Abstract:
A wedge-shaped multiple drop traction (MDT) apparatus percussively moves at low frequencies and through displacement great enough to induce discontinuous displacement between adjacent cervical vertebrae. The MDT rests on a fixed surface beneath a patient&#39;s shoulders. A head traction applicator applies a traction force to a patient&#39;s head, and preferably a cushion is provided under the patient&#39;s head. The MDT has a motive power source mounted on a static base plate. The motive power source turns an eccentric shaft carrying bearings thereupon, and these bearings are coupled through contact pads to a vibrating plate that is pivotal with respect to the static base plate. Cushions couple the vibrating plate to the patient&#39;s back, and yet leave the spinal column unsupported and also displaced from direct contact with the vibrating plate. Additional synergy is obtained with smaller amplitude vibration therapy applied simultaneously to the cervical vertebrae region.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/152,697 filed Feb. 14, 2009 of the same title and inventorship, the contents which are incorporated herein by reference in entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     This invention pertains generally to surgery, and more particularly to kinesitherapy apparatus and methods. Various manifestations more particularly pertain to apparatus and methods used to treat spinal disorders in the cervical and thoracic regions. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     A number of disorders are known which afflict the neuromusculoskeletal systems of vertebrates, the most notorious and of greatest interest both herein and in the prior art generally being those which more specifically afflict man and closely related mammals. Many of these disorders have been uniquely established through extensive research and field observation. The characteristics and symptoms of a myriad of such disorders permit them to be accurately diagnosed. However, once diagnosed, there is a serious need for the most rapid and effective treatments in order to alleviate, or where possible, cure the patient of the symptoms associated with the disorder. Unfortunately, many of these disorders arise through complex mechanisms which are not fully understood, and for which adequate treatments have not been arrived at. Furthermore, many of these disorders afflict both soft and hard tissues, which makes effective treatment all the more difficult. 
     One area of research in the treatment of humans involves the use of vibration, typically in concert with gravitational forces. Movements, such as various exercises, are known to be combined separately or in association with the vibration therapy, and are reported to be enhanced by the vibration. While much has been reported with regard to the general application of such therapies, little has been provided heretofore to enable a medical practitioner to specifically, efficiently and effectively target a vibratory treatment to produce neuromusculoskeletal proprioceptive re-education within the cervical vertebrae of a human being. 
     Exemplary prior art methods and apparatus which attempt treatment of the cervical vertebrae are illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,724,828 by Barnes et al, entitled “Cervically adjustable chiropractic treatment table”; and 7,322,977 by Pettibon, entitled “Spinal adjusting device and method”, the contents of each which are incorporated herein by reference. Each of these patents disclose apparatus designed to suddenly drop through a significant and consequential distance, thereby facilitating adjustment of the cervical vertebrae. For some injuries or imbalances, a single drop or a few temporally displaced drops are adequate and provide the needed restoration of health and well being. However, the single drop can be traumatic, and may still require significant additional manual work on the spinal column to achieve the desired state of health. 
     In contrast to the Barnes et al and Pettibon patents, other artisans have instead relied upon far gentler methods of massage and vibration. Exemplary of these are U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,238,936 by Siedentop, entitled “Apparatus for mechanical corrective therapy”; 3,550,587 by Kawada, entitled “Spine corrector combined with automatic therapeutic device for digital pressing therapy”; 4,586,493 by Goodman, entitled “Therapy table”; and 5,320,640 by Riddle et al, entitled “Continuous passive motion cervical spine therapy device”, the contents of each which are incorporated by reference for their teachings of vibratory treatment and the myriad of disorders to which such treatments have been applied. These patents teach methods of performing therapies through repetitive flexion and extension, generally at very low frequencies to attempt to induce desirable circulation and growth or repair within connective tissues within the human body. However, a number of injuries, particularly to the neck or cervical vertebrae, result in a displacement which is not easily corrected by these relatively gentle techniques. 
     In addition to the foregoing patents, Webster&#39;s New Universal Unabridged Dictionary, Second Edition copyright 1983, is incorporated herein by reference in entirety for the definitions of words and terms used herein. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In a first manifestation, the invention is a percussive and vibratory treatment apparatus, comprising in combination a treatment surface; a head traction applicator; a percussive and repetitive thoracic mechanical drop traction apparatus supported upon the treatment surface; and a cervical vertebrae vibrating traction device located between the head traction applicator and percussive and repetitive thoracic mechanical drop traction apparatus. The head traction applicator is operatively coupled to a patient&#39;s head and applies a traction force thereto. The percussive and repetitive thoracic mechanical drop traction apparatus is operative between the treatment surface and a patient&#39;s thorax. The cervical vertebrae vibrating traction device is operative between the treatment surface and a patient&#39;s cervical vertebrae. 
     In a second manifestation, the invention is a mechanical drop traction apparatus, comprising a static plate; a motive power source coupled to the static plate; and a vibrating plate moved by the motive power source with respect to the static plate. 
     In a third manifestation, the invention is a method of neuromusculoskeletal proprioceptive re-education of a patient having a thorax, a skull, and cervical vertebrae coupling said thorax to said skull. In accord with the method, the skull has a traction force applied thereto. Next, the thoracic vertebrae is repetitively percussed while simultaneously vibrating cervical vertebrae. 
     OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
     Exemplary embodiments of the present invention solve inadequacies of the prior art by providing a generally wedge-shaped multiple drop traction apparatus that percussively moves at frequencies low enough and through displacement distances great enough to induce discontinuous and sudden displacement between adjacent vertebrae, commonly referred to as “snapping” the vertebrae into alignment. The MDT is placed onto a fixed surface such as a treatment table or the like, beneath a patient&#39;s shoulders with the spinal column extending unsupported between two cushions. A head traction applicator applies a traction force to a patient&#39;s head, and preferably a cushion is provided under the patient&#39;s head. While in some instances motion of the MDT is sufficient to achieve corrective therapy and patient health, additional synergy may be obtained with smaller amplitude vibration therapy applied simultaneously to the cervical vertebrae region, in the preferred embodiment using a vibration therapy device placed under the patient&#39;s neck. The MDT preferably incorporates a motive power source such as an electric motor onto a static base plate. The motive power source turns an eccentric shaft carrying bearings thereupon, and these bearings are coupled preferably through somewhat elastomeric contact pads to a vibrating plate that is pivotal with respect to the static base plate. Cushions couple the vibrating plate to the patient, for exemplary purposes to the thoracic region and adjacent to the cervical region, and yet leave the spinal column unsupported and also displaced from direct contact with the vibrating plate. 
     A first object of the invention is to provide postural improvements and rehabilitation in the musculo-skeletal system. A second object of the invention is to enable efficient, effective, safe and reliable adjustment and treatment of cervical vertebrae. Another object of the present invention is to induce a plurality of temporally displaced drops that are adequate to provide restoration of health and well being, while reducing trauma and manual work on the spinal column to achieve a desired state of health. A further object of the invention is to provide an apparatus which may be used in meeting the foregoing objectives which provides safe and reliable operation, and which provides desired percussive treatment. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide such apparatus in a small and portable package that may be used with existing tables or work surfaces. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing and other objects, advantages, and novel features of the present invention can be understood and appreciated by reference to the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a preferred embodiment mechanical drop traction apparatus designed in accord with the teachings of the invention from side plan view in further combination with a VT and practicing a preferred method of the invention. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates the preferred embodiment mechanical drop traction apparatus of  FIG. 1  from a slightly projected side view, with a cover and cushions in place. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates the preferred embodiment mechanical drop traction apparatus of  FIG. 1  from a side plan view, in an operative position with cover and cushions removed. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates the preferred embodiment mechanical drop traction apparatus of  FIG. 3  from a top view with the vibrating plate pivoted to an inoperative open position. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates the preferred embodiment mechanical drop traction apparatus of  FIG. 2  from an end view with the cover opened to reveal internal components. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a first alternative embodiment mechanical drop traction apparatus from a top view with the vibrating plate pivoted to an inoperative open position, similar to the preferred embodiment view of  FIG. 4 . 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     Manifested in the preferred embodiment, the present invention provides both apparatus and methods for efficiently and effectively treating disorders of the cervical region of the spinal column. In a most preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in  FIG. 1 , a preferred embodiment Mechanical Drop Traction (MDT) apparatus  100  designed in accord with the teachings of the invention is illustrated in use in accord with a preferred method of the invention in combination with a patient  10  whose head is resting upon a cushion  20  and whose cervical spinal region is resting upon a Vibrating Traction (VT) apparatus  40 . VT apparatus  40  is illustrated and described more thoroughly in the present applicants&#39; granted U.S. Pat. No. 7,402,145 and co-pending patent application Ser. Nos. 12/143,507 and 12/143,508, the contents of each which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , a patient  10  will preferably be positioned with the thoracic region  11  vertebrae centered upon the longitudinal center  108  of MDT  100 . MDT  100  from side  104  as illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2  takes a general wedge geometry, meaning that MDT  100  is taller along vertical side  116  adjacent the patient  10  cervical region  12  vertebrae than at hinge  114  adjacent the lumbar vertebrae. 
     In operation, and as will be better understood from the additional descriptions herein below, MDT  100 , which may for exemplary purposes be powered through electrical cord  101 , changes in elevation by pivoting about hinge  114  adjacent the shorter edge, also adjacent the lumbar vertebrae. This means that thoracic region  11  vertebrae most nearly adjacent to the cervical region  12  vertebrae will be percussed up and down during operation. The amount of travel and frequency of vibration will be varied through design and adjustment by those skilled in the art to meet the needs of a patient  10  or application. In the preferred embodiment, the amount of travel of vibrating plate  126  distal to hinge  114  and adjacent vertical side  116  is approximately ⅜″, at a frequency of approximately 20 Hertz, though both travel and frequency may be varied widely therefrom if so desired. 
     Traction is achieved in the preferred embodiment by anchoring the head of patient  10  using an anchor strap  30 . Anchor strap  30  has a head strap  32  and chin strap  31 , or other suitable apparatus for securing the patient&#39;s head, coupled to a fixed anchor  33  that may be static with respect to the building or furniture, such as a floor or table, or which may be a suspended mass. A cushion  20  is provided which is preferably firm but comfortable. Cushion  20  may preferably dampen any vibration to avoid coupling movement of MDT  100  into the patient&#39;s head. 
     In accord with the preferred method, repetitive drops afforded by MDT  100  combined with traction through anchor strap  30  provides advanced neuromusculoskeletal proprioceptive re-education, and may therefore be used therapeutically to the benefit of patients. Where desired, the preferred MDT apparatus  100  may be used in further combination with a VT  40  such as illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 7,402,145 naming the present applicants as inventors. VT  40  comprises an eccentric body  41  which transmits vibration into cervical region  41 , and is powered, for exemplary purposes, through a rotating power shaft  42 . This combination of VT  40  and MDT  100  enables both thoracic and cervical vertebrae to be simultaneously moved, with special synergy within the cervical vertebrae resulting therefrom. 
       FIGS. 1-3  and  5  illustrate the preferred embodiment mechanical drop traction apparatus MDT  100  in a ready-to-use position. As discussed herein above, a regular power cord  101  may provide electrical energy to the apparatus, and a timer or other suitable switch, not illustrated, may be provided to control the duration of treatment. A protective cover  102  visible in  FIGS. 2 and 5  is provided over the mechanical components of MDT  100 , and thereby facilitates cleaning between uses and ensures that clothing, hair, jewelry and other objects do not become inadvertently caught within the internal mechanical components of MDT  100 . In the preferred embodiment, cover  102  is a soft yet durable vinyl such as upholstery vinyl or other suitable material. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates cover  102  opened, to reveal internal mechanical components. Cover  102  is secured in a closed position using hook and loop fasteners  110 ,  112  such as are sold under the Velcro trademark, or any other suitable fastener. Where appropriate, additional or different fasteners or securing apparatus may be provided to prevent access by those not skilled or qualified with working with the electrical and electronic apparatus. Static plate  122  and motor  150  mounted thereon are visible, as is vibrating plate  126 . During operation, static plate  122  will normally remain static relative to an underlying support such as a patient table or floor, while vibrating plate  126  will rotate, resulting in a small up and down motion of the end of the vibrating plate visible in  FIG. 5 . A pair of cushions  105 ,  106  are provided on top  107  of vibrating plate  126 , and a gap  108  remains therebetween. Cushions  105 ,  106  may be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials, but in the preferred embodiment they are fabricated from a relatively thick felt, which transmits the force without discomfort or injury to a patient undergoing treatment. The gap  108  between cushions  105 ,  106  will most preferably be sufficiently wide to avoid any mechanical contact with the vertebral or spinal region of a person&#39;s back, and will instead couple movement through the scapula, rib cage, and surrounding muscle, skin and other tissue. This gap  108  and the provision of suitable cushions  105 ,  106  ensures that the patient is not bruised or otherwise harmed by the rapid movements, while also ensuring free movement and repositioning of the vertebrae. 
     Optionally, but preferably, within the spinal gap  108  between cushions  105 ,  106 , a hook and loop fastener  117 ,  118  is provided which positively anchors cover  102  to vibrating plate  126 . This fastener pair  117 ,  118  ensures that there is no flapping of cover  102 , nor any undesirable wear or friction between either cover  102  and vibrating plate  126  or between cover  102  and the patient&#39;s back or spinal column. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates one preferred arrangement of static plate  122  and vibrating plate  126 , and all components supported thereon. Included on static plate  122  are electric motor  150 , drive chain  155  which may be a chain, belt or other suitable means of power transmission, bearing blocks  161 ,  162  supporting eccentric shaft  160  and eccentrically carried bearings  166 ,  167 , and electric motor control circuitry  130 . Electric motor control circuitry  130  may be designed to perform many functions, or may alternatively be very limited in capability. More particularly, electric motor control circuitry  130  might for exemplary purposes include circuitry to vary the voltage, frequency, speed and/or torque of motor  150 , to sense dangerous conditions such as motor overload, unsafe opening or travel of vibrating plate  126 , vibration and/or rpm of eccentric shaft  160 , and any other capabilities that may be known in the field of electric motors. In contrast, electric motor control circuitry  130  may simply comprise an on-off switch. Included on vibrating plate  126  are non-conductive or high resistivity electrical shield  140 , and a pair of contact pads  170 ,  172 . 
     In operation, eccentric shaft  160  is supported for rotation by the two spaced bearing blocks  161 ,  162  that support bearings such as bearing  164  visible in  FIG. 2 . Eccentric shaft  160  may be machined or otherwise fabricated to be offset similar to a crankshaft, such that during rotation the centers of the two vibration induction bearings  166 ,  167  actually travel about a circle. In other words, vibration induction bearings  166 ,  167  are not co-axial with the bearings  164  in bearing blocks  161 ,  162 . In operation, vibration induction bearings  166 ,  167  are in contact with contact pads  170 ,  172  mounted on vibrating plate  126 , and as eccentric shaft  160  turns, vibration induction bearings  166 ,  167  will travel up and down and also back and forth. Up and down motion is transferred through contact pads  170 ,  172  to generate desired vertical travel. As vibration induction bearings  166 ,  167  travel, they are free to roll in surface contact with contact pads  170 ,  172 , so the back and forth motion produces minimal or no relative wear. 
     Preferred contact pads  170 ,  172  are mounted on vibrating plate  126 , and may be permanently attached or more preferably removably attached to be replaced over time as a wear part. These contact pads are preferably relatively abrasion resistant and at least slightly elastomeric, so that smaller high frequency vibrations are not coupled through the contact pads, nor is there any undesirable sound generated by the induced vibrations. Furthermore, slight elasticity also ensures that there is no denting or damage of either the vibrating plate or the vibration induction bearings during shipping, handling and use. Depending upon the weight of the person being treated, there may be relatively large forces applied between the contact pads and the vibration induction bearings. While there are a variety of suitable materials, in the preferred embodiment the contact pads are fabricated from reinforced rubber, similar to automobile tire rubber or the like. 
     From these figures and foregoing descriptions, it will be understood that MDT  100  may be manufactured from a variety of materials, including metals, resins and plastics, ceramics or cementitious materials, composites, laminates or combinations of the above. Furthermore, the uses and applications for MDT  100  will extend beyond the preferred embodiment cervical vertebrae treatment methods disclosed herein, and such further application to other kinesitherapy is contemplated herein. 
     In one alternative embodiment contemplated herein and illustrating in  FIG. 6 , vibrating plate  126  may be divided into two smaller and separately pivotal plates  127 ,  128 . Rather than vibrating plate  126  extending under cushions  105 ,  106  and gap  108 , these two separately pivotal plates  127 ,  128  may be provided, each extending only under an associated cushion. In this embodiment then, there is a vibrating plate  127  under cushion  105 , and a second vibrating plate  128  under cushion  106 , with a small gap corresponding to gap  108  between each of the two vibrating plates. In this alternative embodiment, eccentrically carried bearings  166 ,  167  do not have to rise and fall in unison, and may alternatively be designed to rise and fall in any relationship to each other. In other words, in a most extreme arrangement, bearing  166  might be set to rise while bearing  167  falls. This will cause not only a percussive force to be applied to the patient, but will also induce a rolling motion. This may be applied not only to the thoracic region, but may be useful in other treatments as well, as will be apparent to those reasonably skilled in kinesitherapy and the art of chiropractic treatments. 
     While the foregoing details what is felt to be the preferred embodiment of the invention, no material limitations to the scope of the claimed invention are intended. Further, features and design alternatives that would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be incorporated herein. The scope of the invention is set forth and particularly described in the claims herein below.