Table attachment apparatus

Abstract

A strap attachment apparatus for a treatment table including a spanning belt formed of flexible material secured across opposite sides of said table with a pair of anchors connected at opposite ends of the spanning belt for attachment to the table. The anchors include body strap retainers that support at least one body strap. The body strap is movable on the retainers to adjust the position of the straps to fit a person on the treatment table while the anchors remain fixed to the table.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present invention is a continuation in part of application Ser. No. 13 / 705,272 filed Dec. 5, 2012 titled MASSAGE TABLE ATTACHMENT APPARATUS.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to an adjustable strap attachment apparatus for a treatment table to hold a person on the table during stretching manipulations.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]In order to move efficiently and effortlessly in all ranges and planes of motion as well as perform athletic and similar physical movements, increased flexibility is an asset. This is particularly true as people age. Starting in their thirties and often even much younger, they become slowly and steadily less flexible with an impact on wellness and physical conditioning. Flexibility is lost at a rate of 1% a year whereby it does not take too many years before individuals begin to feel the effects of aging. This becomes a problem for individuals regularly using their athletic abilities, particularly tho...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]The present invention is particularly adapted for use with the Stretch Zone Method that synthesizes controlled stretching techniques to work with the autonomic nervous system. This method quickly and efficiently improves muscle symmetry, enhances physical performance and mitigates rheumatic pain. The method recognizes the limiting factor to achieving full range of motion is not the length or elasticity of muscles but the nervous control of their tension via the stretch reflex. With precise stabilization, control and comfort, a practitioner systematically positions, stabilizes, isolates and carefully assists each rhythmical stretch. This proprietary method all takes place on innovative tables or tables converted using the present invention. The tables are purposefully designed and adorned with the necessary structure including adjustable belts, pads and straps allowing for the speedy extension of muscles further than the central nervous system would normally permit. As the practitioner continues in this systematic progression, the client's is gently guided past the active range of motion and back to zero tension before the muscle reacts to being stretched by going into further contraction.

[0012]In a preferred embodiment, a body strap or belt that used to support a person lying on the table, is looped around the cylindrical strap retainer in such a way that it extends over the top of the table where it may be secured to a selected body part of the individual to be treated. The length of the cylindrical strap retainer permits the body strap wrapped around the retainer to be adjustably moved along the length of the retainer in order to be precisely located across the selected body part of the individual undergoing the stretch treatment exercise without having to reposition the anchors on the table.

[0014]It will also be appreciated that while the present invention discloses two body strap supports, additional supports may be provided. Similarly a single body strap support may be sufficient if the overall length of the body strap support is extended to span a substantial portion of the length of the table. It will be appreciated that several straps or belts may be provided along the length of the support to insure maximum flexibility to accommodate various sized individuals.

[0015]The apparatus of the present invention facilitates a stretching treatment from a neurological perspective that re-educates the associated nerve-muscle reflex to enhance the ability to move functionally with a greater range of motion and with less effort. The apparatus of the present invention allows a practitioner to systematically position, stabilize, isolate and manipulate muscles in a scientific way. When a body is properly stabilized such that one segment is fixed, this allows another segment to move without fear into a full stretch. The current apparatus also provides leverage giving the practitioner sufficient control over how intense the stretch becomes and how fast it may be applied. The apparatus also provides isolation such that only the muscles needing stretching are moved eliminating resistance from other muscle groups thereby providing greater control during a stretching treatment. The apparatus also insures proper alignment during the stretching treatment to more easily regulate tension on soft tissues during treatment.

[0017]Another object is the provision of a strap support attached to a treatment table that allows supporting body straps to be adjustable to accommodate a wide variety of different sized individuals being treated on the table.

Problems solved by technology

Conventional treatment tables, such as massage tables, do not provide the necessary structure needed.

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