Intermittent passive traction device and method of use

Abstract

A device and method for applying intermittent passive traction (IPT) that includes an initial phase followed by a sustained traction phase and finally a relaxation phase. During the first phase of IPT, the spinal elements are placed under gentle traction. This period of time reduces the normal forces across the vertebral bodies, facet joints, paraspinal musculature, etc. The second phase holds the spine in sustained traction, further reducing the forces across the spinal elements, encouraging natural healing to occur and allowing the muscles a period of relaxation. The third phase includes the gradual reduction of traction. During this final phase, the normal forces across the spine are reestablished as the IPT device slowly releases traction. The method resolves many of the most limiting problems associated with traction, CPM, and passive treatment modalities.

Description

RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e)(1), of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 094,862, entitled Ambulatory Spinal Unloading Method and Apparatus, filed Mar. 31, 2005 by Matthew J. Dunfee and Susan J. Dunfee, and which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 035,485, filed Jan. 15, 2005, by Matthew J. Dunfee and Susan J. Dunfee. Application Ser. Nos. 11 / 094,862 and 11 / 035,485 are incorporated by reference in their entirety herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] This invention relates generally to medical treatment modalities, and more particularly relates to a device and method for implementing intermittent passive traction (IPT) therapy. [0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0005] Continuous passive motion (herein after referred to as CPM) is a well known and established technique used by the medical community to benefit a patient's recovery. The modality relie...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention is a device that combines the benefits of traction and continuous passive motion therapy. This device is affordable and patients can purchase it and use it at home without needing expensive and inconvenient treatment from a clinic. The device consists of a soft vest and an electromechanical traction unit that applies traction to the spine in an intermittent fashion. The device can be adjusted to provide different types of forces and can be tailored to the needs of each patient. Overall, this device provides a cost-effective and effective treatment option for patients with spine issues."

Problems solved by technology

A significant draw back with these modalities however, lies in the cost of the devices and / or the time required to frequent health care professionals administering the technique(s).

Most patients cannot afford to purchase these devices for self-directed care.

Patients spend time, and often substantial amounts of money to be treated.

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