Abstract: An acupressure patch for providing a controlled pressure to a selected point on the skin of a patient for a selected period of time is disclosed. The patch includes a rigid nub fixedly mounted to a flat rigid pressure plate. The pressure plate is positioned on an adhesive disc and held in place by an adhesive ring. The nub sits in an aperture such that it is not covered with any adhesive. A cushioning pad may also be provided between the pressure plate and the adhesive disc. The acupressure patch provides a low profile apparatus which can be secured to a patient's skin to provide adequate pressure to be effective but not to irritate the skin.

Abstract: A natural headache reliever using acupressure points on the scalp and upper posterior neck is disclosed. A cap-like device having an outer membrane (1) and an inner membrane (2) will be placed comfortably on the head of the wearer. The two membranes meet and are attached at their margins, thus forming an inner potential space (4) between the membranes. The inner membrane, that which will be closest to the scalp of the wearer, will contain a plurality of immobile protrusions (5) at a distance of between 10 and 20 millimeters apart. Direct pressure will be applied by the protrusions on different acupressure points on the scalp and upper posterior neck. A pump (3) will be used to create the pressure by introducing air into the potential space (4) between the inner and outer membranes. The wearer controls the duration and amount of pressure, thereby ensuring his or her comfort while alleviating the head pain.

Abstract: Ring has serpentine connecting portions between parallel plates on which a plurality of protuberances are formed on the inner surfaces of the plates. The ring promotes the circulation of blood by accupressuring a finger by means of protuberances.

Abstract: A medical apparatus which includes a first magnetic energy device with a magnetically conductive, rounded, pointed front end for acupuncturing acupuncture points of the fingers and around the eyes by means of a magnetic resonance, and a second magnetic energy device with a magnetically conductive concave front end for stimulating the orbicularis oculi muscle by means of a magnetic resonance.

Abstract: An acupuncture needle assembly includes an outer tubular member having an upper portion tube with open upper and lower ends, and with an elongated slot in the lower end, and a lower portion tube with open upper and lower ends and secured to the upper portion tube; a plug with an opening secured to the open upper end of the upper portion tube; an operating bar slidably positioned through the plug and in the outer tubular member, and having an upper part extending out through the upper end of the upper portion tube and having helical threads, a lower part for holding one end of a needle such that an opposite end of the needle can extend through the open lower end of the lower portion tube, and a hole in the lower part; a pin secured in the hole in the operating bar and slidable in the elongated slot in the upper portion tube to prevent rotation of the operating bar in the outer tubular member, while permitting axial movement of the operating bar in the outer tubular member; a cap securable to the lower end of t

Abstract: Disclosed is a diet earring for stimulating acupuncture points located on the human tragus used in a simple procedure to eliminate disadvantages of the conventional needle puncture process. The earring has a pressing member 1 and a retaining member 2 for engaging the outer surface and the opposite surface of the tragus 9, respectively, and a connecting member 3 provided with an appropriate resilient urging spring for connecting the above-mentioned members, thereby the earring being retained on the both surfaces of the tragus with a suitable pressure with the tragus interposed between the pressing and retaining members.

Abstract: An acupressure device is disclosed for stimulating an LI-4 acupressure point located on the back side of a hand within the fleshy crotch between the thumb and index finger. The acupressure device is simple to use and enables accurate positioning over the LI-4 acupressure point and simultaneous stimulation of both hands.

Abstract: A retractor for use in arthroscopic surgery. The retractor has a mechanical expanding portion for expanding against sub-surface tissues when the retractor is in use. The retractor also has a fluid-operated expanding portion, which may be independently controllable, for expanding against sub-surface tissues when the retractor is in use. The retractor is inserted through a small percutaneous opening, expanded in sub-surface tissues without significantly damaging the tissue, then collapsed after use for removal. The retractor can be manipulated to allow the surgeon to push or pull or lever on tissue. The retractor can be hollow like a cannula to permit the passage of one or more surgical devices through the retractor, with a side portal into the center of the retractor.

Abstract: A pressure-applying device for relieving distress includes a pressure applicator having a plate member and a pressure-applying body attached to and protruding from one of a pair of opposite surfaces of the plate member. The plate member has a central portion with a pair of opposite surfaces facing in opposite directions and a peripheral portion surrounding the central portion and having a pair of first opposite sides respectively connected to opposite ends of the central portion and a pair of second opposite sides spaced from a pair of opposite edges of the central portion so as to define respective elongated enclosed slots within the plate member between the second opposite sides of the peripheral portion and the pair of opposite edges of the central portion of the plate member.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for self-administered physiotherapeutic treatment and exercise of the human body in which an elongated loop shaped bar has a first distal end portion connected by a curvilinear portion to a straight portion on one side of the loop to a second curvilinear portion in a second distal end portion defining a gap wide enough to accommodate a portion of the user's body which can be remotely manipulated by the user from another part of the bar.

Abstract: A tragus acupressure clip is disclosed with a concave spring having two opposing jaws. The jaws are separated by an opening of a slot delineated by an inner surface of the concave spring. Two opposing pressure pads are provided, each positioned on an inner surface of the concave spring and separated by the slot. Two mutually non-touching finger tabs are provided, each having one end attached to a different jaw on the outer surface of the spring. Each finger tab has a second end extending along an outer surface of the spring approximately only as far as the portion of the spring opposite the opening separating the jaws. When the second ends of the finger tabs are urged towards each other, against a compression bias of the spring, the slot separating the pressure pads is enlarged. The tragus acupressure clip is not subject to over-opening of the slot which over-opening would otherwise permanently deform the spring.

Abstract: A massaging rod that is generally Y-shaped with an ellipse end portion at a first end. One side of said ellipse end has a bossed tip and the opposite side has a mallet shape. The opposing end of the rod forms a fork-shape. The first tip of the fork-shaped end has a claw-shape configuration and the second tip is circular. A projected stem member having a circular end is provided at the center of the body. The periphery of the body is rounded to provide a sound massaging effect.

Abstract: A needle assembly for acupuncture includes a needle having a grip portion, and a needle head having a sharp end; a grip pipe made from paper, rubber or foamed resin, engaged around the needle head such that the sharp end of the needle extends out from the grip pipe; a guide pipe surrounding the needle and the grip pipe such that the grip pipe is positioned in a lower end of the guide pipe and the grip portion is positioned in an upper end of the guide pipe, with an upper portion of the grip portion extending out from the upper end of the guide pipe; and an adhesive membrane releasably connecting together the grip portion and an uppermost end of the guide pipe.

Abstract: Removably attachable wrist band devices for use in helping an addicted cigarette smoker permanently quit smoking. The devices comprise an acupressure stimulator section, a wrist attachment section, and an elastic section with controlled elasticity. The wrist band is placed on a user's wrist such that the acupressure stimulator is positioned proximal to the L-7 acupuncture point and the elastic section of the wrist band is positioned on top of the user's wrist. The elastic section of the wrist band is designed to limit the maximal energy that the user can transfer to a unit area of skin when the band is snapped against the wrist. This is so that snapping the wrist band will not be perceived as aversive to the user. The disclosed wrist band devices have the dual functions of providing a non-aversive behavioral modification function together with providing stimulation of the L-7 acupuncture point, which has therapeutic value in treatment of smoking addiction.

Abstract: Acupressure clamps include a U-shape band having opposite end portions respectively provided with a pressure applying screw and a spherical counterabutment. The end portions can be parallel with a line of action of the screw extending through the protuberance for application of pressure to precisely opposite portions of a foot or, the end portions can diverge for simultaneous application of pressures along non aligned axes at two locations on a back of a hand. Another device for the leg below the knee or the sole of the foot has a body engaging, arcuate plate carrying a pressure screw and mounted on a fastening strap. A device for the big toe is a socket with a pressure screw and a device for smaller toes is a clip.

Abstract: A flexible strand is provided with pressure applying nodules spaced therealong so that the strand may be looped around various deeper body muscle groups to apply pressure to the muscle groups and relieve muscle pain. An optional bar may be also used, either by itself, or with the flexible strand, to apply pressure to muscles which are close to the surface of the body.

Abstract: A manual device for self-application of acupressure by a user, comprises a substantially "J"-shaped rigid frame having a first tip at one end for application of pressure to specific points of the user's body and a handle at the other end. The first tip is adapted to be placed on the back portions of the user while the frame is substantially transverse to the user's body. The handle is adapted to be grabbed by the user such that a pushing force imparted to the handle away from the user's body transmits pressure to the first tip.

Abstract: An apparatus for self administration of acupressure that comprises a surface for supporting the individual. A pressure arm supported above the surface moves between a first position displaced from the individual and a second position where pressure probes apply acupressure. The position of an actuation arm supported below the surface is controlled by the individual and is linked to the pressure arm. This enables the individual to control the magnitude and duration of force applied through the pressure arm and pressure probes. The individual can operate another linkage to position the pressure probes relative to the pressure arm and along the individuals' spine.

Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided for use in endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures. The instrument includes a handle portion, an endoscopic portion extending from the handle portion, an articulating section pivotably connected to a distal end portion of the endoscopic portion, and a retractor assembly operatively associated with the articulating section. Structure is provided for manipulating the articulating section relative to the longitudinal axis of the endoscopic portion within an angular degree of rotation. An injection port may also be provided to deliver fluids through the endoscopic portion to the operative site.

Abstract: A removeably attachable wrist band device for use in helping an addicted cigarette smoker permanently quit smoking. The device comprises an elastic section, a hook fastener section, a loop fastener section, and an acupressure stimulator. The device is placed on a user's wrist such that the acupressure stimulator is positioned proximal to the L-7 acupuncture point and the elastic section of the wrist band is positioned on top of the user's wrist. The elastic section of the wrist band is designed to limit the maximal energy that the user can transfer to a unit area of skin when the band is snapped against the wrist. This is so that snapping the wrist band will not be perceived as aversive to the user. The disclosed wrist band has the dual functions of providing a non-aversive behavioral modification device together with providing continuous and differential stimulation of the L-7 acupuncture point, which has therapeutic value in treatment of smoking addiction.

Abstract: A belt for providing individual pressure points in a user's lower back region in order to alleviate back pain. The belt is secured about the waist and includes a main panel positioned against the lower back region. The main panel includes several apertures corresponding to possible points of therapy. Threaded pins are inserted into the apertures corresponding to a point in the lower back where pain is being experienced. The pins are rotated through the main panel into the lower back thus providing pressure to the point of interest in the lower back. The pressure can be adjusted by rotation of the pin as desired.

Abstract: This invention generally concerns therapeutic appliances for alleviating pain by applying a moderate amount of pressure to specific locations on an individual's hand. The present invention includes a glove having a supple, fitted covering that envelopes at least a portion of a human hand. The glove's covering has an inner surface that is juxtaposed with and contacts the skin of the hand, and to which one or more pressure pads are secured. The appliance's covering urges each pressure pad into intimate contact with the skin of the hand at specific locations thereon for applying a moderate amount of pressure thereto.

Abstract: An acupressure belt for the treatment of lower back pain is formed of a central fabric panel to which opposed elastic panels are affixed. The elastic panels terminate in a pair of end panels which may be joined together to retain the belt about the torso of the wearer. Located on the inner surface of the central panel is a plurality of acupressure-applying protrusions, each of which are individually positionable on the panel. The protrusions are positioned to apply pressure to the L.sub.1 -L.sub.4 acupressure points associated with the lower spine. A pair of overlapping elastic panels are further affixed to the opposed sides of the control panel about the torso with the protrusions in position, whereby acupressure is generated and applied for the relief of lower back pain.

Abstract: A clip to be attached to an ear for alleviating pain includes a first plate having a rough inner surface for placing on a front portion of the ear, a second plate having a smooth inner surface for placing on a rear portion of the ear and an elongated spring connector having one end attached to the first plate and the other end attached to the second plate. The rough inner surface of the first plate has bumps substantially covering the surface. The first and second plates may have differently shaped peripheral contours from each other, and the outer surface of each plate is smooth. The elongated spring connector includes a pair of curved arm portions and a U-shaped portion therebetween, and the arm portions cross each other distally from the U-shaped portion. The spring connector includes a pair of tab portions spaced opposite to each other for pressing together against the force of the spring to open the clip and for releasing to close the clip.

Abstract: A smooth but strong elastic band (1) with a Velcro attachment at one end (2) so that it can be applied tightly around the head to compress dilated blood vessels in order to provide relief of migraine headache pain. Additional firm rubber disks (3) are inserted between the band and the scalp to direct more localized pressure over areas with more severe pain.

Abstract: A specific acupuncture technique for the remedial treatment of various types of baldness by inserting acupuncture needles into selected acupuncture points on multiple meridians. The need for drugs, chemical treatment, surgery, herbs, etc. is eliminated.

Abstract: A therapy tool for applying pressure to muscles of the human body comprising two elongate, rigid bar members each having first and second ends. The first ends are for hand gripping and the second ends are pivotally connected to one another. Each bar member includes three or more protrusions which project transversely from one side of the bar member and which are spaced from one another and from the second end of the respective bar member. Each protrusion applies pressure to the human body at a single area. Preferably there are at least three of the protrusions on each bar member.

Abstract: An acupressure glove enabling safe, accurate and cost-effective application of self-stimulation of acupressure points on the hand and wrist. By producing direct pressure onto an acupressure point via a specifically positioned nodule on the glove's interior surface and guided by the corresponding color-coded locator on the glove's exterior surface an individual can utilize acupressure therapy for a variety of physical complaints. The physical complaints can be comprised of carpal tunnel syndrome, golfer's and tennis elbow, general pain, acute and chronic neck pain, headache, and stress and anxiety.

Abstract: An acupressure glove includes upper and lower skins which closely adhere to the back and palm of a hand, respectively, when worn by a user, the skins defining a cavity therebetween for receiving a hand; a plurality of receiving holes in the upper and lower skins; a plurality of hollow acupressure protuberances for applying acupressure to the hand, the protuberances being positioned within the cavity in association with selected receiving holes, each acupressure protuberance including a flat sheet portion which lies against the inner surface of one skin, a narrow neck portion extending toward the other skin from the flat sheet portion and a bulbous portion extending toward the other skin from the narrow neck portion, the narrow neck portion and the bulbous portion being hollow and the flat sheet portion having an opening which opens into the narrow neck portion; and a plurality of securing protuberances extending into the receiving holes and engaged within the plurality of hollow acupressure protuberances, res

Abstract: A compression device for applying compressive pressures against a patient's limb through means of a flexible, pressurizable sleeve which encloses a limb. The compression device has a pressure control apparatus which includes a microprocessor, a driver circuit and a flow control valve having a stepper motor attached thereto. The microprocessor is programmed to control pressure to the sleeve in conjunction with the driver circuit and the flow control valve by actuating the stepper motor. The microprocessor compares a signal generated by a pressure transducer to a preselected pressure value, it then generates an electrical signal to a driver circuit which in turn sends pulses to the stepper motor to automatically adjust the flow control valve, thus, controlling the flow of fluid therethrough so as to maintain a preselected pressure applied to the limb by the pressure chamber of the sleeve.

Abstract: A clip is disclosed which is attached to the tragus lobe of the ear. The clip has a concave spring with two opposing jaws separated by a slot delineated by an inner surface of the concave spring. The clip also has two opposing pressure pads, each positioned on the end of a different jaw, on the inner surface of the spring, so that they are separated by an opening of the slot. The ear clip additionally has two finger tabs, each having one end attached to an end of a different jaw, on an outer surface of the spring and a second end extending away from the end of the jaw, along the outer surface of the spring.

Abstract: This invention relates to a finger acupuncture needle puncturing position indicating apparatus in which a code reference book of symptoms (103) describing in detail symptoms of affected regions of a human body is attached to a side of the interior surface of a cover (503) on which human body anatomical charts (101) showing proper code numbers for each region are also mounted; underneath the book is a needle box (403) with a door (402) capable of storing a number of needles (401); displayed on a lighted display panel (102) mounted on the body (502) of a case are the palm and back of a hand indicating needle-puncturing positions; and mounted on one side of the body (502) of the case are a keyboard (201) with a number of keys for inputting code numbers from the human body anatomical charts (101) and the code reference book of symptoms (103) as well as a display button (202) for outputting these codes.

Abstract: In an earring for the stimulation of acupuncture points and lines present in the human outer ear which consists of an open-ended annular body of a plastic material having a front end adapted to be received in the outer ear cavity of a wearer and a rear end abutting the rear surface of the outer ear wherein the areas in contact with the outer ear are electrically interconnected and consist of materials which in accordance with their locations in the electrochemical voltage series, provide for a potential and current flow thereacross for the stimulation of the acupuncture points and lines in the outer ear of the wearer of such an earring.

Abstract: The invention creates an elastic variable tension medical device that relieves pain due to injury, disease, ailment, infirmity, condition, or the like. The elastic variable tension medical device is comprised of multiple strips of elastic material stacked one on top of another and forming a stack of elastic strips. Hook and loop fasteners are attached to each end of the elastic variable tension medical device for securing the elastic variable tension medical device around a part of the body. Reinforcing ribs on the elastic variable tension medical device provide increased strength and reduce folding and binding of the elastic material. The elastic variable tension medical device is wrapped around an appropriate part of the body with sufficient tension to relieve the targeted pain. It is adjusted by the user to achieve the desired pain relief.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vein spotter which consists of a flexible band which has a buckle attached to one end and a hook and pile Velcro type of fastener mounted on a first surface. A plurality of protrusion members are mounted on the second surface of the band. The buckle and the hook and pile fastener allow the flexible band to be formed into a loop encircling a limb with the protrusion members pushing into skin, displacing tissue into spaces formed between the projecting members and causing superficial veins to distend and become visible.

Abstract: An acupressure belt for the treatment of lower back pain is formed of a central fabric panel to which opposed elastic panels are affixed. The elastic panels terminate in a pair of end panels which may be joined together to retain the belt about the torso of the wearer. Located on the inner surface of the central panel is a plurality of acupressure-applying protrusions, each of which are individually positionable on the panel. The protrusions are positioned to apply pressure to the L.sub.1 -L.sub.4 acupressure points associated with the lower spine. A pair of overlapping elastic panels are further affixed to the opposed sides of the control panel about the torso with the protrusions in position, whereby acupressure is generated and applied for the relief of lower back pain.

Abstract: An acupuncture treatment pad includes a flexible backing sheet having a multiplicity of similarly constructed rigid blocks at spaced points along the sheet surface. Each block has at least one tapered protuberance extending away from the sheet surface to form a relatively sharp edge or point; each protuberance can be a conical needle element, or alternately, a triangular cross-section knife element. When the pad is held under pressure against a person's body the sharpened protuberances act as acupuncture elements to stimulate nerve endings under the skin, thereby increasing the blood circulation and relieving pain experienced in damaged tissue deprived of adequate blood flow.

Abstract: As an improvement to the utility and techniques of hand reflexology, a hand reflexology glove (54) comprised of a pliant plastic material is intended for placement upon a hand (14). A hand reflexology zone morphological map (50) along with a plurality of reflex zone lines (24L, 26, 28, 30 and 32) provide an accurate hand reflexology guidance interface during a reflexology treatment (60) being performed by a hand (34). Reflexology glove (54) directly overlays actual organ and bodily function reflex receptor zone points naturally occurring in hand (14), allowing an individual to instantly and accurately access any hand reflex receptor zone of interest.

Abstract: An acupressure foot massage mat (10) that is molded of a resilient material and consists of an upper surface (12) and a non-slip lower surface (16). On the upper surface are randomly located a multiplicity of cone shaped protrusions (14) that are designed to apply an optimum pressure-point contact to the body. The mat (10) is primarily designed to be placed on a flat surface to provide an acupressure massage when a user walks on the mat. However, it can also be hung on a wall or draped over a chair or automobile seat to apply a massage to the buttocks and back. The mat design also incorporates an attachment means that allows two or more mats to be joined so that several persons can obtain an acupressure massage at the same time.

Abstract: An ocular pressure-reducing device is used to compress the eyelids over the eyeball to help eliminate lymph and/or fluids in the eyelid and orbit, which have been injected or may have accumulated naturally, and which reduces intraocular pressure without primary pressure on the cornea. The device is a hollow bulb which is attached to an elastic band or other mechanism for accommodating placement around a patient's head. An indentation in the base of the bulb has a radius and a curvature such that the indentation fits over the cornea thereby preventing excessive pressure on the cornea. The bulb has a given wall strength which allows it to invaginate between 10 mmHg and 60 mmHg over a narrow range of pressure, thereby further preventing an excessive pressure application on the eye. The invaginated bulb presses against the lids and orbital structures to facilitate removal of fluids in these structures.

Abstract: A device for stimulating intramuscular fluid pressure is disclosed having a first tool component having a base member with top and bottom, and a cylindrical member. The cylindrical member is wrapped about the base member intermediate the top and bottom and has an outer sidewall surface. The first tool component also has a wedge-shaped member with a front face, a rear face, and a bottom surface. The wedge-shaped member is attached to the base member intermediate the top and the cylindrical member. The device also has a second tool component, having a second base member with a top, a bottom, and a cylindrical member wrapped about the second base member inermediate the second base member top and bottom.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a medical device which mechanically applies and maintains pressure to a pressure point to relieve pain. The device includes a locking mechanism to lock an adjustable clamp to a selected position to apply a selected amount of pressure and a fine tuning mechanism to precisely adjust the amount of pressure. A mechanical release and a safety device are also provided to release pressure if the exerted pressure exceeds a safe amount.

Abstract: A method of alleviating morning sickness in pregnant women resides in the application of a continuum of a controlled amount of pressure to the Neiguan acupressure points on both forearms of the patient. This is achieved by the use of a pair of pressure applying devices, each of which is adapted to be secured to a respective one of the patient's forearms.Each such device comprises a strap of a length to encompass forearms of various girths, a protuberance on the strap for localized engagement with the Neiguan point on the patient's forearm, and adjustable securements on the strap for adjustably securing the strap about the patient's forearm with said protuberance engaging the Neiguan point and for adjusting the amount of pressure applied about the arm and onto said point.

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods and apparatus for compartmentalizing and carrying out hemostasis of a massively bleeding internal bodily organ of a patient. Generally, the apparatus includes a flexible compartment-defining structure having physical dimensions sufficient to generally conform to the gross geometry of a substantial portion of the organ. The flexible compartment-defining structure has an inner and outer surface, and is configurable so as surround and compartmentalize a substantial portion of the organ, with the inner surface facing the external surface of the organ. The apparatus of the present invention can be used to carry out hemostasis and/or the collection of blood for reprocessing and subsequent introduction to the patient by auto-transfusion. In another embodiment of the present invention, apparatus manipulates the surface-temperature of an internal bodily organ is also provided.

Abstract: A sensing device for determining the sensory responses of the human skin to evaluate the fiber-receptor nervous system of the human body, primarily in connection with the measurement of the ability to discriminate separate points of touch of the hand. The sensing device includes electronic sensors for determining the displacement, or force, acting on individually mounted prongs or pins which are positioned to engage and apply a load to a human body. The force sensors provide not only the load individually to each of the prongs, but also the average load applied to the surface of the human body by the two prongs.

Abstract: Headaches may be relieved by separating the middle and forefinger of each hand and simultaneously applying pressure to the back of the hand side of the webs of skin extending between the bases of the middle and forefingers on each hand. An apparatus for performing the method includes a plate 10 for receiving both hands of the person suffering the headache and which is provided with a pair of spaced parallel arms 24 pivoted to the plate 10 such that corresponding ends 26 overlie the plate. Skin web engaging pads 30 are located on the ends 26.

Abstract: A compression orb for use in combination with known bandage means to simulate manual digital pressure hemostasis following an arterial or venous puncture. The orb is formed from transparent plastic and is shaped as a hollow dome having a central, raised bulb or second, smaller dome which is integrally formed with and extends from the first domed portion. The flat, circular surface of the orb is releasably attached to the bandage means and the raised bulb portion of the orb is pressed upon the puncture site by means of the secured bandage. The bandage means includes a transparent window through which the orb and puncture site may be viewed without having to lift the bandage and orb from the wound to check for bleeding.

Abstract: A pressure applicator for thoracic wounds is disclosed. The device includes a strap for encircling a patient's thorax. The strap has a pair of opposing ends. A cup element is attachable to the strap and has a rim for engaging the paatients's thorax around the wound. The strap is selectively secured in place about the thorax to urge the cup element against the thorax with sufficient pressure to at least partially seal the wound.

Abstract: A hand operated tool for deactivating or detriggering pain or trigger points in the body is presented. This tool comprises a slightly curved elongated handle which terminates in a flattened section. The flattened section includes a round protrusion extending perpendicular therefrom and an eye hook at the tip thereof. A flexible strap is provided through the eye hook.