Spinal traction algorithm and spinal thermal massage device using the same

Abstract

A spinal traction algorithm and a spinal thermal massage device to which the same is applied are presented. In the spinal traction method applied to the spinal thermal massage device according to one embodiment, a ceramic runs along the spinal column based on a spinal traction algorithm to transmit physical force to the spine, and generates forces in at least two directions to assist LCCT (Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction) traction, and the spinal traction algorithm generates a vertical traction force by pulling the spine while running horizontally in close contact with the axial direction along the spinal column, and the ceramic acts upward from posterior to anterior to maintain the curvature and generate a vertical traction force.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The following embodiment relates to a spinal traction technique, and more particularly to a spinal traction algorithm and a spinal thermal massage device to which the same is applied. [Background technology]

[0002] One of the primary functions of the spinal disc is to reduce compressive loads during daily activities. Disc damage or degeneration can lead to mechanical compression or chemical irritation of the neuromuscular system. Many treatments have been used to resolve spinal disc dysfunction and pain. In particular, spinal traction has been used to treat spinal dysfunction and pain since the time of Hippocrates, and even today spinal traction therapy is used in a variety of ways to treat spinal pain.

[0003] Spinal traction has been reported to be useful for pain relief by stretching the posterior longitudinal ligament, widening the disc space and generating negative intradiscal pressure, resulting in a disc suction effect and a restorative effect for the posterior longitudinal ligament. In relation to this, previous studies have reported that spinal traction increases the diameter of the intervertebral foramen, relieving direct pressure and contact with damaged nerve tissue, reducing pain and normalizing neurological deficits. Traction has also been reported to be effective in alleviating pain by reducing pressure on the neuromuscular system, increasing blood flow, and improving adhesions and stiffness of spinal structures.

[0004] Most spinal traction devices used to relieve spinal pain to date use axial traction, which applies force to the spine in the axial direction. However, this method works to straighten the spinal structure rather than relieving compression of the intervertebral discs, which can lead to side effects of traction treatment, such as reducing the natural lordotic curve and inducing muscle pain and spasms, as well as damage to the facet joints and soft tissue structures.

[0005] In this regard, it has been found that adding positional traction, which longitudinally tractions spinal structures in specific areas while maintaining the lordotic curve, to existing axial traction treatment reduces stress on the annulus fibrosis in the posterior region and the posterior longitudinal ligaments, resulting in positive changes in disc decompression. Furthermore, in a study evaluating the effectiveness of orthopedic orthotic devices designed for traction, the group receiving positional traction in the supine position demonstrated superior results in expanding the area of ​​the central canal and improving the lordotic angle compared to the group receiving traditional axial traction. These results suggest that positional traction is effective in expanding not only the intervertebral disc but also the lateral foramen while maintaining the lordotic curve in the cervical and lumbar spine, resulting in traction treatment.

[0006] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0004780 relates to a thermal treatment device and a control method thereof, and provides a spinal thermal massage device that can provide a target massage intensity to a body part or a user with the same pressure. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0004780 [Non-patent literature]

[0008] [Non-Patent Document 1] Frobin W., Brinckmann P., Biggemann M., Tillotson M. & Burton K., “Precision measurement of disc height, vertebral height and sagittal plane displacement from lateral radiographic views of the lumbar spine”, Clinical Biomechanics,12,S1-S63,1997,DOI:10.1016 / S0268-0033(96)00067-8. [Non-patent document 2] Saunders HD, “Lumbar traction”, Journal of Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 1(1), 36-45, 1979, DOI:10.2519 / jospt.1979.1.1.36. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The embodiment describes a spinal traction algorithm and a spinal thermal massage device to which the algorithm is applied. More specifically, it provides a traction technique for the intervertebral disc areas of the cervical and lumbar spine by applying a pushing force from the back to the front of the spine in a supine position using a personal heating device that is effective in relieving muscle pain.

[0010] The embodiment provides a spinal traction algorithm that realizes the Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction (LCCT) principle, which maintains the curvature through axial movement and a lifting action from back to front (P to A) and generates a longitudinal force, and performs the target curvature traction function, as well as a spinal thermal massage device that applies this algorithm. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] In a spinal traction method applied to a spinal thermal massage device according to one embodiment, ceramics travel along the spinal column based on a spinal traction algorithm to transmit physical force to the spine, generating forces in at least two directions to assist LCCT (Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction) traction. The spinal traction algorithm generates longitudinal traction force by the ceramics traveling horizontally while adhering to the axial direction along the spinal column and pulling the spine, and the ceramics act upward from posterior to anterior to maintain curvature and generate longitudinal traction force.

[0012] Alternating application and release of traction force at preset intervals using a mechanical device according to the spinal traction algorithm can combine intermittent traction and positional traction, which places the user in various positions to pull the spinal structures vertically.

[0013] Here, the spinal traction algorithm can perform at least one of relaxation of muscles around the spine, relaxation of the sacroiliac joint, relaxation of the piriformis muscle, traction of the lumbar spine, leveling of spinal movement, and traction of the cervical spine.

[0014] The spinal traction algorithm may include the steps of dividing the entire spinal column into a lumbopelvic section, a thoracic section, and a cervical section to relax the muscles around the spine, and inducing relaxation of the transitional joint through multiple reciprocating movements of the ceramics; running the ceramics multiple times through the posterior pelvis to relax the piriformis muscle and minimize sciatica; and running the ceramics multiple times through all spinal sections after each elevation and lowering to maintain sufficient intervertebral ROM (range of motion).

[0015] After inducing relaxation of the transitional joint, the method may further include a step of stopping the ceramic at a corresponding site to relax the sacroiliac joint, thereby reducing the displacement of the sacroiliac joint and relaxing the muscles.

[0016] After relaxing the piriformis muscle, the ceramic performs traction on the lumbar spine, and the ceramic moves up and down (P to A, A to P) at a specific targeted lumbar level to perform spinal curvature and position traction, which may further be included.

[0017] The step of running the ceramics back and forth multiple times over the entire spinal column to maintain sufficient intervertebral ROM (range of motion) may include a step of raising and lowering the ceramics multiple times at specific levels of the cervical section to enable traction of the cervical vertebrae, thereby enabling spinal curvature and position traction.

[0018] The step of running back and forth multiple times over the entire section of the spine to ensure sufficient intervertebral ROM (range of motion) may include running back and forth multiple times over the entire section of the spine to ensure sufficient intervertebral ROM (range of motion), and may include up to three stopping sections.

[0019] The spinal traction algorithm may further include an effleurage stroke step in which low intensity stimulation is delivered to the entire spinal column before inducing relaxation of the transitional joint through the multiple reciprocating movements.

[0020] The spinal traction algorithm may further include a step of: after the ceramics are raised and lowered multiple times to enable spinal curvature and positional traction, the ceramics are moved multiple times over the entire spine to attempt final stretching of specific sections of the lumbar and cervical spine, and then moving at a low intensity to induce a reset of the muscles around the spine.

[0021] The step of inducing relaxation of the transitional joint through the multiple reciprocating movements may take into account the role of traction, which may widen the space between the vertebrae as the ceramic moves up in sections and moves toward the cranial direction.

[0022] The step of running back and forth over the entire spinal column multiple times to ensure sufficient intervertebral ROM can take into account the role of traction, which may further widen the intervertebral space when running in the cranial direction.

[0023] The spinal traction algorithm causes the ceramic to move back and forth in multiple directions according to the setting while adhering closely to the axial direction along the spine, and there may be at least one section in the entire massage section where the strength from the caudal to the cranial direction is greater than the strength from the cranial to the caudal direction.

[0024] Another embodiment of a thermal spinal massage device applying a spinal traction algorithm includes a spinal traction algorithm control unit that assists LCCT (Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction) traction by generating forces in at least two directions as ceramics travel along the spinal column based on a spinal traction algorithm to transmit physical force to the spine. The spinal traction algorithm control unit generates a longitudinal traction force by the ceramics traveling horizontally in close contact with the axial direction along the spinal column to pull the spine, and can also maintain curvature and generate a longitudinal traction force by the ceramics acting upward from posterior to anterior.

[0025] The spinal traction algorithm control unit may include a perispinal muscle relaxation unit that divides the entire spinal column into a lumbopelvic section, a thoracic section, and a cervical section for relaxing the muscles around the spine and induces relaxation of the transitional joint through multiple reciprocating movements of the ceramics, a piriformis muscle relaxation unit that relaxes the piriformis muscle by having the ceramics travel multiple times through the posterior pelvis to minimize sciatica, and a spinal motion leveling unit that travels multiple times back and forth through all spinal sections after each ceramic is raised and lowered to sufficiently maintain intervertebral ROM (range of motion).

[0026] The device may further include a sacroiliac joint relaxation portion where the ceramic stops at a corresponding portion to relax the sacroiliac joint, reducing the displacement of the sacroiliac joint and relaxing the muscles.

[0027] The ceramic device performs lumbar traction and may further include a lumbar traction unit that performs spinal curvature and position traction by ascending and descending (P to A, A to P) at a specific targeted lumbar level.

[0028] The spinal motion leveling unit may include a cervical traction unit that allows the ceramic to be raised and lowered in multiple positions at specific levels of the cervical section for traction of the cervical vertebrae, thereby enabling traction of the spinal curvature and position. [Effects of the Invention]

[0029] According to the embodiment, a spinal traction algorithm and a spinal thermal massage device using the same can be provided, which realizes the LCCT principle of action through maintaining curvature and generating longitudinal force through axial movement and a posterior to anterior (P to A) lifting action, and performs the target curvature traction function. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1]1 is a diagram illustrating the direction of a spinal joint surface according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] 1 is a view illustrating joint displacement through spinal traction in a spinal thermal massage device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram illustrating a spinal traction method according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a diagram illustrating curvature maintenance and vertical force during an elevation action according to an embodiment; [Figure 5] 1 is a diagram illustrating a spinal traction algorithm according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a spinal traction method according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a spinal traction device according to one embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a view illustrating a spinal thermal massage device according to an embodiment; [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram illustrating a method for measuring the height of a disk according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram illustrating a method for measuring a Cobb's angle according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 is a graph showing an average height change of a disk according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] 1 is a diagram showing spinal canal MRI (magnetic resonance images) at baseline and during traction according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the described embodiments may be modified into various other forms, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Furthermore, various embodiments are provided to more completely explain the present invention to those having average knowledge in the art. In the drawings, the shape and size of elements may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0032] A spinal thermal massage device is a medical device approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the purpose of relieving muscle pain. The ceramic massager, which massages the spine while lying supine, moves horizontally along the spine and performs forward-backward translational movements relative to the subject. This allows for the alternating application and release of traction force at preset intervals, functioning similar to intermittent mechanical traction. In contrast, specific spinal thermal massage devices have ceramics that stop at specific locations on the cervical and lumbar vertebrae to perform positional traction. The force exerted by the ceramics on the spine from back to front acts as a lever, centered on the facet joints, maintaining the curvature and expanding the disc space, thereby assisting in decompression treatment.

[0033] The following example provides a spinal traction algorithm and a spinal thermal massage device to which the algorithm is applied, and confirms whether a traction effect is produced in the intervertebral disc areas of the cervical and lumbar vertebrae by applying a force from the back to the front of the spine in a supine position using a personal heating device that is effective in relieving muscle pain.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the direction of the joint surface of the spine according to one embodiment.

[0035] Spinal traction is a treatment option based on applying longitudinal force to the spinal axis. In functional anatomy, joint movement is related to joint shape. Therefore, the most important factor in determining traction function is whether the force applied to the spine can generate longitudinal force for traction. Therefore, by examining the shape of the spinal joint surface 110 based on spinal anatomy, the cervical vertebra (C), thoracic vertebra (T), and lumbar vertebra (L) can be generally shown as BUM (Backward, Upward, Medial), BUL (Backward, Upward, Lateral), BUM, as shown in Figure 1.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a view for explaining joint displacement through spinal traction of a spinal thermal massage device according to an embodiment.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 2, the spinal thermal massage device according to one embodiment physically raises one side (210) along the direction of the spinal joint surface, thereby lowering the other side relatively (220), thereby expanding the traction range in the lateral direction (230).

[0038] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a spinal traction method according to an embodiment.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, the traction method of the spinal thermal massage device according to one embodiment can be explained by displaying the movement of the ceramic with frictional force along the axial direction of the spine (310), the movement of the ceramic through the P to A elevation of the spine (320), and the direction and section of traction (330).

[0040] In one embodiment, the spinal thermal massage device uses specific ceramics that run along the spine to transmit physical force, generating force in two directions to aid in Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction (LCCT), which is based on the anatomical evidence.

[0041] First, it is possible to generate a vertical force using axial movement. As shown in Figure 3, it has been confirmed that the spinal thermal massage device according to one embodiment can generate a maximum average vertical traction force of approximately 32 kgf cm for a 55 kg pulling body when the ceramic is pulled horizontally in close contact with the axial direction. The traction force is calculated using the following formula: [Number 1] Traction force (kgf·cm) = Load slowdown motor torque (kgf·cm) - No-load slowdown motor torque (kgf·cm)

[0042] It has been revealed that the corrective effect is maximized when the appropriate traction force is generally 30-50% of the user's body weight, so the traction force for the device is sufficient to achieve this range.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the maintenance of curvature and vertical force during the lifting action according to one embodiment.

[0044] Referring to Figure 4, it is possible to maintain the spinal curvature and generate a longitudinal force through the P to A (posterior to anterior) lifting action. This movement is very important for maintaining the spinal curvature required for LCCT, and at the same time, it can induce positional traction, leading to more effective traction. In the case of the thermal spinal massage device according to one embodiment, when the P to A (posterior to anterior) lifting action is performed, longitudinal traction is additionally generated due to the shape of the anatomical joint surface.

[0045] Therefore, a spinal traction device can apply a longitudinal force to the spinal axis for spinal traction. On the other hand, a motorized orthopedic traction device applied to the spine is a device that can apply a longitudinal force to the spinal axis for spinal traction and includes a drive attachment (a motor or other electric device).

[0046] According to one embodiment, a spinal thermal massage device can be used to achieve joint displacement through spinal traction. The traction force must be strong enough to move the spinal segments and cause structural changes. For the traction force to be effective on the spine, friction must be minimized, and the patient must be in a relaxed state.

[0047] In one embodiment, a thermal spinal massage device is designed to perform the role of LCCT by combining intermittent traction and positional traction using an electric device. Intermittent traction is similar to sustained traction in terms of intensity and duration, but it alternately applies and releases traction at preset intervals using a mechanical device. Positional traction is applied by positioning the patient in various positions using pillows, blocks, or sandbags to vertically pull the spinal structures. It typically involves lateral bending and affects only one side of the spinal segment. For example, intermittent traction can be performed for 3-5 minutes, with 60 seconds of traction followed by 20 seconds of rest. Positional traction can be performed one to two levels above the relevant joint. Preliminary and primary traction procedures for traction may be required.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a spinal traction algorithm according to an embodiment.

[0049] 5, the spinal traction algorithm according to one embodiment can perform peripheral spinal muscle relaxation, sacroiliac joint relaxation, piriformis muscle relaxation, spinal motion leveling, lumbar traction, and cervical traction. The spinal traction algorithm according to one embodiment can be shown in Table 1. [Table 1]

[0050] The spinal traction algorithm can increase the spinal structure and relieve neuromuscular irritation and pressure, thereby relieving pain. The spinal traction algorithm and the spinal thermal massage device to which it is applied will be described in more detail below.

[0051] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for spinal traction according to one embodiment.

[0052] The spinal traction method applied to the spinal thermal massage device according to one embodiment is such that ceramics travel along the spinal column based on a spinal traction algorithm to transmit physical force to the spine, generating force in at least two directions to assist LCCT (Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction) traction.

[0053] The spinal traction algorithm generates vertical traction by pulling the spine while moving horizontally in close contact with the spinal column, and the ceramic acts upward from posterior to anterior to maintain the curvature and generate vertical traction. In addition, the spinal traction algorithm uses a mechanical device to alternately apply and release traction at preset intervals, allowing for a combination of intermittent traction and positional traction, which places the user in various positions to pull the spinal structure vertically.

[0054] The spinal traction algorithm may perform at least one of the following: relaxation of muscles around the spine, relaxation of the sacroiliac joints, relaxation of the piriformis muscle, lumbar traction, spinal motion equalization, and cervical traction.

[0055] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the spinal traction algorithm may include the steps of dividing the entire spinal column into the lumbopelvic, thoracic, and cervical sections to relax the muscles around the spine (S120), and inducing relaxation of the transitional joints through multiple reciprocating movements of the ceramics; the step of moving the ceramics multiple times through the posterior pelvis to relax the piriformis muscle and minimize sciatica (S140); and the step of moving the ceramics multiple times through all sections of the spine after each elevation and lowering to maintain sufficient intervertebral ROM (range of motion) (S160).

[0056] In this case, the spinal traction algorithm may further include an effleurage stroke step (S110) in which low-intensity stimulation is delivered to the entire spine before inducing relaxation of the transitional joint through multiple reciprocating movements.

[0057] The spinal traction algorithm may further include a step (S130) in which the ceramic stops at the corresponding location to relax the sacroiliac joint, reducing the displacement of the sacroiliac joint and relaxing the muscles.

[0058] The spinal traction algorithm may further include a step (S150) in which the porcelain performs lumbar traction and performs spinal curvature and position traction by raising and lowering the porcelain (P to A, A to P) at a specific targeted lumbar level.

[0059] In addition, the spinal traction algorithm may further include a step (S170) in which the ceramics are raised and lowered multiple times to enable spinal curvature and positional traction, and then the ceramics are passed multiple times over the entire spine to attempt final stretching of specific sections of the lumbar and cervical spine, and then the ceramics are passed at a low intensity to induce a reset of the muscles around the spine.

[0060] Here, step S160 may include a step of raising and lowering a plurality of ceramics at a specific level of the cervical section for traction of the cervical vertebrae, thereby enabling traction of the curvature and position of the spine.

[0061] A spinal traction method applied to a spinal thermal massage device according to an embodiment will now be described in more detail.

[0062] The spinal traction method applied to the spinal thermal massage device according to an embodiment can be described by taking the spinal traction device according to an embodiment as an example.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a spinal traction device according to one embodiment.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 7, a spinal thermal massage device applying a spinal traction algorithm according to one embodiment may include a spinal traction algorithm control unit 700. Here, the spinal traction algorithm control unit 700 may include a spinal surrounding muscle relaxation unit 720, a sacroiliac joint relaxation unit 730, a piriformis muscle relaxation unit 740, a lumbar traction unit 750, and a spinal motion leveling unit 760. In some embodiments, the spinal traction algorithm control unit 700 may further include a preparatory massage unit 710 and a reset guidance unit 770, and may further include a cervical traction unit 761. Hereinafter, the spinal traction algorithm and a spinal thermal massage device applying the same will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 5 as an example. Note that FIG. 5 is merely an example of an optimal spinal traction algorithm, and the spinal traction algorithm is not limited thereto.

[0065] The spinal traction algorithm control unit 700 can assist LCCT traction by transmitting physical force to the spine through a spinal traction algorithm in which ceramics travel along the spine and generate forces in at least two directions. The spinal traction algorithm control unit 700 can generate vertical traction by having ceramics travel horizontally while axially adhering to the spine and traction the spine, or by having ceramics move upward from posterior to anterior, maintaining curvature and generating vertical traction. Furthermore, the spinal traction algorithm control unit 700 can combine intermittent traction and positional traction by placing the user in various positions to vertically pull the spinal structure by alternately applying and releasing traction forces at preset intervals using a mechanical device. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the spinal traction algorithm allows ceramics to travel back and forth along the spine in an axial direction according to the settings, and there can be at least one section throughout the massage in which the strength in the caudal-to-cranial direction is greater than the strength in the cranial-to-caudal direction.

[0066] The spinal traction algorithm control unit 700 can perform at least one of the following: relaxation of muscles around the spine, relaxation of the sacroiliac joint, relaxation of the piriformis muscle, traction of the lumbar spine, leveling of the spinal column motion, and traction of the cervical spine.

[0067] More specifically, in step S110, the preparatory massage unit 710 is in a stage to increase the temperature of the muscles for relaxation, blood circulation, and lymphatic flow, and to prepare for a massage technique with stronger stimulation, and can perform a preparatory massage (effleurage stroke) that delivers weak stimulation to the entire spine (pre-stroke).

[0068] In step S120, the spinal muscle relaxation unit 720 primarily relaxes the muscles around the spine, dividing the entire spine into the lumbopelvic region (L), thoracic region (T), and cervical region (C), and can induce relaxation of the transitional joint through multiple reciprocating movements of the ceramics. In addition, the spinal muscle relaxation unit 720 can also take into account a traction role that can widen the space between the vertebrae as it moves toward the cranial direction through the elevation of the sectioned ceramics (main stroke 1). The spinal peripheral muscle relaxation portion 720 can gradually move from the caudal to the cranial direction and induce relaxation of the transitional joint through multiple reciprocating motions in a predetermined section, and can be configured so that there is at least one section where the strength in the caudal to cranial direction is greater than the strength in the cranial to caudal direction.

[0069] In step (S130), the sacroiliac joint relaxation unit 730 stops the ceramic at the corresponding area ('STAY' displayed in a red circle) to minimize instability in the sacroiliac joint area, reducing sacroiliac joint displacement and allowing the muscles to relax (main stroke 2).

[0070] In step S140, the piriformis muscle relaxation unit 740 moves its ceramics through the posterior pelvis to relax the piriformis muscle, thereby minimizing sciatica (main stroke 3).

[0071] In step S150, the lumbar traction unit 750 performs lumbar traction and moves the traction unit up and down (P to A, A to P) at a specific targeted lumbar level to perform spinal curvature and position traction (4 min, indicated in mm in the green circle) (main stroke 4). At this time, it can be set so that there is at least one section where the strength in the caudal to cranial direction is greater than the strength in the cranial to caudal direction.

[0072] In step S160, the spinal movement leveling unit 760 may perform multiple back-and-forth movements over all sections of the spine after each ceramic is raised and lowered, thereby ensuring sufficient intervertebral ROM (range of motion) (main stroke 5). Performing multiple back-and-forth movements over all sections of the spine does not involve simply repeating movements through sections C1 to S4, but may involve multiple back-and-forth movements according to a spinal traction algorithm, as shown in FIG. 5, for example. In this case, three stop sections may be included. Furthermore, the spinal movement leveling unit 760 may take into account a traction role that may further widen the intervertebral space when moving toward the cranial direction.

[0073] Meanwhile, the spinal movement leveling unit 760 may include a cervical traction unit 761, and in the latter part of step S160, the cervical traction unit 761 may raise and lower a plurality of magnets at a specific level of the cervical section to enable traction of the cervical spine, thereby enabling curvature and positional traction of the spine (main stroke 6). In addition, the magnet may stop at the suboccipital region (indicated by "STAY" in a red circle), allowing positional traction of the entire cervical spine region to be achieved by the weight of the cranium.

[0074] In step S170, the reset inducer 770 moves the ceramic multiple times over the entire spine to attempt final stretching of specific areas of the lumbar and cervical spine, and then moves at a lower intensity to induce a reset of the muscles around the spine (final stroke).

[0075] As described above, the spine thermal massage device according to one embodiment drives a moxibustion device (ceramic) to scan the user's entire spine, measures the operating current of the horizontal motor to calculate the length of the spine, and accurately determines the positions of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and coccygeal vertebrae that make up the spine, and then raises and lowers the corresponding areas. In particular, the spine thermal massage device according to one embodiment embodies the LCCT principle, which maintains the curvature through axial movement and P to A (back to front) lifting action, and generates a longitudinal force to perform the target curvature traction function. According to this embodiment, the traction effect on the cervical and lumbar vertebrae can be seen from changes in the height and area of ​​the spinal discs.

[0076] The purpose of this study was to examine the traction effect of the posterior-to-anterior force applied by a spinal thermal massage device on the cervical and lumbar intervertebral disc regions. To achieve this objective, 10 healthy adults (40% female) underwent X-rays of the cervical 4 / 5 interspace (C4-5) and cervical 5 / 6 interspace (C5-6) at baseline and during traction, and MRI measurements of the lumbar 3 / 4 interspace (L3-4) and lumbar 4 / 5 interspace (L4-5). Results showed that mean disc height, anterior disc height, and medial disc height significantly increased during traction compared to baseline at C4-5, C5-6, L3-4, and L4-5. Cobb's angles, measured based on the inferior aspect of lumbar vertebra 1 and the superior aspect of sacral vertebra 1, also significantly increased at L3-4 and L4-5. In conclusion, it can be confirmed that the application of the spinal thermal massage device has a traction effect on the cervical and lumbar spine.

[0077] The following describes an example of a verification test of the traction effect of the spinal thermal massage device on the cervical and lumbar spine.

[0078] (Example) In one example, 10 healthy adults (40% female, age 28.1±8.9 years, height 171±10 cm, weight 74.8±20.7 kg, body mass index 27.1±5.5 kg / m²) without musculoskeletal disorders and no physical activity limitations were included in the study. This clinical trial used a random allocation method to prevent potential bias in the allocation of each study sequence. The investigators assigned screening numbers in the order in which consent forms were completed, and sequential allocation numbers were assigned to subjects who met the inclusion / exclusion criteria at the baseline visit. The random allocation table was created by an independent statistician unrelated to this example, ensuring a 1:1 ratio between study sequences.

[0079] The present example was approved by the Institutional Research Ethics Board (IRB), and all study participants were given a thorough explanation of the study's purpose and methods prior to participating in the study, and participated voluntarily.

[0080] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a spinal thermal massage device according to an embodiment.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 8, in this test, a plastic ceramic model 810 similar to actual ceramic was manufactured, along with an auxiliary mat on which the subject could lie down, to generate the same back-to-front compressive force on the spine of the spinal thermal massage device CGM MB-1901 (CERAGEM Co. Ltd., Cheonan, Korea), which is unaffected by X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To apply a height adjustment system according to strength, the height of the ceramic model 810 was adjusted using a one-step block and a nine-step block 820. More specifically, the base mat is where the user's upper body rests and provides traction to the spine, while the plastic ceramic model 810 is made of a plastic model and can apply back-to-front compressive force around the spine. The support base 820 supporting the ceramic was made of wood, which is unaffected by X-rays and MRIs, and the strength was divided into 1 to 9 levels using a vertical motor, and the part that applies the back-to-front compressive force was made of wood. The support base 820 was composed of two plastic support bases for height adjustment, which could be changed depending on the strength to generate a back-to-front compressive force. The auxiliary mat is where the lower half of the user's body is placed.

[0082] The spinal thermal massage device is a device used to provide heat and massage around the spine to relieve muscle pain. In this test, the heating function of this device was removed and only the device for massaging the muscles around the spine was used for the experiment. The ceramic, designed to massage the muscles around the spine while the subject is lying supine, moves along the spine, continuing a forward-backward translational movement based on the subject. At this time, the force from the back to the front that the ceramic applies to the spine acts as a lever, centered on the facet joints, and has the effect of expanding the disc space.

[0083] In this study, the anterior, middle, and posterior heights of the disc were measured at baseline (one level) and during traction (nine levels). For baseline measurements, participants were placed supine on a base mat and a ceramic model adjusted to one level, with the cervical spine measured between the fourth and fifth cervical segments (C4-5) and the fifth and sixth cervical segments (C5-6). For lumbar spine measurements, the third and fourth lumbar segments (L3-4, L3-4) and the fourth and fifth lumbar segments (L4-5, L4-5) were measured. To verify the traction effect during traction, participants were placed supine on a base mat and a ceramic model adjusted to nine levels, with the C4-5 and C5-6 intervals, and the L3-4 and L4-5 intervals were measured.

[0084] The boundaries of the superior and inferior endplates of the intervertebral disc were examined by the researchers in a blinded manner with the consultation of a radiology specialist with 10 years of experience.The height of the intervertebral disc was measured using "Image J," an image processing software provided free of charge by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

[0085] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a method for measuring the height of a disk according to an embodiment.

[0086] Referring to Figure 9, the method for calculating the intervertebral disc height and Cobb's angle using the measured data is as follows. First, the intervertebral disc height of the cervical and lumbar vertebrae was calculated using the Frobin method (Non-Patent Document 1). The anterior disc height was calculated as h2 + h4, the posterior disc height was calculated as h1 + h3, and the central disc height was calculated as the sum of the distances of a straight line passing through the midpoint between vertebrae 3 and 4 at the interior border of the upper vertebral body and the midpoint between vertebrae 1 and 2 at the superior border of the lower vertebrae, perpendicular to the bisector.

[0087] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method for measuring a Cobb's angle according to an embodiment.

[0088] Second, the Cobb's angle of the lumbar region was evaluated based on the inferior surface of the first lumbar vertebra and the superior surface of the first sacral vertebra, as shown in Figure 10.

[0089] In this example, SPSS ver. 22.0 for Windows was used, and the specific data processing method was as follows: Technical statistics were performed to calculate the mean and standard deviation of physical characteristics and all related data. To evaluate the traction effect at the intervertebral disc regions of the cervical (C4-5, C5-6) and lumbar (L3-4, L4-5) spinal segments, paired sample t-tests were performed on the change in height during traction, change in cervical disc area, and change in lumbar Cobb's angle compared to baseline. The significance level for all statistical tests was set at α = 0.05.

[0090] The research results are explained below.

[0091] (Cervical segmental changes) Table 2 compares the change in mean cervical disc height (mm) during traction compared to baseline. [Table 2]

[0092] Referring to Table 2, the mean cervical disc height of both C4-5 and C5-6 increased in all subjects during traction compared to baseline, confirming statistically significant results.

[0093] Table 3 shows the average cervical disc area (mm ) during traction compared to baseline in the median plane. 2 ) changes were compared. [Table 3]

[0094] Referring to Table 3, the disc area during traction in the cervical discs increased compared to baseline, and this was statistically significant.

[0095] Previous research has shown that traction treatment causes tension in the posterior longitudinal ligament and negative intradiscal pressure, resulting in suction. This confirms that reducing intradiscal pressure is an important factor in traction treatment. Traction causes disc elongation, which increases disc volume and reduces intradiscal pressure. Consequently, treatment according to this embodiment generates negative intradiscal pressure in the cervical disc.

[0096] (Lumbar segmental changes) The results of comparing the height change compared to baseline to evaluate the traction effect at the intervertebral disc region of the lumbar segments (L3-4, L4-5) are shown in Table 4. Table 4 shows the average height change (mm) of the intervertebral segment interval. [Table 4]

[0097] Referring to Table 4, the mean disc height during traction was significantly increased compared to baseline at both the L3-4 and L4-5 sites (p<0.001). As a result, it can be confirmed that the force pushing the spine from posterior to anterior increases the mean lumbar disc height, resulting in the effect of traction.

[0098] In addition, Table 5 shows the average lumbar disc area (mm ) during traction in the median plane compared to baseline. 2 ) changes were compared. [Table 5]

[0099] Referring to Table 5, the disc area during traction in the lumbar disc increased compared to baseline, which was statistically significant. The area increased significantly during traction compared to baseline. In conclusion, it can be seen that the treatment according to this embodiment generates negative pressure inside the lumbar disc.

[0100] Using the underside of lumbar vertebra No. 1 and the upper surface of sacral vertebra No. 1 as reference points, the change (mm) in Cobb's angle during traction compared to the baseline can be shown in Table 6. [Table 6]

[0101] Referring to Table 6, at both the L3-4 and L4-5 sites, the Cobb angle increased statistically significantly during traction compared to baseline (p<0.05).

[0102] 11 is a diagram showing changes in disc height according to one embodiment. More specifically, (a) of FIG. 11 shows the change in average disc height between the baseline and traction motion at the cervical spine, and (b) of FIG. 11 shows the change in average disc height between the baseline and traction motion at the lumbar spine.

[0103] In this example, we attempted to verify the traction effect of the force applied from the back to the front of the spine by a spinal thermal massage device on the intervertebral disc area of ​​the cervical and lumbar vertebrae. Because this was the first study to verify the traction effect using a spinal thermal massage device, the results could not be directly compared with previous studies, but the following discussion is based on previous studies related to traction treatment.

[0104] As shown in Figure 11, the average disc height during traction compared to baseline with the spinal thermal massage device increased statistically significantly in both the cervical and lumbar spine. Disc area also increased statistically significantly in both the cervical and lumbar spine. Cobb's angle also increased significantly during traction in both the L3-4 and L4-5 lumbar segments. This example demonstrates that a spinal thermal massage device, which utilizes a force pushing the spine from back to front, can increase the lordosis of the cervical and lumbar spine and be useful for treating herniated discs.

[0105] These findings partially coincide with those of a study that examined the traction effects of a lordotic curve-maintaining traction device (LCCT) that included positional traction in the supine position in 40 patients with lumbar disc herniation. The study demonstrated that a treatment that included specific site-specific positional traction in the supine position in addition to traditional axial traction treatment was highly effective in improving the lumbar disc angle.

[0106] Another previous study compared the effects of traction treatment on 40 patients with lumbar disc herniation, with a group that underwent conventional axial traction treatment three times a week for five weeks and a group that used a lordosis-maintaining traction device. The results confirmed that the group that used the LCCT traction device showed significant improvements in morphological aspects, such as widening of the central canal of the spine. Other studies have also demonstrated the effectiveness of positional traction that takes spinal curvature into account in alleviating pain. These results suggest that positional traction, which applies traction to the spine while maintaining a lordosis curve, is more effective at improving symptoms such as neuromuscular compression caused by disc herniation than axial traction treatment, which does not take curvature into account. At the same time, it can also reduce pain caused by excessive stretching of the posterior muscles and ligaments that can occur with axial traction.

[0107] FIG. 12 illustrates spinal canal MRI at baseline and during traction according to one embodiment.

[0108] The ultimate goal of spinal traction is to relieve pain by stretching spinal structures and relieving neuromuscular irritation and compression. Figure 12 shows that the MRI image taken in this example shows expansion of the central canal of the spine during traction, compared to the baseline. This suggests that a spinal thermal massage device that simultaneously applies intermittent traction and positional traction while moving ceramics may be useful in managing disc and spinal stenosis while maintaining the normal curve of the spine.

[0109] This example aims to objectively verify through MRI imaging whether the thermal spinal massage device, which is proposed to massage the muscles around the spine while lying on one's back, has a traction effect by pulling the spinal structure vertically. As a result, it was confirmed that the thermal spinal massage device used in this example complies with several principles of traction.

[0110] First, traction must be strong enough to move the spinal segments and cause structural changes. Whether traction can cause structural changes was confirmed through the results of this experiment, in which the force of the spinal thermal massage device pushing from the back to the front of the spine increased the height and area of ​​the cervical and lumbar discs and the Cobb's angle of the lumbar spine. Second, for traction to be effective on the spine, friction must be minimized. Traction using ceramics in a spinal thermal massage device conforms to the principle of minimizing friction other than that of the tissues surrounding the joints and the joint surfaces by elevating the affected area. Third, the subject's entire body must be relaxed (Non-Patent Document 2). Considering that the spinal thermal massage device is administered in the supine position and that the device used in this example is approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a device for relieving muscle pain through muscle relaxation, it is likely to provide sufficient traction effects.

[0111] As such, clinical research results have confirmed that the spinal thermal massage device (CGM MB-1901) exerts a traction effect on the intervertebral discs of the cervical and lumbar spine due to the force exerted on the spine from back to front. Therefore, the spinal thermal massage device can be recommended as a useful medical device for the treatment of degenerative stenosis and the relief of spinal pain.

[0112] In the above, when a component is said to be "coupled" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly coupled or connected to the other component, but that there may be other components in between. Conversely, when a component is said to be "directly coupled" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0113] The terms used in this specification are merely used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. The singular expressions include the plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprise" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood not to preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0114] Terms such as "first," "second," etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. Terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0115] Furthermore, the terms "unit," "module," etc. used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0116] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the components of the embodiments described with reference to each drawing are not limited to the corresponding embodiment, but may be embodied in other embodiments within the scope that maintains the technical idea of ​​the present invention, and that even if separate description is omitted, multiple embodiments may be further embodied in one integrated embodiment.

[0117] In addition, in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same or related reference numerals will be used for the same components regardless of the drawing numerals, and redundant description thereof will be omitted. In the description of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known technology may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0118] Although the embodiments have been described above with reference to limited examples and drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and variations may be made to the above description. For example, the techniques described may be performed in a different order than described, and / or the components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc. may be combined or combined in a different manner than described, or may be replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents, and still achieve suitable results.

[0119] Therefore, other embodiments, other examples, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims below.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm, To transmit physical force to the spine, ceramics run along the spinal column based on a spinal traction algorithm, generating force in at least two directions to assist LCCT (Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction) traction. The spinal traction algorithm comprises: A method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm, comprising: controlling the ceramics to move horizontally in close contact with the spine in an axial direction; controlling the ceramics to move upward from posterior to anterior; controlling the ceramics so that there is at least one section in the entire massage section where the strength in the tail-to-cranial direction is greater than the strength in the cranial-to-tail direction; and controlling the ceramics so that the vertical height of the ceramics corresponding to the strength for the traction role applied when moving horizontally from the tail-to-cranial direction in the section is greater than the vertical height of the ceramics corresponding to the strength for the traction role applied when moving horizontally from the cranial-to-cranial direction.

2. The method for controlling a spinal massage device applying a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 1, wherein alternately applying or releasing traction force at preset intervals using a mechanical device according to the spinal traction algorithm combines intermittent traction and positional traction, which places the user in various positions to pull the spinal structure vertically.

3. The spinal traction algorithm comprises: (a) controlling the ceramic to move back and forth multiple times to relax muscles around the spine; (b) controlling the ceramic to travel multiple times around the transition joint to relax the transition joint; (c) controlling the ceramic to travel multiple times around the posterior pelvis to relax the piriformis muscle; (d) controlling the ceramic to effect spinal curvature and position traction when ascending and descending at a specific lumbar level for lumbar traction; (e) After the ceramic is raised and lowered, it travels back and forth across the entire spine multiple times to ensure that the intervertebral ROM is sufficiently maintained, thereby controlling the leveling of spinal movement; (f) for traction of the cervical spine, controlling the ceramic to raise and lower multiple times at specific levels of the cervical section to allow for spinal curvature and position traction; 2. The method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the following is performed:

4. The spinal traction algorithm comprises: In order to relax the muscles around the spine, the entire spine is divided into a lumbopelvic section, a thoracic section, and a cervical section, and relaxation of the transitional joints is induced through multiple reciprocating movements of the ceramics; The ceramic passes through the posterior pelvis multiple times to relax the piriformis muscle; 2. The method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 1, further comprising the step of: moving each of the ceramics back and forth over the entire length of the spine a plurality of times after the ceramics are raised and lowered.

5. 5. The method for controlling a spinal massage device applying a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 4, further comprising the step of: after inducing relaxation of the transitional joint, stopping the ceramic at a corresponding location to relax the sacroiliac joint, thereby reducing displacement of the sacroiliac joint and relaxing the muscles.

6. 5. The method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 4, further comprising the step of: after relaxing the piriformis muscle, the ceramic performs traction on the lumbar region; and performing spinal curvature and positional traction by moving the ceramic up and down (P to A, A to P) at a specific targeted lumbar level.

7. 5. The method for controlling a spinal massage device applying a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 4, wherein the step of moving the ceramics back and forth multiple times over the entire spinal column to sufficiently maintain intervertebral ROM (range of motion) includes the step of moving the ceramics up and down multiple times at a specific level of the cervical section to traction the cervical vertebrae, thereby enabling spinal curvature and position traction.

8. The step of running back and forth over the entire spinal column multiple times to maintain sufficient intervertebral ROM (range of motion) is as follows:

5. The method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 4, wherein the device travels back and forth over the entire spinal column multiple times to maintain sufficient intervertebral ROM (range of motion), and includes three stopping sections.

9. The spinal traction algorithm comprises:

5. The method for controlling a spinal massage device applying a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 4, further comprising a preparatory massage step of transmitting a weak stimulus to the entire spinal column before inducing relaxation of the transitional joint through the plurality of reciprocating movements.

10. The spinal traction algorithm comprises:

5. The method for controlling a spinal massage device applying a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 4, further comprising the step of: after the ceramics are raised and lowered multiple times to allow for spinal curvature and positional traction, the ceramics are moved multiple times over the entire spine to attempt final stretching of specific sections of the lumbar and cervical vertebrae, and then moving at a lower intensity to induce a reset of the muscles around the spine.

11. Inducing relaxation of the transitional joint through the multiple reciprocating movements includes:

5. The method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 4, wherein the traction role of the ceramics, which may widen the gap between the vertebrae when moving in the cranial direction through the elevation of the ceramics in each section, is taken into consideration.

12. The step of running the device back and forth over the entire spinal column multiple times to maintain sufficient intervertebral ROM includes:

5. A method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 4, wherein the method takes into consideration a traction role that may increase the distance between the vertebrae when traveling in a cranial direction.

13. The spinal traction algorithm comprises:

2. The method for controlling a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm according to claim 1, wherein the ceramics are made to move back and forth multiple times according to settings while being in close contact with the spinal column in the axial direction.

14. In a spinal massage device using a spinal traction algorithm, a spinal traction algorithm control unit that generates forces in at least two directions by running ceramics along the spinal column based on the spinal traction algorithm to transmit physical force to the spine, thereby assisting LCCT (Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction) traction; The spinal traction algorithm control unit The ceramics are controlled to move horizontally in close contact with the spine in the axial direction, and to move upward from posterior to anterior, so that there is at least one section in the entire massage section where the strength in the tail-to-cranial direction is greater than the strength in the cranial-to-tail direction, and the vertical height of the ceramics in the section corresponding to the strength for the traction role applied when moving horizontally from the tail-to-cranial direction is controlled to be greater than the vertical height of the ceramics corresponding to the strength for the traction role applied when moving horizontally from the cranial-to-cranial direction.

15. The spinal traction algorithm control unit A spinal muscle relaxation section for relaxing the spinal muscles divides the entire spinal column into a lumbopelvic section, a thoracic section, and a cervical section, and induces relaxation of the transitional joints through multiple reciprocating movements of the ceramic. a piriformis muscle relaxation portion in which the ceramic travels multiple times over the posterior pelvis to relax the piriformis muscle; The spinal massaging device according to claim 14, further comprising a spinal column motion leveling unit that moves the ceramics back and forth over the entire length of the spine multiple times after the ceramics are raised and lowered.

16. The spinal massage device according to claim 15, further comprising a sacroiliac joint relaxation portion where the ceramic stops at a corresponding portion to relax the sacroiliac joint, thereby reducing the displacement of the sacroiliac joint and relaxing the muscles.

17. The spinal massage device according to claim 15, further comprising a lumbar traction unit, wherein the ceramic performs traction on the lumbar spine and the ceramic moves up and down (P to A, A to P) at a specific targeted lumbar level to perform spinal curvature and position traction.

18. The spinal motion leveling unit 16. The spinal massage device according to claim 15, further comprising a cervical traction unit in which the ceramics are raised and lowered multiple times at a specific level of the cervical section for traction of the cervical vertebrae, thereby enabling spinal curvature and position traction.

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