BRPI0612855A2 - Vibration therapy apparatus and kit and method for applying vibratory therapy - Google Patents

Abstract

VIBRATORY THERAPY APPARATUS AND SET AND METHOD FOR APPLYING VIBRATORY THERAPY. Vibratory therapy apparatus comprising: at least one platform member (12a, 12b) including at least one vibrating plate assembly (100a, 100b) for applying vibratory energy and at least one positioner (18a, 18b) operatively associated with the hair at least one platform member to guide the patient tissue adjacent to at least one vibrating plate assembly.

Description

"VIBRATORY THERAPY APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR APPLYING VIBRATORY THERAPY"

The present invention claims priority for a US patent application filed July 18, 2006 entitled "Vibrational Therapy Assembly for Treating and Preventing the Onset of Deep Venous Thrombosis, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

US Patent Application filed July 18, 2006 claims the benefit of and priority for an interim US patent application filed July 18, 2005, which has been designated US Interim Application SN 60 / 700.092; The entire contents of the provisional application are incorporated herein by reference.

The US patent application filed on July 18, 2006 additionally claims the benefit of and priority for the US provisional application filed on July 11, 2006 entitled "System and Method for a Low Profile Vibrating Plate", the entire contents of the provisional application. is incorporated herein by reference.

US Patent Application filed July 18, 2006 is also a Continuation-in-Part of US Patent Application filed March 7, 2006 entitled "System and Method for a Low Profile Vibrating Plate", and designated US SN 11 / 369,467; the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. US Patent Application SN 11/369 467 claims priority of provisional application filed March 7, 2005 entitled "System and Method for a Low Profile Vibrating Plate", designated provisional application US SN 60/69216; the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The US patent application filed July 18, 2006 is also a Continuation-in-Part of the US patent application filed July 17, 2006 entitled "Dynamic Motion Therapy Apparatus Having a Treatment Feedback Indicator", the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. US Patent Application filed July 17, 2006 entitled "Dynamic Motion Therapy Apparatus Having a Treatment Feedback Indicator" claims priority of US Patent Application filed March 6, 2006 entitled "Supplemental Support Structures Adapted to Receive a Noninvasive Dynamic Motion Therapy Device "is assigned US patent application SN 11/369 611, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference. US patent application SN .11 / 369 611 claims the priority of a US provisional patent application filed March 7, 2005 and designated US provisional patent application 60/659 159, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by way of application. of reference.

US Patent Application filed July 17, 2006 is also a Continuation In Part of a US Patent Application filed March 24, 2006 entitled MApparatus and Method for Monitoring and Controlling the Transmissibility of Mechanical Vibration Energy During Dynamic Motion Therapy " and designated US Patent Application SN 11/388 .286, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. US Patent Application SN 11/388 286 claims the priority of an interim US application filed March 24, 2005 and designated as provisional patent application US SN 60/665 013, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

US Patent Application filed July 17, 2006 additionally claims the benefit of and priority of US Interim Application filed July 27, 2005 entitled “Method and Apparatus for Monitoring Patient Compliance During Dynamic Motion Therapy” and designated US Interim Application. SN 60/702 815; the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. In addition, US Patent Application filed July 17, 2006 claims priority of provisional application filed July 27, 2006 entitled Dynamic Motion Therapy Apparatus Having a Treatment Feedback Indicator "and provisional designation US SN 60/702 735; the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Reference to Related Patents

The present application is also related to US patents: 6,234,975; 6,561,991 and 6,607,497, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. GROUNDS

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to a noninvasive medical treatment apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a vibratory therapy apparatus for administering vibratory therapy, treating and preventing the initial establishment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

2. Description of the Prior Existing Technique Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the occlusion of a deep vein by a blood clot, ie a thrombus. DVT generally affects the leg veins, such as, for example, the femoral vein or the popliteal vein, and occurs when the blood clot partially blocks or completely blocks blood flow in the vein. A major risk associated with DVT is the development of pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a blood clot detaches from the walls of a vein and travels to the lungs, blocking the pulmonary artery or one of its branches.

Although there are several medical factors, such as injury, immobility, and coagular disorders, which cause DVT, other non-medical factors are also often to blame. For example, long periods of sitting or lying down, such as, for example, during an air travel or extended hospital stay that includes a prolonged period of immobility. Several treatments have been developed to alleviate the effects of DVT. For example, intermittent pneumatic compression machines are used to improve blood circulation and prevent thrombus formation in the patient's limbs. These devices typically include a pair of garments or compression sleeves that surround the patient's limbs, generally the legs. Each sleeve has a plurality of separate inflatable chambers that are connected through ducts with a source of compressed fluid, typically air. The chambers are successively inflated to impart a compressive pulse to the limb, thereby increasing blood circulation and minimizing thrombus formation. The compressive pulses begin around the part of the farthest limb of the heart and progressively progress towards the heart. For example, for a three-chambered leg cuff, the ankle chamber is initially inflated by the calf chamber and then into the thigh chamber. Typical compression devices are described in US 4,013,069 and 6,610,021. Other treatment methods for treating DVT include surgical procedures as well as medications such as anticoagulants.

However, because a patient may be susceptible to DVT and its effects with little or no warning, the ideal method against DVT and its effects is to prevent DVT initiation. For example, beginning and regular ambulation, ie walking, is a recognized and recommended treatment. Walking promotes blood circulation by activating the body's muscle pumps, increasing venous velocity and preventing stasis. However, walking is not a viable option for many people, such as the elderly and infirm. Moreover, walking is not always possible or safe, as in a turbulent aircraft. Thus, there is a need for a blood circulation enhancing apparatus and method to promote blood circulation to prevent the onset of DVT.

SUMMARY

It is an aspect of the present invention to provide a vibratory therapy apparatus that delivers vibratory energy and can be used for treating and preventing the onset of DVT. A further object of the present invention is to provide a vibratory therapy apparatus having a low profile vibrating plate system similar to the low profile vibrating plate system described in US Patent Application SN 11/369 467 filed March 7, 2006, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

According to the present invention, a vibratory therapy apparatus is provided capable of delivering vibratory energy to treat and prevent the onset of DVT. Other applications are also contemplated, such as the treatment of postural instability. The vibratory therapy apparatus includes at least one platform member including at least one vibratory plate assembly for imparting vibratory energy and at least one positioner. The at least one positioner is operatively associated with at least one platform member to guide the patient tissue adjacent at least one vibratory plate assembly.

The vibratory plate assembly can impart vibratory energy in at least two configurations of at least one positioner. In a final configuration, the at least one positioner is substantially perpendicular to the at least one platform member. In at least a second configuration, the at least one positioner is in juxtaposed relationship with the at least one platform member. The positioner is shifted between the first configuration and the second configuration. In the first embodiment, the patient tissue contacts the at least one vibratory plate assembly.

The vibratory therapy apparatus additionally includes at least one support positioned on the at least one platform member. At least one support is configured to contact the patient's tissue. The support may be formed of memory foam material and may contact at least a portion of the at least one positioner. The holder may be removable from the apparatus and may be disposable.

The vibratory therapy apparatus additionally includes a control panel for controlling the operation of at least one vibratory plate assembly.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a vibratory therapy assembly is provided which includes a first vibratory therapy apparatus provided with a first platform member for imparting vibratory energy and a first positioner operatively associated with the first platform member for guiding tissue. of the patient adjacent the first platform member and a second vibratory therapy apparatus having a second platform member including at least one vibratory plate assembly for providing vibratory energy and a second positioner operatively associated with the second platform member to guide the tissue. patient adjacent the first platform member and a device for removably connecting the first and second vibratory therapy apparatus. The mechanism for removably engaging and disengaging the first vibratory therapy apparatus of the second vibratory therapy apparatus.

The first vibratory therapy apparatus and the second vibratory therapy apparatus of the vibratory therapy assembly impart vibratory energy in at least two configurations of the first positioner and the second positioner. In a first embodiment, the first and second platform members are parallel to each other and the first and second positioners are substantially perpendicular to the first and second platform member. In a second embodiment, the first and second platform members are mutually parallel and the first positioner and second positioner are respectively juxtaposed with the first platform member and the second platform member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The foregoing characteristic features of the present invention will become more readily apparent and better understood by reference to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, which are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vibratory therapy assembly included two vibratory therapy apparatus in a portable configuration according to the present invention;

Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a vibratory therapy apparatus of Fig. 1 in an open configuration illustrating its internal components in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of two vibratory therapy apparatus of fig. 1, pivotably coupled and in an open configuration, illustrating their internal components in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 3 is a schematic view of a vibrating plate incorporated in the apparatus according to the present invention;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of the vibratory therapy assembly of Figure 1 illustrating a method for opening the assembly when in a portable configuration;

Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating a method for raising the positioners of the vibratory therapy apparatus according to the present invention;

Figure 6 is a perspective view illustrating a method for disconnecting the two vibratory therapy apparatus according to the present invention;

Fig. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the separate vibratory therapy apparatus of fig. 6 is provided on a bed for enabling treatment to increase blood flow in the legs to treat or prevent the onset of DVT in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 8 is a perspective view illustrating two vibratory therapy apparatus in a closed configuration configured to deliver vibratory therapy to a patient standing on the apparatus;

Fig. 9 is a perspective view illustrating the vibratory therapy apparatus of fig. 8 imparting vibratory energy to a patient. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The use of vibratory treatment is known to treat conditions such as postural instability, osteoporosis, etc., as described in US Patent Nos. 6,234,975; 6,561,991; and 6,607,497, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. The present invention provides a vibratory therapy assembly and apparatus for providing vibratory treatment for treating and preventing the initiation of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Preferred embodiments of the presently presented vibratory therapy apparatus and apparatus are hereinafter described in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawing figures in which the same reference numerals identify identical or corresponding elements.

Referring initially to Figure 1, a vibratory therapy set according to the present invention is illustrated in a portable configuration and is generally referred to as a vibratory therapy set 10. The vibratory therapy set 10 includes two vibratory therapy apparatuses. 10a, 10b as described in the present invention. Vibration therapy apparatus 10a, IOb configured as a vibration therapy set 10 is adapted to promote blood circulation and treat and prevent the onset of DVT. However, those skilled in the vibratory treatment technique may contemplate conditions / disorders that may be treated or prevented using kit 10 and apparatus 10a, 10b.

1A is a perspective view of the vibratory therapy apparatus 10b in an open configuration illustrating its internal components in accordance with the present invention. Apparatus 10b comprises platform member 12 and positioner 18. Platform member 12 includes a lower part B and an upper part Τ. Platform member 12 includes at least one vibratory plate assembly 100 adapted to impart vibratory energy to the patient's tissue. Vibrating energy treats or prevents the onset of DVT.

Positioner 18 is operatively associated with platform member 12. In Figure 1A, positioner 18 is pivotally attached to platform member 12. Pivot pin 20 secures pivot portion 12h of platform member 12 to pivot portion 18h of positioner 18 Various securing devices may be used such that the positioner is pivotably secured to at least a portion of the platform member 12 (i.e. a plurality of hinged sections, one or more movable hinges, or ball joints, etc.). .

Positioner 18 may guide positioning of patient tissue adjacent to at least a portion of platform member 12, such as, for example, by guiding or positioning a patient's tissue adjacent to the vibratory plate assembly 100. Patient tissue, such as, for example, a leg and / or foot, is so oriented that the vibratory energy generated by the plate assembly 100 is transferred to the patient's tissue. The patient tissue can receive vibrating energy by direct contact with the vibrating plate assembly 100. The patient tissue can also receive vibrating energy indirectly from the vibrating plate assembly .100, where the vibrating energy is transferred through another part of the vibrating plate assembly. 10b. For example, the patient tissue may contact positioner .18 or support 24 and the vibrating energy is transferred from the vibrating plate assembly 100 through the positioner or support to the patient tissue.

Positioner 18 may be locked in one or more angled positions relative to platform member 12. The hinged section may include a locking mechanism for locking positioner 18 in one or more angled positions relative to platform member 12.

The angular positions of positioner 18 relative to platform member 12 may be determined by the clinician, type of medical therapy administered to the patient or the orientation of the patient receiving the vibratory therapy. Positioner 18, as shown in Figure 1A, is positioned such that the angular relationship between positioner 18 and platform member 12 is substantially perpendicular and platform member 12 substantially horizontal.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the articulated mechanism may limit the angular displacement of positioner 18 relative to platform member 12 such that the angular condition of positioner 18 in an open condition is ideal for a specific medical therapy. . For example, for the treatment of DVT the hinged mechanism may limit the angular displacement of positioner 18 such that the maximum angular condition of positioner 18 is substantially perpendicular to platform member 12.

The apparatus 10b may be repositioned or driven by grasping the handle 16 defined by the platform member 12.

Platform member 12 additionally includes a removable or fixed support 24. Support 24 supports the leg of a patient receiving the vibratory treatment. The condition of the bracket 24 on the platform member 12 relative to the positioner 18 may be adjustable to provide correct leg support or positioning. The bracket 24 may be placed against positioner 18 or spaced from positioner 18.

The bracket 24 may be attached to the platform member 12 to prevent displacement during vibration treatment. Various display features can be used (ie Velcro, snap, buttons, staples, clips, gel, adhesive or any combination thereof).

The IOb apparatus includes at least one locating member 26 for locating the IOb apparatus during use. Locator member 26 may locate or position the apparatus with respect to a structure such as, for example, a bed, examination table, stretcher, wheeled stretcher, patient transport cart, chair, wheelchair, airplane, car seat, bus seat, a sofa, reclining seat, a scooter, etc.

The IOb device can be positioned at the foot of a bed, or

similar structure, with locating member 26 extending downward along the mattress at the foot of a bed thus preventing IOb apparatus from shifting towards the headboard during use. Similarly, locator member 26 may be positioned between the mattress and the foot of the bed thereby securing apparatus 10b to the foot of a bed.

The locating member 16 may be adapted to locate the apparatus 10b in close proximity to the patient seat, such as a seat in an aircraft, car or bus such that the patient may receive vibratory therapy while traveling. The locating member 26 may be adapted to locate or position the apparatus 10b relative to a sofa or recliner by extending it into or under the sofa or recliner such that the patient may receive vibratory therapy in the comfort of his or her own. home.

The locating member 26 may be extended from a first condition to a second condition. In the first condition, as illustrated in figs. 1 and 8, locating member 26 is substantially in or adjacent to positioner 18 or platform member 12. In a second condition, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 6, at least a portion of locating member 26 is extended from positioner 18 or platform member 12. Locating member 26 may be pivotably attached to positioner 18 or platform member 12, where locating member rotates about pivot. from the first condition to the second condition.

Further contemplated is the integration of the apparatus 10 with the structure such that the apparatus 10 is integrated with a bed, examination table, patient stretcher, patient recovery cart, patient cot, chair, wheelchair, aircraft, automobile seat, bus seat, sofa, reclining chair, scooter, etc.

The IOb vibratory therapy apparatus includes a low profile vibratory plate assembly 10 similar in structure and operation to the exposed low profile vibratory plate system described in US Patent Application SN 11/369 467 filed March 7, 2006 and US Patent Application filed July 11, 2006.

Platform member 12 includes a low profile vibratory plate assembly 100 suitable for transmitting vibratory energy as described in detail below. Platform member 12 may further comprise a control panel 22 for controlling operation of the vibratory plate assembly 100. Control panel 22 may include a user interface for programming apparatus 10. Control panel 32 may be removed from the control panel. platform member 12 and configured to operate as a remote control device in operative communication with the vibrating plate assembly 100. Control panel 22, configured to operate as a remote control device, which communicates wirelessly or wired with the apparatus 10b. The IOb apparatus may also be provided with touch technology to detect when the patient's foot is positioned to receive vibratory energy. The vibrating plate assembly 100 is activated or triggered when it detects that the patient's foot is positioned to receive vibratory therapy, ie placed on or in contact with the vibrating plate assembly or support 24.

The apparatus 10b is preferably powered by at least one battery to enable the apparatus 10b to be mobile. The apparatus 10b may also include a conductor wire for plugging the apparatus 10b into an electrical outlet where feasible to charge or conserve battery power.

Referring next to fig. 2, the vibratory therapy set 10 of FIG. 1 is illustrated with a first vibratory apparatus 10a and a second vibratory therapy apparatus 10b. The first vibratory apparatus 10a is operatively associated with the second vibratory therapy apparatus 10b. Apparatus 10a, 10b may be pivotally connected along one side by a connecting pin 14. The first and second vibratory apparatus 10a, 10b disengage if the connecting pin .14 is removed. Alternatively, the connection features may consist of hinges, one or more ball and socket joints, one or more movable joints, or other features of operatively joining two members as known in the art.

Each vibratory apparatus 10a, 10b includes a platform member 12a, 12b and a positioner 18a, 18b operatively associated with each respective platform member 12a, 12b. Positioner 18a, 18b and respective platform member 12a, 12b may be pivotally attached along one side with pivot pin 20a, 20b. Other features for forming a pivoting connection may be used, such as, for example, a plurality of hinges, one or more ball and socket joints, one or more hinged joints, or other means of operatively joining two members as is well known. technique.

Platform members 12a, 12b may define handles 16a, 16b and include control blocks 22a, 22b and at least one vibrating plate assembly 100a, 100b. Handles 16a, 16b are disposed on respective sides of platform members 12a, 12b. which are advantageously configured to enable grasping and carrying the apparatus 10 when in the portable configuration as illustrated in fig. 1.

Locator members 26a (26b not shown) may be used to locate or position assembly 10 with respect to a frame. Other configurations for locating member 26a in addition to the configuration shown by the figures are contemplated. It is further envisaged to integrate set 10 with the structure, such as integrating set 10 with a wheelchair, bed, chair, scooter, patient stretcher, examination table, patient trolley, patient recovery car, etc.

Referring once again to fig. 1A, in use, the bracket 24 supports or positions a patient's leg to receive a vibratory treatment. The vibrating energy generated by the vibrating plate assembly 100 is transferred to the patient's leg either directly or through the support 24. The support 24 may be formed from one or more materials with at least one material adapted to transfer energy from the vibrating plate assembly 100. for the patient. The support 24 may be formed of various materials, such as, for example, plastic, grain-like material, sand, foam material, memory foam material or any combination thereof. Brackets 24 may be provided in a variety of preformed profiles or in a configuration in which the clinician or patient selects a brace 24 that best fits and supports the patient's leg.

The holder 24 may be reusable or may be used one or more times before being removed and discarded. The reusable holder may be used for various treatments prior to disposal or may be designed for use over the life of the appliance 10. The disposable holder may be used for a single treatment or may be used for two or more treatments before use. discarded.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the support 24 may be formed of a moldable material such as foam material, memory foam material, clay, plaster, paste, gel etc. In fig. 2, the support 24a 'consists of a rectangular block in an unmolded condition or relaxed state. As further illustrated in fig. 2, the support material 24a 'fits into the patient's leg when the leg is applied as shown by support 24b'. Brackets 24a ', 24b' may retain shape after the leg is removed or brackets 24a ', 24b' may return to the unfolded or relaxed state.

Referring to Figure 3, the low profile vibratory plate assembly 100 includes a low profile base 102 and a platform 104. The platform 104 rests within a cavity 103 formed on an upper surface of the base 102. A first set of magnets 106a is positioned over a portion of the underside of platform 104. Also, a second magnet assembly 106b is positioned on an inferred surface from base cavity 103. In a preferred embodiment, the first magnet assembly is positioned in direct relationship. with the second set of magnets as shown in fig. Preferably, each pair of magnets 106a and 106b are set with mutually confronting equivalent polarities, thus providing a repellent force between them, thereby causing the platform 104 to levitate above base 102. The vibratory plate assembly 100 additionally includes a processor 108 in operable communication with the second set of magnets. Preferably, the second set of magnets 106b includes adjustable magnetic properties (eg, polarity, magnetic field strength) controlled by a processor 108. The first and second set of magnets 106a, 106b may include, for example, magnetic field generator devices. such as, for example, permanent ferromagnets, electromagnets and coils. Other dynamic magnetic field generating devices are also contemplated.

By varying the field strength and / or alternating the polarity of the base magnets 106b a vertical vibration of the platform 104 may be induced. The vibratory frequency is determined by the rate of change of magnetic properties, while the amplitude of vibration is determined by the intensity of the magnetic field. Additionally the magnetic field intensity can be increased or decreased as needed, depending on a patient's weight, to properly condition and vibrate the platform 104. According to the present invention, a patient is allowed to stimulate and optimize blood flow in the limbs. in a manner described in detail below.

When used, the assembly 10 is initially switched from a portable configuration as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 4, for a configuration in which the two apparatuses 10a, 10b are in a closed configuration as illustrated in FIG. 8. As set forth below, set 10 may deliver vibratory therapy to a patient standing on apparatus 10a, 10b in a closed configuration. Positioners 18a, 18b may be pivoted from a closed configuration to an open configuration as illustrated in FIG. 5 by the large curved arrow pivoting each positioner 18a, 18b in the opposite direction to the respective platform member 12a, 12b. The locating member 26a (26b not shown) pivots from a first condition to a second position as indicated by the small arrow.

As illustrated in fig. 6, apparatus 10a, 10b of assembly 10 may also be mutually separated as indicated by the double arrow. The assembly 10 may be separated into two apparatuses 10a, 10b in either a closed configuration or an open configuration by removing the connector pin (not shown). Apparatus 10a, 10b while in a closed configuration may be used to deliver therapeutic vibratory energy in a closed configuration or positioners 18a, 18b may be raised as indicated by the large arrow to expose the vibratory plate assembly 100a, 100b. Alternatively, positioners 18a, 18b may pivot to an open configuration as indicated by the large arrow prior to separation of the apparatus 10a, 10b as indicated by the double arrow. Locator members 26a, 26b for positioning apparatus 10a, 1bb over a frame are extended from a first condition to a second condition as indicated by the small arrow.

As shown in fig. 7, locating member 26a is used to position apparatus 10a, 10b on a structure such as, for example, the edge of a mattress 300.

As illustrated in figs. 5-7, the removable support brackets 24a-24b are positioned on the vibrating plate 100a, 100b before starting the vibrating treatment. It is contemplated that the assembly 10 may also be used without the support brackets 34a, 34b.

As illustrated in figs. 6 and 7, apparatus 10a, 10b may be separated as indicated by the double arrow in fig. 6, to enable the treatment of one leg, if desired, and to provide comfort to the patient. Each vibrating plate assembly 100a, 100b has its own control panel 22a, 22b to enable only one vibrating plate assembly 100a, 100b to be operated or activated at a time, if desired, to deliver vibratory energy.

Figure 8 is a perspective view of the vibratory therapy assembly 10 including a first vibratory energy apparatus 10a and a second vibratory energy apparatus 10b in a closed configuration. Positioners 18a, 18b are in juxtaposed relationship with each respective platform member 12a, 12b. A human patient stands on set 12 with one foot positioned over each apparatus 10a, 10b. Proper foot placement may be indicated by a target such as a footprint 19a, 19b or insertion area (not shown) over positioner 18a, 18b over positioner 18a, 18b. Bracket 24a compresses due to the weight of the patient standing on positioner 18a, 18b, or bracket 24a may be removed prior to positioning in a closed configuration. Positioners 18a, 18b contact at least a portion of platform members 12a, 12b such that the vibratory energy of the vibratory plate assembly 100a, 100b is transferred to respective positioner 18a, 18b. The handle 16b may be used to position or carry the assembly 10.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, positioner 18 includes at least one vibrating plate assembly, such as the vibrating plate assembly 100, suitable for imparting vibratory energy to the patient's tissue. In a closed configuration, the positioner vibratory plate assembly may impart vibratory energy to the patient tissue independent of platform member vibratory plate assembly 100. For example, in the closed configuration, energy may be imparted by the plate assembly. The vibratory energy of the positioner 18 and in the open configuration can be imparted by the vibratory plate assembly 100 of the platform member 12.

Alternatively, the first vibratory plate assembly 100 of the platform member 12 and the positioner vibratory plate assembly 18 may impart vibratory energy simultaneously or may alternate the application of vibratory energy.

The two or more vibratory plate assemblies can simultaneously impart vibratory energy at different frequencies.

Use of the vibratory plate assembly 10 is illustrated in Figure 9. The footprints 19a, 19b on the positioners 18a, 18b guide the positioning of patient tissue P adjacent to or on at least a portion of the platform member 12a, 12b as such as positioning a patient's foot P adjacent to the vibratory plate assembly 100a, 100b. The vibratory energy generated by each vibratory plate assembly 100a, 100b is transferred through the respective positioner 18a, 18b to patient tissue P.

With reference to figs. 2, 7 and 9, the vibratory therapy apparatus 10a, 10b and assembly 10 impart vibratory energy to patient tissue P with positioners 18a, 18b in various configurations. In figs. 2 and 7, positioners 18a, 18b are substantially perpendicular to platform member 12a, 12b. In fig. 9, the positioners 18a, 18b are in a juxtaposed relationship with the platform member 12a, 12b and the various parts of the platform member 12a, 12b, such as, for example, the vibratory plate assembly 100a, 100b.

With reference to figs. 1, 2 and 8, after use, apparatus 10a, 10b is switched from an open configuration as shown in fig. 2 for a closed configuration as shown in fig. 8, where each positioner 18a, 18b is in juxtaposed relationship with respective platform members 12a, 12b. For ease of storage and transportation of set 10, apparatus 10a, 10b in a closed configuration as shown in fig. 2 are folded together such that the apparatuses 10a, 10b are juxtaposed with each other forming a portable configuration as shown in figs. 1 and 4.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the positioner may act as a platform or base for the apparatus for enabling the vibrating plates 10 to be vertically positioned with respect to the positioner. In this configuration, a user is enabled to rest his legs within the removable supports 24 while seated.

With reference to fig. 7, the vibratory therapy apparatus 10a, 10b of the present invention is used to optimize blood circulation in order to treat and prevent the onset of CVD. The length of treatment and the number of treatment sessions per day depends on whether the patient is treating DVT or to prevent DVT initiation, the age of the patient, if the patient is ill, the weight of the patient (especially heavier). the patient, the longer the treatment time), etc.

It is contemplated to provide a processor with memory capable of executing an instruction set stored in the processor memory to enable the apparatus 10a, 1 Ob to be programmable via either the user via the control support user interface 22a, 22b or by a remote connection through the communication circuit provided within the apparatus 10a, 10b and in operative communication with the processor as described in a US patent application filed July 17, 2006 entitled "Dynamic Motion Therapy Apparatus Having a Treatment Feedback Indicator "means the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. The processor can be programmed to sound an alarm when a treatment session is to be started and automatically shut down the vibrating plate assembly when treatment time has elapsed. A memory inside the processor can store patient treatment related data and other information such as patient name, age, prescription medications being taken by the patient, etc. Treatment-related data may be transmitted to a remote monitoring station as described in US Patent Application filed July 17, 2006 entitled "Dynamic Motion Therapy Apparatus having a Treatment Feedback Indicator".

While various embodiments of the invention have been illustrated in the drawings and / or set forth herein, it is not intended to limit the invention to the foregoing, as it is proposed that the invention be as broad as the technique permits and that the disclosure report be equally interpreted. Accordingly, the invention should not be construed as limiting, but merely as an exemplification of specific embodiments. Those skilled in the art will contemplate further modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.

Claims (29)

Vibrating therapy apparatus, characterized in that it comprises: at least one platform member including at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly for imparting vibratory energy; and at least one positioner pivotably coupled with said at least one platform member for guiding the patient tissue adjacent said at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly provides vibratory energy in at least two configurations of said at least one positioner. Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that in a first configuration of said at least two configurations, said at least one positioner is substantially perpendicular to at least one platform member. Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that in a second configuration of said at least two configurations, said at least one positioner is in juxtaposed relationship with said at least one platform member. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one positioner is movable between a first position and a second position. Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that in a first configuration of said at least two configurations said patient tissue contacts said at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly, and in a second configuration of said said at least two configurations said patient tissue does not contact said at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it is adapted to treat deep vein thrombosis. Apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that it further comprises at least one locating member pivotably coupled with one of said at least one platform member and said at least one positioner. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one positioner includes at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly. Apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that it further comprises at least one support positioned over said at least one platform member, said at least one support configured to contact said patient tissue. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that said at least one support is formed of memory foam material. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that said support contacts at least a portion of said at least one positioner. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that said support is removable and disposable. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a control panel for controlling the operation of said at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one platform member defines a handle. A vibratory therapy assembly comprising: a first vibratory therapy apparatus consisting of a first platform member including at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly for imparting vibratory energy; and a first positioner pivotably coupled with the first platform member to guide patient tissue adjacent to the low profile vibratory plate assembly; a second vibratory therapy apparatus consisting of a second platform member including at least one vibratory plate assembly for imparting vibratory energy; a second positioner pivotably coupled with the second platform member to guide patient tissue adjacent to at least one low profile vibratory plate assembly; and a device for removably connecting the first and second vibratory therapy apparatus. Assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that said removable connecting device engages and disengages said first vibratory therapy apparatus from said second vibratory therapy apparatus. An assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that said first vibratory therapy apparatus and said second vibratory therapy apparatus act to impart vibratory energy to at least two positioners. An assembly according to claim 18, characterized in that in a first configuration of said at least two configurations, said first and second platform members are substantially parallel to each other and said first and second positioners are substantially perpendicular. to said first and second platform members. An assembly according to claim 18, characterized in that, in a second configuration of said at least two configurations, said first and second platform members are substantially parallel to each other and said first and second positioners are respectively in position. juxtaposed relationship with said first and second platform members. An assembly according to claim 16, further comprising: a first locating member pivotably coupled with said first vibratory therapy apparatus; and a second locating member pivotably coupled with said second vibratory therapy apparatus. An assembly according to claim 16, characterized in that said first and second positioners are in juxtaposed relationship with said first and second platform members; and wherein said first vibratory therapy apparatus is in juxtaposed relationship with said second vibratory therapy apparatus. An assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that said first and second platform members define at least one handle. 24. Method for applying vibratory therapy, said method characterized by the fact that it comprises: 25. providing a platform member having a low profile vibratory plate assembly; guiding patient tissue over said low profile vibratory plate assembly using a positioner pivotably coupled with said platform member; and activating said low profile vibratory plate assembly. A method according to claim 24, further comprising the step of adjusting said positioner with respect to said platform member. A method according to claim 25, characterized in that the step of guiding the patient's tissue includes the step of the patient standing on said positioner. The method of claim 25, wherein the step of guiding the patient's tissue includes the step of placing at least a portion of a patient's leg on said platform member. A method according to claim 24, further comprising the step of providing a support on said at least one platform member. A method according to claim 24, further comprising the step of transmitting treatment related data to a remote monitoring station.