Therapeutic blocks and their methods of manufacture and use

Abstract

An improved block system may comprise a plurality of individual members, each member geometrically equivalent in shape and equivalent in size in two dimensions, while being of varying thickness. The plurality of blocks may be of malleable and / or semi-compressible material, and covered with fabric or material suitable to easy cleaning and sterilization. The plurality of blocks are utilized in a manner either singly or in groups to accommodate and support a individual's head and neck while the individual is being treated for musculoskeletal disorders. The invention may be utilized with a standing or supine individual. The plurality of blocks are further of a shape making them easily handleable and stackeable by a therapist, physical trainer, or other professional. The invention may also be utilized in a like manner to support an individual's head and neck while performing other exercises or tasks requiring head support.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention relates to a stackable apparatus for supporting an individual's head and neck during physical exercise or therapy. More particularly, the present invention relates to therapeutic blocks and methods of their manufacture and use for the correction of Forward Head Posture.[0003]2. Background and Description of the Prior Art[0004]Back and neck problems are common. There are numerous types of musculoskeletal problems, and one of increasing concern is Forward Head Posture (“FHP”). In an individual suffering from FHP, the person's head has become out of vertical alignment with the spine. The head is carried anterior to it's proper vertical alignment and has an increased curvature at the cervical spine. Because there is an additional ten pounds (10 lbs) of load place on the spine for every one inch (1″) the head is forward from vertical alignment, neck, shoulder, and back pain are frequently an issue.[0005...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]A preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a perimeter of sufficient structural rigidity so as to allow the formation of a stack of the blocks of the present invention without significant deformation of the blocks. The blocks in a preferred embodiment are octagonal in shape around the circumference, with flat parallel surfaces comprising the top and bottom of each of the blocks. The octagonal shape allows for easy handling individually, easy stacking, and easy handling once two or more of the blocks are used in conjunction to provide the desired support.

Problems solved by technology

Back and neck problems are common.

Because there is an additional ten pounds (10 lbs) of load place on the spine for every one inch (1″) the head is forward from vertical alignment, neck, shoulder, and back pain are frequently an issue.

However, such methods and devices are complicated, cumbersome, and / or not cost effective.

They also are not adaptable to some treatment methods, nor do they measure progressive changes in head position throughout treatment.

First, the prior art trains the head and neck muscles in a way that is either too complex for simple, everyday use, or is incapable of minute adjustments necessary to accommodate a wide range of physical needs of individuals.

Secondly, the prior art does not train the head and neck muscles in a way that is responsive to the needs of individuals suffering from Forward Head Posture (“FHP”) in such a way that the device can be utilized in therapy specifically designed to 1) assist in correcting FHP, and 2) properly and safely providing adjustable support for an individual while undergoing therapeutic exercises intended to correct FHP.

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