Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed including but not limited to a group of force resistive objects for concurrently applying pressure to different positions on at least one of a plurality of human tissues; and a connective member for fixedly interconnecting the plurality of force resistive objects. A method for using the apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: A radial artery compression device configured to be secured to a wrist or other portion of a patient to provide adjustable and consistent compression pressure in the area of a radial artery access site or other physiological portion of a patient to achieve hemostasis either during or after a medical procedure such as a percutaneous coronary procedure. The radial artery compression device includes a rotatable member and a compression pad adapted such that rotation of the rotatable member does not affect the rotational orientation of the compression pad. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a single rotation of the rotatable member results in complete extension or retraction of the radial artery compression device. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the rotation of the rotatable member results in a compounding of the extension or retraction of the compression pad relative to the body of the radial artery compression device.

Abstract: A meditation pillow using craniosacral therapy is disclosed. The meditation pillow includes a columna vertebralis supporting part formed in a user's neck direction to support a part of a columna vertebralis located thereon, an occipital region supporting part formed at a rear of the columna vertebralis supporting part to support an occipital region of a head located thereon, and an occipital region acupressure part protrudingly formed along a superior nuchal line between an atlas and an occipital bone to stimulate nerve fibers of the occipital region.

Abstract: A device and method for the application of pressure to a location where muscle pain exists, including at a trigger point. The device and method provide gradual, uniform and systematic progression of pressure and release. The device and method enable the application of pressure in a manner that allows a patient to tolerate the pressure without tensing the relevant muscles and/or causing the locus of pain to become hyperirritable and painful. The device and method also enable the gradual selectable increase in that applied pressure while still preventing the tense response from the patient so that the optimal or desired amount of focused pressure is tolerated. The device enables progressive deep tissue massage in systematic and progressive steps that enhances the treatment of myofascial trigger points in skeletal muscles and other forms of muscle pain. The device includes a plurality of terminal configurations that differ in hardness and/or dimensions.

Abstract: A hand-held acupressure device which includes a ball attached to an elongated rigid handle by an elastic cord enabling the user to easily position the ball over trigger points. Pressure is applied to the trigger points by pressing the body to the ball against a hard surface. The elastic cord allows the ball freedom of movement apart from the handle while in use, and pulls the ball back to its original position at the end of the handle after use.

Abstract: A method to relieve menstrual cramping which includes the step of placing one or more symmetrical tapered pads having an inner and outer side, each outer side being semi-rigid and each inner side being flexible and compressible. The outer side of each pad is affixed to one or more straps having a first and corresponding second end. A fastener is connected so to attach the first end of each strap to a corresponding second fastener at the second end of each strap as an additional step. The apparatus also includes a constricting device (such as a ratchet) located on or proximate to one pad sufficient to create a compression force through each strap when the first and corresponding second fasteners connect to one another.

Abstract: An intraoral acupressure apparatus and method of treating a user are disclosed. The apparatus may include a base shaped to conform to a palate of a user, the base configured to be removably held adjacent to the palate in a predetermined position relative to acupressure points located on the user's palate. The apparatus may additionally include one or more projections extending out from the base and configured to contact one or more acupressure points of the user's palate when the apparatus is removably held in the predetermined position. The base may be configured to be removably held in the predetermined position without wire hooks or clasps.

Abstract: Provided are a method for neck care and a neck care kit comprising the method, the method comprising: the step of applying acupressure to a Cheonchu acupoint and then applying acupressure downward along a back neckline from the Cheonchu acupoint; the step of applying acupressure to a Yepung acupoint and then applying acupressure downward along the sternocleidomastoid muscle from the Yepung acupoint to the upper margin of the collarbone; the step of applying acupressure to the upper margin of the collarbone and the decollete region (the upper part of breast); and the step of applying acupressure to the region connecting the low margin of the lower jaw and the neck. The method for neck care is considered to have effects of relieving skin wrinkles, improving blood circulation, relieving tension and giving a pleasant stimulation, thereby enabling various applications in the fields of skin care, cosmetics and medicine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an acupressure massage pillow including: a body having a space portion formed thereinto and a plurality of first through-holes formed on the center of the top surface thereof to correspond to the acupressure points on a rear head section; a first massage plate disposed in the space portion of the body and having a plurality of massage protrusions formed thereon in such a manner as to be moved upwardly and downwardly through the first through-holes from/into the space portion of the body; a first raising and lowering means adapted to raise and lower the first massage plate; a controller adapted to control the first raising and lowering means; and a power supply means adapted to supply actuating power of the controller.

Abstract: A pressure-applying device (PAD) (10) that is attached to a selected location on a person's skin for therapeutic purposes. The PAD (10) comprises a first handle (12) having an articulated arm (38) with a tip (40) and a second handle (66) having an integral arm (92) with a tip (94). The first handle (12) is swively attached to the second handle (66) at a spring-loaded pivot point that allows the device (10) to be pressure-attached to the skin. A magnetic or non-magnetic sphere (132) is attached to each respective tip (40,94). When the PAD (10) is attached to a person's skin the sphere is pressure-interfaced on the skin. A tension screw (46) interfaces with the two handles (12,66) and allows the PAD (10) to apply adjustable pressure. The locations on person's skin where the PAD (10) is attached are designated according to traditional acupressure techniques.

Abstract: Disclosed are neuromuscular release (including myofascial trigger point) therapy devices, systems, kits and methods. The therapy tool comprises a body, wherein the body includes an outer surface, an inner surface, a tip defined at the upper-most portion of the body, a base, a stop surface defined in the body outer surface, a pocket defined by the inner surface and extending from the base upwards in the direction of the tip, and a recessed groove defined in the inner surface and extending upwards from the base and having a groove diameter and depth. The body can be generally bell-shaped with the base having a larger diameter than the tip. The system can further include a riser, either disk or wedge shaped, and a rocker base. The system components are configured to stack and nest into a compact assembly for easy carrying as a kit.

Abstract: The Open Airways Acupressure Sinus Pillow is a small pillow (about 4.5? by 12?) designed with small (32 mm) rubber balls secured within to be used as a nighttime pillow on top of the user's regular pillow. The purpose of the product is to provide a non-medical method of relieving nighttime sinus congestion discomfort and the snoring that may be associated with such congestion. The Open Airways Acupressure Sinus Pillow uses simple pressure to the head, on numerous sinus “pressure points.” The pressure is applied simply by resting one's head on the firm balls constructed into the pillow.

Abstract: An pressure applicating band kit for treatment of menstrual cramps includes a flexible strap with a buckle and a free end. A stylus is attached to the buckle for applying pressure to a menstrual discomfort controlling pressure point on the patient's body when the strap is fastened. Cooperating fasteners are on the free end of the strap and the strap for securing the strap and maintaining pressure on the controlling pressure point. Software is also in the kit, which directs the operation of the treatment. The menstrual discomfort controlling pressure point is identified by applying light pressure to a menstrual discomfort controlling pressure region. The points that are most tender are considered the menstrual discomfort controlling pressure points. The pressure applicating band can comprise one or more stylus for applying pressure to one or more points to optimize the relief process.

Abstract: A pressure assist system for facilitating vascular hemostasis includes a support bar and a midbar extending perpendicularly from a middle portion of the support bar, for supporting a user's thumb when the user grasps the midbar. A base extends perpendicularly from a bottom of the support bar, for supporting the user's knuckles when the user grasps the midbar. A foot for pressing against a wound is configured with a bottom surface of the base. The midbar may be adjustable along the support bar, according to user grip preference. In a related method, a hand-held pressure assist system is provided, having a support bar, a midbar and base extending perpendicularly from the support bar, and a foot beneath the base. A use's thumb and knuckles are positioned over the midbar and base, respectively. The foot is placed over a wound and downward pressure is applied until hemostasis is achieved.

Abstract: RINO's is a wall mounted back massaging apparatus. Its designed with two-protruding digits that extend from a flat base. Spaced at an angle of sixty degrees to safely apply relief to pressure points on both sides of the spinal cord at once. Attachable to a wall with the use of Velcro. Unibody construction for durability. The idea is to be able to self erase tension in the muscles in your back. The amount of pressure depends on the user's body weight and the angle in which placement of their feet are from the wall.

Abstract: A device for providing therapeutic pressure therapy to parts of the body for treatment of pain which comprises a jaw assembly having a front opening to receive a part of the body therein. A set of inflatable pneumatic bladders is secured in said jaw assembly. A mechanism within the enclosure is for inflating and deflating the pneumatic bladders together at predetermined timed intervals to apply varying amounts of pressure to the part of the body to provide relief from pain.

Abstract: A pressure-applying device (PAD) (10) that is attached to a selected location on a person's skin for therapeutic purposes. The PAD (10) comprises a first handle (12) having an articulated arm (38) with a tip (40) and a second handle (66) having an integral arm (92) with a tip (94). The first handle (12) is swively attached to the second handle (66) at a spring-loaded pivot point that allows the device (10) to be pressure-attached to the skin. A magnetic or non-magnetic sphere (132) is attached to each respective tip (40,94). When the PAD (10) is attached to a person's skin the sphere is pressure-interfaced on the skin. A tension screw (46) interfaces with the two handles (12,66) and allows the PAD (10) to apply adjustable pressure. The locations on person's skin where the PAD (10) is attached are designated according to traditional acupressure techniques.

Abstract: This invention, Pedi-Massaggio , enables anyone to benefit from the stimulating effects of a walk on a pebble beach in the comfort of their home (shower) via the stimulating effects of the sole of the feet.

Abstract: A massage tool has a shank with a body support at one end and a massage applicator at the distal end. In use, the massage therapist applies a pressure with his/her shoulder or upper arm onto the body support while the massage applicator is contacted with the massage recipient's body and guided to perform a massage therapy. The tool is intended to reduce or prevent the stress on therapist's hands, wrists, arms, elbows and shoulders.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing supplemental support to the arm and/or elbow region of an individual. In one exemplary implementation, a brace for a user's arm is provided comprising a rigid element including arm-engaging portions and a strap of flexible material configured to encircle the arm. Moreover, the exemplary rigid element and strap may be further characterized in that the strap comprises an elastic nature or portion that provides a force (such as a compressive or constraining force) to the user's arm, the arm-engaging portions include muscle/tendon-engaging regions that each engage the user's arm along a leading face/edge, with various leading faces/edges corresponding to the muscle/tendon-engaging regions being positioned in relationship with each other to apply a desired pressure or force to the user's arm.

Abstract: An intraoral acupressure apparatus made from a model conforming to a user's palate, wherein the apparatus is adapted to be removably retained adjacent to the palate in a predetermined position, relative to acupressure points located on the palate of the user. Various means for securing the apparatus adjacent to the user's palate can be used and the apparatus has one or more projections embedded into the apparatus and extending out from the apparatus into the user's palate at one or more of the acupressure points. These projections into the palate of the user create and stimulate the pressure points that influence corresponding specific body functions to be treated.

Abstract: A mechanical coupling device is provided for temporarily interconnecting a gem or a crystal to be used for acupressure treatment to a vibration generating device. Alternatively a mechanical coupling device is provided for temporarily interconnecting the handle of an acupuncture needle to a gem or a crystal. The mechanical coupling device can be a helical or spiral, metal wire, a cylindrical linkage, a conical linkage or a clamp connecting the acutreatment device to the other element. The method employed is to apply the acutreatment devices to acupoints of a patient with the above devices including the combination of a gem or a crystal interconnected to an acupuncture needle or a vibration generating device interconnected to an acupressure gem or crystal.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for protecting a patient's limb from tourniquet-related injury, comprising: a tourniquet cuff having a length sufficient for encircling a limb protection sleeve applied to a limb at a location having a limb circumference of not less than a predetermined minimum limb circumference and not more than a predetermined maximum limb circumference; limb protection sleeve adapted for applying to the limb at the location, wherein the sleeve has a tubular shape and a tubular circumference predetermined to be less than the predetermined minimum and wherein the sleeve is formed to allow elastic stretching of the tubular shape sufficient to increase the tubular circumference to be substantially equivalent to the limb circumference at the location when the sleeve is applied to the limb, thereby applying a pressure to the limb that is greater than a predetermined minimum pressure and less than a predetermined maximum pressure; and identification means perceptible to a user for providing an indication to

Abstract: A massage tool and method for the treatment of trigger points and other soft tissue disorders on the human body is claimed. The tool comprises a plunger slidingly and sealingly disposed within a hollow sleeve. When the sleeve is held against a trigger point or otherwise affected area on the human body and the plunger is withdrawn, a negative or vacuum pressure of variable intensity and duration is created within the sleeve. When the plunger is depressed, the user can apply direct variable momentary pressure on the trigger point or otherwise affected area. Repeated cycles of direct momentary pressure and vacuum pressure help to resolve the soft tissue disorder and alleviate associated pain, which facilitates healing.

Abstract: A therapeutic ring to be worn on an outer finger. The therapeutic ring includes a ring band and a pair of projections, the pair spaced on the ring band and extending from an inner surface of the ring band to apply continuous pressure to opposed sides only of an arterial or meridian channel in the outer finger.

Abstract: A method, system and device for electronic acupuncture and controls therefor, in which the device includes a main electronics unit having a display thereon and intelligence therein for providing one of diagnosis and/or treatment of a patient. A pressure sensitive search probe is operatively connected to the main unit. The search probe has a self-moistening probe tip adapted to apply pressure against the skin of a patient and to receive a current from the patient. The probe tip is subject to moisture control so that the probe tip has consistent moisture and the search probe is subject to pressure control so that the probe tip is applied with a constant pressure to a patient's skin. A grip probe is operatively connected via an electrical connector to the main unit. A patient grasps the grip probe and the search probe is applied to the patient's skin to complete an electrical circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed including but not limited to a group of force resistive objects for concurrently applying pressure to different positions on at least one of a plurality of human tissues; and a connective member for fixedly interconnecting the plurality of force resistive objects. A method for using the apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: A modular applicator for use in reflexotherapy, for stimulating specific reflex points on the surface of a human body. The applicator has an elastic base member and modules. Each module is made from metal and provided with an elastic base member which allows a cheaper manufacture, ensures a firm brace between needles and fastening member, eliminates breaking and provides greater comfort to users.

Abstract: An acupuncture device for treating a patient comprising an acupuncture needle connected to a holder. The holder is arranged to allow placing and fixating the acupuncture needle at a predefined acupoint on the user's outer ear, for example on an acupoint related to appetite suppression. The device may be used for a long term without displacement of the needle. The device may be placed with a spring loaded forceps, arranged to open and close the span of the holder.

Abstract: An anti-snoring device that attaches to a specific area of the neck. The attachment means can be an adhesive, a clip or an implant. The device exerts a predetermined pulling force on this area of the neck, causing this area of the neck to expand outward from its normal position. This expansion opens a blockage in the throat of a sleeping person, thereby eliminating snoring and helping some people with obstructive sleep apnea.

Abstract: There is hereby provided a trigger point therapy device including a height adjustable bracket having a plurality of vertical holes, and an extension bar, which is received in one of the vertical holes.

Abstract: The invention relates to method and apparatus for relieving headaches. The method broadly comprises the step of applying a sufficient force to a given area of the triangular fossa region of the patient's ear for a sustained period of time effective for treating the patient by reducing the perceived pain of the headache. Apparatus is disclosed for employing the method, the apparatus comprising a banded earplug device having a biased headband positionable about the head of the patient and a pair of pods at opposite ends of the biased headband. The pods are placeable in compressive engagement with an area of the triangular fossa region in each of the patient's ears.

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.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for applying pressure to a wearer of the device, that includes a band adapted for positioning on the wearer, an orb positioned on the band, and a mechanism for selectively varying the length that the orb extends outward from said band. The mechanism includes a dial that is mounted to the orb for user initiated selective rotation about its central axis. By rotating the dial, the orb moves towards or away from the band, thereby decreasing or increasing, respectively, the amount of pressure it will apply to the wearer.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for treating injured muscles before, during, and/or after physical activity. Practicing the method of the present involves pressing a plurality of pressure applicators against the skin proximate to a muscle for a sustained period of time. The pressure applicators pressed against the body can be either pins, support members, and/or any combination thereof. The support members may be secured to the therapeutic surface of a therapeutic body as to create an apparatus in accordance with the present invention. In such an apparatus, the base of pressure applicator is secured to the therapeutic surface such that the distal end of the pressure applicator extends away from the therapeutic surface.

Abstract: A disposable acupressure strip for nausea relief in humans, dogs & cats includes a raised portion of a contact button extending from a film substrate through a cutout in a paper liner positioned over an acupressure point on a user's wrist.

Abstract: This acupressure clip is designed to apply single-point pressure to the tragus of the ear to achieve either appetite control or a sense of tranquility. The clip has two opposing wing-shaped finger tabs joined by a reverse-compression band with an integral stop. The band applies pressure to the tragus through the single raised nub of the attached desired pressure head. The integral stop acts to prevent the band from passing the yield point of the material. The finger tabs have ridges to prevent slippage. Each of the interchangeable heads has a specifically molded nub located to activate a single acupressure point on the tragus of the ear for either appetite control or to achieve a sense of tranquility. At the end of the lower finger tab is a compression pad with an embossment to ensure proper fit and backing for the single-point pressure to be applied from the opposing head. The upper splayed pad is designed with a locking raised protrusion to secure and ensure proper location of the desired head.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of treating pain of a subject. The method is characterized in having the steps of providing treatments not directly onto a pain point, but onto at least one correlative treatment point, to reduce the pain of the subject.

Abstract: A device for altering cardiac activity, said device comprising a neck engaging member, said neck engaging member having at least one pressure applicator provided as a predefined area which in use comes into contact with and occludes or partially occludes at least one carotid artery, said device including a control mechanism which is operable to cause the pressure applicator to rapidly occlude or partially occlude the artery in order to provoke heart rate turbulence.

Abstract: A hand-held acupressure device which includes a ball attached to an elongated rigid handle by an elastic cord enabling the user to easily position the ball over trigger points. Pressure is applied to the trigger points by pressing the body to the ball against a hard surface. The elastic cord allows the ball freedom of movement apart from the handle while in use, and pulls the ball back to its original position at the end of the handle after use.

Abstract: Described here are devices, methods, and kits for acupuncture or acupressure therapy. The devices may include a tissue-piercing member and a reservoir containing an agent. The devices and agents may be packaged as kits useful for relieving pain and/or treating various medical conditions. The devices, methods, and kits may enable less skilled practitioners to administer acupuncture or acupressure therapy, and may extend the duration of pain relief or other symptom relief.

Abstract: This device is formed by a number of semi-rings and their extensions, adapted for fitting to the human head of a patient and for exerting pressure on predetermined parts of said head, comprising a principal open crown (12) configured in the shape of a “U” formed by a slightly concave back zone (13), which extends in two side zones (14-15) converging inwards, and whose extremities or sidepieces (16-6?) have on the inside thereof cavities (19-19?) adapted for housing contact elements (17-17?), wherein the front surface is perceptibly warped convexly, partly projecting inwards inside the crown (12). The extremities or sidepieces (16-6?) have in upper portion thereof cavities (18-18?) directed inwards with a certain inclination with respect to the plane of the principal crown (12) adapted for housing the ends of a second open crown (11).

Abstract: An integrated wound dressing system and method including a bandage and a self-contained receptacle that stores treatment material for the care and treatment of wounds. The treatment material is easily accessible and can be removed from the receptacle through an exit. The treatment material can then be used to control bleeding and/or clean the wound before dressing. The bandage may include a layer of plastic that acts as an occlusion barrier to reduce heat loss and maintain moisture levels at the wound site. The occlusion barrier also acts to prevent the passage of air into or out of the wound site. The bandage also includes fasteners that act to prevent unintentional unraveling and to secure the bandage during final packaging. These fasteners help facilitate the wrapping of amputations, stumps, and extremities. The integrated wound dressing system provides an all-in-one system for treating and dressing wounds and reduces the time required to do so.

Abstract: A pair of functional metal ion bands are provided. The pair of functional metal ion bands are attached to meridians and acupoints of the human body in a simple manner to induce a smooth flow of current in the body, thereby rapidly changing a disease condition to a normal state. The pair of functional metal ion bands comprise a gold-colored thin metal plate as a positive electrode and a silver-colored thin metal plate as a negative electrode wherein the gold-colored thin metal plate is composed of Cu and a metal selected from Ag, Au and Pt and the silver-colored thin metal plate is made of an alloy of Al, Si, Fe, Cu, Mn, Mg and Zn. The pair of functional metal ion bands are manufactured by processing each of the thin metal plates to have a thickness of 1 ?m to 1 cm and a diameter of 1 mm to 50 cm, and attaching the processed metal plate to one side of a soft adhesive fabric using an adhesive.

Abstract: A device suitable to exert pressure on specific points of the body, comprising: a plaster applied on a support consisting of a glossy sheet suitable to make the detachment thereof easier, the said sheet being provided with a carving suitable to uncover an adhesive part of the plaster before the said plaster being removed from the support; a pressure element consisting of a button comprising a base having the same shape as the carving made in the plaster and a protruding nipple suitable to exert a compressing action when it is applied on the skin, the said button remaining adherent to the plaster when it is removed from the support sheet.

Abstract: This invention is about wearing earring that stimulates the acupoints of the ear and provides easy wearing with beautiful feature. In detail, it is consisted of a pair of parts formed to press a specific part of the ear; a connecting part that links above-mentioned parts together; a decoration for the surfaces of a pair of above-mentioned parts or connecting part; a stimulating protrusion part combined with at least a part of above-mentioned pairs to stimulate acupoints.

Abstract: A massaging device for relieving the stiffened muscles of a user. The device comprises a strap comprising a plurality of pockets disposed along its length. The device further comprises a plurality of balls that are to be received within the plurality of pockets. When the strap is secured around a desired body part, the balls keep pressed against the body part so as to produce a massaging effect thereon.

Abstract: Methods for ischemic conditioning treatments of a chronic medical condition are provided. Baseline disease-related parameters of a patient with a chronic medical condition are measured. Ischemia is induced in the patient by occluding and releasing arterial flow in one or more extremities of the patient. Post-ischemia parameters in the patient are measured. The baseline and post-ischemia parameters are compared to provide an assessment of an ischemic conditioning treatment of a chronic medical condition. The repeated, scheduled delivery of ischemic conditioning provides a beneficial, therapeutic effect on the chronic medical condition. Also provided is a device for pulse oximetry during periods of absent or low pulsatile blood flow including an artificial pulse generator as well as the use of said device in assessment of ischemic conditioning.

Abstract: A device for relieving pain and tension is provided. The device includes a base having at least one pressure member support on a first side of the base and at least one pressure member extending upwardly and rearwardly relative to the pressure member support wherein the pressure member is configured to engage a user. For use in association with the neck a and head region, preferably, the device includes two pressure members positioned on the pressure member support such that the pressure members may support the head of user while engaging the occipital region of the user's head.

Abstract: A tennis elbow support comprising a main body having an opening and a tendon pad having a pad base and a raised portion that projects from the pad base. The tendon pad is inserted into the opening so that the raised portion projects outwardly from a bottom surface of the main body. The main body can be releasably secured in a substantially circular configuration so that the support can be placed around the forearm of a user and the tennis elbow support can be tightened around the arm of the user with tendon pad in contact with the arm so that straight-line pressure is applied across the extensor muscle and tendon.