Patent ID: 8764693
Filing Date: 2014-07-01
Classification: A61F,A61H

Abstract:
1. A traction device for imparting a forward curve to the cervical spine and reducing hyper-kyphosis of the upper thoracic spine, the device comprising: a frame adapted to be supported on a rigid support surface, the frame configured to be disposed about a user's head and neck and defining contact surfaces for abutting the rigid support surface, the frame having a neck support extending between first and second side portions of the frame; a first inflatable elongated bladder coupled to the neck support and configured to be positioned below a neck of a user during use, the first inflatable elongated bladder being expandable in a first direction outwardly from the neck support toward the neck of a user and expandable in a second direction substantially normal to the first direction upon inflation; a second inflatable elongated bladder coupled to the neck support and configured to be positioned below the upper thoracic region of a user during use, the second inflatable elongated bladder being expandable in a third direction angularly from the neck support toward the upper thoracic spine of a user upon inflation; a spacer configured to be coupled between a portion of the frame and the second inflatable elongated bladder to adjust the angulation of the second inflatable elongated bladder during inflation; and a pump system for selectively inflating and deflating the first and second inflatable elongated bladders, whereby upon the first inflatable bladder expanding in the first direction, the first inflatable bladder bears outwardly against the back of the user's neck, and upon expanding in the second direction, the first inflatable bladder applies an angular traction to the cervical spine and, whereby upon the second inflatable bladder expanding in the third direction, the second inflatable bladder bears angularly against the back of the user's upper thoracic region.