US20110252565A1 - Straight Up Back Treatment - Google Patents
Straight Up Back Treatment Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110252565A1 US20110252565A1 US12/760,762 US76076210A US2011252565A1 US 20110252565 A1 US20110252565 A1 US 20110252565A1 US 76076210 A US76076210 A US 76076210A US 2011252565 A1 US2011252565 A1 US 2011252565A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- pillow
- lumbar
- thoracic
- posture
- soft
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 210000000115 thoracic cavity Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 16
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 208000002193 Pain Diseases 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 210000000038 chest Anatomy 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000001737 promoting effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 206010048961 Localised oedema Diseases 0.000 claims 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 210000003205 muscle Anatomy 0.000 claims 1
- 230000032258 transport Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 abstract description 2
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 abstract 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 11
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 4
- 241000282461 Canis lupus Species 0.000 description 2
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000036541 health Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000002265 prevention Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910052709 silver Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000004332 silver Substances 0.000 description 2
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 208000000094 Chronic Pain Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 241000282412 Homo Species 0.000 description 1
- 208000007623 Lordosis Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000003109 clavicle Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000499 gel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009957 hemming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000004072 lung Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000004220 muscle function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003387 muscular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000008188 pellet Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003252 repetitive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000001991 scapula Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000000276 sedentary effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000001835 viscera Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000036642 wellbeing Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C20/00—Head -, foot -, or like rests for beds, sofas or the like
- A47C20/02—Head -, foot -, or like rests for beds, sofas or the like of detachable or loose type
- A47C20/027—Back supports, e.g. for sitting in bed
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/36—Support for the head or the back
- A47C7/38—Support for the head or the back for the head
- A47C7/383—Detachable or loose head- or neck-supports, e.g. horse-shoe shaped
Definitions
- the present invention embodies the field of human back support relating to lumbar, thoracic and cervical posture.
- This portable system adapts easily to a variety of environments and can be used in combination with a variety of seating apparatus or virtually any horizontal surface, as applicable.
- the rewards of good posture are endless, and include maximizing performance of internal organs, efficiency of muscle function and ability to achieve full lung capacity. Therefore, it is beneficial to provide a soft, yet portable system that gently supports all portions of the spine, promotes scapular retraction and encourages alignment and optimal posture. (See FIG. 3 )
- Softness particularly with regard to the thoracic column, is a key element of this design. Those suffering with severe pain can often be too sensitized to benefit from the rigid or semi-rigid support that is presently offered. These systems are designed to benefit normal spines from a seated position, yet do not accommodate curvatures or horizontal use. The simplicity of use, the variety of conditions and the complete portability of this system differentiate this creation from potential counterparts.
- This portable two-pillow system gently elevates the lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine, encouraging scapular retraction and promoting healthy posture, alignment and pain relief from a seated, reclined or horizontal position.
- Both the crescent-shaped neck pillow and the “straight up” design of the lumbar/thoracic pillow are constructed using only soft fill materials.
- the supple construction of the thoracic column supports the spine directly, while reinforcing the natural curvatures for proper alignment.
- This invention distinguishes itself from other scapular retraction devices as follows:
- the “Straight Up” lumbar/thoracic pillow collapses by gathering the three legs together and pressing the central portion to the base of the travel bag, while the crescent neck pillow conveniently folds into the top section, which secures with a drawstring closure.
- Mobility adds an entirely new dimension to back care.
- the factor of convenience lends itself greatly toward prevention, as well as allowing for expanded activity among chronic pain sufferers.
- virtually any horizontal surface, from the ground to floors and mattresses, can accommodate use of this design.
- This invention is adaptable to a variety of applications from home to car, and work to play. While maximum posture will be achieved horizontally using the two-pillow combination, this system can also be utilized from a seated or reclining position. Although designed for use in combination, either pillow can be used independently, with adjustment for personal comfort. Ease of use and compact storage enable a smooth transition between environments.
- Existing back support systems utilize a dense or rigid foam. Using a soft fill material allows for gentle self-alignment of the body, regardless of existing curvatures.
- the “Straight Up” design adapts to a variety of fillings and exterior coverings (i.e., air, water, gel, bead, pellet, foam, fiber, fabric and any other organic and/or inorganic fabric or material).
- FIG. 1 Back Treatment System
- FIG. 2 Posture Diagram
- FIG. 3 Pillow Placement & Instructions
- FIG. 4 Body Pillow Design
- FIG. 5 Neck Pillow Design
- FIG. 6 Body Pillow Covering
- FIG. 7 Neck Pillow Covering
- FIG. 8 Carrying Case
- FIG. 9 Additional Embodiments
- This design represents potential embodiments of the back treatment system using a variety of soft fills and coverings.
- FIG. 4 Body Pillow Design.
- FIG. 6 Body Pillow Covering
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Nursing (AREA)
- Bedding Items (AREA)
Abstract
This invention provides a portable two-pillow system that gently elevates the lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine to promote posture, alignment and pain relief from either a seated, reclined or horizontal position. Both the crescent-shaped neck pillow and the “straight up” design of the lumbar/thoracic pillow are constructed using soft fill materials, including but not limited to polyester fiber. Removable/washable covers and a convenient travel bag are also included within the content of this patent.
Description
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,876,755 (Parrish)—Total Back Support
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,413,250 (Connolly, Blair)—Back Support
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,230,349 (Silver, Wolf)—Travel Pillow
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,887,326 (O'Brien, Leishman, O'Brien)—Suboccipital Pillow
- 1. Field
- The present invention embodies the field of human back support relating to lumbar, thoracic and cervical posture. This portable system adapts easily to a variety of environments and can be used in combination with a variety of seating apparatus or virtually any horizontal surface, as applicable.
- 2. Background
- Back health has been an issue since humans first stood upright, and with contemporary lifestyles becoming more sedentary and repetitive, we are more prone to injury than ever before.
- Many of our daily activities require a forward arm position, which strains the highly kinetic structure of our human skeletal system. With the spine at our core, and intrinsically connected, proper back care is essential to our health and well-being. Lifting, reaching, sitting and even lying down all cause an extension (or protraction) of the scapula, the shoulders, the clavicle and the muscular structure, drawing forward the ribcage and collapsing the chest.
- The consequence to the spine involves every aspect. An exaggerated curving of the neck results in cervical lordosis, while the thoracic and lumbar portions are thrust into a hyper-kyphotic (exaggerated thoracic curve) and a hypo-lordotic (reduced lumbar curve), all of which stand in direct contradiction with optimum posture. (See
FIG. 2 ) - The rewards of good posture are endless, and include maximizing performance of internal organs, efficiency of muscle function and ability to achieve full lung capacity. Therefore, it is beneficial to provide a soft, yet portable system that gently supports all portions of the spine, promotes scapular retraction and encourages alignment and optimal posture. (See
FIG. 3 ) - Softness, particularly with regard to the thoracic column, is a key element of this design. Those suffering with severe pain can often be too sensitized to benefit from the rigid or semi-rigid support that is presently offered. These systems are designed to benefit normal spines from a seated position, yet do not accommodate curvatures or horizontal use. The simplicity of use, the variety of conditions and the complete portability of this system differentiate this creation from potential counterparts.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,876,755 (Parrish)—Total Back Support
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,413,250 (Connolly, Blair)—Back Support
- Another distinguishing element involves the tapered crescent shape of the cervical pillow. Other designs specify a relatively uniform thickness throughout, and/or provide access for adjusting the level of fill. In contrast, this split circle configuration holds the pillow in place, while the tapered ends allow the user to fold, shape and rotate the pillow to achieve the desired effect.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,230,349 (Silver, Wolf)—Travel Pillow
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,887,326 (O'Brien, Leishman, O'Brien)—Suboccipital Pillow
- This portable two-pillow system gently elevates the lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine, encouraging scapular retraction and promoting healthy posture, alignment and pain relief from a seated, reclined or horizontal position.
- Both the crescent-shaped neck pillow and the “straight up” design of the lumbar/thoracic pillow are constructed using only soft fill materials. The supple construction of the thoracic column supports the spine directly, while reinforcing the natural curvatures for proper alignment.
- This invention distinguishes itself from other scapular retraction devices as follows:
-
- 1) Portability (folds into a travel bag)
- 2) Versatility (seated, reclined or horizontal)
- 3) Density of Fill Material (soft versus rigid or semi-rigid construction)
- 4) Design Simplicity (no straps or attachments)
- The “Straight Up” lumbar/thoracic pillow collapses by gathering the three legs together and pressing the central portion to the base of the travel bag, while the crescent neck pillow conveniently folds into the top section, which secures with a drawstring closure. Mobility adds an entirely new dimension to back care. The factor of convenience lends itself greatly toward prevention, as well as allowing for expanded activity among chronic pain sufferers. In addition to seated and reclined, virtually any horizontal surface, from the ground to floors and mattresses, can accommodate use of this design.
- This invention is adaptable to a variety of applications from home to car, and work to play. While maximum posture will be achieved horizontally using the two-pillow combination, this system can also be utilized from a seated or reclining position. Although designed for use in combination, either pillow can be used independently, with adjustment for personal comfort. Ease of use and compact storage enable a smooth transition between environments.
- Existing back support systems utilize a dense or rigid foam. Using a soft fill material allows for gentle self-alignment of the body, regardless of existing curvatures. The “Straight Up” design adapts to a variety of fillings and exterior coverings (i.e., air, water, gel, bead, pellet, foam, fiber, fabric and any other organic and/or inorganic fabric or material).
- The absence of straps and/or harnesses eliminates the need for installation or any associated challenges. A soft-bodied construction replaces typically bulky or rigid apparatus for light-weight transport and convenient storage. Bridging the gap between prevention and recovery, this invention establishes a baseline for healthy back care.
-
FIG. 1 : Back Treatment System - Represents the complete two-pillow embodiment, with side views and carrying bag.
-
FIG. 2 : Posture Diagram - Depicts the effects of posture over time.
-
FIG. 3 : Pillow Placement & Instructions - Reflects proper pillow positioning and instructions for use.
-
FIG. 4 : Body Pillow Design - Illustrates the specifications for constructing the body pillow.
-
FIG. 5 : Neck Pillow Design - Demonstrates the specifications for creating the crescent cervical pillow.
-
FIG. 6 : Body Pillow Covering - Features the technical specifications for assembling the separate body pillow covering.
-
FIG. 7 : Neck Pillow Covering - Displays the specific details for generating the crescent pillow covering.
-
FIG. 8 : Carrying Case - Indicates construction for assembly of the convenient travel bag.
-
FIG. 9 : Additional Embodiments - This design represents potential embodiments of the back treatment system using a variety of soft fills and coverings.
- A. Begin with
FIG. 4 , Body Pillow Design. -
- 1) Maintaining natural fold, cut fabric to shape “A.”
- 2) Snipping through both layers, make (4) identical cuts, as indicated.
- 3) Holding layers together, fold
edges edges - 4) Repeat with
edges 7 through 12. - 5) Roll ends for hemming and pin in place.
- 6) Stitch edges.
- 7) Reverse cover to right side.
- 8)
Stitch end # 4. - 9) Stuff lumbar and lower thoracic with soft fill material.
- 10)
Stitch end # 3. - 11) Stuff upper thoracic.
- 12) Stitch together ends #1 and #2.
-
-
- 1) Cut shapes B1 and B2 simultaneously.
- 2) Leaving the Fill Tab open, stitch together B1 and B2.
- 3) Stuff with soft fill material.
- 4) Stitch Fill Tab.
-
-
- 1) Folded in half, cut fabric to shape “C.”
- 2) Snipping through both layers, make (4) identical cuts, as indicated.
- 3) Open fabric and cut shape “C” into “CF” and “CB,” as indicated.
- 4) Hem CF long edge 1 (fold twice).
- 5) Hem CB long edge 2 (fold once), then fold again and pin to hide hemline.
- 6) Position CB right side up.
- 7) Cover CB with CF, right side down, taking care to match the edges.
- 8) Fold CF long edge to match CB long edge and pin.
- 9) Holding layers together, fold
edges edges - 10) Repeat with
edges edges - 11) Stitch edges 1 through 6.
- 12) Stitch ends 2 to 5 and 3 to 6.
- 13) Stitch together outer thirds of
long edges - 14) Reverse fabric.
-
-
- 1) Hem both ends of fabric.
- 2) Fold as indicated.
- 3) Cut (3) layers of fabric into shape “D.”
- 4) Stitch as indicated.
- 5) Reverse fabric.
-
-
- 1) Fold shape “E” in half and press.
- 2) Holding layers together, fold outer edges forward, press and pin.
- 3) Fold down remaining open edge, providing ample fabric to accommodate drawstring.
- 4) Stitch as indicated.
- 5) Insert drawstring.
- 6) Fold lengthwise.
- 7) Stitch together outer edges, allowing a gap for the drawstring.
- 8) Stitch bottom seam and reverse.
-
-
- 1) Select appropriate fabric or material to accommodate air, water, gel or other soft fill material, organic or inorganic.
- 2) Install fill valve.
- 3) Seal edges.
Claims (3)
1) A soft pillow structure consisting of two separate pillows that reinforce each of the spine's natural curvatures (cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral): the body pillow combines a lumbar cushion with a thoracic column in one contiguous form and the cervical pillow is designed to fold and form into a variety of shapes to accommodate individual preference.
2) A method for promoting posture, alignment and pain relief in a person from a seated, reclined or horizontal position: by positioning the top of the lumbar cushion of the body pillow at or below the person's lumbar curvature to support the lumbar/sacral portion of the spine, aligning the soft thoracic column with the upper spine to allow scapular retraction, and then combining the neck pillow to provide gentle traction and encourage both posture and alignment; by isolating the major muscle groups, the body pillow restricts the progression of pain as the body relaxes around the unique pillow structure; by utilizing a soft fill material, the thoracic column can absorb individual variances in spinal construction by gently accommodating curvatures without restriction to the vertebrae, providing the benefit of scapular retraction and of releasing the ribcage to promote optimum posture and natural alignment.
3) A portable multi-pillow back system that transports easily using a convenient travel bag and adapts to a variety of environments and surfaces, including home, travel, work and recreation.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/760,762 US20110252565A1 (en) | 2010-04-15 | 2010-04-15 | Straight Up Back Treatment |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/760,762 US20110252565A1 (en) | 2010-04-15 | 2010-04-15 | Straight Up Back Treatment |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20110252565A1 true US20110252565A1 (en) | 2011-10-20 |
Family
ID=44786964
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/760,762 Abandoned US20110252565A1 (en) | 2010-04-15 | 2010-04-15 | Straight Up Back Treatment |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20110252565A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20140345057A1 (en) * | 2011-12-09 | 2014-11-27 | Gemma Jensen | Cushions |
Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US941043A (en) * | 1909-05-04 | 1909-11-23 | Alma Webster Powell | Head and back rest. |
US1549601A (en) * | 1924-03-03 | 1925-08-11 | Mulgrew John Elliott | Body-relaxing device |
US3359577A (en) * | 1966-05-19 | 1967-12-26 | Lee C Rogers | Back support |
US4794657A (en) * | 1987-06-25 | 1989-01-03 | Avery Linda S | Tummy hugger pillow combination |
US4876755A (en) * | 1988-08-25 | 1989-10-31 | Deborah Parrish | Total back support system |
US5180386A (en) * | 1991-05-03 | 1993-01-19 | Gravitech, Inc. | Method and device for maintaining or restoring normal lumbar curvature |
US5279310A (en) * | 1993-01-26 | 1994-01-18 | Ching Chi Hsien | Spinal column correction device |
US6279185B1 (en) * | 2000-09-14 | 2001-08-28 | Susan H. Matthews | Resilient support pillow and methods |
US20080066233A1 (en) * | 2006-09-15 | 2008-03-20 | Ki, Inc. | T-shaped therapeutic cushion or pillow |
US7634829B1 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2009-12-22 | La Bar Deborah L | Head and chest support kit |
-
2010
- 2010-04-15 US US12/760,762 patent/US20110252565A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US941043A (en) * | 1909-05-04 | 1909-11-23 | Alma Webster Powell | Head and back rest. |
US1549601A (en) * | 1924-03-03 | 1925-08-11 | Mulgrew John Elliott | Body-relaxing device |
US3359577A (en) * | 1966-05-19 | 1967-12-26 | Lee C Rogers | Back support |
US4794657A (en) * | 1987-06-25 | 1989-01-03 | Avery Linda S | Tummy hugger pillow combination |
US4876755A (en) * | 1988-08-25 | 1989-10-31 | Deborah Parrish | Total back support system |
US5180386A (en) * | 1991-05-03 | 1993-01-19 | Gravitech, Inc. | Method and device for maintaining or restoring normal lumbar curvature |
US5279310A (en) * | 1993-01-26 | 1994-01-18 | Ching Chi Hsien | Spinal column correction device |
US6279185B1 (en) * | 2000-09-14 | 2001-08-28 | Susan H. Matthews | Resilient support pillow and methods |
US20080066233A1 (en) * | 2006-09-15 | 2008-03-20 | Ki, Inc. | T-shaped therapeutic cushion or pillow |
US7634829B1 (en) * | 2008-01-29 | 2009-12-22 | La Bar Deborah L | Head and chest support kit |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20140345057A1 (en) * | 2011-12-09 | 2014-11-27 | Gemma Jensen | Cushions |
US9808100B2 (en) * | 2011-12-09 | 2017-11-07 | Gemma Jensen | Cushions |
US20190239667A1 (en) * | 2011-12-09 | 2019-08-08 | Gemma Jensen | Cushions |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US10085575B2 (en) | Folding two section pillow comprised of horseshoe and contour pillows | |
US6052848A (en) | Body support pillow | |
US8707485B1 (en) | Therapeutic support pillow | |
US7578014B1 (en) | Pillow apparatus and method | |
US8850645B1 (en) | Therapeutic seat cushion | |
US20110056503A1 (en) | Ergonomic support apparatus and method for assisting sleep | |
US6052847A (en) | Mattress with a concavity for the breasts | |
US11375821B1 (en) | Convertible meditation cushion | |
JP2020525257A (en) | Headrest cushion assembly for neck pain | |
US11503930B2 (en) | Multi-use ergonomic pillow | |
JP6787558B1 (en) | Pillow with mat | |
US10264898B2 (en) | Foldable pillow | |
US20050050641A1 (en) | Body red | |
US20120084923A1 (en) | Neck and head support pillow | |
US20110252565A1 (en) | Straight Up Back Treatment | |
JP2004351217A (en) | Cushion implement for lying/sleeping on stomach, resting or treatment | |
US20210186225A1 (en) | Hybrid pad | |
CN207236571U (en) | A kind of pillow and the pillow for including it | |
CN206979267U (en) | A kind of cervical vertebra protecting pillow | |
CN206390656U (en) | A kind of inflatable matrix water bed mattress | |
US11547212B1 (en) | Orthopedic lounge chair | |
KR200476071Y1 (en) | Folding type mattress | |
KR102162327B1 (en) | Multi-function air cushion with air injection | |
KR20190135389A (en) | Pillow for armpit | |
CN210749935U (en) | Multipurpose folding semi-reclining rehabilitation nursing pad capable of adjusting skin feel |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |