Abstract: A traction extension table used to aid the user in performing assisted lower back and abdominal extensions for the treatment of bulging/herniated lumbar discs. The table has a frame constructed utilizing a plurality of cushioned sections forming the table's top with one movable along a roller assembly mating with the table frame for section relocation and releasable securement upon relocation. Another is contoured to have table frame supported hand-placement supports at the head. The contoured cushion is hingedly attached to the table frame and also connected to at least one shock absorber. To better accommodate the user, the pads have lumbar and chest harnesses to keep the user in position while performing an exercise while the chest pad has a face hole to accommodate the user's nose while lying face down on the table.

Abstract: A traction device for use on a support surface which includes a body contacting assembly which releasably contacts the a suitable anatomical region of the patient, a gas spring and associated assembly, the gas spring variable between an extended rest position and a retracted force exerting position, and means of relieving traction force exerted by the gas spring and associated assembly.

Abstract: A spinal treatment apparatus for applying a force to a patient includes a base portion, a telescoping support, a spinal distraction device and an actuator. The telescoping support is mounted on the base portion and includes a bottom member and a top member. The top member is engaged with the bottom member so that the top member has a retracted position and an extended position. The telescoping support is capable of withstanding a force, corresponding to the spinal treatment force, imparted on the top member, while in both the retracted position and the extended position. The spinal distraction device is mounted on the top member and applies the spinal treatment force to the patient. The actuator moves the top member vertically relative to the bottom member.

Abstract: A treatment table with a calf/foot assembly includes an upper body support section adapted to support a patient's body, attached to a system support; and a calf/foot assembly pivotally attached to a lower part of the upper body support section, the calf/foot assembly including a calf/foot support, a linear movement mechanism adapted to move the calf/foot support linearly, and a first rotational mechanism adapted to cause a first transverse movement of the calf/foot support transverse to the longitudinal axis of the upper body support section. The treatment table further includes a second rotational mechanism adapted to cause a second transverse movement of the calf/foot support transverse to the longitudinal axis and the first transverse movement. The method of using the treatment table to applying traction to the spine of a patient at varying angles is provided.

Abstract: A spinal traction/decompression device suitable for home or clinical treatment of lumbar and cervical spine pathology. The traction apparatus has a substantially flat upper body support that is moveable with respect to a fixed base. The upper body support is adapted to receive the upper torso of an individual leaning forward in a prone position while kneeling on a knee cushion. A pelvis/hip restraining portion holds the individual's lower torso in position with respect to the fixed base when the upper body support is moved. Lumbar traction may be induced by a user positioning their upper torso on the upper body support and moving it forward or backward with respect to the fixed base. The upper body support may also be divided into two independently moveable sections such that cervical traction can be induced in a neck region of a user. The traction force is preferably supplied by the individual pushing or pulling the upper body support forward with their arms.

Abstract: A system (10) and associated method are provided for mechanically fixating a region of a skull to a portion of a spine. A plate (20) is provided to contact a region of the skull and be secured thereto. A spinal rod (22) is configured to extend from a location adjacent the plate (20) to a location adjacent at least one vertebra (30). A variable connection (24) is provided to secure the rod (22) to the plate (20). The variable connection (24) has a first mode wherein the relative position of the rod (22) to the plate (20) can be adjusted and a second mode wherein the relative position of the rod (22) to the plate (20) is locked at a particular value selected to maintain a desired curvature of the spine.

Abstract: A traction device for use on a support surface which includes a body contacting assembly which releasably contacts the a suitable anatomical region of the patient, a gas spring and associated assembly, the gas spring variable between an extended rest position and a contracted force exerting position, and means of relieving traction force exerted by the gas spring and associated assembly.

Abstract: Inflammation of the muscles of the posterior thoracic spine can lead to a number of physical ailments. This inflammation can have a number of causes, one typical cause being overuse in a work environment leading to stress or tension within these muscles. Although many related physical ailments can be treated with medication and a properly prescribed and maintained exercise program, at present, an effective, simple-to-use and inexpensive means for correcting the position of the thoracic spine is not available. Embodiments of the present invention provides a resilient pad that is adapted to be interposed between the upper thoracic spine of a user and a substantially hard surface.

Abstract: A calf/foot support and treatment table for extension, flexion, traction, distraction and lateral movement of the body of a patient includes a base adapted to rest upon a floor, and a system support assembly having an upper end and a lower end integrally secured to the base, a rigid support platform having a lower part and an upper part, the support platform pivotally secured to a pivot axle of said system support assembly; a lumbar support assembly disposed on the lower part of the support platform; and a calf/foot support assembly for linear traction.

Abstract: A medical chair has a cranium position regulating device and a pelvis-and-knee position regulating device for respectively regulating the positions of the cranium and pelvis of a subject who sits on a seat. The cranium position regulating device and the pelvis-and-knee position regulating device have structures in which they butt against both right and left sides of the cranium and the pelvis, respectively, to cause both planes centered in a right-and-left direction of the cranium and the pelvis to be in a same central plane which extends in the direction of gravity. An ideal condition of the body of the subject in which vertical and horizontal balances are achieved against the force of gravity can be achieved to ensure physiological curvature of vertebrae and the condition can be maintained.

Abstract: A back support (6) comprising a first support element (7) adapted to be mounted on a seat back (3), and a second support element (21) adapted to be mounted to the back of a user, the elements (7, 21) each being provided with securing means (7?, 24) to secure the support elements (7, 21) together when the support elements (7, 21) are placed together. The arrangement is such that, in use, the first support element (7) supports the second support element (21) so that the back of a user of the back support (6) is in traction. The means to secure the elements together comprises a hook-and-loop-type pad on each support element (7, 21) or a tongue and groove arrangement.

Abstract: A device for preventing or relieving pain in the lower back of a human subject includes a body-engaging element configured for engaging a region of the subject's body inferior to the lumbar vertebrae while the subject lies in a supine position. A drive mechanism is configured to move the body-engaging element through a repetitive cyclic motion which includes an operative motion along a first path including a primarily vertical lifting motion followed by a primarily horizontal tensioning motion, and a return motion along a second path, the second path lying generally below the first path. The body-engaging element preferably includes at least one surface configured for engaging a rear surface of both of the subject's legs from the knees downwards.

Abstract: A neck traction device for delivering or imposing a tension force on the neck area of a person. The traction device includes a rigid vertical support member that has a connector for engaging a support surface. A neck cradle having a pair of rigid spaced apart arms adapted for engaging the scull at a location below the occipital bone is mounted from the rigid vertical member to allow a person to use his weight against the cradle to impose a tension force on the person's neck.

Abstract: A therapeutic treatment machine alternatingly applies compression and traction to a patient. A frame includes: a platform having an upper body support pad with controllable resistance to forward and backward displacement; rollers supporting the lower back, buttocks and thighs; and a motor-driven foot support displaceable forward and backward predetermined distances and speeds. Tubular frame members fit over and adhesively engage arms projecting orthogonally from a corner section. Legs telescopically receive leg support members extending orthogonally from the arms. Compression and traction are each forcefully effected by motor rotation converted to longitudinal reciprocation of a linkage that drives the foot support. The patient's feet are held in place against footplates by clamps supported on a T-bar cross member having a stem extending forwardly through a longitudinal slot in the footplates.

Abstract: A chiropractic table for treatment of a patient when the patient is in a lordotic, relaxed posture lying prone on the table, includes a base and a padded frame mounted to the base. The frame has an upper side shaped to form an elongate upper surface extending in a generally horizontal longitudinal direction. The upper surface is arcuately shaped, when viewed in lateral cross-section orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. The upper surface has downwardly curved sides extending downwardly and oppositely from an uppermost ridge-line surface extending the length of the upper surface. The ridge-line surface has a face-resting concavity formed thereon at a first end of the upper surface. The concavity is adapted to receive in resting relation thereon the face of the patient when lying prone along and astride the ridge-line surface.

Abstract: A foot-and-calf support and treatment table for extension, flexion, traction, distraction and lateral movement of the spine and lower body of a patient includes a base adapted to rest upon a floor, and a system support assembly having an upper end and a lower end integrally secured to the base, the support assembly including a pivot axis proximal to upper end. The treatment table also includes a selectable reciprocal extension element having an upper end and a lower end, one end pivotally attached to the system support assembly, the selectable extension elements providing reciprocal movement of the one end relative to an opposite end. The table further includes a rigid support platform having an upper end and a lower end, the platform pivotally secured to the pivot axis of the support assembly and, further, pivotally secured to the one end of the selectable extension element to provide a resultant rotational motion of the support platform.

Abstract: A rotatable chiropractic treatment table for extension, flexion, traction, distraction and lateral movement of the spine of a patient includes a base adapted to rest upon a floor, and a system support assembly having an upper end and a lower end integrally secured to the base, the support assembly including a pivot axis proximal to upper end. The treatment table also includes a selectable reciprocal extension element having an upper end and a lower end, one end pivotally attached to the system support assembly, the selectable extension elements providing reciprocal movement of the one end relative to an opposite end. The table further includes a rigid support platform having an upper end and a lower end, the platform pivotally secured to the pivot axis of the support assembly and, further, pivotally secured to the one end of the selectable extension element to provide a resultant rotational motion of the support platform.

Abstract: The present invention is for a controlled therapeutic traction device utilizing a warmed hypertonic solution or other fluid of sufficient specific gravity to float the patient in a relaxing, relatively weightless environment. Traction is applied to a portion of the patient's body using various means to apply tension to that portion of the body, while the remainder of the patient's body continues to be suspended in the fluid.

Abstract: A device for selectively applying tractive forces to a user's back. In some embodiments, the device is an isometric exercise device. In some embodiments, the device is a portable, collapsible device. In some embodiments, the device enables a user to selectively adjust and control the magnitude and/or application region of the tractive forces while the device is being used. In some embodiments, the user-exerted tractive force is applied to handle portions of the device and transmitted to a lower extremity engaging portion of the device. In some embodiments, the device is configured such that a user can connect and remove the user's lower extremities from the device without requiring the manual manipulation of the mounts used to selectively retain the user's lower extremities. In some embodiments, the device is adjustable for use by a wide variety of differently sized individuals.

Abstract: A traction force applying apparatus includes a frame that has a first support bar, a second support bar and a third support bar. The second support bar is fixedly connected to the first support bar adjacent to a first end thereof. The third support bar is fixedly connected to the first support bar near a second end thereof. A first set of plurality of hooks are fixedly attached to a first side of the first support bar. A second set of plurality of hooks are fixedly attached to a first side of the second support bar. A one-way tensioning cleat is fixedly connected to the first support bar. The apparatus also includes a rope that has a first end and a second end. The first end of the rope is selectively connectable to one of the plurality of hooks in the first set and the second set. The rope extends through the cleat to place a desired tension on the rope between the cleat and the first end of the rope. The traction force applying apparatus can be used alone or in combination with a traction table.

Abstract: The invention comprises a chiropractic table having a base, a plurality of frames, a plurality of drop mechanisms, and a plurality of cushions. The base has a longitudinal axis and the plurality of frames are attached to the base. Each frame has a first lateral side and a second lateral side which are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base. In addition, each frame has a pair of transverse sides which are substantially perpendicular to the first and second lateral sides. Each lateral side includes a frame hole. The frame holes in the first lateral side of each frame are substantially identically located with respect to the transverse side associated therewith, and the frame holes in the second lateral side of each frame are substantially identically located with respect to the transverse side associated therewith. The table is also provided with a plurality of cushions, each of which is adapted to be received by a frame.

Abstract: A rotatable chiropractic treatment table for extension, flexion, traction, distraction and lateral movement of the spine of a patient includes a base adapted to rest upon a floor, and a system support assembly having an upper end and a lower end integrally secured to the base, the support assembly including a pivot axis proximal to upper end. The treatment table also includes a selectable reciprocal extension element having an upper end and a lower end, one end pivotally attached to the system support assembly, the selectable extension elements providing reciprocal movement of the one end relative to an opposite end. The table further includes a rigid support platform having an upper end and a lower end, the platform pivotally secured to the pivot axis of the support assembly and, further, pivotally secured to the one end of the selectable extension element to provide a resultant rotational motion of the support platform.

Abstract: A chiropractic treatment table and method for treating a patient's spine for providing true longitudinal distraction alone or in combination with vertical flexion and extension, lateral flexion, and/or rotation. The treatment table includes a longitudinally moveable head support portion slidingly mounted on an anti-friction structure whereby the head support portion is freely moveable with practically no frictional or drag. In view of the anti-friction structure, the net longitudinal distraction force is primarily only that which is applied by the chiropractor thereby not requiring adjustment or compensation for drag or other forces, and thereby providing the chiropractor substantially improved control of the actual applied distraction force for administering the desired distraction.

Abstract: A wedge pillow that is placed under the patient to reduce the risk of hypoxia or aspiration associated with endotracheal intubation. The wedge pillow raises the angle of the thoracic spine and provides a platform and pressure point relief for the back of the head. This allows excessive and redundant tissue to fall away from the head and neck, thereby allowing excellent positioning, easy access to the oropharynx, and perfect sniffing position for direct visualization of the glottic opening. An extended arm cushion is also provided that may be used in conjunction with the wedge pillow to prevent or minimizes the amount of hyperextension of the arm at the shoulder joint during surgery. The arm cushion also provides pressure point relief to the arms keeps the arm from becoming malpositioned during surgery.

Abstract: This present invention relates to a digitized control three-dimensional spinal orthopaedic device for cure injured spinal. The device comprises a bed body, a head-chest plate and a breech-leg plate. The bed body has a frame configuration, and comprises a top bed body and a bottom bed body. The head-chest plate is fixed on the top bed body. A traction means of the head-chest plate and an angle means of the breech-leg plate are fixed into the top bed body. The breech-leg plate is supported by a swinging arm. A left-to-right angle means is located under the breech-leg plate. A connecting shaft of the angle means is connected to the up-to-down swinging arm by a cross rod, so the head-chest plate is integrated with the breech-leg plate. The present spinal orghopaedic device can enable the bed body to go up and down automatically, the head-chest plate can vibrate and be drawn at a high or low speed, and the breech-leg plate moves up to down, rotates left to right and vibrate.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable spinal adjustment apparatus and method for assisting a user thereof to adjust the user's spine. The apparatus includes an elongate member which defines a substantially convex substantially rigid surface which is disposed between a first end and a second end of the elongate member. The convex rigid surface features a radius of about 2 to 4 inches, thereby defining a first side and a second side, and a length suitable to cooperate with and transversely support a body region of the user. The first end of the elongate member supports the elongate member during use thereof such that the convex rigid surface is facing upward, and the second end of the elongate member also supports the elongate member during use thereof such that the convex rigid surface is horizontal.

Abstract: A rotatable chiropractic treatment table for extension, flexion, traction, distraction and lateral movement of the spine of a patient includes a base adapted to rest upon a floor, and a system support assembly having an upper end and a lower end integrally secured to the base, the support assembly including a pivot axis proximal to upper end. The treatment table also includes a selectable reciprocal extension element having an upper end and a lower end, one end pivotally attached to the system support assembly, the selectable extension elements providing reciprocal movement of the one end relative to an opposite end. The table further includes a rigid support platform having an upper end and a lower end, the platform pivotally secured to the pivot axis of the support assembly and, further, pivotally secured to the one end of the selectable extension element to provide a resultant rotational motion of the support platform.

Abstract: An angularly adjustable traction apparatus (10) for applying traction forces to a patient's limb wherein the apparatus (10) includes a base platform member (20) provided with a rail unit (14) that is raised relative to the base platform member (20) and a limb immobilizing unit (12) and pulley unit (13) slidably disposed on the rail unit (14) and adapted to be angularly adjusted relative thereto; wherein, the pulley unit (13) includes a support post member (50) and a pulley member (60) suspended from the support post member (50) and provided with a bracket element (61) whose height can be varied to the base platform member (20).

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the amount of tension distributed to a patient receiving traction including a gripping structure having a switching sensor to sense action commands from the patient, a control consul communicated with the switching sensor so as to receive action commands from the switching sensor and process the action commands so as to create processed commands, and a traction device for applying tension to the patient, the traction device includes a tensioning device communicated with the control consul so as to receive processed commands from the control consul, wherein the tensioning device controls the traction device so as to engage or disengage the traction device.

Abstract: The invention comprises a chiropractic table having a base, a plurality of frames, a plurality of drop mechanisms, and a plurality of cushions. The base has a longitudinal axis and the plurality of frames are attached to the base. Each frame has a first lateral side and a second lateral side which are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base. In addition, each frame has a pair of transverse sides which are substantially perpendicular to the first and second lateral sides. Each lateral side includes a frame hole. The frame holes in the first lateral side of each frame are substantially identically located with respect to the transverse side associated therewith, and the frame holes in the second lateral side of each frame are substantially identically located with respect to the transverse side associated therewith. The table is also provided with a plurality of cushions, each of which is adapted to be received by a frame.

Abstract: A frame with two parallel foot-retention bars (1) and two handles (7) that extend beside the hips of a user lying on a horizontal surface. A user inserts his/her feet between the foot-retention bars, and pushes downward on the handles to stretch the spine. The handles preferably are adjustably extendable to accommodate different user sizes. The foot retention bars push the feet away from the body, producing traction in the spine. Preferably, the foot retention bars are adjustably separable. Preferably, each of the handle assemblies (5-7) is pivotable 180 degrees to a compact storage position within the respective frame portion (3). Optionally, the device can be shipped partially assembled, for completion by the user.

Abstract: A physiotherapy bench includes a frame supported by legs in an elevated, use position, and an arcuate body supporting panel on the frame. The supporting panel includes a substantially horizontal front end for supporting the chest of a patient, and an inclined rear end for supporting the hips and the upper portion of the legs of a patient, whereby the spine is subjected to gentle traction. A headrest is resiliently connected to the front end of the frame for floating support of the head of a patient.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a three-dimensional spine remedying apparatus, which offers more comprehensive functions and better curative effects, and frees the patient from discomfort during the process of treatment. The apparatus of the invention includes: a frame; a cephalothoracic board and a driving device thereof; a hip-leg board and a driving device thereof; a low-speed draught device; a hip board capable of rotating around the axle Z and a driving device thereof; a device for securing the body of the patient and an adjusting means thereof. The driving devices of said cephalothoracic board, hip-leg board and hip board are high-speed driving devices employing electromagnetic force. Said hip-leg board and hip board are capable of not only rotating by a predetermined angle, but also making high-speed angular oscillation.

Abstract: Rigid left and right side members extend vertically along the user's left and right sides. A girdle that encircles the user is suspended on adjustable straps from the upper ends of the rigid left and right side members. The adjustable straps on opposite sides of the girdle each have a first end permanently affixed to the inside surface of the girdle. The straps extend upward along the user's sides and pass through slots located near the tops of the rigid left and right side members. The straps then extend downwardly to second ends that are removably attached to the outside of the girdle at opposite sides by a hook-and loop fastener. In the front-to-rear direction, the rigid left and right side members coincide with the center of gravity of the lifted weight to avoid pitching moments. The straps by which the girdle is suspended are readily adjustable, thereby promoting the comfort of the user.

Abstract: An improved urological or gynecological examination- and treatment bench of the kind which comprises a frame having a lowermost portion and an uppermost portion, preferably designed as a pivotal arm and raisable and lowerable carrying a back cushion (11) that is individually adjustable at least to its angular position with respect to the horizontal plane, and at least one seat cushion (12) which is similarly individually adjustable to its angular position with respect to the horizontal plane. At least one of the pivatal axis for the angular adjustment of the back cushion (11) or the seat cushion (12) may be released and is arranged in such a manner that it is adjustable in dependence of a change of position of the pivotal axis of the other cushion, so that the two cushions are jointly movable under operation of only one of them and while retaining their mutual angular position.

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

Abstract: An orthopedic apparatus for treating a child afflicted with the Legg Calves Perthes disease. The apparatus includes a telescopic cross-bar adapted to be attached at each ends to the feet of a patient's resting on a bed, to keep his legs spread apart. A post upstands from the foot of the bed and carries pulleys; a rope is trained on the pulleys and is connected at one end to the center of the cross-bar while a weight is attached to the other end of the rope. A constant pull is exerted on the patient's legs while the legs are kept spread apart. The amounts of pull and of leg spread are both adjustable. The present apparatus is destined to be used mainly at the child's home, but only shortly at the hospital, under the supervision of the parents. This apparatus is foldable and is easily carriable in a relatively small case.

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

Abstract: A therapeutic traction table for the treatment of low back pain includes a bed pivotable from a vertical to a horizontal position for facilitating the placement of a person in a horizontal position on the bed. An upper body harness and underarm supports anchor the upper body of the person to the bed. A lower body harness is attached to the lower body pelvic portion of the person, and includes an inflatable air bladder for positioning within the posterior cavity of the lumbar spine formed between the lower back of the person and the bed for relaxing low back muscles during a pulling force on the spine. A traction unit includes a strap connected to the lower body harness for providing a pulling force between the upper body and the lower body.

Abstract: A seat 100 is used with a device 10 for transferring stress from the lumbar spine to the rib cage of a person. The device 10 includes torso embracing members 29 and 30 and a seat 100 supported by the device 10. The seat includes a fluid tight chamber 106 and a fluid control device for controlling flow of fluid into and out of the chamber 106. The chamber has a first height when filled with fluid and a second, lesser height when fluid has been removed from the chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed is a portable apparatus for providing lumbar traction in the home or while traveling which is used in conjunction with a door or gate. The apparatus includes an anchoring device which fits over the top of an ordinary door. The anchor is connected to an adjustable support strap which is attached to a junction box. An adjustable rope passing over a pulley in the junction box is provided with a grip at one end, and a pelvic traction belt at the other end. A locking mechanism is provided on the junction box to set the adjustable rope attached to the traction belt in a desired position. The device is attached over a door, and the user puts on the traction belt and lies down on the floor with knees bent, the soles of both feet flat against the door. By pulling the grip of the rope, the traction belt can be raised to a desired position for traction, and then locked in place. After an appropriate period of traction, the user disengages the lock, and lowers the traction belt.

Abstract: An apparatus for effecting spinal traction on a patient includes a tub containing liquid in which a patient, buoyantly supported by a floatation device, can float in a generally upright position in a state of buoyant equilibrium. The level of the liquid in the tub can be varied, which effects a variation on a traction force acting on the patient as the floatation device seeks new positions of buoyant equilibrium in response to the change in liquid level. The traction force may be generated by one or more weighted devices worn on the body of the patient or by a harness attached to the patient and secured within the tub to resist upward movement of the patient when the liquid level rises in the tub. The liquid level within the tub is varied by a liquid level varying apparatus associated with the tub which operates generally by displacing a volume of liquid within the tub to vary the level of the liquid by an amount corresponding to the volume of displaced liquid.

Abstract: An air injection type stomach band for distracting (e.g. stretching or extending) the lumbar vertebra of disc patients is disclosed. In the air injection type stomach band for distracting the lumbar vertebrae of disc patients, a plurality of air expansion tubes are connected perpendicularly to an air injection tube at equidistant intervals. When air is injected into the air expansion tubes, the air expansion tubes are elastically expanded so as to distract the vertebrae which constitute the lumbar vertebra. When the lumbar vertebrae are pressed, the pulpar nucleus which lies at the center of the fibrous ring is projected out. Then the projected pulpar nucleus presses the nerve, thereby causing pains in the patients. The wearing of the stomach band strengthens the fibrous ring and the lig. longitudinale anterius. Therefore, the pain is alleviated, and prevents the pulpar nucleus from being projected. Therefore, an essential treatment is possible.

Abstract: Apparatus for positioning a human arm for shoulder surgery which includes a clamp for attaching the apparatus to a support, a bracket movably mounted in the clamp, and a forearm pad movably mounted on the bracket and adapted to support the forearm portion of the human arm. A pulley support arm is movably mounted on the bracket and a pulley is mounted on the pulley arm. An upper arm cuff is provided for attachment to the upper arm portion of the human arm. A flexible strand is connected at an upper end to the cuff, extends along the pulley and, at a lower end thereof, receives a selected weight. The weight, in response to gravity, puts tension on the strand which in turn pulls the cuff, and thereby the human upper arm, outwardly from the body to which the arm is appended.

Abstract: A mobile back mounted supporting device for relieving pressure off of the back of a person who has to endure frequent bending. This device permits a wearer to bend over and remain parallel to the ground for extended periods of time without discomfort. It allows maximum movement for the operator since the operating parts do not get in the way. This device consists of a frame to which a chest harness, belt clip, and leg extensions are attached. The chest harness is worn by the worker and is supported by a system of elastic cord and pulleys. The harness pulls up on the upper body as the worker bends forward and thus provides support. The farther the wearer bends forward, the more tension is placed on the cords, and thus more support is given to the back.

Abstract: A distraction pump for manipulation of the spinal column and associated bodily structures having a pump body and two arms coupled to the body, one of the arms being movable relative to the other arm. Each arm has displacement means coupled to it. The distraction pump has a handle that is movable between a non-actuated position and an actuated position and actuator means operatively for causing the two displacement means to be moved from a first relative position when the handle is in the non-actuated position to a second relative position when the handle is in the actuated position.

Abstract: A multi-function chiropractic treatment table for effecting extension, flexion, lateral flexion and distraction of the spine of a patient. The table includes a weighted platform adapted to rest upon a floor, and telescoping vertical elevation units having upper and a lower ends, each upper end secured to a transverse horizontal pivot axis, the lower end integrally secured to the weighted platform. The table further includes a rigid elongate support frame having an upper part and a lower part, the support frame secured to the horizontal pivot axis of the elevation units, the upper part defining a plane tilted convexly relative to a plane defined by the lower part and an assembly means for selectably rotating the rigid support frame upon the transverse horizontal pivot axis.

Abstract: An electro-mechanical traction device is provided which includes a motor driven linear actuator connected to a guided carriage. A second carriage is mounted in tandem with the first on a common guide. The two carriages are connected by a spring. A patient engaging device is connected to the second carriage. The linear actuator and carriage guide are mounted to a common surface. When power is provided to the linear actuator motor, it moves the first carriage. The motion is transmitted through the spring to the second carriage and patient engaging device to provide traction to the patient. Reversing the motor relieves the traction force.

Abstract: A therapeutic method, for simultaneously stretching and lifting a user's lower back while the user is lying on his back on the ground, thereby relieving and preventing lower back pain. The device includes a frame which features a horizontally extending upper cross frame for accommodating the back of the user's knees. In use, the lower end of the frame contacts the ground and serves as a fulcrum. The device further includes a foot rest for accommodating the user's feet. The foot rest is mounted to the frame at a convenient point between the cross frame and the lower end.

Abstract: The body support harness (10) includes an outer strap supported belt (11) placed in the hem (19) of a support assembly (12). The apron (18) suspended between the straps (15 and 16) limits the rotation of the person to approximately 180.degree., so that the person can enter the harness in a standing, upright attitude (FIG. 7), and tilt himself to an inverted attitude (FIG. 8), with the apron (18) limiting movement beyond the legs achieving an upright attitude.