Treatment force application device

A treatment force application device preferably for use on biological tissue includes a proximal end having a weight and having a support for a practitioner; a distal end having a treatment interface configured for applying a therapeutic treatment including at least a treatment force; and a connection between the support and the treatment interface. The connection is lockably adjustable by the practitioner to establish a placement of the treatment interface relative to the support. The weight is sufficient to substantially prevent movement of the treatment interface relative to the support when the connection is locked. The support enables movement of the practitioner to provide a practitioner force, and the practitioner force is transferred from the support to the treatment interface through the connection. The support includes at least one flexible brace against which the practitioner can press to provide the practitioner force. The therapeutic treatment further includes at least one of heat, cold, moisture, vibration, pulsing, ultrasound, radiation, chemicals, and medicine. The treatment interface can be configured for obtaining biometric, treatment, physical, mechanical, force and environmental data related to use of the device.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to manual therapy equipment, and specifically to a treatment force application device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority from the following U.S. Provisional Application, the entire disclosure of which, including but not limited to any and all cited references, is incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/862,108 (filed Jun. 16, 2019).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Manual therapy has existed for thousands of years as the intentional manipulation of body tissues for the relief of pain, discomfort, and other ailments that may affect living creatures in a myriad of criterion from purely physical to mental, emotional, spiritual and others. It may even predate the human species as animals have been observed utilizing surfaces in the wild to provide themselves with pressure to various bodily surface areas.

Its acceptance in the West as a medical intervention may be said to have begun in a more standardized way roughly around the 1500s and has continued to develop due to individuals such as Ambroise Pare, Per Henrik Ling, and Dr. Janet Travell, to name just a few. The earliest depiction of therapeutic touch can be seen in cave paintings as far back as 15,000 BCE. Eastern styles of bodywork have also been a notable style of application. At the present time, numerous modalities and methodologies exist in many domains that utilize tissue manipulation for therapeutic benefit, in both professional and informal settings. While therapeutic touch has typically been provided in informal settings for the administration of mostly pleasurable effects, its administration for pathologies and pain is becoming further substantiated and ubiquitous and necessitates a more rigorous scientific and less fatiguing approach to be available in clinical applications.

Further, although forms of therapeutic touch and force application have been present throughout history and cultures, practitioners have lacked a means for both defining and providing said force in both an easy and reproducible manner. Additionally, as forces are typically applied using no other sensor than the human brain, quantifying these forces has been limited.

Current methods of force application to biological tissue, largely the human body, rely primarily on effortful actions of another human body, creating wear and tear on the applicator while inevitably resulting in inconsistent levels of force, depth, angles of entry, and duration.

Current devices used to mitigate damage to the human force applicator's natural appendages still require the practitioner to engage with the devices by gripping and bracing skeletal muscle to create rigid joint angles for extended periods, which leads to potential repetitive stress injuries and other ailments. Other devices for force application to tissues typically utilize a tool against a steady surface such as a wall, bed, or floor to be utilized while the human body interfaces around the tool with various levels of coordination, accuracy, and support. Bracing or leaning can be an essential component of producing any kind of compressional force. Objects can be pinned between other fixed objects in order for pressure and force to be created, exerted, and maintained. When human skeletal muscle acts as a force producing brace, results may be nonuniform and efforts may be discontinued from either the inability to apply force to the desired location at the proper angle and/or the force created is insufficient or excessive creating discomfort and/or injury.

In the field of manual therapy, there currently exists no mechanisms for providing repeatable application of force in treatment, as the practice relies solely on a human practitioner applying force in response to client reports. This lack of reproducibility leads to improper long-term care and results. In addition, the field has a high number of reported workplace-related injuries, which can lead many practitioners to leave the profession.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention advantageously fills the aforementioned deficiencies by providing a treatment force application device and a method for its use, as an alternative to other manual therapy devices and methods.

The treatment force application device for use on biological tissue preferably operates to serve at least two purposes, initially targeted for use in a manual therapy or similar setting, which are achieved by removing direct interaction between a human practitioner and a patient. The device allows for greatly improved accuracy and repeatability of treatment, thus potentially improving overall success rates, while providing ideal conditions for data collection. The removal of any direct contact with a human practitioner reduces or eliminates occupational risks normally associated with the profession. Both of these goals serve to provide a standardized level of care to biological tissue with the application of force with minimal effort and fatigue. The treatment force application device is preferably designed to allow practitioners with injuries, structural inadequacies, and neuromuscular control issues to apply force to biological tissues in a superior, or at least an identical manner to practitioners without such restrictions.

The invention provides, among other things, a system and method of applying force onto biological tissues in a manner consistent with forces a human body could create using only its natural appendages. The system and method can be used in lieu of or in addition to systems and methods for applying force in traditional manners applied directly by a human practitioner. An intent of the system and method is to enable greater accuracy and repeatability of treatment while minimizing or eliminating any physical risks of a human practitioner related to his or her occupation.

The following descriptions of features and aspects of the invention are not meant to limit the scope of the invention, but rather to merely provide examples of preferred embodiments. Terms and phrases used are intended to have and convey their dictionary and common usage meanings, as well as or including, without limitation, the meanings specified. To the extent that any refer to functionality or purpose in any way, then they are intended to convey, in addition to their dictionary and common usage meanings, any arrangement, combination, or interaction of physical objects, hardware, and/or software that is suitable to any degree, whether partially or fully, for accomplishing and/or effecting the function or intended result. Further, in addition to any preferred embodiments described, the invention encompasses embodiments having features and aspects that fall into the broadest possible categories to which the described preferred features and aspects belong.

For additional clarity in such regard, it should be understood that references to biological tissues include without limitation all organized matter known or unknown that comprises smaller units such as cells, fibrils, collagenous materials and other organic molecules. Biological tissues preferably targeted by the invention include without limitation human and animal tissues such as, for example, integumentary, myofascial, neural, connective, osseous, and cartilaginous.

In preferred embodiments, a treatment force application device includes a proximal end having a weight and having a support for a practitioner; a distal end having a treatment interface configured for applying a therapeutic treatment including at least a treatment force; and a connection between the support and the treatment interface; wherein the connection is lockably adjustable by the practitioner to establish a placement of the treatment interface relative to the support; and the weight is sufficient to substantially prevent movement of the treatment interface relative to the support when the connection is locked.

As an example, in certain embodiments a treatment force application device can include a treatment station having a weighted base with a seat for a practitioner, and a treatment module connected to the base by an arm with segments connected to one another and to the treatment module and the base by universal joints that can be locked and unlocked, such that a practitioner sitting in the seat and facing the treatment module can lock and unlock the joints and, when the joints are unlocked, move and position the treatment module in real space relative to the seat, and, when the joints are locked, have the treatment module held in position relative to the seat by the rigidity of the arm and the weight of the base.

The force can be any type of force, including without limitation treatment forces and non-treatment forces, compression forces, tension forces, shearing forces, torsion forces, bending forces, rotation forces, twisting forces, positive forces, negative forces (such as, for example, in the case of suction techniques and cupping techniques), magnetic forces, elemental forces, pressure forces, deformation forces, forces caused by natural phenomena, and known and unknown forces of any type, and be caused or allowed to be caused by any means, known or unknown. The forces can have any desired amounts, in any combination, of a variety of characteristics, including without limitation strength, duration, angle, depth, velocity, speed, rate, tempo, duration, rhythm and oscillation. Accordingly, the forces and the use of the device can be useful for a variety of treatments including without limitation medical, chiropractic, osteopathic, massage, general therapy, manual therapy, neuromuscular therapy, trigger point, kneading/petrissage, stroking/effleurage, manual lymphatic drainage, lymphotherapy, cross friction, longitudinal release, gua sha, myofascial therapies, skin rolling, percussion/tapotement, pin and strip, dermoneuromodulation, neurodynamics, circulatory, instrument assisted tissue mobilization, heat/cold application, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, muscle activation, rocking and shaking, traction, structural integration, visceral manipulation, Eastern style bodywork, acupressure, tuina, traditional Chinese medicine techniques, shiatsu, Thai massage, aromatherapy, cranio-sacral therapy, soft tissue techniques, applied kinesiology, muscle testing, anma, bone setting, tapping, muscle energy techniques, myotherapy, sports massage, reiki, energy work, biofeedback, crystal healing, cupping, breathwork, magnet therapy, reflexology, active release, rolfing, physiotherapy, spinal adjustment, chiropractic adjustment, spinal manipulation, joint manipulation/mobilization, osteopathic manipulation, heat, cold, vibration, pulsing, ultrasound, radiation, laser, dry needling, stretching, body sculpting, and dermatological treatments and techniques.

The support can be any type of accommodation for any type of user. The accommodation can be any type of accommodation including without limitation a support, recess, seat, chair, space, platform, or ledge. The user can be any type of user including without limitation a user, practitioner, operator, surgeon, chiropractor, nurse, therapist, masseur, masseuse, or technician. The proximal and distal ends can be any aspects of the device that are spaced from one another, and are not necessarily the most proximal and most distal portions of the device.

The treatment interface can be any type of application feature including without limitation treatment interfaces, non-treatment interfaces, data-gathering interfaces, informational interfaces, and control interfaces. The treatment interface in preferred embodiments has a contact surface that is shaped, designed, or otherwise configured to interact with and apply force, pressure, and deformation through the fundamental loads of compression, tension, bending, torsion and shear, to biological tissues from the outermost layer of the tissues without puncturing, scratching or cutting the tissues. The treatment interface can include one or more instruments or tools. The treatment interface can be of any shape including but not limited to a rod, cone, sphere, cylinder, bar (such as, for example, a scraping bar), whether full, partial, or elongated shapes of any of the foregoing.

Further in preferred embodiments, the treatment interface acts primarily on the deeper layers of biological tissues through depth of pressure, and tolerable levels of tissue deformation and other effects such as vibration, ultrasound, heat, cold, and other noninvasive methods. The treatment interface is preferably made from materials reasonably safe to biological tissues that are sufficiently inert to cause no harm, or limited harm, to the biological tissues, such as, for example, stainless steel, natural rubber, wood, and non-toxic plastics.

The therapeutic treatment can be any type of application including without limitation applications, treatments, and therapies, of any nature, including without limitation therapeutic, prophylactic, preventative, chiropractic, medical and holistic.

The adjustability of the connection can be any ability or capability to change or be changed in any respect. The lockability of the connection can be any ability or capability to secure in or be secured in, and release from or be releasable from a changed situation. Being lockably adjustable by a user can be the user being able to directly or indirectly cause a result, or direct or control persons, physical objects, hardware and/or software to cause a result. The placement of the treatment interface relative to the support can be as to any direction, dimension, or configuration.

The weight can be fixed, temporary, or variable, and from any source, whether inherent in, integral with or separate from the device. The sufficiency of the weight can mean that the weight, at least when it is being utilized or otherwise relied upon, is at least heavy enough to cause, or used or useful to cause the intended result. The movement that is substantially prevented can be as to any direction, dimension, or configuration. The substantial nature of the prevention can be that although there may in certain embodiments be deformations of materials, movements of attached or related components due to imprecise spacing tolerances, and other such limitations of physical technology, the treatment interface is fixed relative to the support to the extent that it can be in order to achieve the intended functional purpose.

Preferably, the connection is adjustable in six degrees of freedom by manipulation of the treatment interface within reach of the practitioner.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments each of the universal joints can articulate in six degrees of freedom, and the treatment module is within arm's reach of the practitioner when the practitioner is sitting in the seat, such that the practitioner can sit in the seat facing the treatment module, reach out and grab the treatment module, and, when the universal joints are unlocked, move the treatment module in real space in multiple directions and orientations, and then lock the universal joints to have the treatment module remain in place at the desired location.

The adjustability of the connection can be in fewer than six degrees of freedom including without limitation one or more degrees of freedom. The manipulation can be effecting a change to, or in, any aspect or situation of the treatment interface. Being within reach can mean that manipulation or control of manipulation of the treatment interface is within the sphere of influence of the practitioner.

Preferably, the connection has a plurality of joints that each can be locked and unlocked independently, so that any permutation of any combination of locked and unlocked joints is possible. Accordingly, the connection can preferably be locked as to any direction or axis independent of any other direction or axis, and can accordingly, or otherwise, be used to maintain and hold pressure in a given orientation while retaining freedom as to other orientations.

Preferably, the connection includes at least one arm having at least one securable and releasable lock for selectively preventing and allowing adjustment of the connection.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments the locks on the universal joints can be alternately individually secured and released, and when a lock is secured, it prevents adjustment of the connection at its associated joint, and when a lock is released, it allows adjustment of the connection at its associated joint, such that the practitioner can unlock one or more joints to allow adjustment, and lock one or more joints to prevent adjustment.

The connection can be any connection including without limitation connections including any number of arms with any number of segments or sections for each arm. The connection can include without limitation connections that utilize any mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, hardware, and software components. The arm or arms can include one lock or multiple locks. The lock or locks can be located on, in, about or adjacent to, or otherwise or in any manner or through any mechanism associated with the arm or arms, or arm segment or segments.

Being securable and releasable can mean having an ability to change, or to be changed, in any respect, and to, respectively, secure in, or be securable in, and release from, or be releasable, from such changed situation. Adjustment of the connection can be any change to, or in, any aspect or situation of the connection. Selectively can mean any degree of control, whether partial or full, in choosing either result. Preventing and allowing can mean having an ability to change, or to be changed, in any respect, and to, respectively, disable, block, make not possible, etc., on the one hand, and enable, unblock, make possible, etc. on the other hand, such change.

In preferred embodiments, a distal arm segment attaches to the treatment interface and can be made from materials similar to those described above with regard to the treatment interface, and can range in parameters such as length, width, height, and weight. Preferably, a distal joint associated with the distal arm segment is a location at which the arm can be locked after being positioned for treatment, and may include an articulation mechanism such as, for example, a ball and socket joint, hinge joint, or other freely mobile joint capable of locking by numerous mechanisms. Preferably, subsequent to an additional arm segment, a proximal articulation is present and also may include any joint type, locking mechanism, size or other desired variation. Preferably, the arm segments and joints can be placed in a variety of positions to direct the treatment interface toward a target site.

Preferably, the support is adjustable with respect to at least one dimension of the practitioner.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments the height, width, and/or orientation of the seat can be adjusted to make it more comfortable for the practitioner.

Adjustment of the connection can be any change to, or in, any aspect or situation of the support. A dimension of the practitioner can be any characteristic or aspect of the practitioner.

Preferably, movement of the support is enabled by at least one wheel. Further preferably, the proximal end includes at least one securable and releasable lock for selectively preventing and allowing movement of the wheel.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments the support can be moved horizontally. In embodiments in which the support and the base are fixed to one another (permanently or temporarily), horizontal movement of the base can cause horizontal movement of the support. In some of such embodiments, the horizontal movement can be enabled by one or more wheels on the bottom of the base, such that the base can be rolled across the surface on which it is placed (for example, a floor). In some embodiments, the feet of the practitioner sitting on the support can reach the surface and accordingly the practitioner can use his or her feet to pull the base across the surface when the wheels are not locked, to cause such horizontal movement.

The movement of the support can be any motion, as to any amount or frequency, and can be caused or enabled by any type of movement or transport mechanism or device including without limitation wheels, rollers, sliders, magnets, and forces.

The proximal end can include one lock or multiple locks. The lock or locks can be located on, in, about or adjacent to, or otherwise or in any manner or through any mechanism associated with the proximal end, support, wheels, or other component of the device. Being securable and releasable can mean having an ability to change, or to be changed, in any respect, and to, respectively, secure in, or be securable in, and release from, or be releasable, from such changed situation. Selectively can mean any degree of control, whether partial or full, in choosing either result.

Preventing and allowing movement can mean having an ability to change, or to be changed, in any respect, and to, respectively, disable, block, make not possible, etc., on the one hand, and enable, unblock, make possible, etc. on the other hand, such change. The movement of the wheel can be any motion, as to any amount or frequency, and can be caused or enabled by any type of movement or transport mechanism or device including without limitation rollers, sliders, magnets, and forces.

In preferred embodiments, the support serves as a mass distribution platform and accordingly may support and accommodate any variable or non-variable mass that can balance on the platform and be supported by the base. Preferably, lockable dual axis mobility enablers (such as, for example, wheels) on the base have full 360 degree rotation capability and accordingly can be used to move the device to any desired location and further can be used to brace, brake, and fully lock through the use of a braking mechanism such as, for example, brake or lock pedal. The mass distribution platform can have any desired shape, size, thickness dimension, density, or other physical characteristic. Preferably, a spatial relationship between the mass distribution platform and the base is established by a support column having a height that is adjustable by a height adjustment lever or other similar mechanism. Preferably, the height adjustment lever is capable of mechanically reducing the distance between the mass distribution platform and the base using gravity or other natural phenomena through mechanisms such as, for example, hydraulic or pneumatic systems, or motorized gears. Preferably, a relationship between the mass distribution platform and the base establishes a primary agent of force transference through the remaining device elements such as, for example, the joints, arm segments, and the treatment interface, ultimately terminating in the biological tissues themselves.

Preferably, the support enables movement of the practitioner to provide a practitioner force, and the practitioner force is transferred from the support to the treatment interface through the connection. Further preferably, the support enables at least one of vertical, horizontal, and rotational movement of the practitioner, the rotational movement being about at least one of three axes perpendicular to one another. Still further preferably, the support includes at least one flexible brace against which the practitioner can press to provide the practitioner force.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments the seat can have extending vertically from it a brace to which the connection between the seat and the treatment module is attached, and the brace can be adjacent the practitioner's torso when the practitioner is sitting in the seat, such that the practitioner can lean against the brace with the practitioner's torso to, when the connection is locked, cause the connection to move in accordance with the force, and consequently cause the treatment module to move in accordance with the force. In some of such embodiments, this practitioner force can be used to apply treatment or otherwise affect the target of the force.

The practitioner force can be separate from the treatment force, or part or all of the treatment force. The movement of the practitioner to provide the force can be any motion, as to any amount or frequency, and be caused or enabled by any type of movement or transport mechanism or device including without limitation wheels, rollers, sliders, magnets, and forces. The movement can be caused or enabled by the practitioner moving himself or herself under the practitioner's own power. The force can be any type of force, including without limitation treatment forces and non-treatment forces, positive and negative forces, magnetic forces, elemental forces, forces caused by natural phenomena, and known and unknown forces of any type, and be caused or allowed to be caused by any means, known or unknown.

Transferring can mean conveying, imparting, providing, transmitting, or replicating. Through can mean by way of, by use of, due to, along, or within. Enabling can mean allowing, causing or helping to allow or cause a result.

Vertical, horizontal, and rotational movements can mean such directional and positional changes with respect to any reference points or axes. Flexible can mean changeable in at least one physical characteristic. Brace can mean, without limitation, any physical or forceful barrier. Press can mean any manner of applying or causing to be applied, any type of force.

In preferred embodiments, a proximal joint is attached to the support by way of a flexible brace against which a practitioner can create horizontal vectors of force production through actions such as, for example, leaning when the practitioner is seated on the support. Preferably, the connection of the support to the proximal joint by the brace brings the arm into force transference cohesion with the proximal end of the device.

In preferred embodiments, a practitioner or other operator can be a variable mass on the mass distribution platform and be positioned with his or her legs straddling the flexible brace and his or her torso facing the flexible brace to facilitate leaning forward against the brace to provide a practitioner force. In preferred embodiments, the brace is strong enough to support the weight of the arm segments and joints, and the flexible brace and other parts of the device can withstand and resist to the extent necessary the forces being exerted on it from both the biological tissues, whose density, elasticity, and structure must be countered, as well as the practitioner. Preferably, the flexible brace is constructed from any sufficiently durable, weight bearing material such as, for example, steel, rod iron, and other materials that resist snapping. Further in preferred embodiments, the practitioner has access to the ground or floor by the practitioner's feet, which enables repositioning of the base, and accordingly the device as a whole, using the dual axis mobility enablers. The dual axis mobility enablers preferably have a range of motion of 360 degrees and can be locked. Although the base may have any desired number of dual axis mobility enablers, in preferred embodiments of the invention the base has five lockable dual axis mobility enablers.

In preferred embodiments, the described position of the practitioner allows for movement of the device using the practitioner's legs and feet through friction contact with the floor, while also providing the practitioner with access, within arm's reach, to the treatment interface, arm segments, and joints for positioning the treatment interface over biological tissues and enabling optimal positioning when height adjustments become necessary with variance in practitioner heights. Preferably, through the described mechanisms, a precise degree of force, pressure, and tissue deformation can be applied to a precise location, at a precise angle, for a desired duration with minimal effort for the practitioner while providing a reliable degree of stillness at the tissue site.

Subtle adjustments to force applications can, in preferred embodiments, be refined through the use of a practitioner's legs and feet when the base (21) is free to move. In certain embodiments, motorized mobility enablers may additionally or alternatively be utilized to allow for operation of the device by practitioners with restrictions such as leg, hip, knee and foot inadequacies.

Preferably, the connection between the support and the treatment interface has varying ranges of motion due to a combination of joint types that enable the treatment interface to achieve any angle and position relative to the biological tissues, similar to the capability of appendages of a well-functioning human body.

Further in preferred embodiments, the configuration of the connection including without limitation the arm segments and joints provides unimpeded movement of the treatment interface in the sagittal, coronal, and transverse planes through every conceivable range of motion. Further in preferred embodiments, not only the ability of the dual axis mobility enablers to rotate through 360 degrees, but also the ability of the adjustable height support column to rotate 360 degrees relative to the mass distribution platform provides for 360 degrees of rotation for the platform and any variable mass placed on it, such as a practitioner.

Preferably, the treatment interface includes a contact surface that is extendible and retractable to selectively provide the treatment force. Further preferably, the treatment force increases with extension of the contact surface and decreases with retraction of the contact surface. Still further preferably, increases and decreases of the treatment force respectively due to the extension and retraction are logarithmic.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments the treatment module can have a contact surface that can be the primary point of interaction with the patient or other target of the treatment. In some of such embodiments, the surface can be extended outwardly, and retracted inwardly such that if the contact surface is adjacent the patient or other target of the treatment, extending the surface causes a force to be applied, and retracting the surface relieves the force. In some of such embodiments, extending the surface causes a force to applied according to a logarithmic scale, and retracting the surface causes a force to be relieved according to a logarithmic scale.

The contact surface can be any part of any component that can contact or be brought into contact with, or otherwise be made to contact, a point of interest on a target of the treatment force. The target can be a subject, patient, client, or customer. Extendible and retractable can mean, respectively, moving away or forth from, and moving back into or toward. Selectively can mean any degree of control, whether partial or full, in choosing either result. Provide can mean partially or fully cause, enable, or facilitate.

As to the force increasing with extension and decreasing with retraction, the invention also encompasses embodiments in which the force decreases with extension and increases with retraction, and embodiments in which there is any change in value with any change in position. As to the increases and decreases being according to a logarithmic scale, the invention encompasses embodiments in which the increases and/or decreases are according to other scales, formulas, patterns or trajectories.

Preferably, the therapeutic treatment further includes at least one of heat, cold, moisture, vibration, pulsing, ultrasound, radiation, chemicals, and medicine.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments, the treatment applied by the treatment module can be any type or manner of affecting the patient or other target of the treatment, including without limitation those listed.

Preferably, the treatment interface is configured for obtaining data related to use of the device. Further preferably, the treatment interface includes at least one sensor. Further preferably, the data is selected from the group consisting of biometric data, treatment data, physical data, mechanical data, force data, environmental data.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments, the treatment module can collect data related to the use of the device, and can in that regard have one or more sensors suitable for such collection. The data can be any type of data, including without limitation those listed.

The configuration can include one or more detectors, sensors, sensitive components, triggers. Obtaining can mean gathering, sensing, coming into possession or control of, and causing the possession or control of.

The data can mean data of any type, format, or language, and any carrier thereof. The use to which the data relates can be any use by any person, machine, computer, user, practitioner, subject, target, client, customer, buyer, seller, manufacturer, maintenance personnel, or maintenance equipment. Related can mean any manner or aspect pertaining to, involving, similar to, caused by, or effected by.

The sensor can be any device, whether hardware or software or both, that is useful for obtaining data, or causing data to be obtained.

In preferred embodiments, a method of applying a treatment force includes, from a support at a proximal end of a treatment force application device, the device having a weight at the proximal end and having a distal end having a treatment interface and a connection between the support and the treatment interface, the treatment interface being configured for application of a therapeutic treatment including at least the treatment force; adjusting and locking the connection to establish a placement of the treatment interface relative to the support, the weight being sufficient to substantially prevent movement of the treatment interface relative to the support when the connection is locked; and applying the treatment force using the treatment interface.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments the method of the invention can include without limitation the use, by the practitioner, of the described device. More particularly, for example, the method can include sitting in the seat in an orientation facing the treatment module, grabbing and moving the treatment module while one or more of the universal joints are unlocked, locking the universal joints when the treatment module is at the desired location such that the treatment module is held in position relative to the seat by the rigidity of the arm and the weight of the base, and then using the treatment module to apply the treatment force.

The method can be undertaken by any user, whether person, machine, or computer, and through any means, whether purposely, randomly, automated, or by artificial intelligence. The steps described, and any other steps described herein, can be undertaken in any order, and fewer or more steps can be included without departing from the scope of the invention. The components, features, and functionalities of described in the method are in certain embodiments as they are broadly described above and elsewhere herein.

Further preferably, as to the method, the treatment interface includes a contact surface that is extendible and retractable to selectively provide the treatment force, the treatment force logarithmically increases with extension of the contact surface and logarithmically decreases with retraction of the contact surface, and the method further includes extending and retracting the contact surface to selectively provide the treatment force.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments, the method of the invention can include without limitation extending and retracting the contact surface to apply, or withdraw, the force as needed to effect the treatment, where extending the surface causes the force to be applied, and retracting the surface causes the force to be relieved. In some of such embodiments, extending the surface causes the force to applied according to a logarithmic scale, and retracting the surface causes the force to be relieved according to a logarithmic scale.

Further preferably, as to the method, the treatment interface is configured for obtaining data related to use of the device, and the method further includes using the treatment interface to obtain the data.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments, the method of the invention can include without limitation using the treatment module to collect the data related to use of the device, where the treatment module is configured for such collection.

Further preferably, as to the method, the support includes at least one flexible brace against which the practitioner can press in at least one of a vertical, horizontal, and rotational movement to provide a practitioner force, the practitioner force being transferred from the support to the treatment interface through the connection, and the method further includes pressing against the brace to provide the practitioner force.

As an example, further discussing the previous example, in certain embodiments, the method of the invention can include without limitation leaning against the flexible brace extending from the seat to, when the connection is locked, cause the connection to move in accordance with the force, and consequently cause the treatment module to move in accordance with the force.

It should be understood that with regard to elements of the invention discussed herein that move, articulate, interact with other elements, or otherwise change, or can be moved, articulated, caused to interact with other elements, or otherwise changed, any and all systems and methods for accomplishing such actions are encompassed by the invention including without limitation manual, motorized, hydraulic powered, pneumatic powered, automated, and computerized systems and methods.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Following are more detailed descriptions of various related concepts related to, and embodiments of, methods and apparatus according to the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that various aspects of the subject matter introduced above and discussed in greater detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the subject matter is not limited to any particular manner of implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes.

The invention provides, in preferred embodiments, a treatment force application device or instrument.

Referring now toFIGS.1-5, a treatment force application device100of a preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated. The device100has a proximal end102and a distal end104. The proximal end102has a weight106and a support108for a practitioner120. The distal end104has a treatment interface110configured for applying a therapeutic treatment including at least a treatment force. The device100further has a connection112between the support108and the treatment interface110. The connection112is lockably adjustable by the practitioner120to establish a placement of the treatment interface110relative to the support108. The weight106is sufficient to substantially prevent movement of the treatment interface110relative to the support108when the connection112is locked. The device100is illustrated inFIG.3as being used to apply a treatment to a patient122. Dotted outlines and ghost images of components of the connection112are used to illustrate that the treatment interface110can be pointed in multiple angles at a target site, such as the biological tissues of a patient122.

In the illustrated embodiment, the treatment force application device100is a treatment station, with the proximal end102being a weighted base136and the support108being a seat for the practitioner120. The treatment interface110is a treatment module and the connection112between the support108and the treatment interface110is an arm114with segments116connected to one another and to the treatment module and the support108by universal joints118that can be locked and unlocked, such that a practitioner120sitting in the seat and facing the treatment module can lock and unlock the joints118and, when the joints118are unlocked, move and position the treatment module in real space relative to the seat, and, when the joints118are locked, have the treatment module held in position relative to the seat by the rigidity of the arm114and the weight of the base136.

In certain embodiments, the weight of the practitioner120is the weight106or provides the weight106. In other embodiment, the weight of the base136is sufficient without the practitioner120.

Further referring toFIGS.1-5, the connection112is adjustable in six degrees of freedom by manipulation of the treatment interface110within reach of the practitioner120.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the universal joints118can articulate in six degrees of freedom as indicated by arrows surrounding each joint118, and the treatment module is within arm's reach of the practitioner120when the practitioner120is sitting in the seat, such that the practitioner120can sit in the seat facing the treatment module, reach out and grab the treatment module, and, when the universal joints118are unlocked, move the treatment module in real space in multiple directions and orientations, and then lock the universal joints118to have the treatment module remain in place at the desired location.

Further referring toFIGS.1-5, the arm114has a plurality of securable and releaseable locks124for selectively preventing and allowing adjustment of the connection112.

In the illustrated embodiment, each universal joint has a lock124that can be alternately secured and released. When the lock124is secured, it prevents adjustment of the arm114at the associated joint118, and when the lock124is released, it allows adjustment of the arm114at the associated joint118. The practitioner120can accordingly unlock one or more joints118to allow adjustment, and lock one or more joints118to prevent adjustment.

Referring also toFIGS.29-34, a connection112and treatment interface110of a treatment force application device of an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in various views in operation for treatment of a patient122, with the treatment interface110oriented by adjustment of the arm114segments116and joints118and locked in position using the locks124, for application of the treatment force.

Referring also toFIGS.35-38, a treatment force application device of an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in various partial views showing the support108, flexible brace156, treatment interface110, and connection112with arm segments116and joints118with locks124.

Further referring toFIGS.1-5, the support108is adjustable with respect to a dimension of the practitioner120. In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the seat can be adjusted by use of a height adjustment lever128, to better accommodate the practitioner120, as indicated by arrows126.

Further referring toFIGS.1-5and also referring toFIG.17, movement of the support108is enabled by one or more wheels130, and the proximal end102of the device100includes one or more securable and releasable locks132for selectively preventing and allowing movement of the wheels130. Although the invention is illustrated as including wheels for enabling movement of the support108, the invention encompasses the use of any type of mobility enabler.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support108can be moved horizontally, as indicated by arrows134. The support108and the base136are fixed to one another, and therefore horizontal movement of the base136causes horizontal movement of the support108. The horizontal movement is enabled by a plurality of wheels130on the bottom of the base136, such that the base136can be rolled across a floor. The practitioner's feet138can reach the floor and accordingly the practitioner120can use his or her feet138to pull the base136across the floor when the wheels130are not locked, to cause such horizontal movement.

Further in the illustrated embodiment, the support108can be rotated, as indicated by arrows140, about an axis perpendicular to the floor. The rotation can be enabled by the wheels130when they are unlocked. The rotation can be enabled by a support column142configured to allow the seat to rotate relative to the base136, including but not limited to when the wheels130are locked. Rotating the support108can be useful for placing the practitioner120in an operationally useful orientation, or for positioning the connection112or the treatment module.

Further referring toFIG.17, with regard to securable and releasable locks132for selectively preventing and allowing movement of the wheels130, the illustrated treatment force application device includes one or more brake pedals144in one or more locations (for example, on both sides of the base136as illustrated). The brake pedals144preferably can be operated to selectively slow, temporarily brace, and fully lock the wheels130.

Further referring toFIG.18, with further regard to securable and releasable locks132for selectively preventing and allowing movement of the wheels130, the treatment force application device can additionally or alternatively include at least one anchor146in one or more locations (for example, extending from the bottom of the support108as illustrated). The anchor146preferably can be operated to selectively slow, temporarily brace, and fully lock the wheels130. The anchor146also functions as a brace to enhance the stability of the connection112, due to its inclusion in a force transfer conduit extending from the treatment interface110, through the arm segments116and joints118of the connection112, through the support108, and through the anchor146to the floor.

Referring now toFIGS.20-22, with further regard to securable and releasable locks132for selectively preventing and allowing movement of the wheels130, the treatment force application device can in some embodiments include a base136having at least one rubber stopper148in one or more locations (for example, at the bottom of the support108as illustrated). The rubber stopper148preferably can be operated, by pressing on a foot pedal150, to selectively slow, temporarily brace, and fully lock the wheels130.

Although the invention is illustrated as including brake pedals144, an anchor146, or a rubber stopper148as a lock, the invention encompasses any type of locking element including without limitation a friction lock, bolt lock, magnetic lock, electronic switch, hydraulic brake, or rim brake.

Although the invention is illustrated as being configured for movement of the support108or base136by manual footwork of the practitioner120, the invention encompasses any manner of transport including without limitation use of a motorized support108or base136.

Further referring toFIGS.1-5, the support108enables movement of the practitioner120to provide a practitioner force, and the practitioner force is transferred from the support108to the treatment interface110through the connection112. The support108enables vertical, horizontal, and rotational movement of the practitioner120, with the rotational movement being about at least one of three axes perpendicular to one another.

In the illustrated embodiment, the above described height adjustment of the support108can be used to transfer weight of the practitioner120through the connection112to the treatment module and accordingly, the contact surface208, to apply a practitioner force. As an example, when the contact surface208of the treatment module is at a target point and the connection112is locked such that the treatment module is fixed relative to the seat, then the height adjustment can be engaged to permit weight of the practitioner120to cause the seat to lower by the force of gravity on the practitioner120, and accordingly the force from the weight of the practitioner120is transferred through the connection112to the treatment module and the contact surface208is thus brought to bear against the target point.

Further in the illustrated embodiment, the above described horizontal movement of the support108can be used to transfer force through the connection112to the treatment module and accordingly, the contact surface208, to apply a practitioner force. As an example, when the contact surface208of the treatment module is at a target point and the connection112is locked such that the treatment module is fixed relative to the seat, then the support108can be moved horizontally toward the target point by the practitioner120using his or her feet138to pull the base136across the floor when the wheels130are not locked, to cause such horizontal movement, and accordingly the force from this horizontal movement of the practitioner120is transferred through the connection112to the treatment module and the contact surface208is thus brought to bear against the target point.

Further in the illustrated embodiment, the above described rotational movement of the support108can also be used to transfer force through the connection112to the treatment module and accordingly, the contact surface208, to apply a practitioner force. As an example, when the contact surface208of the treatment module is at a target point and the connection112is locked such that the treatment module is fixed relative to the seat, then the support108can be rotated, either by the practitioner120using his or her feet138to rotate the base136on the wheels130when the wheels130are not locked or by the rotation of the support column142when the wheels130are locked, to cause such rotational movement, and accordingly the force from this rotational movement of the practitioner120is transferred through the connection112to the treatment module and the contact surface208is thus brought to bear against the target point.

Referring now toFIG.26, in certain embodiments of the invention a support column142of the treatment force application device can be selectively reinforced to alternately allow and prevent rotation of the support column142. In the illustrated embodiment, the treatment force application device includes a support column142that can be rotated about its longitudinal axis, and a reinforcement column152. The reinforcement column152is parallel to the support column142and attached to the support108and the base136. A reinforcement lock154selectively connects and disconnects the reinforcement column152from the support column142, such that when the reinforcement lock154is disengaged, the support column142is allowed to rotate, and when the reinforcement lock154is engaged, the support column142is prevented from rotating due to the immobility of the reinforcement column152. Preferably, as illustrated, the reinforcement column152has a telescope design allowing it to be height adjusted along with any height adjustments of the support column142. The invention also encompasses other configurations, components, elements, and features that accomplish selective reinforcement of the support column142to alternately allow and prevent rotation of the support column142, including without limitation braces, blockers, stoppers, and other locks.

Referring now also toFIG.27, additionally or alternatively one or more force transfer columns250can be provided, each extending, for example, from the support108to a point on the base136above a corresponding rubber stopper148. One or more of the force transfer columns250not only can be configured as a reinforcement column152as inFIG.25, but also, when the corresponding rubber stopper148is engaged (for example, by a foot pedal150), can serve as an anchor that functions as a brace to enhance the stability of the connection112, due to the inclusion of the force transfer column250in a force transfer conduit extending from the treatment interface110, through the arm segments116and joints118of the connection112, through the support108, through the force transfer column250, through the rubber stopper148to the floor.

Further referring toFIGS.1-5, with regard to the support108enabling movement of the practitioner120to provide a practitioner force, and the practitioner force being transferred from the support108to the treatment interface110through the connection112, the support108includes at least one flexible brace156against which the practitioner120can press to provide the practitioner force.

In the illustrated embodiment, the seat has extending vertically from it a brace156to which the connection112between the seat and the treatment module is attached, and the brace156is adjacent the practitioner's torso158when the practitioner120is sitting in the seat. The practitioner120can lean against the brace156with the practitioner's torso158to, when the connection112is locked, cause the connection112to move in accordance with the force, and consequently cause the treatment module to move in accordance with the force. Accordingly, the practitioner force can be used to apply treatment or otherwise affect the target of the force. Preferably, the support108is shaped or otherwise configured to accommodate arms of the practitioner120, and/or provide surfaces on which the practitioner's arms can rest, while operating the device100.

Referring now toFIGS.6-8, the arm114of the treatment force application device ofFIGS.1-5is illustrated in comparison to natural joints of a human body. The invention encompasses embodiments in which the connection112includes any number of arms having any number of segments with any type or manner of articulation. However, the connection112preferably includes an arm114with three segments116and three articulating joints118, similar to the tetrapod limb of biological vertebrates such as humans, as well as the fingers of similarly digitally equipped animals. A proximal articulated joint160can be compared to the shoulder166or hip168joints of human arms and legs, or the metacarpophalangeal joints170of human hands. An intermediate articulated joint162can be compared to the elbow172or knee174joints of human arms and legs, or the proximal interphalangeal joints176of human hands. A distal articulated joint164can be compared to the wrist178or ankle180joints of human arms and legs, or the distal interphalangeal joints182of human hands. It is contemplated that such an arm is as equally or more capable of producing force as such corresponding human limbs and appendages. It is intended, though not required, that the treatment force application device be superior to natural means of force application, at least with respect to having an advantage of avoiding repetitive stress injuries to a traditional practitioner. In certain embodiments, the invention replicates the human body with respect to its ability to apply forces to tissues, especially by those skilled in manual therapy practices such as neuromuscular, trigger point, acupressure, and orthopedic and medical massage.

Referring now toFIGS.9-11, the arm114of the treatment force application device ofFIGS.1-5is illustrated in comparison to natural appendages of a human body applying force utilized in manual therapy. Preferably, the locking universal joints118provide reduced-effort, or effortless, as to the practitioner's effort, bracing and transference of force to the ground or other structure through the device instead of through a practitioner's joints and tissues. In manual therapy, human elbows184and hands186are commonly used to apply force to biological tissues122referred to as ‘deep tissue’. Maintenance of effective positions for such force application requires the bracing and contraction of skeletal muscles, particularly the stabilizing muscles of the rotator cuff such as the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor in addition to many other muscles and delicate structures in the torso, neck, and head down the kinetic chain to the ground. With regard to human fingers188and hands186, the maintenance of the effective positions taxes muscles in the forearm and the rest of the body as they must contract continuously for extended periods to avoid the folding or collapsing of the wrist, elbow, and related joints of the human body. Forces pressing into the fingers188from the biological tissues122are transferred down the kinetic chain to the ground to keep the force applying finger stiff and rigid. In preferred embodiments of the treatment force application device, locking joints118provide reduced-effort, or effortless, as to the practitioner's effort, transference of forces to the ground. A structure under gravity can hang or lean, and can be a grounded stable structure or be connected to the ground via a grounded stable structure. Preferably, the treatment force application device utilizes these and other principles of physics to reproduce or approximate the force transferring abilities of the parts of the human body utilized in manual therapy such as thumbs, fingers, knuckles, wrists, forearms, elbows, shoulders, feet, knees, and hips, and accordingly serves as an equivalent or superior substitute for use in manual therapy.

Referring now toFIG.12, a treatment force application device of an embodiment of the invention similar in common respects to the treatment force application device illustrated inFIGS.1-5, is illustrated in partial side view with additional or alternate features. As illustrated, in certain embodiments, the treatment force application device can include a plurality of arm segments extending from the distal-most universal joint, each with a different treatment interface. The treatment interfaces1102,1104,1106can each be shaped or otherwise configured to serve a desired function with regard to applying force or other treatments to biological tissues. In these and other embodiments, the different treatment interfaces can be readily available as necessary.

Referring now toFIG.13, a treatment force application device of an embodiment of the invention similar in common respects to the treatment force application device illustrated inFIGS.1-5, is illustrated in partial side view with additional or alternate features. As illustrated, in certain embodiments, the treatment force application device can include a plurality of arms, each having a different number of arm segments, extending from the support108, each having a different treatment interface. The different arms1142,1144,1146can be configured for different treatment purposes, and the treatment interfaces1108,1110,1112can each be shaped or otherwise configured to serve a desired function with regard to applying force or other treatments to biological tissues122. In these and other embodiments, the different arms and the different treatment interfaces can be readily available as necessary.

Referring now toFIG.14, a treatment force application device of an embodiment of the invention similar in common respects to the treatment force application device illustrated inFIGS.1-5, is illustrated in partial side view with additional or alternate features. In certain embodiments, the treatment force application device includes a plurality of integrated or interchangeable treatment interfaces each shaped to serve a desired function with regard to applying force to biological tissues. As an example, the illustrated treatment interface1110provides protruding areas1112, for imparting greater pressure, adjacent a recessed area1114, for imparting less pressure. The invention encompasses treatment interfaces of any number and any shape.

Further referring toFIG.14, in preferred embodiments, the treatment force application device of the invention additionally or alternatively provides or utilizes therapeutic treatments other than force, including without limitation at least one of heat190(preferably at a temperature above 98.6 degrees but within safe limits for tissues), cold, moisture, vibration192, pulsing, ultrasound, radiation, chemicals, and medicine. The treatment applied by the treatment module can be any type or manner of affecting the patient or other target of the treatment, including without limitation those listed. The treatment interface110can have interchangeable inserts that provide different treatments.

Further referring toFIG.14, in preferred embodiments, the treatment interface110or other part of the device is additionally or alternatively configured for obtaining data related to use of the device. The data can include one or more of biometric data, treatment data, physical data, mechanical data, force data, environmental data, and any other data concerning the device, treatment, practitioner, or patient. In the illustrated embodiment, the treatment interface110can detect and collect biometric, force application and pressure data.

Further referring toFIGS.14-16, in preferred embodiments, the treatment interface110or other part of the device includes at least one sensor configured to obtain the data, and the treatment interface110or other part of the device includes an output to report the data. In certain embodiments, the treatment interface110is configured with one or more sensors, detectors, analyzers, or other data collection elements, as well as one or more outputs, readouts, displays, sounds, lights, or other data reporting elements. As an example, the illustrated device includes one or more sensors194for obtaining biometric, force application and pressure data, and a display196for reporting the data. In certain embodiments, the invention includes an app198or other software, running on an integrated or separate computing device (for example, a tablet computer200) that includes, controls, collects data from, reports data from, or is otherwise associated with the above described sensors, displays or other data collection and reporting features. For example, the computing device can be a controller for elements in any data collection components. Further for example, the computing device can be a controller for providing therapeutic treatments including without limitation temperature, vibration, and ultrasound, and displaying information related to such treatments. Preferably the computing device or its display is adjustable with regard to its position.

Referring now toFIG.19, with regard to the treatment interface110or other part of the device including at least one sensor configured to obtain the data, the treatment interface110can additionally or alternatively include a bar202and a multimeter204to which the bar202can bend and accordingly cause pressure to be registered and reported by the multimeter204.

Referring now toFIG.17, a treatment force application device of an embodiment of the invention is illustrated in anterior view, showing an additional or alternative feature for providing a treatment force, by movement of the practitioner or otherwise. More particularly, the illustrated treatment force application device includes a steering wheel206that can be operated manually by a practitioner. The steering wheel206is preferably within reach of a practitioner sitting on the support. Use of the steering wheel206to rotate one or more of the joints118preferably reduces effort required by the practitioner to move or otherwise use the connection112and the treatment module. In certain embodiments, the steering wheel206can be operated mechanically, electronically, or by computer hardware and/or software, whether by a practitioner or otherwise. While the treatment force application device is illustrated as including a steering wheel206for manipulating an arm114with a plurality of arm segments116, the steering wheel206can be included in treatment force application devices that include any number of arms with any number of segments, including without limitation a treatment force application device having a single arm, with a proximal joint rotatable by a steering wheel206, with a single arm segment116of sufficient length with a distal treatment interface110. This and other embodiments can include a lock, preferably a lever within operational reach of the practitioner, to secure the proximal joint at a desired rotation angle.

Referring now toFIGS.23-25, in certain embodiments of the invention a treatment interface includes a contact surface that is extendible and retractable to selectively provide the treatment force.

In the illustrated embodiment, the treatment module has a contact surface208that can be the primary point of interaction with the patient or other target of the treatment, and the treatment module is configured with a force application cam210that extends and retracts by operation of a force application lever212to respectively extend and retract the contact surface208of the treatment interface110. The cam210preferably includes a bushing218at a point of movement of the cam210relative to the casing, to facilitate its operation.

Preferably, the treatment force increases with extension of the contact surface208and decreases with retraction of the contact surface208. Accordingly, the contact surface208can be extended outwardly, and retracted inwardly such that if the contact surface208is adjacent the patient or other target of the treatment, extending the contact surface208causes a force to be applied, and retracting the contact surface208relieves the force.

Further preferably, increases and decreases of the treatment force respectively due to the extension and retraction are logarithmic. That is, in some embodiments of the invention, extending the contact surface causes a force to applied according to a logarithmic scale, and retracting the contact surface causes a force to be relieved according to a logarithmic scale. In the illustrated embodiment, an internal mechanism214of the cam210effects the logarithmic increases and decreases of the force.

Referring again toFIG.19, with regard to the treatment interface including a contact surface that is extendible and retractable to selectively provide the treatment force in certain embodiments of the invention, the treatment interface can additionally or alternatively include a motor216that is operable to extend and retract the contact surface208of the treatment interface110.

Referring now toFIG.28, in certain embodiments of the invention, the treatment force application device can have one or more additional or alternate features. In the illustrated embodiment, the device includes a power source, such as, for example, a battery pack220that is used to power components of the device as necessary. For example, the battery pack220can power motors, sensors, and displays. Preferably, the battery pack220is positioned to not interfere with the movement and operation of the treatment force application device. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack220is located under the support108.

Further referring toFIG.28, in the illustrated embodiment, the treatment force application device includes an anchor, such as, for example, a support beam222with rubber pads224that when engaged, braces the connection112and serves as a lock132to prevent movement of the support108. The support beam222can be disengaged to allow movement of the support108through use of the wheels. In the illustrated embodiment, the support beam222is engaged by being lowered until the pads224are in forceful contact with the floor, and disengaged by being raised until the pads224are separated from the floor. The movement of the support beam222is preferably effected by a support beam motor226that is mechanically connected to the support beam222, powered by the battery pack220, and activated by a support beam control switch228. One or more holes in the support beam222and corresponding spring-loaded pins that fit in the holes provide a mechanism for gross height adjustment of the support beam222to accommodate height adjustments of the seat of the support108.

Further referring toFIG.28, in the illustrated embodiment, the treatment force application device includes a cam230powered by a cam motor232that is mechanically connected to the cam230, powered by the battery220, and activated by a cam control switch234. The cam230can be operated to extend and retract a contact surface208of a treatment interface110.

Further referring toFIG.28, in the illustrated embodiment, the treatment force application device includes a pressure sensor and the display196illustrated inFIG.16. In the illustrated embodiment, the display196is powered by the battery220and reports data obtained from the pressure sensor.

Referring now toFIG.39, in certain embodiments of the invention, the treatment force application device includes a support108, a treatment interface110, and a connection112between the support108and the interface110. The connection112includes an arm114having a plurality of segments116with movable joints118that have locks124that can be locked by operation of a lock lever238. The treatment interface110has a contact surface208that can be extended and retracted by operation of a force application lever212. A cam230is illustrated as a component of the extension and retraction feature.

Preferably, one or both of the lock lever238and the force application lever212are operable as carry handles to maneuver the arm114. Further preferably, one or both are curved and padded to assist with their use. Further preferably, the range of motion of the lock lever238from unlocked to locked is approximately 100 degrees, as illustrated by black lines244and a protractor image246, and the range of motion of the force application lever212from minimum force to maximum force is 100 degrees. Arrows240depict operation of the lock lever238. Arrows242depict operation of the force application lever212as a handle for manipulating the position of the treatment interface110. Arrows248depict operation of the force application lever212to extend and retract the contact surface208.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the force application lever212has a mechanism that provides feedback as pressure increases. Some of such mechanisms can be leverage-based, such as, for example, a manual lock that is operable by pushing the lever in towards the arm114, or screw-based. In certain embodiments of the invention, the force application lever212has a mechanism that does not provide feedback as pressure increases. Some of such mechanisms can be gear-based.

Referring now toFIG.40, in certain embodiments of the invention, the treatment force application device can include one or more additional or alternate features. As illustrated, the device includes a support108, a treatment interface110, and a connection112between the support108and the interface110. The connection112includes an arm114having a plurality of segments262with movable joints or hinges264. The treatment interface110has a contact surface208that can be extended and retracted by operation of a cam230.

Further referring toFIG.40, in certain embodiments of the invention, the treatment force application device can include a direct, or more direct, connection between the floor and the treatment interface110for, among other things, bracing the treatment interface110and relieving stress on the practitioner. In the illustrated embodiment, a reinforcement channel252establishes a brace, or force support conduit between the floor and the treatment interface110. The reinforcement channel252preferably has a reinforcement foot256for establishing a friction lock between the reinforcement channel252and the floor. The reinforcement channel252preferably can be lengthened and shortened at a lower portion to accommodate different heights of the seat of the support108. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement channel252has a lower telescoping portion for this purpose and others. The reinforcement channel252further preferably can be lengthened and shortened at an upper portion to accommodate different desired lengths of the arm114. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement channel252has an upper telescoping portion for this purpose and others. Further in the illustrated embodiment, a reinforcement channel gear254and reinforcement channel lock lever270can be operated to change the length of the reinforcement channel252and lock the reinforcement channel252at a desired length.

Further referring toFIG.40, in certain embodiments of the invention, the treatment force application device can include a scissoring adjustment mechanism for positioning the treatment interface110. In the illustrated embodiment, arm segments262are connected by hinges264and can be brought toward and away from one another at their proximal ends, to adjust the position of the treatment interface110at their distal ends, by movement of a segment coupling266along the reinforcement channel252. Preferably, the hinges264have locks to selectively prevent and allow movement of the hinges264, or the segment coupling266has a lock to selectively prevent and allow movement of the segment coupling266.

InFIG.40, arrows258depict length adjustment of the reinforcement channel252. Arrows260depict rotational movement of the reinforcement channel252to rotate the segments262to desired positions. Arrows268depict position adjustment of the segments262by movement of the segment coupling266.

Referring now toFIG.41, in certain embodiments of the invention, the treatment force application device can include one or more additional or alternate features, to enable use of the device in hazardous environments. Preferably, the device includes at least one protective element. The protective element preferably, while facilitating use of the device, provides protection for one or more of the practitioner, the patient, and other people or animals in a hazardous environment including without limitation in a pandemic, dangerous environmental conditions, situations requiring physical protection, and situations involving sensitive patients.

As illustrated, the treatment force application device can include a shield272as a protective element. The shield272can be any suitable barrier to protect one or more of the practitioner120, the patient, and other people or animals. For example, in a pandemic, in an epidemic, or in other medically hazardous environments including without limitation those in which bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens can be spread from person to person or person to animal and vice versa, the shield272can have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, or anti-pathogen properties and/or block bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. Further for example, in a situation involving dangerous environmental conditions, such as, for example, extreme heat, the shield272can have thermal insulation properties. Further for example, in a situation requiring physical protection, such as, for example, if a patient is unstable, the shield272can be made of a structurally reinforced material. Further for example, in a situation involving sensitive patients, such as, for example, if a patient is sensitive to light, the shield272can be made of a material that partially or fully blocks lights.

In preferred embodiments, the shield272provides a barrier between the practitioner120and the patient. In the illustrated embodiment, the shield272is positioned behind and parallel to the flexible brace156, and accordingly is immediately in front of the practitioner120when the practitioner120is seated on the support108. Preferably, the shield272enables visibility from one side of the shield272to the other, to facilitate use of the device while the shield272is in place. In the illustrated embodiment, the shield272is transparent. Preferably, the shield272includes an accommodation for the practitioner120to manipulate the treatment interface110and the connection112while protected by the shield272. In the illustrated embodiment, the shield272includes an opening274through which the practitioner120, from one side of the shield272, can position his or her arm to reach the components of the device that are on the other side of the shield272. Preferably, while operating the device, the practitioner120can wear personal protective equipment276, such as, for example, latex gloves, latex sleeves, a protective cap, a face mask, and a face shield.

Referring now toFIG.42along withFIGS.1-5and39, in preferred embodiments, a method of applying a treatment force includes, (FIG.42, Step226) from a support108at a proximal end102of a treatment force application device100, the device having a weight106at the proximal end102and having a distal end104having a treatment interface110and a connection112between the support108and the treatment interface110, the treatment interface110being configured for application of a therapeutic treatment including at least the treatment force; (FIG.42, Step228) adjusting and locking the connection112to establish a placement of the treatment interface110relative to the support108, the weight being sufficient to substantially prevent movement of the treatment interface110relative to the support108when the connection112is locked; and (FIG.42, Step230) applying the treatment force using the treatment interface110.

As an example, in certain embodiments the method of the invention can include sitting in the seat in an orientation facing the treatment module, grabbing and moving the treatment module while one or more of the universal joints118are unlocked, locking the universal joints118when the treatment module is at the desired location such that the treatment module is held in position relative to the seat by the rigidity of the arm114and the weight of the base136, and then using the treatment module to apply the treatment force.

The method can be undertaken by any user, whether person, machine, or computer, and through any means, whether purposely, randomly, automated, or by artificial intelligence. The steps described, and any other steps described herein, can be undertaken in any order, and fewer or more steps can be included without departing from the scope of the invention. The components, features, and functionalities of described in the method are in certain embodiments as they are broadly described above and elsewhere herein.

Further referring toFIG.42along withFIGS.1-5,19,23-25and39, in preferred embodiments, the treatment interface110includes a contact surface208that is extendible and retractable to selectively provide the treatment force, the treatment force logarithmically increases with extension of the contact surface208and logarithmically decreases with retraction of the contact surface208, and the method further includes (FIG.42, Step232) extending and retracting the contact surface208to selectively provide the treatment force.

As an example, in certain embodiments the method of the invention can include without limitation extending and retracting the contact surface208to apply, or withdraw, the force as needed to effect the treatment, where extending the contact surface208causes the force to be applied, and retracting the contact surface208causes the force to be relieved. In some of such embodiments, extending the contact surface208causes the force to applied according to a logarithmic scale, and retracting the contact surface208causes the force to be relieved according to a logarithmic scale.

Further referring toFIG.42along withFIGS.1-5,14-16and39, in preferred embodiments, the treatment interface110is configured for obtaining data related to use of the device, and the method further includes (FIG.42, Step234) using the treatment interface110to obtain the data.

As an example, in certain embodiments the method of the invention can include without limitation using the treatment module to collect the data related to use of the device, where the treatment module is configured for such collection.

Further referring toFIG.42along withFIGS.1-5and39, in preferred embodiments, the support108includes at least one flexible brace156against which the practitioner can press in at least one of a vertical, horizontal, and rotational movement to provide a practitioner force, the practitioner force being transferred from the support108to the treatment interface110through the connection112, and the method further includes (FIG.42, Step236) pressing against the brace156to provide the practitioner force.

As an example, in certain embodiments the method of the invention can include without limitation leaning against the flexible brace156extending from the seat to, when the connection112is locked, cause the connection112to move in accordance with the force, and consequently cause the treatment module to move in accordance with the force.

Referring now toFIG.43, a preferred embodiment of the treatment force application device of the invention is illustrated as having various elements previously discussed. It should be understood that any additional or alternate components, including without limitation those discussed herein with regard to other embodiments, can be made part of the device or made to work with the device. The device has a proximal end102and a distal end104. The proximal end102is weighted and has a support108for a practitioner. The distal end104has a treatment interface110configured for applying a therapeutic treatment including at least a treatment force. The device further has a connection112between the support108and the treatment interface110. The connection112is lockably adjustable by the practitioner to establish a placement of the treatment interface110relative to the support108. The weight is sufficient to substantially prevent movement of the treatment interface110relative to the support108when the connection112is locked.

In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal end102has a base136and the support108includes a seat for the practitioner. The treatment interface110is a treatment module and the connection112between the support108and the treatment interface110is an arm114with segments116connected to one another and to the treatment module and the support108by universal joints118that can be locked and unlocked, such that a practitioner sitting in the seat and facing the treatment module can lock and unlock the joints118and, when the joints118are unlocked, move and position the treatment module in real space relative to the seat, and, when the joints118are locked, have the treatment module held in position relative to the seat by the rigidity of the arm114and the weight of the base136. In the illustrated embodiment, each universal joint118has a lock124that can be alternately secured and released. When the lock124is secured, it prevents adjustment of the arm114at the associated joint118, and when the lock124is released, it allows adjustment of the arm114at the associated joint118. The practitioner can accordingly unlock one or more joints118to allow adjustment, and lock one or more joints118to prevent adjustment.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support column142is reinforced by a reinforcement column152and both are telescoping. Accordingly, the height of the seat can be adjusted. The reinforcement column152can be locked to the support column142using a reinforcement lock154. Further in the illustrated embodiment, horizontal movement of the support108is enabled by one or more wheels130, and the base136includes one or more securable and releasable locks132for selectively preventing and allowing movement of the wheels130. Further in the illustrated embodiment, the support column142is configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the floor, and can be so rotated when the wheels130are locked and the support column142is not locked to the reinforcement column152. Alternatively, the support column142, when locked to the reinforcement column152, can be rotated when the wheels130are unlocked. A rubber stopper148under the base136can be operated, by pressing on a foot pedal150, to selectively slow, temporarily brace, and fully lock the wheels130.

In the illustrated embodiment, the treatment module has a contact surface208that can be the primary point of interaction with the patient, and the treatment module is configured with a force application cam210that extends and retracts by operation of a force application lever212to respectively extend and retract the contact surface208of the treatment interface110. The treatment force increases logarithmically with extension of the contact surface208and decreases logarithmically with retraction of the contact surface208. Accordingly, the practitioner can apply a treatment force as needed apply treatment or otherwise affect the target of the force.

In the illustrated embodiment, the seat has extending vertically from it a flexible brace156to which the connection112between the seat and the treatment module is attached, and the flexible brace156is adjacent the practitioner's torso when the practitioner is sitting in the seat. The practitioner can lean against the flexible brace156with the practitioner's torso158to, when the connection112is locked, cause the connection112to move in accordance with the force, and consequently cause the treatment module to move in accordance with the force. Accordingly, the practitioner force can be used to apply treatment or otherwise affect the target of the force.