Stretching Machine Lumbar Stabilization Hamstring Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for stretching hamstrings often fail to adequately stabilize the lumbar spine in an anatomical position, leading to increased strain on the lower back and marginal relief from musculoskeletal lower back pain, particularly in athletes and individuals with hamstring tightness.
Innovation Solution
A machine designed to stabilize the lumbar spine in an anatomical position while stretching the hamstrings, featuring a platform with adjustable lumbar support, a leg support system that applies force along the long axis of the leg, and articulation allowing movement in multiple planes, which can be operated manually or with assistance, including electrical stimulation for muscle strengthening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional hamstring stretches are performed, then hamstring flexibility is improved, but lumbar spine stability deteriorates leading to increased lower back strain
Solution Approach 1:
The stretching machine divides the support system into separate functional components: a lumbar support structure that independently stabilizes the lower back, and a leg support structure that independently stretches the hamstring. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with the other, maintaining lumbar stability while achieving hamstring flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The lumbar support structure acts as an intermediary element between the ground and the stretching mechanism. It provides a stable base that prevents lumbar spine movement during stretching, thereby mediating the force transmission to ensure it is directed solely at the hamstring muscle without compromising lower back stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If force is applied to stretch the hamstring, then flexibility is improved, but strain on lower back muscles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The machine applies force locally and specifically to the hamstring muscle through the leg support structure, while the lumbar support structure locally stabilizes the lower back region. This localized approach ensures that stretching forces are concentrated on the target muscle (hamstring) without being transmitted to or affecting the lumbar spine, thereby improving flexibility while preventing lower back strain.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the leg support allows movement in multiple planes, then stretching effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The leg support structure incorporates articulation that allows dynamic movement in multiple planes (sagittal, frontal, and transverse planes) to accommodate the natural range of motion of the hip and knee joints. This dynamic capability enables effective stretching of the hamstring through multi-planar movement, while the articulation is designed to be mechanically simple, using basic hinge and pivot joints rather than complex mechanisms.
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
Effectively stretches the hamstrings and hip flexors while maintaining the natural lumbar curve, reducing lower back strain, preventing overuse injuries, and enhancing flexibility, thereby alleviating chronic pain and improving posture.
Implementation Method 1
a platform having a lumbar support configured to support a lordotic position
Implementation Method 2
the machine having the leg support moveably attached to the platform. The leg support is configured so that a force can be applied down the long axis of the leg support
Implementation Method 3
Another embodiment can include electrical stimulation to the muscles of the lumbar spine, the hamstrings, and/or the quadriceps in order to facilitate strengthening of muscles. Electrical stimulation can also facilitate the reciprocal inhibition reflex, enhancing the efficacy of the stretch
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments are directed to a machine that stabilizes the lumbar spine in anatomic position while stretching the hamstrings, tensor fascia lata, and lliotibial (IT) band.