Cervical Traction Device with Dynamic Spring for Lordosis Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for treating abnormal cervical spine curvature, such as manual manipulation and short-term cervical traction, fail to permanently correct spinal structure and provide lasting relief from associated pain and deformity.
Innovation Solution
A cervical traction device that cyclically applies a traction force at an angle to the cervical spine using a headgear and curved orthosis, designed to be used in a supine position, to restore and maintain cervical lordosis through a combination of a traction assembly and a dynamic traction line with a spring, reducing neck spasms and aiding in disc rehydration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual manipulation of the cervical spine is used, then joint motion and function are improved, but permanent correction of abnormal spinal structure is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action through cyclic application of traction forces that alternate between a first traction force and a second lower traction force, or between a traction force and no-traction force. This periodic cycling over an extended period (15-20 minutes) enables permanent correction of abnormal spinal curvature while maintaining joint function, resolving the contradiction between immediate improvement and lasting correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by maintaining sustained cyclic traction over an extended period (15-20 minutes) rather than brief manual manipulation. The continuous cyclic application of traction forces ensures permanent structural correction is achieved while preserving the benefits of improved joint motion and function.
2Ease of operation
If short-term cervical traction is applied, then some symptomatic relief is achieved, but permanent correction of abnormal spinal curves is not accomplished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a dynamic traction line with a spring that can graduate traction force during the therapy session. The cyclic variation between higher and lower traction forces, combined with the dynamic spring mechanism, enables permanent correction of spinal curves while maintaining symptomatic relief, overcoming the limitation of static short-term traction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through cyclic application of traction forces that alternate between a first traction force and a second lower traction force over an extended period (15-20 minutes). This periodic cycling achieves permanent correction of abnormal spinal curves while maintaining symptomatic relief, resolving the contradiction between immediate relief and lasting correction.
3Reliability
If traction force is applied continuously, then spinal curvature correction is achieved, but neck spasms occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by applying periodic action through cyclic traction forces that alternate between a first traction force and a second lower traction force, or between traction force and no-traction force. This periodic variation prevents continuous muscle contraction that causes spasms while still achieving spinal curvature correction over the extended therapy period.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamics by implementing a dynamic traction line with a spring that can graduate traction force during the session. The cyclic variation in traction force magnitude and the dynamic adjustment capability allow spinal curvature correction to be achieved while minimizing neck spasms through reduced force intensity during certain phases of the cycle.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively restores cervical lordosis, improving the morphology of herniated discs and providing relief from cervical radiculopathy by applying a controlled and cyclical traction force, reducing neck spasms and promoting disc rehydration.
Implementation Method 1
the traction line includes a spring adapted to graduate traction force being applied to the patient's cervical spine by the headgear during a therapy session
Data Source
AI summary
An example cervical traction device is used in conjunction with a therapy table and is made up of: a traction assembly configured to cyclically apply a traction force to the cervical spine at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the cervical spine to bend the cervical spine; a frame configured to support the traction assembly, the frame includes an upright mast; and a curved orthosis adapted to rest directly on the therapy table and for being positioned under the cervical spine of a patient during treatment. The traction assembly includes a first pulley device connected to the upright mast of the frame, the first pulley device is adjustable along a length of the upright mast. The traction assembly is configured to bend the cervical spine about the curved orthosis while exerting the traction force.