Abstract: The present invention provides an acupressure device for use on a selected skin surface portion of a human body. The device comprises a base sheet; one or more protrusions; a fastener; and an orienting element (e.g., orienting margin, orienting constellation, orienting template or orienting protrusion) suitable to position the device on the selected skin surface. The invention also provides therapeutic methods comprising applying a devise of the invention to a human in need of therapy.

Abstract: Following a catheterisation of the radial artery in the forearm, the flow of blood through to puncture wound has to be stropped. An adjustable radial artery compressor (1) according to the invention comprises a support arm (2) provided with a support pad (5), a compressor arm (3) provided with a compression pad (6), and a pressure-adjusting means (7, 9, 10) for adjusting the distance between the support pad (5) and the compression pad (6). When the adjustable radial artery compressor (1) is arranged on the forearm of a patient, the support pad (5) bears against a well-defined area at the upside of the radius bone while the compression pad (6) presses against a well-defined area at the underside of the radius bone. With the pressure-adjusting means (7, 9, 10) the compression pressure can be adjusted with high precision, and due to the well-defined contact surfaces, which minimize the risk of vein stasis, the compression pressure is constant irrespective of any movement of the hand or forearm.

Abstract: The purpose of the acupressure device for fingers designed to be inserted by the end of a finger in order to provide pressure stimulation effects with protuberances of the inner surface of the device and to enhance blood circulation effects by producing negative(−) ion. The acupressure device for fingers includes an inserting unit for the end of a finger to be inserted, at one side, a cutting unit in a center of the inserting unit, a semi-circular base unit having a flat outer surface and an inner surface cast into a plurality of protuberances, and two fixing strips at both sides of the semi-circular base unit.

Abstract: The disclosed invention discloses a flexible band extending around the top of the foot, back of the heel and under the foot proximate the heel. Pressure devices are incorporated at strategic locations to apply pressure to specific areas in accordance with reflexology. An additional strap can be incorporated that either extends around the toe or completely under the foot. Additional pressure devices can be added that correspond to additional reflexology points.

Abstract: A ring (20) for the small finger of the human hand to apply pressure to arterial channels for therapeutic purposes. The pressure is applied to the channel in the finger via projections (21) extending from an inner surface thereof. Among other benefits wearing the ring whilst sleeping has been found to reduce problem snoring.

Abstract: An acupressure and reflexology clamping apparatus wherein a variety of interchangeable pressure delivery tips enables selection thereof for a variety of applications and body points and a centrally positioned ratcheting hub enables fine incremental adjustment of pressure settings, reproducible selection of such settings and consistent delivery thereof, thereby delivering incrementally variable quantities of pressure to specific body locations and maximizing the effective relief experienced at each such location.

Abstract: The present invention provides an acupressure device for use on a selected skin surface portion of a human body. The device comprises a base sheet; one or more protrusions; a fastener; and an orienting margin, orienting constellation, orienting template or orienting protrusion, suitable to position the device on the selected skin surface. The invention also provides therapeutic methods comprising applying a devise of the invention to a human in need of therapy.

Abstract: A method of treatment for infertility includes hypnotic suggestions of relaxation and feelings of being pregnant. Also included are acupressure applied to specific selected body sites, and application of a large area magnet to the body surface over the uterus. The acupressure may be applied by acupuncture needles, pressure applied by small blunt sticks, laser light, electro-stimulation, or small strong magnets. The method may be applied by a practitioner. In another embodiment of the invention, the materials are supplied in a kit form including audio and video recordings and implements for application of acupressure by the patient herself.

Abstract: An acupressure device with mechanisms for modulating the pressure applied to the user.

Abstract: A method of controlling the blood pressure in a patient with high blood pressure or low blood pressure utilizing a non-invasive nerve stimulation device applied to the wrist.

Abstract: A method for suppression and prevention of the gag reflex, particularly during dental procedures, utilizing a non-invasive nerve stimulation device applied to the wrist.

Abstract: A foot board has a plurality of pressure rods extending upwardly therefrom which are positioned within outlines of average foot sizes for men and women. The pressure rods are positioned at reflex points for attaining acupressure treatment when the user stands on the rods with his or her feet oriented within the appropriate foot outlines. The user can change the rods to provide the needed intensity to make for greater pressure on the needed reflex points and more intense massaging. Also, thermal pressure rods or vibrating pressure rods activated electrically can be installed.

Abstract: A clamp for clamping a body structure in a patient. The clamp includes a flexible cable housed within a sheath. The cable and sheath extend between a clamp and a handle. The cable actuator. The cable extends through a sheath which is anchored at the clamp and the actuator for actuating jaws from a proximal end of the clamp. A malleable positioner is provided for positioning the clamp about the body structure.

Abstract: An acupressure device with mechanisms for modulating the pressure applied to the user.

Abstract: A method of suppressing tremors in the extremities of human beings by applying pressure to at least one selected location on the extremity.

Abstract: The pain associated with an injection or minor surgical procedure at a site on the skin of a patient is reduced by urging a skin engaging surface of a pressure member against the skin proximate the site, thereby stimulating the large diameter afferent sensory nerve fibers in the skin proximate the site and at least partially blocking pain signals from the small diameter afferent pain nerve fibers in the skin proximate the site. An apparatus for use in this method comprises a pressure member having a skin engaging surface adapted to be pressed against the skin of a patient proximate the site to stimulate the large diameter afferent sensory nerve fibers in the skin proximate the site. In certain embodiments, the skin engaging surface is comprised of a plurality of projections extending from the pressure member. Various embodiments include a syringe retainer adapted to be secured to a syringe, and a least one resilient member, such as a spring, resiliently securing the pressure member to the syringe retainer.

Abstract: An acupressure point treatment apparatus including an acupressure pointer including a pellet on a finger strap, a finger grounder including a grounding plate on a finger strap, and a Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) monitor electrically connected to the acupressure pointer and the finger grounder.

Abstract: An acupressure point treatment apparatus including an acupressure pointer including a pellet on a finger strap, a finger grounder including a grounding plate on a finger strap, and a Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) monitor electrically connected to the acupressure pointer and the finger grounder.

Abstract: An acupressure device with mechanisms for modulating the pressure applied to the user.

Abstract: A robotic muscular therapy system, and method of use, for applying repeated amounts of concentrated pressure to targeted muscles one-at-a-time to lengthen even deeply positioned muscle tissue layer by layer and thereby reduce limitations on joint extension and flexibility as well as eliminate pain caused by excess muscle contraction. The system comprises a beveled treatment probe designed to concentrate pressure without breaking the skin of an average patient, a probe column assembly for fine X, Y, and Z probe movement over a patient, and a plurality of interchangeable column assembly supports for coarse X, Y, and Z probe movement. Patient safety limitations include a torque-limited and current-limited motor with a slip clutch, a probe which withdraws from its treatment position when a patient grabs it or a pre-set maximum tissue pressure is encountered, and a swivel fitting which allows the probe to give when a patient sneezes and allows patients to easily push the probe away upon demand.

Abstract: An acupressure device for use on a selected skin surface portion of a human body. The device comprises a thin flexible base sheet having a first side, a second side and a margin. The margin has at least a portion of its length shaped as an orienting margin, wherein the orienting margin is shaped to correspond to a shape on, or adjacent to, the selected skin surface portion when the base sheet is placed on the selected body surface. An adhesive layer is on the first side of the base sheet that is suitable for attaching the base sheet to the selected skin surface portion. There is at least one bead on the adhesive layer suitable for positioning against the selected body surface that will provide acupressure to at least a portion of the selected body surface when the acupressure patch is placed against the selected body surface.

Abstract: A compression sleeve for treating lymphedema is provided. The compression sleeve is comprised of an outer inelastic fabric layer and an inner flexible sheet padding layer. A plurality of tightening straps are laterally disposed in vertical succession along an exterior side of the sleeve to independently apply circumferential pressure along the length of the sleeve. The sleeve is able to apply a consistent gradient pressure from a distal part of the limb to a proximal end of the limb to help squeeze excess lymph from the limb. The inner padding layer is comprised of a high density foam material provided in a thin, continuous surface, flat sheet and has a high degree of firmness capable of evenly distributing the pressure generated by the tightening straps to prevent pockets of swelling within the sleeve. The compression sleeve can be configured for use with both arms and legs.

Abstract: An aesthetic and highly functional massage tool is disclosed which comprises a generally triangular frame adapted to be held in the palm of one hand. It has three leg members, each leg member extending generally from a bottom side corner portion of the frame a height generally exceeding the thickness of a finger. Each leg having a generally rounded bottom portion. The legs and triangular frame are monolithically molded from plastic. The frame has a generally triangular opening so that one may extend their fingers therethrough and around a side portion of the frame. This triangular design enables one to securely and comfortably hold the massage tool in multiple positions while during use. This is important because use in any one position tires particular muscles of the massageur. It also facilitates massaging different body portions in differing manners. The triangular void facilitates wrapping one's fingers around the massage tool. It enables one to slide the tool along while pushing downwardly on it.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reversal of physiological human dependency that can be induced by nicotine, alcohol, or drugs, for example, and for reducing or eliminating dependency through the use of acupuncture simultaneously with hypnosis. The invention also includes a kit that allows for self-administration of both acupuncture and self-induced hypnosis by the patient for intensifying and accelerating the effects of both the acupuncture and the hypnosis in reversing chemical physiological and psychotherapeutic addiction, pain, mental and/or physiologic health problems in human beings.

Abstract: An acupressure device with mechanisms for modulating the pressure applied to the user.

Abstract: A device for controlling the reflex response of a muscle or muscular group articulating a living body joint by applying a specific mechanical stimulation (SMS) to the external area of the joint which corresponds to the mechano-receptors guiding a natural reflex of the muscle or muscular group. The embodiments of the device include a support member adapted to be mounted to the wrist ankle or lumbar spine joint, a pressure-applying member and a resilient portion interposed between the support member and the pressure-applying member to continuously apply a required pressure intensity during articulation movements of the joint. The mechano-receptors include skin mechano-receptors and deeper joint mechano-receptors. The reflex response of muscles articulating a joint is facilitated by a low external SMS pressure intensity and inhibited by a high external SMS pressure intensity.

Abstract: A medical treatment appliance to carry out therapeutical treatment by slightly pushing it to a skin of a patient, includes a grip portion, a conductor portion consisting essentially of electrically conductive metal(s), a “different metal” portion having an ionization tendency different from the electrically conductive metal(s), and optionally a crystal portion consisting essentially of a mineral, wherein the “different metal” portion, and optionally the crystal portion is(are) attached to the conductor portion.

Abstract: A physio/energetic therapeutic method for articulating various acupressure points in a specific sequence, in which these points have been heretofore "forbidden" because of the risk of termination of pregnancy, involving three sets of points that are articulated in the first three days of a woman's period, for 3 to 5 minutes for each point, per day, in order to regulate problematic menstrual cycles by having a clearing effect on the next cycle, thereby eliminating build-up in the body which leads to PMS and cramps, and in the case of endometriosis, back flow and back-up of energy. Also shown are various acupressure point therapies for generally minimizing the effects of PMS and edema, maximizing the chances of contraception in a woman, and minimizing the chances of miscarriage or abnormal uterine bleeding. An interactive monitoring device is also shown for storing, identifying and retrieving information relative to the treatment therapies.

Abstract: A magnetic acupuncture equipment which is adapted for substitute the conventional acupuncture needles comprises a magnetic acupuncture pen. The magnetic acupuncture pen includes a tubular housing made of magnetic conducting material, an insulation member disposed inside the housing, a first and a second permanent magnet respectively disposed at two ends of the insulation member inside the housing, a first acupuncture member secured to a first end of the housing, and a second acupuncture member secured to a second end of the housing. The inner ends of the first and second permanent magnets, which are adjacent to the two ends of the insulation member respectively, have the same magnetic pole. In other words, the outer ends of the first and second permanent magnets, which are respectively located near the first and second acupuncture members, also have the same magnetic pole.

Abstract: A finger-pressure functioning health-aid instrument for improving blood circulation of a human body includes a cylindrical body, and a lower cap, inserted in the lower part of the body. A negative ion discharge element is fixed within the body. A bio-ceramic is formed within the body and surrounds the upper and outer part of the negative ion discharge element. A permanent magnet is fixed under the negative ion discharge element and a pressure member is fixed contacting the lower face of the permanent magnet, and contacts directly with the skin in the desired treatment area and projects anions and emitting rays.

Abstract: An ankle massaging device which is constructed in the general shape of a "U" while the curved position of the massaging device rests on a top of a user's foot, each end of the massaging device is positioned on opposite sides of a user's ankle while battery powered massaging devices are located in each end of the device and soft massaging protrusions are located on interior surfaces of the ends and corresponds with menstrual cycle pressure points located on a user's ankle whereby the massaging device helps relieve menstrual cycle cramps for the user.

Abstract: A muscular therapy treatment apparatus for patient self-treatment in applying concentrated pressure to deep muscle attachments in the lamina groove on either side of the spinous processes of spine vertebrae to relax and lengthen the muscles therein and cause vertebrae alignment without the forcing of bone. Each embodiment of the apparatus has a rigid planar base support and a treatment member depending upwardly therefrom with a pair of sharp edges on its curved upper peripheral surface. A groove separates the sharp edges and receives the spinous processus of vertebrae when a patient becomes positioned on top of or against the peripheral surface during use. The groove can have straight interior walls intersecting at an angle between 60.degree. to 70.degree., or it can have an arcuate configuration. The present invention discloses a variety of partial-spine treatment embodiments, as well as a whole-spine treatment embodiment that allows all of the muscles flanking the spinal column to be treated at once.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an acupressure device for use on a selected skin surface portion of a human body. The device comprises a thin flexible base sheet having a first side, a second side and a margin. The margin has at least a portion of its length shaped as an orienting margin, wherein the orienting margin is shaped to correspond to a shape on, or adjacent to, the selected skin surface portion when the base sheet is placed on the selected body surface. An adhesive layer is on the first side of the base sheet that is suitable for attaching the base sheet to the selected skin surface portion. There is at least one bead on the adhesive layer suitable for positioning against the selected body surface that will provide acupressure to at least a portion of the selected body surface when the acupressure patch is placed against the selected body surface.

Abstract: A behavior modification reinforcement bracelet for providing mildly painful stimuli to a user when the user thinks about or performs a behavior that the user wishes to change. The behavior modification reinforcement bracelet includes an elastic annular band with opposite inwards and outwards faces, and a pair of side edges. A plurality of stimuli regions are provided on the band. Each of the stimuli regions has a plurality of nubs extending in a radially inwards direction from the inwards face of the band.

Abstract: An acupressure device is especially adapted for use as an anti-nausea prophylactic. The device comprises a substantially flat base having first and second opposing surfaces and a central aperture. A rounded button is disposed within the central aperture, the rounded pressure-applying surface of the button facing in the same direction as the first surface of the base. A pluraliy of spokes extend from the button to the perimeter of the central aperture, thereby supporting the button within the aperture. The first surface of the base has an adhesive coating so that the device may be adhered to the skin with the button contacting a desired acupressure point.

Abstract: A portable, self-powered device for acupuncture-type percutaneous treatment comprising a casing having on its bottom a plurality of metallic contact blocks, each contact block constituting the terminal of a pulse generator mounted in this casing, means provided for removably attaching the casing on a portion of a patient's body, and an electronic program comprising seven therapeutic functions for connecting at least two contact blocks to the pulse generator, the connections with the contact blocks being chosen in accordance with the condition to be treated. An application for the device is in particular the treatment of obesity.

Abstract: An appliance for therapeutic pressure application, the appliance comprising at least one protuberance each having a base end anchored to a resilient medium and a point end for applying pressure to tissue, the medium having resilient, flexible and insulating properties to absorb in part s the pressure between the point ends and the tissue so as to prevent pain, cut or penetration of the tissue by the point ends and to retain the heat generated by the tissue.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an elongate tubular member, an end effector at the distal end of the tubular member, a linkage rod slidably disposed within the tubular member, a distal connector fixed to the proximal end of the tubular member, a proximal connector fixed to the proximal end of the linkage rod, at least one resiliently flexible actuating member, and a lever pivotally to the proximal connector. The lever generally overlies and contacts the actuator member. Pivoting of the lever toward the flexible actuator member causes the linkage rod to move a movable jaw of the end effector. The surgical instrument has a relatively larger actuator surface for easier manipulation, and better balance. The actuator member also has a point of maximum leverage closer to the distal end, than other surgical instruments of the same general type.

Abstract: This invention is an apparatus for treating lymphedema having a sleeve with inwardly projecting-elastomeric fingers and externally fitted pressure adjusting circular bands. When the sleeve is fitted to a patient's limb, the fingers impose a grid pattern of pressure points against skin of swollen limb. Space around and between the pressure points provide channels under the skin through which lymphatic fluids are able to migrate up the arm to the shoulder where healthy nodes process it and channel it to the large veins. Similar applications are applied to other limbs, hands, and feet with sleeves, and to the shoulder, chest wall, and back with vests.

Abstract: A device for applying a continuous pressure and magnetic field to the septum of a wearer. The device comprises a generally U-shaped member comprising a base and two parallel arms, each of said arms being inserted into a nostril of a wearer, said arms being further biased toward said septum; canted bulbous protrusions at the ends of said legs for applying pressure to the septum of the wearer; and magnets within the bulbous protrusions for facilitating the closure of said arms and legs and for applying a magnetic field to said septum.

Abstract: A ball-massaging board (14) molded out of plastic with a curved surface to comfortably support a person's spine in the supine position. Attached to the surface of board (14) are a number of rubber balls (15/16) that have a bolt head (18) bonded inside them, and a threaded portion (19) protruding outside them. Threaded portion (19) is inserted through a hole (21) in board (14), then secured in place by a lock nut (20). Because hole (21) is larger in diameter than the diameter of threaded portion (19) balls (15/16) are able to freely spin about the surface of board (14). Balls (15/16) are able to spin and roll simultaneously along the surface of board (14) while remaining attached to board (14). As an individual lies on the massaging board (14) and swivels his or her hips a combined spinning and rolling effect is created by balls (15/16) on the user's back and neck, simulating a real life massage.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic apparatus pointer of traditional Chinese medicine for health care, and in particular, relates to a magnetic medicine instrument of acupuncture. The apparatus of pointer includes an air bag, and a permanent magnetic head provided within the hollow case. To operate the pointer of the present invention, the air bag shall be pressed, and at the same time, the hollow case shall be attached closely to the acupuncture point of human body. When the press is released, the air bag restores to the original shape and the air within the hollow case is sucked into said bag, so as to make the magnet head closely attached to the acupuncture point of human body. The pointers with N pole and S pole may be positioned on both sides of human body making vertical cutting lines of magnetic force acting upon human body.

Abstract: This invention relates to external, non-invasive compression devices to treat anterior nosebleeds and a method for using those external compression devices to treat anterior nosebleeds without the insertion of any material or device into the nasal cavity. This patent concerns a method for automatically applying external pressure to the nose to stop nosebleeds, describes how a new use can be made of an existing device to implement the method, and also describes a preferable anatomically conforming device which better fits the shape of the nose and thus can be more comfortable and effective.

Abstract: A deep muscle knot relaxing device and corresponding method is advanced comprising a flat base from which extends two or more protuberances positioned a fixed distance apart. The protuberances are substantially hemispherical in shape and are of different heights and diameter, enabling the protuberances to be properly matched with the muscle knot characteristics of the user. The base may be formed with a plurality of through openings to prevent the buildup of hydrostatic pressure under the base when used in a bathtub. The base and protuberances are preferably integrally formed in a single molding process with sufficient spacing between the protuberances so as to discourage the user from using more than one protuberance at a time. The surface of the base opposing the protuberances may be equipped with an anti-skid surface, thereby preventing movement of the device during therapy.

Abstract: A wrist band according to the present invention includes a band body which is fitted on the body in a freely fitted and removable manner to surround part of the body, and a projection provided on the surface of the band body on the side facing the body. When the wrist band is fitted around the wrist, the projection, formed like a lattice on its inner surface, abuts on the hand joint region. Then, the band body surrounds the entire wrist and the projection is pressed against the hand joint region by the elastic force of the band body. Thus, the projection pressed against the hand joint region provides an acupressure effect.

Abstract: Injection noise and silence are detected in an input speech signal and an external amplifier is switched on or off based on the detected injection noise or silence. The input speech signal is digitized and a first copy of the digitized signal is preemphasized. After the input speech signal is preemphasized, a predetermined number of Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCCs) and difference cepstra are calculated for each window of the speech signal. A measure of signal energy and a measure of the rate of change of the signal energy is computed. A second copy of the digitized input speech signal is processed using amplitude summation or by differencing a center-clipped signal. The measures of signal energy, rate of change of the signal energy, the Mel coefficients, difference cepstra, and either the amplitude summation value or the differenced value are combined to form an observation vector.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of treating diseases with shock air, including treating hypertension, cholecystitis, and other diseases by directing shock air to specific positions of human body at a frequency of up to and beyond about 3,000 times per minute.

Abstract: A cold pressure apparatus for relieving headache pain including an elongate member constrictively engagable about a head, and a cooling material carried by the elongate member for compressive and cooling engagement with the head.

Abstract: A muscular therapy treatment apparatus for patient self-treatment, and a method for its use, in applying concentrated pressure to deeply positioned non-palpable muscles underlying other muscle tissue in the hip area of a patient. The apparatus comprises a rigid planar base support and a treatment member upwardly depending from the central portion of the base support. The distal end of the treatment member has a sharp beveled edge for applying pressure to the deeply positioned muscles in a maximum range of sixty to one hundred pounds of pressure, or more, to lengthen them and thereby provide treated patients with relief from muscular tension and pain which had been a result of excess contraction in those muscles. In the preferred embodiment it is contemplated for the distal end of the treatment member to be removably attached so that sharp edges of differing widths and length can be used for different treatment needs.

Abstract: A device for applying external pressure to one or more vertebra for repositioning the same and/or maintaining the position thereof in the spinal column, or for forcing and maintaining segments of a broken vertebra in healing contact with each other. The device has an upper body vest adapted to substantially surround the upper body of a patient in a snug manner whereby the vest is substantially immovable relative to the upper body. The vest has front and back sections provided with cooperating elements of an attachment mechanism such as Velcro or belt and adjustable buckle, for clamping the sections to the upper body. The back section has a pressure applicator unit extending substantially the length of the back section for applying external pressure, generally posteriorly to one or more vertebra.