APPARATUS
United States Patent 3866605
An apparatus for promoting relaxation and gentle exercise of the lower spinal and pelvic muscles comprising a movable, upper-torso supporting means and an adjustable knee and lower leg supporting means whereby the pelvis is freely suspended.
US Patent References:
Mechanical body manipulating reclinable chair
Herrmeyer - November 1954 - 2695017
Leg support and traction means
Sanders - October 1956 - 2768622
/3124126.html
Spinks - March 1964 - 3124126
Medical therapy table
Bevilacqua - October 1968 - 3404679
Mechanical body manipulating reclinable chair
Herrmeyer - November 1954 - 2695017
Leg support and traction means
Sanders - October 1956 - 2768622
/3124126.html
Spinks - March 1964 - 3124126
Medical therapy table
Bevilacqua - October 1968 - 3404679
Application Number:
05/346996
Publication Date:
02/18/1975
Filing Date:
04/02/1973
View Patent Images:
Export Citation:
Primary Class:
International Classes:
A61G15/00; A61F5/00
Field of Search:
128/68-71,75
Primary Examiner:
Trapp, Lawrence W.
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Dewey, Robert H.
Claims:
1. An apparatus for promoting relaxation and gentle exercise of the muscles of the lower back and pelvic area so adapted that said pelvic area is suspended comprising:
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the said backrest means is inclined to
3. An apparatus in the form of a tiltback chair adapted to permit light exercise and relaxation of the lumbar and pelvic regions comprising:
4. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said angle is adjustable and can be
5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said back-rest is movably mounted on
6. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said back-rest is movably mounted on
7. An apparatus for promoting relaxation and gentle exercise of the muscles of the lower back and pelvic regions comprising:
8. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said knee-supporting means is mounted permitting flexure of the knees to less than 90°.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the said backrest means is inclined to
3. An apparatus in the form of a tiltback chair adapted to permit light exercise and relaxation of the lumbar and pelvic regions comprising:
4. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said angle is adjustable and can be
5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said back-rest is movably mounted on
6. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said back-rest is movably mounted on
7. An apparatus for promoting relaxation and gentle exercise of the muscles of the lower back and pelvic regions comprising:
8. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said knee-supporting means is mounted permitting flexure of the knees to less than 90°.
Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to an apparatus to assist in the relief of lower back pain. In a particular aspect, this invention relates to an apparatus which is effective for promoting relaxation, mild stretching and permitting gentle exercise of the muscles of the lower spine and pelvic region.
Lower back pain resulting from strain and spasm of the lower back muscles, especially those of the lower spine and pelvic regions, is a common and excruciating malady. Bed rest, application of heat, and massage to alleviate muscle spasm and/or soreness, and bracing of various degrees are often prescribed. Lower back pain often tends to become chronic or to recur frequently so none of these methods is wholly satisfactory. Bed rest is economically severe for those whose means of livelihood require physical activity so it is sought only as a last resort. Heat treatment and massage are of a temporary nature, and the latter at least must be performed by a trained physiotherapist. Bracing, while common, is only partially effective and also uncomfortable and restrictive to the wearer.
A number of previous inventors have attempted to provide a solution to this problem. For example, R. Schwab, U.S. Pat. No. 3,659,594 provided an apparatus with knee-supporting saddles from which the patient may be suspended head downward to permit manipulation. B. Hilyard, U.S. Pat. No. 3,709,216 provided a spine adjustment mechanism which holds the pelvic bones rigidly, so that when a person causes his upper torso to swing, an "adjustment" of the spinal vertebrae is achieved.
Although these devices have been helpful, they suffer certain disadvantages. For example, the apparatus of Hilyard does not relieve the effect of gravity and may not be successful in relieving muscle spasm. The device of Schwab is complicated and is primarily suitable for use in an institution by a trained operator. A person would find great difficulty in using the apparatus without assistance.
Accordingly a need exists for a means of alleviating lower back pain due to muscle strain and/or spasm which can be used by a patient with little or no assistance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of this invention to provide an apparatus to assist in the relief of lower back pain.
It is another object of this invention to provide an apparatus which is effective for promoting relaxation, mild stretching and gentle exercise of the muscles of the lower back and pelvic region.
A third object of this invention is to provide an apparatus which can be used by a person without need of a trained operator.
Still other objects of this invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein.
The apparatus of the present invention comprises (a) a frame adjustably mounted on legs or other supportive members at a preselected angle of from about 0° to about 20° from the horizontal, (b) an adjustable, rigid means for supporting the knees in trapeze fashion and adapted to be linearly adjustable from said frame, and (c) a supporting means for the upper back, shoulders and head. The weight of a person using the invention will be distributed between the knee support and the back support leaving the lower back and pelvic area freely suspended.
In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus takes the form of a chair mounted on generally arcuate rockers and capable of being tilted backwardly until it comes in contact with the floor and the frame is at a pre-selected angle of 0°-20°, preferably 5°-20°, from the horizontal.
With reference to the drawings:
FIG. 1 shows a general view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus tilted back and in use. Also shown in broken lines is the apparatus in upright position.
FIG. 2 is a front view showing the apparatus in upright position.
FIG. 3 is a top view taken at the section of line 3 in FIG. 2 showing the details of the adjustable knee and ankle support.
FIG. 4 is a side view of a non-tilting embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken at about F or F 1 showing the roller and track.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment wherein the roller and track are replaced by a skid.
DETAILED DISCUSSION
With reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 the preferred embodiment of the invention constitutes a tilt-back chair having a back-frame 1 with handles 8 attached to a seat frame 2 preferably with cushion 11, connected to supporting members 3 attached to rockers 5 and having arm rests 4. Extensions 7 of the seat frame are fitted with slots 13 adapted to engage padded knee support 6 having attached thereto ankle leverage bars 12. A back-stop 14 is also provided. A supporting means for the upper back, shoulders and head, hereinafter designated the back-rest 9, preferably with cushion 10, is mounted on said frame either stationary and spaced upwardly from said seat frame and cushion, or preferably linearly, movably mounted, e.g. on rollers 16 with a track therefor 17, as shown in FIG. 5 or on skid 18 as shown in FIG. 6, on back frame 1 and is adapted to move from position D when upright to position E when titled. With respect to rocker 5, the arc AB is on a radius of, for example, about 3 ft., but arc BC is on a radius sufficiently less than the radius of arc AB that the chair will remain in the tilt-back position without risk of inadvertently returning to the upright position. The preselected angle can be provided by hinged members not shown, pivotably attached to back frame 1 near the top and adapted to be brought into position to control the angle. These members can be substituted for back-stop 14.
It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the tilt-back feature can be provided by eliminating rocker 5 and pivotably and adjustably mounting frame 1 and seat frame 2 to supporting members 3. Back frame 1 and seat frame 5 will be in a fixed relationship.
FIG. 4 is a simplified embodiment showing back frame 1 mounted at about 12° from horizontal. Generally, however, in this embodiment it is preferred that the back rest be more or less horizontal because it is difficult for a person to position himself on it if the back rest is at an angle. Member 2 which formed a seat frame in the preferred embodiment becomes a leg and supporting member 7 for adjustable knee support 6 with ankle brace member 12. This embodiment is also provided with slots as in FIG. 3 but they are not shown in this drawing.
In another embodiment, which can also be employed with the tilt-back chair of FIG. 1, supporting member 7 is pivotably mounted at about its point of attachment with frame 1 and is adapted to be freely movable through an angle of about 80° to about 110° from horizontal. Similarly knee support 6 can be pivotably mounted to member 7 to make possible a natural knee flexure within about 30°-90° and permits a desirable freedom of movement. Knee support 6 can also be provided in a divided form, one for each knee, because it is not necessary that the knees be identically positioned.
FIG. 4 is shown provided with back-rest 9 with cushion 10 movably mounted, e.g., on rollers 16 with tracks 17 (FIG. 5) or on a polished skid 18, FIG. 6. If preferred, back-rest 9 can be eliminated and cushion 10 can be mounted more or less stationary on frame 1. In either case, cushion 10 and/or back-rest 9 is spaced from member 7 and is adapted to support the head, shoulders and upper back and permit the pelvis to be freely suspended. As can readily be seen, this embodiment can be easily provided by a table with a cushion to which is attached an adjustable knee support.
Particularly in the embodiment of FIG. 1, a stop means is provided for back-rest 9 so that its distance of movement is controlled. This can be effected by providing an interior obstruction to stop the frame at about E, or frame 1 can be lengthened to the desired limit of movement of back-rest 9 and provided with a suitable stopping means for blocking the path of the back-rest. Many means will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
In the practice of the present invention, a person sits in the chair in the upright position and adjusts knee support 6 to his dimensions. A second person then tilts the chair backward to its tilt-back position, having previously selected the preferred angle. The back-rest 9 then slides downwardly due to gravity leaving the lower back and pelvic area suspended as shown in FIG. 1. While in this position, the person is encouraged to perform a variety of pelvic motions to the extent that pain permits. The time spent in the chair is optional with the person, but generally 5-15 minutes 3 or 4 times per day is sufficient to provide relief. Short periods of bed rest between these periods is also helpful. In severe cases, relief may not be obtained for several days. The pelvic motions consist of, e.g., forward pelvic tilts, arching of the back and relaxation, and twisting movements. A formalized routine is seldom necessary for the movements arise instinctively and the person quickly learns those motions which provide the greatest relief. At the end of the period of use, the second person will preferably return the chair to the upright position.
The apparatus of FIG. 4 is advantageous, especially when frame 1 is horizontal, in that the assistance of a second person is not needed. Otherwise the person uses it in the same manner as the preferred embodiment. However, when a person is in a great deal of pain and is virtually incapable of executing movements requiring spinal flexibility, he may find it difficult to mount this embodiment of the invention. Therefore the embodiment of FIG. 1 is preferred.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous variations of construction are possible without departing from the concept of this invention. For example, metal rods can be substituted for extensions 7 and instead of slots 13, the knee support can be provided with setscrews engageable with the rod for making adjustments.
This invention relates to an apparatus to assist in the relief of lower back pain. In a particular aspect, this invention relates to an apparatus which is effective for promoting relaxation, mild stretching and permitting gentle exercise of the muscles of the lower spine and pelvic region.
Lower back pain resulting from strain and spasm of the lower back muscles, especially those of the lower spine and pelvic regions, is a common and excruciating malady. Bed rest, application of heat, and massage to alleviate muscle spasm and/or soreness, and bracing of various degrees are often prescribed. Lower back pain often tends to become chronic or to recur frequently so none of these methods is wholly satisfactory. Bed rest is economically severe for those whose means of livelihood require physical activity so it is sought only as a last resort. Heat treatment and massage are of a temporary nature, and the latter at least must be performed by a trained physiotherapist. Bracing, while common, is only partially effective and also uncomfortable and restrictive to the wearer.
A number of previous inventors have attempted to provide a solution to this problem. For example, R. Schwab, U.S. Pat. No. 3,659,594 provided an apparatus with knee-supporting saddles from which the patient may be suspended head downward to permit manipulation. B. Hilyard, U.S. Pat. No. 3,709,216 provided a spine adjustment mechanism which holds the pelvic bones rigidly, so that when a person causes his upper torso to swing, an "adjustment" of the spinal vertebrae is achieved.
Although these devices have been helpful, they suffer certain disadvantages. For example, the apparatus of Hilyard does not relieve the effect of gravity and may not be successful in relieving muscle spasm. The device of Schwab is complicated and is primarily suitable for use in an institution by a trained operator. A person would find great difficulty in using the apparatus without assistance.
Accordingly a need exists for a means of alleviating lower back pain due to muscle strain and/or spasm which can be used by a patient with little or no assistance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of this invention to provide an apparatus to assist in the relief of lower back pain.
It is another object of this invention to provide an apparatus which is effective for promoting relaxation, mild stretching and gentle exercise of the muscles of the lower back and pelvic region.
A third object of this invention is to provide an apparatus which can be used by a person without need of a trained operator.
Still other objects of this invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein.
The apparatus of the present invention comprises (a) a frame adjustably mounted on legs or other supportive members at a preselected angle of from about 0° to about 20° from the horizontal, (b) an adjustable, rigid means for supporting the knees in trapeze fashion and adapted to be linearly adjustable from said frame, and (c) a supporting means for the upper back, shoulders and head. The weight of a person using the invention will be distributed between the knee support and the back support leaving the lower back and pelvic area freely suspended.
In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus takes the form of a chair mounted on generally arcuate rockers and capable of being tilted backwardly until it comes in contact with the floor and the frame is at a pre-selected angle of 0°-20°, preferably 5°-20°, from the horizontal.
With reference to the drawings:
FIG. 1 shows a general view of the preferred embodiment of the apparatus tilted back and in use. Also shown in broken lines is the apparatus in upright position.
FIG. 2 is a front view showing the apparatus in upright position.
FIG. 3 is a top view taken at the section of line 3 in FIG. 2 showing the details of the adjustable knee and ankle support.
FIG. 4 is a side view of a non-tilting embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken at about F or F 1 showing the roller and track.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment wherein the roller and track are replaced by a skid.
DETAILED DISCUSSION
With reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 the preferred embodiment of the invention constitutes a tilt-back chair having a back-frame 1 with handles 8 attached to a seat frame 2 preferably with cushion 11, connected to supporting members 3 attached to rockers 5 and having arm rests 4. Extensions 7 of the seat frame are fitted with slots 13 adapted to engage padded knee support 6 having attached thereto ankle leverage bars 12. A back-stop 14 is also provided. A supporting means for the upper back, shoulders and head, hereinafter designated the back-rest 9, preferably with cushion 10, is mounted on said frame either stationary and spaced upwardly from said seat frame and cushion, or preferably linearly, movably mounted, e.g. on rollers 16 with a track therefor 17, as shown in FIG. 5 or on skid 18 as shown in FIG. 6, on back frame 1 and is adapted to move from position D when upright to position E when titled. With respect to rocker 5, the arc AB is on a radius of, for example, about 3 ft., but arc BC is on a radius sufficiently less than the radius of arc AB that the chair will remain in the tilt-back position without risk of inadvertently returning to the upright position. The preselected angle can be provided by hinged members not shown, pivotably attached to back frame 1 near the top and adapted to be brought into position to control the angle. These members can be substituted for back-stop 14.
It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the tilt-back feature can be provided by eliminating rocker 5 and pivotably and adjustably mounting frame 1 and seat frame 2 to supporting members 3. Back frame 1 and seat frame 5 will be in a fixed relationship.
FIG. 4 is a simplified embodiment showing back frame 1 mounted at about 12° from horizontal. Generally, however, in this embodiment it is preferred that the back rest be more or less horizontal because it is difficult for a person to position himself on it if the back rest is at an angle. Member 2 which formed a seat frame in the preferred embodiment becomes a leg and supporting member 7 for adjustable knee support 6 with ankle brace member 12. This embodiment is also provided with slots as in FIG. 3 but they are not shown in this drawing.
In another embodiment, which can also be employed with the tilt-back chair of FIG. 1, supporting member 7 is pivotably mounted at about its point of attachment with frame 1 and is adapted to be freely movable through an angle of about 80° to about 110° from horizontal. Similarly knee support 6 can be pivotably mounted to member 7 to make possible a natural knee flexure within about 30°-90° and permits a desirable freedom of movement. Knee support 6 can also be provided in a divided form, one for each knee, because it is not necessary that the knees be identically positioned.
FIG. 4 is shown provided with back-rest 9 with cushion 10 movably mounted, e.g., on rollers 16 with tracks 17 (FIG. 5) or on a polished skid 18, FIG. 6. If preferred, back-rest 9 can be eliminated and cushion 10 can be mounted more or less stationary on frame 1. In either case, cushion 10 and/or back-rest 9 is spaced from member 7 and is adapted to support the head, shoulders and upper back and permit the pelvis to be freely suspended. As can readily be seen, this embodiment can be easily provided by a table with a cushion to which is attached an adjustable knee support.
Particularly in the embodiment of FIG. 1, a stop means is provided for back-rest 9 so that its distance of movement is controlled. This can be effected by providing an interior obstruction to stop the frame at about E, or frame 1 can be lengthened to the desired limit of movement of back-rest 9 and provided with a suitable stopping means for blocking the path of the back-rest. Many means will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
In the practice of the present invention, a person sits in the chair in the upright position and adjusts knee support 6 to his dimensions. A second person then tilts the chair backward to its tilt-back position, having previously selected the preferred angle. The back-rest 9 then slides downwardly due to gravity leaving the lower back and pelvic area suspended as shown in FIG. 1. While in this position, the person is encouraged to perform a variety of pelvic motions to the extent that pain permits. The time spent in the chair is optional with the person, but generally 5-15 minutes 3 or 4 times per day is sufficient to provide relief. Short periods of bed rest between these periods is also helpful. In severe cases, relief may not be obtained for several days. The pelvic motions consist of, e.g., forward pelvic tilts, arching of the back and relaxation, and twisting movements. A formalized routine is seldom necessary for the movements arise instinctively and the person quickly learns those motions which provide the greatest relief. At the end of the period of use, the second person will preferably return the chair to the upright position.
The apparatus of FIG. 4 is advantageous, especially when frame 1 is horizontal, in that the assistance of a second person is not needed. Otherwise the person uses it in the same manner as the preferred embodiment. However, when a person is in a great deal of pain and is virtually incapable of executing movements requiring spinal flexibility, he may find it difficult to mount this embodiment of the invention. Therefore the embodiment of FIG. 1 is preferred.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous variations of construction are possible without departing from the concept of this invention. For example, metal rods can be substituted for extensions 7 and instead of slots 13, the knee support can be provided with setscrews engageable with the rod for making adjustments.