CA1128391A - Method and apparatus for aiding conditioning of an erect spinal column and advantageous muscle control - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for aiding conditioning of an erect spinal column and advantageous muscle controlInfo
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- CA1128391A CA1128391A CA302,409A CA302409A CA1128391A CA 1128391 A CA1128391 A CA 1128391A CA 302409 A CA302409 A CA 302409A CA 1128391 A CA1128391 A CA 1128391A
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- erect
- elbow
- conditioning
- spinal column
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Abstract
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AIDING
CONDITIONING OF AN ERECT SPINAL
COLUMN AND ADVANTAGEOUS MUSCLE CONTROL
Abstract of the Disclosure A handgrip member and back reference bar are part of an improved apparatus for aiding conditioning of muscles in the head and neck, the shoulder girdle and the pelvic girdle to position those body parts in relation to a centerline or gravity line through an erect individual to improve the posture of the individual through an erect spinal column. The improved apparatus, certain key muscles and various body manipulations are used in conditioning an erect spinal column and in conditioning advantageous muscle control prevalent in a cross-crawl movement by the method of the invention.
CONDITIONING OF AN ERECT SPINAL
COLUMN AND ADVANTAGEOUS MUSCLE CONTROL
Abstract of the Disclosure A handgrip member and back reference bar are part of an improved apparatus for aiding conditioning of muscles in the head and neck, the shoulder girdle and the pelvic girdle to position those body parts in relation to a centerline or gravity line through an erect individual to improve the posture of the individual through an erect spinal column. The improved apparatus, certain key muscles and various body manipulations are used in conditioning an erect spinal column and in conditioning advantageous muscle control prevalent in a cross-crawl movement by the method of the invention.
Description
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Background and Summary of the Invention This invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for aiding the conditioning or teacning or proper ;:~ posture or an erect body position of an individual person, . 5 and for aiding transferring of muscle control prevalent in ~` a cross-crawl movement to the erect biped or standing ~ position of an individual. The invention helps the individual change his or her braced S-curved spinal configuration to a generally erect and aligned spinal column having the lO characteristic or an off-center segmented column. The :
present invention is useful in giving the individual reference focuses for relating the head and neck, all of the spine, and the shoulder and pelvic girdles properly in relation to one another and to a centerline through an erect or standing body. As will appear hereinafter, this centerline is generally defined by a vertical gravity line through an ; erect body extending through the ankle, knee, hip, and elbow 3~
joints ~ the shoulder, and t~le head and n~ck ~ th~ Eirst cervical v~rtebrae and at the posterior portion of the jaw.
~n erect s~inal column places the various body parts and organs in a mutually beneficial relationship in the ~arth's gravity, resultin~ in a more healthful condition of -the person's body in a position of balance and equllihrium with its environment. ConditionincJ of the erect spinal column may occur in conjunction with aiding t~ansferring muscl2 control of a cross-crawl movement on hands and knees into the movements of an erect individual with the properly aligned spinal column, for additional beneficial r~sults.
In general, posture conditioning or teaching appaxatus is known in the art. For example, United States Patent 2,270,069 to Martin, i~sued January 13, 1942, lS describes c~rtain apparatus in relation to which the present invention is an improvement. Apparently, the only purpos~
of the Martin apparatus is aiding conditioning of the shoulder girdle to the thorax of the individual. It does not recognize the importance of correctly aligning the whole length of the spinal column in an erect body position, and does not disclose the aiding of transferring muscle control prevalent in a cross-crawl movement to the erect body position. Thus the Martin appara-tus does not disclose means for aidinq conditioning of the total length of the back or spinal colllmn and specifically, there i9 no disclosure o~
means for aiding conditioning of the positions of the pelvic girdle, the head, neck and spine through a centerline or gravity line of an erect indiviclual.
A cross-crawl movement of a child on hands and knees has long been recognized as instilling coordination, graceful movement and muscle control through its practice. Simulation 39~
of cross-crawl mo~Jements by adults also results in similar benefici~l effects, b~t the inventor herein is not aware of any attempts to trarlsfer this advantageous muscle control - 5 to th~ mov~ments o~ adults in the standing or biped position.
It is -therefore, a general object of the invention to provide an improved apparatus and me-thod for aiding conditîoning of muscles contxolling the head and neck, the .~ shoulder girdle and the pelvic girdle in relation to one another, in relation to th~ back and spine, and in relation to a gravity line through the body to obtain proper posture as a result of an erect and aligned spinal column.
It ls another general object of this invention to aid transferring of the muscle coordination and control prevalent in a cross-crawl movement on hands and kne~s into the movement of an erect or standing individual with proper posture and a properly aligned spinal column.
It is another object of this invention to provide an apparatus and method for aiding conditioning of the head and neck in relation to the thorax or the back or spinal column of an individual.
It is another object of t.his invention to provide an apparatus and method for aiding and condition.in~ of the pel~ic girdle in relation to an erect spinal column and in relation to a centerline through the thorax and the body.
A fur~her object of this inven~ion is to provide improyements in apparatus for use in aiding conditioning of proper posture.
The inventive concepts involved i.n the apparatus may b9 generally summarized as comprising elbow support means for supporting an individual 1 6 bent elbows, shoulder engaginy means for engaging the individual.'s shou:Lder fronts at a ~LZ~3~
di~tanc~ ou~.ward from the elbow suppo~ means, and handg~ip means for gripping by the individual's hands a~ a position ; below the elbow support means. Back referencing means for engaging the individual's back below the shoulders may also S be provided. The handgrip means and the back referencing means aid in conditioning the pelvic girdle position and the head, the neck, and all of the back or spinal column in relation to the shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle and the various parts of the spine itself for the purpose of changing the spinal column from an S-shaped cuxve braced mechanic configura-tion to a configuration of an off--center segmented and erect column. The inventive concepts lnvolved in the method may be summarized as providing one or more of the previously -~ described elements of apparatus for use in accomplishin~
body exercises to obtain an erect and aligned off-centered segmented spinal column. The body exercises comprise moving the head and neck by flexing the rectus capitus anterior muscles to generally move the head up and ~acX from the shoulder girdle, moving the back and spinal column backward at the shoulder girdle by flexing the serratus magnus muscle~, and moving the anterior superior iliac spines of the pelvic girdle back toward a centerline or yravity line by flexing the internal obliques and psoas muscles while gripping the handgrip means and pulling down on the handgri.p means. For aiding transferriny muscle control prevalent in a cross-crawl movement, the method may include s-teps of placing one foot transversely forward with respect to the other foot, supporting the majority of the weight on the backward foot, and accomp~
lishing one or more of the foregoing method ~teps to obtain an erect and aligned spinal column.
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Detail~ of the present invent:lon ma~ be under~tood rom the followir.g appended claim~, da~ription of the pre~err~d emhodLment o~ the invention, and the brief description of the drawings.
Brie~ Descrlption of the Drawin~s Fi~ure 1 is a perspective view of 2 preferred embodi-ment o~ apparatus according to ~he present invention.
Figure 2 is a front elevational view of the apparatus of Figure 1.
F.igure 3 is a sectional view taken along line 3-3 of Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along line 4-4 of Figure 3.
Figure 5 is a partial view of Figure 4 illustrating the operation of certain apparatus therein.
Fi~ure 6 is a sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 2.
Figure 7 is a sectional view taken along line 7-7 of Figure 2.
Figure 8 is a sectional view taken along line 8~8 of Figure 5.
Figure 9 i5 a schematic illustration of certain elements of a human ~keleton illustrated in a position with a centerline running through certain of those elements to define the proper posture to be obtained in accordance wi~h the pre~ent invention, and al50 illustrating the configuration of an of-center segmented and aliyned spinal column.
Figure 10 i5 a schematic illustration of certain muscles and portions of the skeleton of a human body which are used duriny exercises to obtain proper po~ture and an erect ~2839~
and aligned spi.nal column accc~.~dincJ to the present inventicJn.
F.igurec 11, 1.2 and 13 are diagra.mmatic illustr~tion~
of the use o~ the apparatus shown in Figures 1 through 8 and diagrammatic illustrations of the method according to th~
present invention.
Description of a Pre~.err Embodiment Apparatus 20 for aiding conditioning of proper : posture of an erect spinal col.umn and for aiding txanserringof muscle control prevalen-t in a cross-crawl movement to a standing or erect indi~idual is shown in Figures 1 through 8.
An explanation of the mechanics of an erect spinal column, the desired posture of the human body relative to a centerline or ~ravity line through certain body parts, and the key muscles used in moviny the body par~ to obtain the proper lS posture will secondly be described in conjunction with Figures 9 and 10. Lastly, the use of the apparatus 20 and the description oE the method of the present invention will be discussed in conjunction with Figures 11 to 13.
The apparatus 20 gene.rally comprises a r ctangular frame member 21 of substantial contruction to support the vanDus elements of apparatus 20 d~scribed herein. Means 22 for attaching the frame member 21 and as a resul~, the other elements of app~ratus 20 to an upright surface such as a wall are provided in the form of brackets 22. Vertically extending slide men~ers 24 are securely attached at each laterally opposite side of frame member 21. A mirror 25 i~
positioned by hrackets 26 to the frame member 21 inte.rmediate the vertically extending slide members 24, and the mirror extends vertically approximately the length of the fxame member 21. When the apparatus 20 i5 attached on a wall at the ;
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corn~r it m~y be ~Ised in ~onjunction with mi.rror 25 to ob~ain front and side view~l of the individual usiny the appara~us.
An adjustable carri~ge member 27 is adjustably retained in a vertical mannex in each slide membe.r 24. As can be be-tter understood from Fîgure 3, the adjustabl~ carriage member 27 includes outward projecting extensions 30 having holes 31 therein for supporting a laterally extending pivot rod 32 therebetween. Pivot rod 32 is held in positlon by nuts 33 attached at its ends external of the extenslQns 30.
Pivot rod 32 maintains a position outwardly spaced from the outer surface 34 of the carriage member 27 to allow various other elements of the apparatus to pivot thereabout, as are next described.
One elbow cup member 35 is attached to each pivot rod 32 of each carriage member 27. An upward portion 36 of each elbow cup member 35 is formed in a C-shaped cross section ~ ure 3) with ~wo outwardly extending projections 37 having holes 38 formed th~rein for receiving pivot rod 32. The elbow cup members 35 may be laterally adjust~d along the length of pivot rod 32 since the holes 38 are slightly larger in diameter than the diameter of rod 32.
~ shoulder positioning arm member 40 is hinged ~o the pi~ot rod 32 of each carriage member 27 at a base portion 41 having a hole 42 formed therein for receiving th~ pivot rod 32 (Figures 3 and 7~. Each shoulder positioning arm 40 compromises an extension 43 connected to the base portion 41 and a shoulder pad 44 connected to the extension 43. Each shoulde~ positioning arm ~0 assumes the ~ame lateral position along pivot rod 32 as the elbow cup members 33 due to Z~3~L
maintenance of bas~ portion 41 intermediate the outward ~: projections 37 o~ the elbow cup mernber 35. ~s .is shown best in Fiyures 3 and 7, a spring clip 45 i5 ~ttached - to the carria~e member 27 by a screw 46, and the spring clip : 5 includ~s a spring retention socke~ means 47 Eor applying lateral restraining force on the ex~ensions 43 when the shoulder positioning arm is in a v~rtical position shown in Figures 1 and 2, and for allowing each arm 40 to hinge outward and downward when the shoulder positioning arm member 40 is in use.
One handgrip member 50 is attached to the ~ottom of each elbow cup member 35, as is shown in Figures 1, 2 and 6.
It is desirable that each handgrip member 50 assume an angle with the vertical or upright wall like surface of approximately 10 degrees away therefrom (Figure 6~ to facilitate grasping it and for reasons to be apparent from the subsequent description of the method and operation of the present invention.
A back reference bar member 52 is pivotally attached by pins 53 between the two carriage members 27 carried by the vertical slide members 2.4 on each side of frame member 21, as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 4. Reference bar 52 includes two end portions 54, two intermediate outward extending pro-jections 55 and a center laterally extending portion 56.
The ends 54 of reference bar 52 are maintained at a fixed distance below the elbow cups 35 due to the direct connection of the ends 54 to the carriage member 27. The pivotal connection between ~he ends 54 of back reference bar 52 and the carriage membe.r 27 at pin~ 53 is provided to allow adjustment of each carriage member 27 to accommodate individ-uals having each shoulder of a sli~htly ~ifferent height, as will be apparent from the subse~uent description.
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- The carxiage members 27 thus are each on~ form of mean~ ~or operatively c~nnectincJ the elbow cup mer~ers 35l the sh~ulder positioning members 40, the handgrip member~ 50 and the hack reference bar 52 -to the upright surface, as a result o~ the connection of the slide memhers 24 to the frame membex 21 which is, in turn, att.ached by means 22 to the upright wall-like surface.
Adjustment means for retaining the carriage member~ 27 at elec~ed vertical posi.tions along the slide 10, membexs 24 will now be described in conjunction with Figures 3, 4, 5 and 8. Each slide member 24 generally has a C-shaped cross section with a vertical opening 60 facing outward of the f.rame member 21 de~ined by laterally inward facing edge portions 63. The carriage me~ber 27 has an inward projecting boss member 61 to which are attached lateral wing members 6~.
Wing~ 62 project laterally behind the edges 63 of each slide member 24 to prevent the carriage member 27 from moving outward of the slide member 24. A pin mem~er 64 extends through the carriage member 27 and center of boss 61, and an end 65 thereof projects slightly through holes 66 in a center back wall portion 67 of the slide member 24. In Figures 5 and 8, the slide member back wall portion 67 comprises a plurality of regularly verti~ally spaced outwardly protruding ribs 70 separated by valleys 71, thereby providing a corrugated or S-shaped cross section. The holes 66 are formed in the lateral cente.r of each valley 71 for receiving the end 65 of pin 64.
In the position of use shown in Figure 4, the carriage member 27 is retained in its vertical position by the protruding end 65 of pin 64 in hole 66 of the back wall portion 67 of the slide member 24. The wings 62 on boss 61 (Figure 3) 8363~
pravent the vext.ically upward end of the carriage member 27 ~rom moYing outward of the slide member 24. When it is de~ired to ad~u~t the relative height position of one or both Qf the adjustable carriage members, the lower portion of the carriage member is ~otated clockwise as shown in Figure 5.
The win~s 62 o~ bo~s 61 contacting edges 63 causes a point o~ ratation ~or the carriage memb~r allowing the protruding end 65 oX pin 64 to be removecl from hole 66. Once ~in end 65 is fre~ o the hole 66 the carriage member may be moved along the slide me~er until a desired vertical position is obtained, at which point the carriage member i~ ro-tated counter-clockwise (Pigure 5) causing pin end 65 to project into one hole 66 in the back wall portion 67 of the slide member 24 retaining the carri.age m~mber at the desired height. Thus the slide member 24 i~ one form of means for supporting ths carriage member 27 at a plurality of ver~ical positions.
The objective of the apparatus 20 of the present invention is to instill in the subconsc.ious mind of an individual certain points of focus for properly relating the head an~ neck, the shoulder girdle, and the pelvic girdle ~o a centerline 7S or a gravity line through the thorax re~ion of the body and -through the body a5 a whole to thereby o~tain the proper posture through an aligned and erect spinal col~m. Proper posture and an erect spinal column are shown in Figure 10, and are defined relative to the centerline 75 extending through the body. This cen~.erline 75 is the gravity line which passes approximately through the ~ollowing points of the human skeleton: the posterior borde.r o~ the ramus of mandible, shown a~ 76 which i~ approximately the same position a~ the anterior :
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portion oE the A-tlas or first cervi.cal vertebrae; the acromion process of scapula and head of humerous, at 77;
the olecranon process of ulna, at 78; ~he anterivr superior iliac spines, shown at 79, the h~ad of femur and acetabulum, shown at 80; the middle point between the base of femur and the top of tibia, shown at 81, and the lateral malleous and medial, shown at 8~. In the erect and proper posture posit.ion shown in Figure 10, the spinal column ~3 is in an erect and aligned posit.ion not having the typical S-shaped curve. The base of the spinal col~nn is off-center behind ~he centerline 75 or gravity line and slopes forward to where the top of the spine is on the centerline with the results being that the various internal organs and body parts are placed in a mutually beneficial relationship in the gravity field, there-by resulting in more healthful functioning of the body organs and parts.
To obtain an erect off-center segmented spinal column, three groups of key muscles must be conditloned to hold th~
spinal column erect without th~ typical S-shaped curvature.
These key groups of muscles are shown in Figure 11. The rectus capitus anterior group of muscles shown at 85 are deep inner muscles spanning from the first cervical vertebrae or atlas to the hack base of the skull or occiput in front of foramen magnum, and are used to flex the head on the neck~ The serratus magnus group of muscles, shown at 8fi, span ~rom the verte-bral border of the scapula or shoulder blades to the ribs and ar~
us~d in projecting the head backwards and upwards over the thorax and in providing a fulcrum of support from which the ~houlders move and rest upon. The .internal obliques, shown at 87, and the psoas, shown at 88, are muscles which extend respectively from the lower ribs to the iliac crest and from the lumbar 33~
vertebrae to the lessor trochan~er o~ ~he femur of the leg.
The internal obliqu~s and psoas a:re used to rotate th~
~nterior superior ili~c ~pines of the pelvic axea backward about ~he acetabular or hip join~s. By flexiny the rectus capitus anterior muscles 85 the head and neck ~ill be moved, and the head will move generally up and back from the shoulder girdle and the posterior bord~r of the ramu~
o~ the mandible a~ 76 will generally be position d at the gravity line 75. By flexing the serratus magnus muscle~
86, the spinal column at the shoulder girdle will generally move backward, to center the shoulder girdle at the centerlin~ 75 with the acromion process of scapula and head of humerous at 77 and olecranon process of elbows at 78 on the centerline. By flexing the internal oblique and psoas muscles, the anterior superior iliac spine at 79 of the pelvic girdle will move back to the gravity line 75. Th2 r~9ult o~ such movement and conditioning is the proper body posture a~ illustrated in Figure 10. The use and operation of the apparatus 20 of the present invention for condltioning these muscles to assume proper po~ture t~rough an erect splnal col~mn, as well a~ the method of the present invention, will now be described in conjunction with Figures 11, 12 and 13.
To be~in use of the apparatus 20 the carriage men~2rs 27 are ad~u~ted in the vertical slide members 24 according ~S to the height and ~idth o the individual ' s shoulder~ 0 The shoulder positioniny arms 40 are disengaged from the spring clips 45 and roated into their outward extending u8e positions shown in Figure 13. The carriage members are adjuste~ in the vertical slide men~ers until the shOulder pads 44 contact the individual's should~.r fronts. The arms 40 ~re x~tated upward and retained in position by the sp.ring clip after the initial acljustment, since thi~ adjustment .is the proper position ~or all subse~uently describeri conditioning exercise~.
T~e first exercise shown in Figure 11 i5 for the purpose of aidin~ conditioning of the muscles and points of ~ocus or the head, neck, and shoulder girdle relative to the thorax of the individual or relative to the gravity line through the individual with proper posture. The firs-t exercise 1~ is also u~eful in providing a reference focus similar to that in crawling, although now with the arms having the elb~ws in the elbow cup men~ers as a reference from which to move instead of having hands on a crawling surface. The arms are extended from the shoulders and folded at the elbows with each hand touching the el~ow of the opposite arm, and the elbows are placed in the elbow cup me~ers 35. In this position the head is flexed on the neck and the posterior bord~r of the ramus of the mandible is moved to the centerline. The head, nec~ and spinal column is moved backward away from the elbows in the elbow cup members, in a mallner similar to that accomplished while crawling when the head and neck i5 moved a~ay from thehands on the crawling surface. The serratus magnus muscle is the primary muscle in this exerci.se and the shoulder blades or scapula spread ar apart and widen as this movement is accomplished. The waistline area or the anterior superior iliac spin~ of the pelvic girdle are moved backward toward the c~nterline after the head, neck and spinal column have been moved as described. In this position the serratus magnu~ mu~cles are worked throuyh their full range of motion to ins~ill in the s~>con~c.ious r~nd the re~erence and focus for the proper alignment of ~:he spina1 column while the head, neck and pelvic yirdle are m~intained in their deslred pOSitiOl~S .
S The second exercise shown in Figure 12 i~ for aiding conditioning of a focus reference for the neck, head, shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle relative to the thorax of the individual and to a gravity line through the individual with proper posture. The second exercise is also useful for aiding conditioning of the proper alignment of all portions of the spine itself i71 an erect configuration. In this position the individual's back at a position appro~imately below the base of the scapula is placed against the reference bar 52 which is in a proper position due to the initial adjust-ment of the carriage me~bers 27. Here the head is flexed on the neck and moved backward and upward away from the shoulder girdle. The back of the head or the external occipital prot~erance is moved vertically above the reference bar 52.
The elbows move in front of the reference bar and the pelvic girdle or anterior superior iliac spines are rotated back-ward vertically below the reference bar. These movements assist in relating the various portions of the spinal column to itself in the erect configuration of an off-center ~egmented column. In the second exercise the hPad and neck experiences 2S full balanced movement and assume~ a conditioned position over the centerline through the individual and ~he en~ire ~plne i8 generally ~traightened and al.igned in relation to itself~
The third exercise shown in Figure 13 is for aiding conditioning of ~he point of reference for the pelvic girdle relative to the thorax and centerline through the individual, as well as combining the reference point~ of ~ocus for the head neck and ~houlder girdle to the centerlin0.
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The shoulder posit:ion.irlg arms 40 ale rotclted down~ard and out~ard aIId the individual'~ ~houlder fronts are placed again~t the shoulder paid m~mber~. rrhe individ.ual grasps the handgrip~ 50, flexes the head on the nec}c and mo~res S the head to its upward and backward position, moves the 3pinal column away rom th~ shoulder girdle by moving head and neck away from the shoulder fronts against the pads on the shoulder cond.itioning arms 40, and moves the pelvic girdle backward in the desired manner while pulling downward on the handgrips 50. The downward pulling movement on the handgrips assists the ind.ividual in moving the anterior supe~ior iliac spines back to the centerline, and exercises the internal obliques ~d psoas muscles. The aIlgle of the handgrips 50 with respect to the vertical causes the downward pulling move-ment by the hand to conform to a line extending through the handgrips directed toward the pelvic qirdle at the anterior superior iliac spine. This angle of force further aids the flexing of the internal oblique and psoas muscles through a full range of movement to cause the anterior superior iliac spine to assume a coI~ditioned position over the centerli.ne through the body. The handgrips bring the in-ternal oblique and p~oas muscles into conscious and then unconsciou~ or habitual use, and coordiante these muscles with the other key muscles in movement. The handgrip members are es~ential ~or developing muscles coordination and control such a~ that preva--lent in the cross-crawl movement, as will next b~ ~e~cri.bed in conjunction with Figures 11, 12 and 13.
Aiding of the transferring of the muscle control prevalent in a cross-crawl. movement to the erect bi~ed or standing poAition is obtained in conjunction with ~he pr~viou~ly ~, " ~
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described three exercises by placiny one foot transversely forward with respect to the other foot and supporting the majority of the body weiyht on the backward foot. Each exercise ~nd position is repeated with the alternate foot S in front. In the exercise described in conjunction with Figure ll, the elbow of the arm on the side of the body opposit~the forward foot serves prmarily as a re~erence for moving the back and spinal column away from the elbows, and in this manner the cross-crawl coordination and control of body movements is instilled into the conditioniny of proper posture. In the exercise described in conjunction ~ith Figure 12, the backward foot serves as a secondary reference in conjunc~ion with a primary reference from the reference bar 52 for alignming the spinal column. In the exer-cise described in conjunction wi-th Figure 13, only one handgrip at a time is gripped with the hand of the arm on the side of the bcdy oppos:ite the forward foot to most accurately simulate a cross-crawl movement. The cross-crawl movement is recognized for instillincJ a peaceful and proper coordination in con-trol of body movement. In the crawling position the spinal column is normally aligned and the head, neck and chest, abdomen and lower back are supported by the key muscle groups described hexein, especially the serratus magnus muscle.
Thus, additional conditioning of cros~-crawl coordination and control may be achieved as well as proper postureO
From the foregoing description it is apparent that the elbow oup member 35 is one form of means adapt2d or supporting the ~ent elbows of a standing or erect perSon wlth the arms extended forward and each hand ~ouching th~ elbow of the opposite arm. The shoulder positioniny member 40 .is ~16 , ~Z~3~L
on~ form of means adapted fur engaying the shoulder fronts of the pexson a pre~etermined di~tance out~ard frorn the elbv~7 cup memhers. The handgrip ~mber 50 is one form of means adapted for gripping by the hand of the person below the elbo~ ~up member with the shouldex fronts abuttin~ memhex 40 and with the upper arm extending generally downward from the shoulder and ~he lower arm extending generally forward from -~he elbow. The back re~erence bar 52 is one form of means adapted for engaging the person's-back at a posikion in the shoulder girdle be.low the elbow cup member and below the level of the person's shoulders.
The method and apparatus of the present invention ha~ been described in conjunc~ion with a preferred embodiment so as to enable an understanding of the invention. It should be understood that the in~entive subject matter of the invention is intended to be limited only insofar as the prior art requires.
Background and Summary of the Invention This invention relates to an improved apparatus and method for aiding the conditioning or teacning or proper ;:~ posture or an erect body position of an individual person, . 5 and for aiding transferring of muscle control prevalent in ~` a cross-crawl movement to the erect biped or standing ~ position of an individual. The invention helps the individual change his or her braced S-curved spinal configuration to a generally erect and aligned spinal column having the lO characteristic or an off-center segmented column. The :
present invention is useful in giving the individual reference focuses for relating the head and neck, all of the spine, and the shoulder and pelvic girdles properly in relation to one another and to a centerline through an erect or standing body. As will appear hereinafter, this centerline is generally defined by a vertical gravity line through an ; erect body extending through the ankle, knee, hip, and elbow 3~
joints ~ the shoulder, and t~le head and n~ck ~ th~ Eirst cervical v~rtebrae and at the posterior portion of the jaw.
~n erect s~inal column places the various body parts and organs in a mutually beneficial relationship in the ~arth's gravity, resultin~ in a more healthful condition of -the person's body in a position of balance and equllihrium with its environment. ConditionincJ of the erect spinal column may occur in conjunction with aiding t~ansferring muscl2 control of a cross-crawl movement on hands and knees into the movements of an erect individual with the properly aligned spinal column, for additional beneficial r~sults.
In general, posture conditioning or teaching appaxatus is known in the art. For example, United States Patent 2,270,069 to Martin, i~sued January 13, 1942, lS describes c~rtain apparatus in relation to which the present invention is an improvement. Apparently, the only purpos~
of the Martin apparatus is aiding conditioning of the shoulder girdle to the thorax of the individual. It does not recognize the importance of correctly aligning the whole length of the spinal column in an erect body position, and does not disclose the aiding of transferring muscle control prevalent in a cross-crawl movement to the erect body position. Thus the Martin appara-tus does not disclose means for aidinq conditioning of the total length of the back or spinal colllmn and specifically, there i9 no disclosure o~
means for aiding conditioning of the positions of the pelvic girdle, the head, neck and spine through a centerline or gravity line of an erect indiviclual.
A cross-crawl movement of a child on hands and knees has long been recognized as instilling coordination, graceful movement and muscle control through its practice. Simulation 39~
of cross-crawl mo~Jements by adults also results in similar benefici~l effects, b~t the inventor herein is not aware of any attempts to trarlsfer this advantageous muscle control - 5 to th~ mov~ments o~ adults in the standing or biped position.
It is -therefore, a general object of the invention to provide an improved apparatus and me-thod for aiding conditîoning of muscles contxolling the head and neck, the .~ shoulder girdle and the pelvic girdle in relation to one another, in relation to th~ back and spine, and in relation to a gravity line through the body to obtain proper posture as a result of an erect and aligned spinal column.
It ls another general object of this invention to aid transferring of the muscle coordination and control prevalent in a cross-crawl movement on hands and kne~s into the movement of an erect or standing individual with proper posture and a properly aligned spinal column.
It is another object of this invention to provide an apparatus and method for aiding conditioning of the head and neck in relation to the thorax or the back or spinal column of an individual.
It is another object of t.his invention to provide an apparatus and method for aiding and condition.in~ of the pel~ic girdle in relation to an erect spinal column and in relation to a centerline through the thorax and the body.
A fur~her object of this inven~ion is to provide improyements in apparatus for use in aiding conditioning of proper posture.
The inventive concepts involved i.n the apparatus may b9 generally summarized as comprising elbow support means for supporting an individual 1 6 bent elbows, shoulder engaginy means for engaging the individual.'s shou:Lder fronts at a ~LZ~3~
di~tanc~ ou~.ward from the elbow suppo~ means, and handg~ip means for gripping by the individual's hands a~ a position ; below the elbow support means. Back referencing means for engaging the individual's back below the shoulders may also S be provided. The handgrip means and the back referencing means aid in conditioning the pelvic girdle position and the head, the neck, and all of the back or spinal column in relation to the shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle and the various parts of the spine itself for the purpose of changing the spinal column from an S-shaped cuxve braced mechanic configura-tion to a configuration of an off--center segmented and erect column. The inventive concepts lnvolved in the method may be summarized as providing one or more of the previously -~ described elements of apparatus for use in accomplishin~
body exercises to obtain an erect and aligned off-centered segmented spinal column. The body exercises comprise moving the head and neck by flexing the rectus capitus anterior muscles to generally move the head up and ~acX from the shoulder girdle, moving the back and spinal column backward at the shoulder girdle by flexing the serratus magnus muscle~, and moving the anterior superior iliac spines of the pelvic girdle back toward a centerline or yravity line by flexing the internal obliques and psoas muscles while gripping the handgrip means and pulling down on the handgri.p means. For aiding transferriny muscle control prevalent in a cross-crawl movement, the method may include s-teps of placing one foot transversely forward with respect to the other foot, supporting the majority of the weight on the backward foot, and accomp~
lishing one or more of the foregoing method ~teps to obtain an erect and aligned spinal column.
Z8;~
Detail~ of the present invent:lon ma~ be under~tood rom the followir.g appended claim~, da~ription of the pre~err~d emhodLment o~ the invention, and the brief description of the drawings.
Brie~ Descrlption of the Drawin~s Fi~ure 1 is a perspective view of 2 preferred embodi-ment o~ apparatus according to ~he present invention.
Figure 2 is a front elevational view of the apparatus of Figure 1.
F.igure 3 is a sectional view taken along line 3-3 of Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along line 4-4 of Figure 3.
Figure 5 is a partial view of Figure 4 illustrating the operation of certain apparatus therein.
Fi~ure 6 is a sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 2.
Figure 7 is a sectional view taken along line 7-7 of Figure 2.
Figure 8 is a sectional view taken along line 8~8 of Figure 5.
Figure 9 i5 a schematic illustration of certain elements of a human ~keleton illustrated in a position with a centerline running through certain of those elements to define the proper posture to be obtained in accordance wi~h the pre~ent invention, and al50 illustrating the configuration of an of-center segmented and aliyned spinal column.
Figure 10 i5 a schematic illustration of certain muscles and portions of the skeleton of a human body which are used duriny exercises to obtain proper po~ture and an erect ~2839~
and aligned spi.nal column accc~.~dincJ to the present inventicJn.
F.igurec 11, 1.2 and 13 are diagra.mmatic illustr~tion~
of the use o~ the apparatus shown in Figures 1 through 8 and diagrammatic illustrations of the method according to th~
present invention.
Description of a Pre~.err Embodiment Apparatus 20 for aiding conditioning of proper : posture of an erect spinal col.umn and for aiding txanserringof muscle control prevalen-t in a cross-crawl movement to a standing or erect indi~idual is shown in Figures 1 through 8.
An explanation of the mechanics of an erect spinal column, the desired posture of the human body relative to a centerline or ~ravity line through certain body parts, and the key muscles used in moviny the body par~ to obtain the proper lS posture will secondly be described in conjunction with Figures 9 and 10. Lastly, the use of the apparatus 20 and the description oE the method of the present invention will be discussed in conjunction with Figures 11 to 13.
The apparatus 20 gene.rally comprises a r ctangular frame member 21 of substantial contruction to support the vanDus elements of apparatus 20 d~scribed herein. Means 22 for attaching the frame member 21 and as a resul~, the other elements of app~ratus 20 to an upright surface such as a wall are provided in the form of brackets 22. Vertically extending slide men~ers 24 are securely attached at each laterally opposite side of frame member 21. A mirror 25 i~
positioned by hrackets 26 to the frame member 21 inte.rmediate the vertically extending slide members 24, and the mirror extends vertically approximately the length of the fxame member 21. When the apparatus 20 i5 attached on a wall at the ;
. . .
~2~3~3~
corn~r it m~y be ~Ised in ~onjunction with mi.rror 25 to ob~ain front and side view~l of the individual usiny the appara~us.
An adjustable carri~ge member 27 is adjustably retained in a vertical mannex in each slide membe.r 24. As can be be-tter understood from Fîgure 3, the adjustabl~ carriage member 27 includes outward projecting extensions 30 having holes 31 therein for supporting a laterally extending pivot rod 32 therebetween. Pivot rod 32 is held in positlon by nuts 33 attached at its ends external of the extenslQns 30.
Pivot rod 32 maintains a position outwardly spaced from the outer surface 34 of the carriage member 27 to allow various other elements of the apparatus to pivot thereabout, as are next described.
One elbow cup member 35 is attached to each pivot rod 32 of each carriage member 27. An upward portion 36 of each elbow cup member 35 is formed in a C-shaped cross section ~ ure 3) with ~wo outwardly extending projections 37 having holes 38 formed th~rein for receiving pivot rod 32. The elbow cup members 35 may be laterally adjust~d along the length of pivot rod 32 since the holes 38 are slightly larger in diameter than the diameter of rod 32.
~ shoulder positioning arm member 40 is hinged ~o the pi~ot rod 32 of each carriage member 27 at a base portion 41 having a hole 42 formed therein for receiving th~ pivot rod 32 (Figures 3 and 7~. Each shoulder positioning arm 40 compromises an extension 43 connected to the base portion 41 and a shoulder pad 44 connected to the extension 43. Each shoulde~ positioning arm ~0 assumes the ~ame lateral position along pivot rod 32 as the elbow cup members 33 due to Z~3~L
maintenance of bas~ portion 41 intermediate the outward ~: projections 37 o~ the elbow cup mernber 35. ~s .is shown best in Fiyures 3 and 7, a spring clip 45 i5 ~ttached - to the carria~e member 27 by a screw 46, and the spring clip : 5 includ~s a spring retention socke~ means 47 Eor applying lateral restraining force on the ex~ensions 43 when the shoulder positioning arm is in a v~rtical position shown in Figures 1 and 2, and for allowing each arm 40 to hinge outward and downward when the shoulder positioning arm member 40 is in use.
One handgrip member 50 is attached to the ~ottom of each elbow cup member 35, as is shown in Figures 1, 2 and 6.
It is desirable that each handgrip member 50 assume an angle with the vertical or upright wall like surface of approximately 10 degrees away therefrom (Figure 6~ to facilitate grasping it and for reasons to be apparent from the subsequent description of the method and operation of the present invention.
A back reference bar member 52 is pivotally attached by pins 53 between the two carriage members 27 carried by the vertical slide members 2.4 on each side of frame member 21, as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 4. Reference bar 52 includes two end portions 54, two intermediate outward extending pro-jections 55 and a center laterally extending portion 56.
The ends 54 of reference bar 52 are maintained at a fixed distance below the elbow cups 35 due to the direct connection of the ends 54 to the carriage member 27. The pivotal connection between ~he ends 54 of back reference bar 52 and the carriage membe.r 27 at pin~ 53 is provided to allow adjustment of each carriage member 27 to accommodate individ-uals having each shoulder of a sli~htly ~ifferent height, as will be apparent from the subse~uent description.
~L~21~3~:~
- The carxiage members 27 thus are each on~ form of mean~ ~or operatively c~nnectincJ the elbow cup mer~ers 35l the sh~ulder positioning members 40, the handgrip member~ 50 and the hack reference bar 52 -to the upright surface, as a result o~ the connection of the slide memhers 24 to the frame membex 21 which is, in turn, att.ached by means 22 to the upright wall-like surface.
Adjustment means for retaining the carriage member~ 27 at elec~ed vertical posi.tions along the slide 10, membexs 24 will now be described in conjunction with Figures 3, 4, 5 and 8. Each slide member 24 generally has a C-shaped cross section with a vertical opening 60 facing outward of the f.rame member 21 de~ined by laterally inward facing edge portions 63. The carriage me~ber 27 has an inward projecting boss member 61 to which are attached lateral wing members 6~.
Wing~ 62 project laterally behind the edges 63 of each slide member 24 to prevent the carriage member 27 from moving outward of the slide member 24. A pin mem~er 64 extends through the carriage member 27 and center of boss 61, and an end 65 thereof projects slightly through holes 66 in a center back wall portion 67 of the slide member 24. In Figures 5 and 8, the slide member back wall portion 67 comprises a plurality of regularly verti~ally spaced outwardly protruding ribs 70 separated by valleys 71, thereby providing a corrugated or S-shaped cross section. The holes 66 are formed in the lateral cente.r of each valley 71 for receiving the end 65 of pin 64.
In the position of use shown in Figure 4, the carriage member 27 is retained in its vertical position by the protruding end 65 of pin 64 in hole 66 of the back wall portion 67 of the slide member 24. The wings 62 on boss 61 (Figure 3) 8363~
pravent the vext.ically upward end of the carriage member 27 ~rom moYing outward of the slide member 24. When it is de~ired to ad~u~t the relative height position of one or both Qf the adjustable carriage members, the lower portion of the carriage member is ~otated clockwise as shown in Figure 5.
The win~s 62 o~ bo~s 61 contacting edges 63 causes a point o~ ratation ~or the carriage memb~r allowing the protruding end 65 oX pin 64 to be removecl from hole 66. Once ~in end 65 is fre~ o the hole 66 the carriage member may be moved along the slide me~er until a desired vertical position is obtained, at which point the carriage member i~ ro-tated counter-clockwise (Pigure 5) causing pin end 65 to project into one hole 66 in the back wall portion 67 of the slide member 24 retaining the carri.age m~mber at the desired height. Thus the slide member 24 i~ one form of means for supporting ths carriage member 27 at a plurality of ver~ical positions.
The objective of the apparatus 20 of the present invention is to instill in the subconsc.ious mind of an individual certain points of focus for properly relating the head an~ neck, the shoulder girdle, and the pelvic girdle ~o a centerline 7S or a gravity line through the thorax re~ion of the body and -through the body a5 a whole to thereby o~tain the proper posture through an aligned and erect spinal col~m. Proper posture and an erect spinal column are shown in Figure 10, and are defined relative to the centerline 75 extending through the body. This cen~.erline 75 is the gravity line which passes approximately through the ~ollowing points of the human skeleton: the posterior borde.r o~ the ramus of mandible, shown a~ 76 which i~ approximately the same position a~ the anterior :
83~
portion oE the A-tlas or first cervi.cal vertebrae; the acromion process of scapula and head of humerous, at 77;
the olecranon process of ulna, at 78; ~he anterivr superior iliac spines, shown at 79, the h~ad of femur and acetabulum, shown at 80; the middle point between the base of femur and the top of tibia, shown at 81, and the lateral malleous and medial, shown at 8~. In the erect and proper posture posit.ion shown in Figure 10, the spinal column ~3 is in an erect and aligned posit.ion not having the typical S-shaped curve. The base of the spinal col~nn is off-center behind ~he centerline 75 or gravity line and slopes forward to where the top of the spine is on the centerline with the results being that the various internal organs and body parts are placed in a mutually beneficial relationship in the gravity field, there-by resulting in more healthful functioning of the body organs and parts.
To obtain an erect off-center segmented spinal column, three groups of key muscles must be conditloned to hold th~
spinal column erect without th~ typical S-shaped curvature.
These key groups of muscles are shown in Figure 11. The rectus capitus anterior group of muscles shown at 85 are deep inner muscles spanning from the first cervical vertebrae or atlas to the hack base of the skull or occiput in front of foramen magnum, and are used to flex the head on the neck~ The serratus magnus group of muscles, shown at 8fi, span ~rom the verte-bral border of the scapula or shoulder blades to the ribs and ar~
us~d in projecting the head backwards and upwards over the thorax and in providing a fulcrum of support from which the ~houlders move and rest upon. The .internal obliques, shown at 87, and the psoas, shown at 88, are muscles which extend respectively from the lower ribs to the iliac crest and from the lumbar 33~
vertebrae to the lessor trochan~er o~ ~he femur of the leg.
The internal obliqu~s and psoas a:re used to rotate th~
~nterior superior ili~c ~pines of the pelvic axea backward about ~he acetabular or hip join~s. By flexiny the rectus capitus anterior muscles 85 the head and neck ~ill be moved, and the head will move generally up and back from the shoulder girdle and the posterior bord~r of the ramu~
o~ the mandible a~ 76 will generally be position d at the gravity line 75. By flexing the serratus magnus muscle~
86, the spinal column at the shoulder girdle will generally move backward, to center the shoulder girdle at the centerlin~ 75 with the acromion process of scapula and head of humerous at 77 and olecranon process of elbows at 78 on the centerline. By flexing the internal oblique and psoas muscles, the anterior superior iliac spine at 79 of the pelvic girdle will move back to the gravity line 75. Th2 r~9ult o~ such movement and conditioning is the proper body posture a~ illustrated in Figure 10. The use and operation of the apparatus 20 of the present invention for condltioning these muscles to assume proper po~ture t~rough an erect splnal col~mn, as well a~ the method of the present invention, will now be described in conjunction with Figures 11, 12 and 13.
To be~in use of the apparatus 20 the carriage men~2rs 27 are ad~u~ted in the vertical slide members 24 according ~S to the height and ~idth o the individual ' s shoulder~ 0 The shoulder positioniny arms 40 are disengaged from the spring clips 45 and roated into their outward extending u8e positions shown in Figure 13. The carriage members are adjuste~ in the vertical slide men~ers until the shOulder pads 44 contact the individual's should~.r fronts. The arms 40 ~re x~tated upward and retained in position by the sp.ring clip after the initial acljustment, since thi~ adjustment .is the proper position ~or all subse~uently describeri conditioning exercise~.
T~e first exercise shown in Figure 11 i5 for the purpose of aidin~ conditioning of the muscles and points of ~ocus or the head, neck, and shoulder girdle relative to the thorax of the individual or relative to the gravity line through the individual with proper posture. The firs-t exercise 1~ is also u~eful in providing a reference focus similar to that in crawling, although now with the arms having the elb~ws in the elbow cup men~ers as a reference from which to move instead of having hands on a crawling surface. The arms are extended from the shoulders and folded at the elbows with each hand touching the el~ow of the opposite arm, and the elbows are placed in the elbow cup me~ers 35. In this position the head is flexed on the neck and the posterior bord~r of the ramus of the mandible is moved to the centerline. The head, nec~ and spinal column is moved backward away from the elbows in the elbow cup members, in a mallner similar to that accomplished while crawling when the head and neck i5 moved a~ay from thehands on the crawling surface. The serratus magnus muscle is the primary muscle in this exerci.se and the shoulder blades or scapula spread ar apart and widen as this movement is accomplished. The waistline area or the anterior superior iliac spin~ of the pelvic girdle are moved backward toward the c~nterline after the head, neck and spinal column have been moved as described. In this position the serratus magnu~ mu~cles are worked throuyh their full range of motion to ins~ill in the s~>con~c.ious r~nd the re~erence and focus for the proper alignment of ~:he spina1 column while the head, neck and pelvic yirdle are m~intained in their deslred pOSitiOl~S .
S The second exercise shown in Figure 12 i~ for aiding conditioning of a focus reference for the neck, head, shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle relative to the thorax of the individual and to a gravity line through the individual with proper posture. The second exercise is also useful for aiding conditioning of the proper alignment of all portions of the spine itself i71 an erect configuration. In this position the individual's back at a position appro~imately below the base of the scapula is placed against the reference bar 52 which is in a proper position due to the initial adjust-ment of the carriage me~bers 27. Here the head is flexed on the neck and moved backward and upward away from the shoulder girdle. The back of the head or the external occipital prot~erance is moved vertically above the reference bar 52.
The elbows move in front of the reference bar and the pelvic girdle or anterior superior iliac spines are rotated back-ward vertically below the reference bar. These movements assist in relating the various portions of the spinal column to itself in the erect configuration of an off-center ~egmented column. In the second exercise the hPad and neck experiences 2S full balanced movement and assume~ a conditioned position over the centerline through the individual and ~he en~ire ~plne i8 generally ~traightened and al.igned in relation to itself~
The third exercise shown in Figure 13 is for aiding conditioning of ~he point of reference for the pelvic girdle relative to the thorax and centerline through the individual, as well as combining the reference point~ of ~ocus for the head neck and ~houlder girdle to the centerlin0.
-14~
1~2~
The shoulder posit:ion.irlg arms 40 ale rotclted down~ard and out~ard aIId the individual'~ ~houlder fronts are placed again~t the shoulder paid m~mber~. rrhe individ.ual grasps the handgrip~ 50, flexes the head on the nec}c and mo~res S the head to its upward and backward position, moves the 3pinal column away rom th~ shoulder girdle by moving head and neck away from the shoulder fronts against the pads on the shoulder cond.itioning arms 40, and moves the pelvic girdle backward in the desired manner while pulling downward on the handgrips 50. The downward pulling movement on the handgrips assists the ind.ividual in moving the anterior supe~ior iliac spines back to the centerline, and exercises the internal obliques ~d psoas muscles. The aIlgle of the handgrips 50 with respect to the vertical causes the downward pulling move-ment by the hand to conform to a line extending through the handgrips directed toward the pelvic qirdle at the anterior superior iliac spine. This angle of force further aids the flexing of the internal oblique and psoas muscles through a full range of movement to cause the anterior superior iliac spine to assume a coI~ditioned position over the centerli.ne through the body. The handgrips bring the in-ternal oblique and p~oas muscles into conscious and then unconsciou~ or habitual use, and coordiante these muscles with the other key muscles in movement. The handgrip members are es~ential ~or developing muscles coordination and control such a~ that preva--lent in the cross-crawl movement, as will next b~ ~e~cri.bed in conjunction with Figures 11, 12 and 13.
Aiding of the transferring of the muscle control prevalent in a cross-crawl. movement to the erect bi~ed or standing poAition is obtained in conjunction with ~he pr~viou~ly ~, " ~
~LZ~3~L
described three exercises by placiny one foot transversely forward with respect to the other foot and supporting the majority of the body weiyht on the backward foot. Each exercise ~nd position is repeated with the alternate foot S in front. In the exercise described in conjunction with Figure ll, the elbow of the arm on the side of the body opposit~the forward foot serves prmarily as a re~erence for moving the back and spinal column away from the elbows, and in this manner the cross-crawl coordination and control of body movements is instilled into the conditioniny of proper posture. In the exercise described in conjunction ~ith Figure 12, the backward foot serves as a secondary reference in conjunc~ion with a primary reference from the reference bar 52 for alignming the spinal column. In the exer-cise described in conjunction wi-th Figure 13, only one handgrip at a time is gripped with the hand of the arm on the side of the bcdy oppos:ite the forward foot to most accurately simulate a cross-crawl movement. The cross-crawl movement is recognized for instillincJ a peaceful and proper coordination in con-trol of body movement. In the crawling position the spinal column is normally aligned and the head, neck and chest, abdomen and lower back are supported by the key muscle groups described hexein, especially the serratus magnus muscle.
Thus, additional conditioning of cros~-crawl coordination and control may be achieved as well as proper postureO
From the foregoing description it is apparent that the elbow oup member 35 is one form of means adapt2d or supporting the ~ent elbows of a standing or erect perSon wlth the arms extended forward and each hand ~ouching th~ elbow of the opposite arm. The shoulder positioniny member 40 .is ~16 , ~Z~3~L
on~ form of means adapted fur engaying the shoulder fronts of the pexson a pre~etermined di~tance out~ard frorn the elbv~7 cup memhers. The handgrip ~mber 50 is one form of means adapted for gripping by the hand of the person below the elbo~ ~up member with the shouldex fronts abuttin~ memhex 40 and with the upper arm extending generally downward from the shoulder and ~he lower arm extending generally forward from -~he elbow. The back re~erence bar 52 is one form of means adapted for engaging the person's-back at a posikion in the shoulder girdle be.low the elbow cup member and below the level of the person's shoulders.
The method and apparatus of the present invention ha~ been described in conjunc~ion with a preferred embodiment so as to enable an understanding of the invention. It should be understood that the in~entive subject matter of the invention is intended to be limited only insofar as the prior art requires.
Claims (4)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS
FOLLOWS:
1. Apparatus for aiding conditioning of muscles in the head, neck, shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle of an individual person to obtain an erect and aligned spinal column, comprising:
elbow cup means adapted for supporting the bent elbows of an erect person with the arms extended forward and each hand touching the elbow of the opposite hand, said elbow cup means also comprising means for operatively connecting the elbow cup means to an upright wall-like surface;
shoulder positioning means adapted for engaging the shoulder fronts of the erect person a predetermined distance outward from said elbow cup means and away from the upright surface, said shoulder positioning means also comprising means for operatively connecting the shoulder positioning means to the upright surface at a position generally above said elbow cup means; and handgrip means adapted for gripping by the hand of the erect person below the elbow cup means when said elbow cup means are not being used and with the shoulder fronts abutted against said shoulder positioning means and with the upper arm of the gripping hand extending generally downward from the shoulder, and the lower arm of the gripping hand extending generally forward from the elbow, said handgrip means also comprising means operatively connecting the handgrip means to the upright. surface at a position generally below said elbow cup means.
elbow cup means adapted for supporting the bent elbows of an erect person with the arms extended forward and each hand touching the elbow of the opposite hand, said elbow cup means also comprising means for operatively connecting the elbow cup means to an upright wall-like surface;
shoulder positioning means adapted for engaging the shoulder fronts of the erect person a predetermined distance outward from said elbow cup means and away from the upright surface, said shoulder positioning means also comprising means for operatively connecting the shoulder positioning means to the upright surface at a position generally above said elbow cup means; and handgrip means adapted for gripping by the hand of the erect person below the elbow cup means when said elbow cup means are not being used and with the shoulder fronts abutted against said shoulder positioning means and with the upper arm of the gripping hand extending generally downward from the shoulder, and the lower arm of the gripping hand extending generally forward from the elbow, said handgrip means also comprising means operatively connecting the handgrip means to the upright. surface at a position generally below said elbow cup means.
2. Apparatus as recited in Claim 1 further comprising:
back referencing means adapted for engaging the back of the erect person at a position at the shoulder girdle, said back referencing means also comprising means for operatively connecting the back referencing means to the upright surface at a position generally below said elbow cup means to provide the position of engagement at the shoulder girdle generally below the level of the shoulders of the person.
back referencing means adapted for engaging the back of the erect person at a position at the shoulder girdle, said back referencing means also comprising means for operatively connecting the back referencing means to the upright surface at a position generally below said elbow cup means to provide the position of engagement at the shoulder girdle generally below the level of the shoulders of the person.
3. Apparatus as recited in Claim 2 further comprising:
carriage means for operatively connecting said elbow cup means, said shoulder positioning means, said handgrip means and said back referencing means to the upright wall-like surface.
carriage means for operatively connecting said elbow cup means, said shoulder positioning means, said handgrip means and said back referencing means to the upright wall-like surface.
4. Apparatus as recited in Claim 3 further comprising:
slide means for supporting said carriage means at a plurality of vertical positions; and adjustment means associated with said slide means and said carriage means for retaining said carriage means at a selected vertical position along said slide means.
slide means for supporting said carriage means at a plurality of vertical positions; and adjustment means associated with said slide means and said carriage means for retaining said carriage means at a selected vertical position along said slide means.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA302,409A CA1128391A (en) | 1978-05-02 | 1978-05-02 | Method and apparatus for aiding conditioning of an erect spinal column and advantageous muscle control |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA302,409A CA1128391A (en) | 1978-05-02 | 1978-05-02 | Method and apparatus for aiding conditioning of an erect spinal column and advantageous muscle control |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1128391A true CA1128391A (en) | 1982-07-27 |
Family
ID=4111369
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA302,409A Expired CA1128391A (en) | 1978-05-02 | 1978-05-02 | Method and apparatus for aiding conditioning of an erect spinal column and advantageous muscle control |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1128391A (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN112354155A (en) * | 2020-11-26 | 2021-02-12 | 宜春学院 | Aerobics exercises physique correction trainer |
-
1978
- 1978-05-02 CA CA302,409A patent/CA1128391A/en not_active Expired
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN112354155A (en) * | 2020-11-26 | 2021-02-12 | 宜春学院 | Aerobics exercises physique correction trainer |
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