patent number: 8652081
    Abstract: A lumbar traction device that can alleviate lower back pain is provided. The device includes a harness or girdle that is fitted about the torso region of a patient and an adjustable support assembly in the form of adjustable legs that allow the degree of traction to be adjusted by the patient. The device is safe and easy to use by a patient without constant medical supervision and is particularly suitable for use in domestic or office environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Marcus Andrew Rawlings
  • Patent number: 8641652
    Abstract: A lumbar traction device is operable to be used by a user that has a lumbar region and a lower leg. The device includes a garment that includes at least one coupling member. The device also includes a lumbar support member operable to be worn adjacent to the lumbar region. The device also includes at least one lower leg support to be worn adjacent to the lower leg. Moreover, the device includes at least one connecting member connecting the lumbar support member and the lower leg support. The connecting member is substantially inelastic, and a load applied to the lower leg support is transferred to the lumbar support member via the connecting member to provide distraction to the lumbar region of the user. Moreover, the lumbar support member, the lower leg support, and/or the connecting member is coupled to the garment via the coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: M. Mounir Gazayerli
  • Patent number: 8597221
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Lisowski
  • Patent number: 8590980
    Abstract: The invention consists of a chair back support, which consists of at least two flexible elongated supports (2,2a) on both sides of the seat (1), which supports (2, 2a) are connected with support belts (3, 3a and 4, 4a), all supporting a person's back and making gymnastic movements possible both for the back and stomach while sitting on the chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Jarl Fredrik Serlachius
  • Patent number: 8579844
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Inventor: Nora Montenegro
  • Publication number: 20130289464
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for applying therapeutic spinal treatment to a patient has an anchor that connects to a first portion of the patients body above the cervical spine area. The anchor substantially fixes the location of that portion in the apparatus and a movable interface is provided in the apparatus with which the patient is adapted to interact with an operative part of his body. Movement of the movable interface together with the operative part of the patient's body imposes upon at least a second portion of the patients body that is below the first portion movement at the spine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: KINETIC MEDICUS LTD
    Inventors: Yoram Felix Guenniche, Gal Demer
  • Patent number: 8540656
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the treatment of fractures of the distal radius having a means for applying traction to a fractured forearm using a resilient cantilever spring digit gripping device to assist in the manipulative reduction of the fracture, and a means for maintaining the reduced fracture of the distal forearm in a determinable position of flexion, ulnar deviation and pronation enabling the application of a closely fitting, well molded immobilization means such as a cast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Roy Y. Powlan
  • Patent number: 8539647
    Abstract: A limited durability fastening for a garment. The garment is provided with fastening members which engage to close the fastening and the fastening members are provided with means for controlling the degradation of the closure strength of the fastening as it is opened and closed and thus the number of permissible closures of the fastening having a pre-determined closure strength. The garment is particularly useful when fitted to a foot where short life is desirable at low cost or to a garment where re-use is to be discouraged for either clinical or commercial reasons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Gordon J. Cook, David Portsmouth
  • Patent number: 8535254
    Abstract: A lumbar traction device is herein disclosed. The lumbar traction device includes a lumbar support member to be worn adjacent to a lumbar region of a user, at least one lower leg support to be worn adjacent to a lower leg of the user, and at least one connecting member connecting the lumbar support member and the at least one lower leg support, the at least one connecting member being substantially inelastic. When a load is applied to the at least one lower leg support, the load is transferred to the lumbar support member via the at least one connecting member. When the load is transferred to the lumbar support member, the lumbar support member forcibly presses against the lower lumbar area of user, thereby distracting the hip bone from the lower vertebrae.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: M. Mounir Gazayerli
  • Publication number: 20130218062
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a pelvic support structure for a physical therapy device and a head fastener for cervical traction, which supports a pelvis in a comfortable and firm manner, maintains a predetermined level of traction intensity without being detached or slid down, maximizes a treatment effect by concentrating a traction force on the lumbar and preventing power dispersion, is intended for patient treatment or correction by means of cervical traction, and does not pressurize a patient's head or function in an unstable manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: Won-ha Jung
  • Publication number: 20130211306
    Abstract: A buoyancy-based cervical traction system has a floatation and a head rest supported by the flotation system. The head rest is adapted to support a person's head above the neck and apply traction to the neck when the person is in a body of liquid. The system has a position adjustment system adapted to allow selective adjustment of the position at which the person's head rest will be relative to an upper surface of the liquid when the person and the cervical traction system are in the liquid, the person's head is supported by the head rest, and the cervical traction system and person are floating in the liquid at equilibrium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Kenneth H. Murer, Neill M. Wright
  • Publication number: 20130197415
    Abstract: A spinal decompression system for the treatment of low back pain arising from lumbar disc disease that horizontally separates the vertebra by effectively applying the desired traction to relieve pain and stimulate healing by opening the pathway to the disc while maintaining the basic comfort of the patient. The system employs horizontal separation via a cam that is positioned between a stationary platform and a traction harness that moves relative to the platform. When the cam is activated it pushes the harness relative to the stationary platform. The cam action separates the vertebra by applying traction force to the harness relative to the table support section. The cam can be actuated using a lever arm, a hand cranked worm drive, hand wheel or an electric motor. To control the pressure being exerted on the spine, the cam drive is spring loaded to allow for the relief of any over pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventor: Gary D. Piaget
  • Publication number: 20130178777
    Abstract: A dynamic traction apparatus is provided. A mounting portion includes a mounting portion that is configured to support a channel frame thereon. The channel frame includes one or more channels that extend along a length thereof and one or more corresponding resilient members positioned adjacent the channels. A bridge mount extends distally from the mounting portion and including a bridge extending transverse to a longitudinal axis defined through the mounting portion. The bridge includes one or more wheels disposed in substantial alignment with the channel(s) of the channel frame such that a coupling member extending through the channel(s) and coupled to the resilient member(s) is/are selectively coupleable to a finger of a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: John DiLorenzo
  • Patent number: 8449486
    Abstract: A back and neck cushion therapy device for wearing, attaching to a backpack, or placing over a chair. The device can include a pouch with a traction device disposed therein. The traction device can include a head, a body, and a lower back traction. Straps can be connected to the pouch, allowing a user to strap the device about the user. The traction device can have various indention load deflections, providing firmness or softness. The traction device can be shearable, allowing the user to cut the traction device to a custom size. The pouch can be fastened to a backpack. A reversible back and neck cushion therapy device can include two pouches with two traction devices, such that a user can select a firm side or a soft side. The reversible back and neck cushion therapy device can be hung over a chair back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventors: Jose Gomez, Jr., Victor B. Ramos
  • Publication number: 20130131570
    Abstract: A cervical restraint, traction, and exercise device and method includes a padded restraint system for a person's head, and an adjustable support system. The head may be placed in any of a number of three dimensional orientations until a particular orientation is reached, for example a pain-free or substantially pain-free orientation, and then a restraint system engaged, restraining the head in the particular three dimensional orientation against a set of one or more pads. The system may then be adjusted to apply a traction force. The device may be used in conjunction with a second restraint system that positions and restrains the person's torso. Use of the system may enable the user to perform exercises while certain body parts, including the head and neck, are restrained in pain-free or substantially pain-free positions to obtain therapeutic effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: BackProject Corporation
    Inventors: Swee Lin Hoffman, Steven Hoffman
  • Patent number: 8435201
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventors: Jose Gomez, Jr., Victor B. Ramos
  • Patent number: 8419599
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an underwater exercise and physical therapy device for joint release and spinal adjustment wherein a tube is worn on a user's upper body and weights are worn on the user's feet in a water tank having a predetermined depth wherein his feet are spaced apart from the bottom surface thereof to carry out underwater exercise and physical therapy by using the buoyant force of the tube and the gravity of the weights, thereby enabling his joints to be released, making his muscles reformed, and further adjusting and preventing his spinal diseases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Gye-Hyun Seol
  • Patent number: 8414514
    Abstract: A wearable ambulatory traction system for a user. The system can include a traction device with a traction head, a traction body, and a centralizer; a wearable fabric garment; and a pouch secured to the fabric garment. The traction device can be insertable into the pouch. A customizable wearable ambulatory traction system for a user that can include a customizable traction device with a shearable traction head and body which can be cut to a custom size by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventors: Jose Gomez, Jr., Victor B. Ramos
  • Patent number: 8414513
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Michael L. Earle
  • Publication number: 20120265114
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Abraham A. Kang
  • Publication number: 20120259261
    Abstract: Distractor straps for use with distractor apparatuses are disclosed. In one embodiment, a distractor strap includes a cinch strap having a free end and a second end. The second end of the cinch strap includes an adjustment mechanism receiving the free end of the cinch strap such that the cinch strap forms a closed loop. A diameter of the closed loop is adjustable with the adjustment mechanism. The distractor strap further includes a cross strap comprising a first loop, a second loop, and strapping connecting the first loop and the second loop. The cinch strap is positioned in the first loop and the second loop such that the cross strap extends across the diameter of the closed loop formed by the cinch strap and the cross strap and the cinch strap are slidable with respect to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: ALLEN MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew Clark, David Chella, Jesse Drake
  • Patent number: 8262598
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Camp Scandinavia AB
    Inventor: Jan Smits
  • Patent number: 8257285
    Abstract: A traction bed having a planar table on which a patient may lie with the head disposed at one end and the feet disposed at the other end. A vibration platform is disposed on the planar table for imparting vibration motion to the patient. A pelvic belt is fitted on the patient and a first strap is connected to one side of the pelvic belt and a second strap is connected to the second side of the pelvic belt. Apparatus is included for selectively applying a tension force to the first and second straps in a direction toward the foot end of the table. Further, a chest harness is fitted on the patient and includes a pair of shoulder straps extending toward the head end of the table. Apparatus is provided for selectively applying a tension force to both shoulder straps toward the head end of the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Gerry Cook
  • Patent number: 8251939
    Abstract: A cervical traction/stretch system includes a traction/stretch mechanism for applying tension between a body's head and shoulders, the traction/stretch mechanism including a bellows; a pump operatively coupled with the traction/stretch mechanism for alternately inflating and deflating the bellows; and an at least semi-automatic controller operatively coupled with the pump for at least semi-automatically controlling the pump by activating and deactivating the same in such manner as to alternately and repeatably inflate and deflate the bellows to prescribed pressure levels over prescribed pressure intervals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: International Rehabilatative Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Erling Aune, Nathan Chitwood, Susan Nickell
  • Patent number: 8246561
    Abstract: Systems, device and methods are described for maintaining concentric reduction of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of a finger with few as two orthopedic pins, one inserted through the head of the proximal phalanx concentric with the axis of rotation of the joint (i.e., a transverse pin), and the other through the middle phalanx at a location between the PIP and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint (a dorsal pin), and applying a force between the two pins. A surgical kit is described which may include such components as a dorsal pin, a transverse pin, a pin placement guide for use in reducing the joint fracture dislocation and then drilling holes for the pins or for inserting self-drilling pins, and a fixation device for coupling and applying a force between the dorsal and transverse pins. The components of the surgical kit are described, including various configurations of the fixation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventors: John M. Agee, Jeffrey Woodhouse, Michael Swanstrom, Francis C. King
  • Patent number: 8211046
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for achieving control and stabilization of bone fractures in mammals, most specifically humans. Stabilization and traction is often required to support fractured bones of the arms or legs. The devices and methods disclosed herein are especially useful in the emergency or military setting. The devices utilize a collapsible frame or inflatable member that may be expanded and locked into position. The frame or inflatable member is fabricated primarily from polymeric materials with low radiodensity. The limb contact regions are adjustable to fit a wide variety of limb sizes and fracture locations. The traction applied by the splint is adjustable, controllable and measurable. The traction splint is sufficiently compact that it will fit in a compartment of most ambulances and emergency rescue vehicles, thus making it more available for use than standard traction splints in use today. The traction splint is either a separate device or integrated into a backboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Damage Control Surgical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert F. Buckman, Jay A. Lenker, Donald J. Kolehmainen
  • Publication number: 20120123310
    Abstract: A lumbar traction device is operable to be used by a user that has a lumbar region and a lower leg. The device includes a garment that includes at least one coupling member. The device also includes a lumbar support member operable to be worn adjacent to the lumbar region. The device also includes at least one lower leg support to be worn adjacent to the lower leg. Moreover, the device includes at least one connecting member connecting the lumbar support member and the lower leg support. The connecting member is substantially inelastic, and a load applied to the lower leg support is transferred to the lumbar support member via the connecting member to provide distraction to the lumbar region of the user. Moreover, the lumbar support member, the lower leg support, and/or the connecting member is coupled to the garment via the coupling member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: M. Mounir Gazayerli
  • Patent number: 8065105
    Abstract: A system including a platform having a receptacle adapted to a bottom of a shoe or foot; securing mechanism, associated therewith; a sole for contacting a ground surface; a mechanism associated with the sole and a platform bottom, including: motor and a thrusting element, activated by the motor, the thrusting element adapted to move between the sole and the platform to apply an upward force against the platform bottom, thereby changing a platform height with respect to the sole; a sensor device adapted to associate with a lower limb, and to produce a locomotion data signal, and a microprocessor, operatively connected to the sensor device and motor, adapted to: receive locomotion information based on the signal; process the locomotion information to determine a locomotion phase, and control a timing of the mechanism, based on the determination, to change the height during a locomotion swing phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Step of Mind Ltd.
    Inventors: Simona Bar-Haim, Mark Belokopytov
  • Patent number: 8038635
    Abstract: A forward head position correction collar is provided which in combination includes a shoulder collar assembly, a chin mastoid piece for engaging and positioning the head of a wearer of the collar; and interconnecting means for interconnecting the chin piece to the collar assembly as to enable the chin piece to be manually and preferably incrementally adjustable with respect to the shoulder collar assembly in a Z-direction to thereby adjust the supported head of the wearer from the forward head position to an increasingly corrected position. The interconnecting means is further adapted for displacing the chin-mastoid piece in a vertical direction with respect to the shoulder collar assembly simultaneously with and proportional to the incremental adjustment of the chin-mastoid piece along the Z-axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald P. Dellanno
  • Patent number: 8029453
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Richard A. Graham
  • Publication number: 20110230808
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: ANDREW LISOWSKI
  • Publication number: 20110213285
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for achieving control and stabilization of bone fractures in mammals, most specifically humans. Stabilization and traction is often required to support fractured bones of the arms or legs. The devices and methods disclosed herein are especially useful in the emergency or military setting. The devices utilize a collapsible frame or inflatable member that may be expanded and locked into position. The frame or inflatable member is fabricated primarily from polymeric materials with low radiodensity. The limb contact regions are adjustable to fit a wide variety of limb sizes and fracture locations. The traction applied by the splint is adjustable, controllable and measurable. The traction splint is sufficiently compact that it will fit in a compartment of most ambulances and emergency rescue vehicles, thus making it more available for use than standard traction splints in use today. The traction splint is either a separate device or integrated into a backboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Robert F. Buckman, Jay A. Lenker, Donald J. Kolehmainen
  • Patent number: 7988652
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a pivotal disc is pivotally coupled to a first brace and a second brace. The pivotal disc has a motion-limit member and a positioning member limiting the angle by which the second brace rotates with respect to the first brace with the pivotal disc being the axis and fixing the angle between the first and second braces. The present invention is characterized in that the motion-limit member uses a range-adjust member to push a slide block and determine the range that a block portion of the second brace is blocked by the slide block, and that the positioning member uses a switch knob actuates on end of a positioning rod to engage with or depart from a positioning notch on the pivotal disc, and that the pivotal disc has two limit elements to define the maximum movement range of the first brace and the second brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Huntex Corporation
    Inventor: Chia-Chang Chao
  • Patent number: 7985227
    Abstract: Generally described the invention relates to methods and apparatuses for aligning the lower extremities of a patient with a mechanical axis. More specifically, the present invention provides an exoskeleton or external framework that positions a patient's leg into a desired mechanical axis in preparation for surgery or other medical treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas P. Branch, Alexander Sattler, Jr., Fredrik Westin
  • Publication number: 20110178450
    Abstract: A manual traction device is disclosed comprising a head-strap configured to wrap around a circumference of a patient's head. A fastener is affixed to the head-strap, configured such that the head-strap may be fastened to itself. The fastener may be a hook-and-loop type fastener. One or more handle-straps are provided, which are slidably attached to the head-strap. In this manner, the position of the handle-strap(s) may be adjusted relative to the length of the head-strap. Using the disclosed manual traction device situated on a patient as more fully described herein, a therapist may apply a pulling force to the handle-strap(s) in a cephalad direction, thereby causing a traction force to be transmitted to the patient's spine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: Paula Mackowiak
  • Publication number: 20110178449
    Abstract: Disclosed is a traction device for applying a tensile force to a first part of a patient's body, the device comprising: an engagement device for securely trapping the first part of a patient's body; and a resilient member arranged to receive the engagement device and to co-operate with a second part of the patient's body to apply the tensile force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventors: Brian Foote, Patricia Foote
  • Publication number: 20110172579
    Abstract: An inflation type cervical vertebrae rehabilitation device includes at least one cervical vertebrae cell, a head cell connected to the at least one cervical vertebrae cell, an electric inflation portion and a control portion. The method includes a preparing step, a setting inflation processes step, an inflating step, and a completion step. One or more cervical vertebrae cells are inflatable and positioned between a support position and an operation position to support and rehabilitate the user's neck. The head cell is provided to support the user's head. So, the cervical vertebrae cells can support the user's head and neck with rehabilitation functions. The head cell is an auxiliary for support the user's head. It is easy to carry. This invention could be remote controlled. It contains the far infra-red heating function. In addition, there is a pose balance feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: CHINA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: CHING-HUA CHIU, LI-WEI CHOU
  • Publication number: 20110118643
    Abstract: A wearable ambulatory traction system for a user. The system can include a traction device with a traction head, a traction body, and a centralizer; a wearable fabric garment; and a pouch secured to the fabric garment. The traction device can be insertable into the pouch. A customizable wearable ambulatory traction system for a user that can include a customizable traction device with a shearable traction head and body which can be cut to a custom size by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Jose Gomez, JR., Victor B. Ramos
  • Publication number: 20110118644
    Abstract: A back and neck cushion therapy device for wearing, attaching to a backpack, or placing over a chair. The device can include a pouch with a traction device disposed therein. The traction device can include a head, a body, and a lower back traction. Straps can be connected to the pouch, allowing a user to strap the device about the user. The fraction device can have various indention load deflections, providing firmness or softness. The traction device can be shearable, allowing the user to cut the traction device to a custom size. The pouch can be fastened to a backpack. A reversible back and neck cushion therapy device can include two pouches with two traction devices, such that a user can select a firm side or a soft side. The reversible back and neck cushion therapy device can be hung over a chair back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Jose Gomez, JR., Victor B. Ramos
  • Publication number: 20110112456
    Abstract: A lumbar traction device is herein disclosed. The lumbar traction device includes a lumbar support member to be worn adjacent to a lumbar region of a user, at least one lower leg support to be worn adjacent to a lower leg of the user, and at least one connecting member connecting the lumbar support member and the at least one lower leg support, the at least one connecting member being substantially inelastic. When a load is applied to the at least one lower leg support, the load is transferred to the lumbar support member via the at least one connecting member. When the load is transferred to the lumbar support member, the lumbar support member forcibly presses against the lower lumbar area of user, thereby distracting the hip bone from the lower vertebrae.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: M. Mounir GAZAYERLI
  • Patent number: 7935069
    Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed for achieving control and stabilization of bone fractures in mammals, most specifically humans. Stabilization and traction is often required to support fractured bones of the arms or legs. The devices and methods disclosed herein are especially useful in the emergency or military setting. The devices utilize a collapsible frame or inflatable member that may be expanded and locked into position. The frame or inflatable member is fabricated primarily from polymeric materials with low radiodensity. The limb contact regions are adjustable to fit a wide variety of limb sizes and fracture locations. The traction applied by the splint is adjustable, controllable and measurable. The traction splint is sufficiently compact that it will fit in a compartment of most ambulances and emergency rescue vehicles, thus making it more available for use than standard traction splints in use today. The traction splint is either a separate device or integrated into a backboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Damage Control Surgical Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert F. Buckman, Jay A. Lenker, Donald J. Kolehmainen
  • Patent number: 7887499
    Abstract: A sleep-aiding device for restricting stretching of a wearer's legs to full extension to reduce leg muscle cramping during sleep includes an adjustable belt worn about a wearer's waist during sleep, with leg members extending between the belt at the wearer's waist and attachment at lower portions of the wearer's legs, generally below the wearer's knees, e.g. in a particular implementation by engagement of the wearer's feet through end loops positioned midway between the toes and ankle. The leg members have predetermined lengths between the belt and attachment at the lower portions of the wearer's legs that are adjustably selected to restrict stretching of the wearer's legs to full extension during sleep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Cogswell
  • Patent number: 7857271
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Automated Medical Products Corporation
    Inventor: John Lees
  • Patent number: 7857780
    Abstract: System, including method and apparatus, for applying traction to a patient's limb using constant-force springs. The constant-force springs may include one or more main springs that apply a base tractive force and at least one supplementary spring that can apply a supplementary tractive force to the limb. The at least one supplementary spring may be changeable reversibly between uncoupled and coupled configurations while the base tractive force is applied continuously to the limb and without repositioning the limb, thereby providing discrete adjustment of traction force while the limb remains in traction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Acumed LLC
    Inventors: Mark B. Sommers, William B. Geissler
  • Patent number: 7827992
    Abstract: An article and method for preventing a continuous passive motion (CPM) device from moving out of position or alignment that include a holding member adapted to pass around a portion of the CPM device and an anchoring member coupled with the holding member for retaining the CPM device holding member in position. The anchoring member is adapted to be placed under the user of the device and held fast by the weight of the user, thereby assuring secure control of the CPM device position by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Lori L. Sieber
  • Publication number: 20100262056
    Abstract: The invention is a back brace including a back panel, a front panel, and at least one dynamic tension strap for connecting the front panel to the back panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: X-Back Bracing Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Lusky, Troy Q. Marshall
  • Publication number: 20100222729
    Abstract: Described is a method of providing headache and migraine relief by applying traction to the cervical spine of a human subject. The human subject may be placed in a supine or prone position with an attachment means positioned around the skull region of the human subject. The attachment means is coupled to a traction means, which provides traction forces for stretching the cervical spine and providing relief from headache and migraine pain associated with cervical compression. Various treatment regimes are possible depending on the patient size and symptoms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Lily Chin, Thomas Wong
  • Patent number: 7780612
    Abstract: A medical device is arranged to provide adjustable, user-controlled, perpendicular compression to soft tissues. In a preferred embodiment, the pressure is adjusted by a threaded bolt or threaded bolt assembly incorporated into the design of a threaded mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: Bradley Allan Ross