WO1988010107A1

WO1988010107A1 - Lumbar traction system

Info

Publication number: WO1988010107A1
Application number: PCT/US1987/001471
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joseph A. Kott
Original assignee: Kott Joseph A
Priority date: 1987-06-22
Filing date: 1987-06-22
Publication date: 1988-12-29

Abstract

A lumbar traction system particularly suitable for home use, which includes a stand formed by a stable frame having either ''A'' (Figs. 1-4), ''L'' (Figs. 5-10B) or ''X'' (Figs. 11-13) shaped, laterally spaced leg members (10, 110, 220), with the stand being located near but spaced from the foot of the patient's bed (60, 260), with rope(s) (3, 103, 231), extending from a traction belt or sling worn by the patient over to the top part of the stand. Centrally located traction weights (4, 104, 230), are suspended on the rope(s) from the stand between the laterally spaced leg members, with rearwardly placed, supplemental stabilizing weights (6, 106, 240/340) (e.g. water bags) being added at the rear of the stand suspended therefrom (Figs. 11 and 12) or located on a counter balancing platform (Figs. 1, 5 and 13).

Description

LUMBAR TRACTION SYSTEM BACKGROUND of INVENTION

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates to a lumbar traction

5v system and more particularly to such a traction system f suitable for home, i.e. non-hospital, use. The present invention further relates to such a system which utilizes a traction weighing system in which the lines to the weights are suspended over a stand positioned near, but not needing

10 any support from, the foot of the patient's bed.

2. Background Art

Neurosurgeons see many patients with cervical and lumbo-sacral pain. A standard initial treatment for these problems is traction.

15 For the cervical spine there are several commercially available devices which allow this treatment to be undertaken at home. These employ straps placed beneath the chin and occiput (back of head) with a pulley attached to- a door. Plastic containers filled with water or sand attached. to a

20 rope provide the traction.

For the patients with lumbo-sacral pain a waist band is fitted around the hips, and ropes are attached to this waist band. Using pulleys, traction is applied by attaching the ropes to metal discs or plastic containers containing

25^' water or sand. Recently electrical devices have also been employed. For the most part this requires hospitalization or daily trips to the physical therapist.

Although there are several devices currently available for home lumbar traction, these are unsatisfactory and rarely

30 ordered by physicians.

One of these commercially available home devices fits onto the edge of a mattress. Obviously, beds without an exposed mattress edge are unsuitable for this type of device. These devices are far from ideal and leave much to be

35. desired. The weight necessary to attain traction causes the device to tilt and pull away from the mattress.

Another type employs a free standing pole attached to a heavy metal base. This apparatus is bulky and awkward to store. Manipulating the heavy metal stand can be difficult for the patient. These also have a tendency to tilt.

Recently various devices that hang the patient by his feet, torso, pelvis, or arm pits have become commercially 53 available. One of these devices requires the user to lay on the floor with a strap between the legs attempting to use the patient's own weight to provide traction. These all require a rather large area for usage. They are relatively expensive and immobile devices. There also may be some medically

10- deleterious effects with some, particularly those hanging the patient by the feet.

The apparatus currently used in hospitals can be obtained for home use. This generally is rented. A hospital bed is necessary to satisf ctorily accommodate this

15 equipment. It cannot be directly attached to most patients' beds. These attachments also can be quite cumbersome and expensive.

Suffice it to say that, prior to this invention, there has been no home lumbar traction device currently available

20) in the marketplace that meets both the needs and expectations of the physician and the patient. A partial list of these needs are as follows:

1) Portability;

2) Universal ity (usable with any type and height 25. bed, without damage to the bed) ;

3 ) Stability ( eliminati o n of t ipping ove r and tilting) ;

4) Simplicity of structure and assembly;

5 ) - Mi nimal s pac e r eq ui red ( bot h f o r us e and 3_00 storage) ; and

6 ) Affordability. With respect to the patent l iter atur e a number of traction devices have been suggested , particularly in the 35 time period of 1955-1970 .

These, pr ior dev ices appear to fall into two basic classes - a first one in which the pulley (s ) for the traction weight (s ) is/are located either directly or indirectly on the patient's bed frame; note particularly the U.S. patents to

Morton (3,522,802 issued August 4, 1970) and to Singleton

(4,492,224 issued January 8, 1985). A second approach is that using a separate, free„-standing stand located adjacent to the patient's bed; note particularly the U.S. patents to Miller (2,796,061 issued June 18, 1957) and to Peters

(3,503,390 issued March 31, 1970). The U.S. patent to

Alexander (3,398,742 issued August 27, 1968) discloses somewhat of a hybrid device in that it utilizes a stand, but one which has to be located flush up against the bed frame, receiving part of its stability from that interface.

The present invention need not be attached to the bed nor does any part of it need to be placed under the bed or mattress. The device patented by Alexander has a bar that ^" fits beneath the foot of the bed. Such a device could not be used with the large number of beds that sit flat on the floor. This is also true of the device patented by Miller.

(Note Fig. 1 of U.S. Patent 2,796,061.) Based on the drawings of the prior patents and what is known,,about lumbar traction devices, all of the prior art devices are subject to tilting and/or sliding if an attempt is made to use them as a lumbar traction device. Indeed none are disclosed for specific use as a lumbar traction device.

The most pertinent patents appear to be the patents to Miller and Peters, both of which are directed to prior attempts at "home'' type traction systems. The Miller device uses a squared-off frame base located on the floor with a portion of it extending under the patient's bed and having a rearwardly offset pulley section for the traction weight; while the Peters device utilizes a tripod support frame, the apex of which is located above the tensioning line, with the pulleys for the weights being centrally located. Neither use supplemental stabilizing weights for the stand.

There are substantial structural and methodology differences between the stand of the invention and the stands of Miller and Peters, with for example the preferred embodiments of the present invention using preferably pivoting "A," "L" or "X^π configuration stands or the like with the traction weights being centrally placed and with the addition of rearwardly placed, supplemental, stabilizing weights.

It is noted that the Miller device is not a lumbar

5^" traction device _r but rather an extremity traction device, and

• could not operate as one due to its inherent instability and tendency to tip over under the greater forces that occur in a lumbar traction device. The Miller device was designed and used for extremity traction, that is, arms and legs. 0 Patients with broken bones of the arms and legs are frequently placed in such devices.

The device patented by Peters, at the weight levels providing the customary angle of traction, tilting would occur as well. In column 4 (Claim 1) of the Peters patent, 5 this limitation is indirectly addressed. If the rope is not horizontal and very near the mattress, the device will tilt towards the bed even under relatively small traction loads, such as for example thirty pounds, as arise in extremity traction. It may tilt even when horizontal, when traction 0^' loads of for example thirty-five to forty-five pounds are applied as arise in lumbar traction. If the Peters device works at all, it would be limited to beds in which the rope could be kept horizontal and close to the bed and used at relatively low load levels. If a patient's bed had a foot 5^ board or frame rising above the level of the mattress, the rope could not be kept horizontal, and tilting would occur.

In addition to universality, the "A," "L" or "X" configuration frames of the present invention, allow the utilization of stabilizing-counter balancing weight(s). By -Q-- using the "A," ^πL" or ^πX" support frame configurations or the like with the counter balancing weight sub-system, stability can be achieved with any bed style or angle of traction. The concept of using separate, independent, counter balancing weights, much less any practical means embodying the idea, is -55 not even remotely present in any of the prior patented devices, only traction weights being present in them.

None of the prior art devices employs a structure like any. of the configurations of the "A," ^πL^w or "X" frame embodiments of the invention. Likewise, important are the adjustable or multiple support tracks of the "L" frame embodiment of the present invention, which allow height adjustment to a given bed height. Also, the support bar is placed to serve the function of bearing the traction weight, without interfering with the counter balancing weight applied to the counter balance platform of the present embodiments' frame configurations.

The "A," "L" or "X" frame configurations and counter- balancing, stabilization weight sub-systems of the present invention are unique individually as applied to lumbar traction and are additionally unique in combination.

The present invention is medically and commercially superior to that of the prior patents. 3. Disclosure of the Invention

The present invention is thus directed to a lumbar traction system particularly suitable for home, i.e. non-hospital, use (although of course it can be used anywhere desired, including the hospital), which includes_^preferably a support bar integrally attached atop a pair of spaced, pivoting "A," "L" or "X" type configuration leg/stand arrangements or the like, with the stand being located near but preferably spaced from the foot of the patient's bed, with one or more ropes or lines extending from a traction sling worn by the patient near or to the top of the stand. At least one and preferably two centrally located, laterally spaced traction weights are suspended on the rope(s) within the stand preferrable centrally spaced between the legs, with rearwardly placed supplemental stabilizing weight(s) [e.g. a water bucket or water bag(s)] being added upon a counter¬ weight stabilizing platform or suspended rearwardly from the stand rearwardly of the traction weight(s). Such an arrangement is highly stable and self-sustaining, notwithstanding the substantial resistive force of the patient under traction, and the substantial weight of the traction weight(s). In the best mode "L" frame embodiment, the invention utilizes an "L" configuration stand with a base hingedly attached to two upright support "arms." The traction ropes or lines pass from the patient's bed through built-in pulleys at the top of the arms, and are then attached to traction weights which are suspended behind the support arms, thereby providing the desired weighing or 5 traction effects.

The top of the arms are connected via a bar much like the support bar configurations in the "A" or "X" embodiments, but the bar is used for increasing the stability in the " " embodiment, rather than directly carrying the tension lines 0- and weights. The arms and base of the ^πL^π configuration may be adjusted in terms of height with the use of for example "support tracks" or braces attached from each arm to its corresponding base; the exemplary tracks employ a series of spaced indentations or notches designed to allow the selected 5 notch to act as a point of support for the arms. The result is that the stand may be adjusted to the number of angles (thereby translated as different tension line heights), as there are notches on the support track for varying the effective height and load traction angle of the device. Such 0 height adjustment is desirable in order to vary the height of the support lines in consideration of the height of the patient's particular bed; although the "L" embodiment without any height adjustment can accommodate a wide range of bed heights, indeed most heights which are likely to be 5 encountered based on statistical studies.

The stand and its associated rigging and weights are quite adaptable to many different and varying lumbar traction circumstances, and can be readily and easily altered for various heights, if desired, and traction forces. tt Also, the present invention is not only more flexible and adaptable and reliable than the prior art suggestions, but the system also is very inexpensive, manufacturable without great investments in plant and equipment, and functions more effectively for the purpose intended than the 5 prior art.

Likewise, the use of the pivoting "A," "L" or "X" configuration frames, including, if desired, a hingedly affixed counter weight support platform, makes the system collapsible for compact storage.

Also, although the system is particularly suitable for home use, it could of course also be used in a hospital setting.

Additionally, supplemental extended members in the form of for example cleats are preferably provided on the upwardly extending arms for holding the tension lines when in storage and for initially supporting the weight(s) during for example set up of the system before subsequent application of traction tension. This greatly enhances the utility and ease of use of the system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION of the DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature and objects of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the

5 accompanying drawings, in which like parts are given like reference numerals and wherein:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of the first "A" frame exemplary embodiment of the traction system of the present invention, showing it in use on a patient (drawn in phantom E line) lying in bed.

Figure 2 is a side view of the first exemplary embodiment of the "A" type support frame of the present invention having a counter-balancing stabilizing sub-system platform which comprises a tray or platform hinged to the 5 legs of the frame, shown in a semi-opened state (note curved direction line in left of figure) . The legs are shown having telescoping means for adjustment (note up-and-down direction arrows) utilizing locking pins selectively placed in spaced holes. tt Figure 3 is a side view of the first exemplary embodiment of the "A" type support frame of the present invention, showing the embodiment in its fully closed and folded position for storage and transport purposes.

Figure 4 is a side view of the "A" frame overall 5 system showing the counter-balancing sub-system employing the use of contained water as its means of counter weighing.

Figure 5 is a top perspective view of an alternative, second embodiment of the present invention, utilizing an "L" type support frame illustrating the overall, preferred, 0 exemplary embodiment of the traction system of the present invention, showing it in use on a patient lying in bed. The figure also exemplifies the variance in width of the average patients waists B and its relation to the vector A line ratio from the support waistband 150 to the pulleys 101. 5 Figure 6A and 6B are side, simplified views of the overall system of Figure 5, illustrating the relation of the patient's bed height and the resulting, acceptable tension line 103 angulation with the corresponding upward pressure exerted upon the patient's lumbar region. Said drawings in effect further illustrate the varying heights of patients beds and the corresponding need for height adjustment of the lumbar traction stand. 55 Figure 7 is a rear view of the exemplary embodiment of the "L" support frame of Figure 6.

Figure 8 is a side view of the exemplary embodiment of the "L" type support frame of Figure 6, showing the embodiment in its fully closed and folded position for 10.. storage and transport.

Figure 9 is an enlarged, partial, close-up, side view of the "L" frame exemplary embodiment of Figure 5, but modified to allow varying height adjustment of the device, a detailing the adjustable support track joined from the 15 support arms to the base of the stand, allowing folding of the stand or angled adjustment of same.

Figure 10A is an enlarged, partial, close-up, side view of the "L" frame exemplary embodiment of Figure 5, but modified to include a cleat on the inner side of each arm, O* detailing the use of the cleat for line storage and the line path passing through an opening in the upper tubular frame section across the pulley.

Figure 10B is an enlarged, partial, close-up, side view of the "L" frame exemplary embodiment of Figure 5, but 5 modified as in Figure 10A, detailing an alternative use of the cleat, wherein the water bag may be initially supported to relieve the line tension to the patient during initial set up or for other purposes.

Figure 11 is a top perspective view of a third, "X" -Q' type exemplary embodiment of the lumbar traction system of the present invention, showing it in use on a. patient (drawn in phantom line) lying in bed.

Figure 12 is a top perspective, simplified view of the

"X" frame element of Figure 11, but with the "H" frame 5^' element removed for simplicity purposes and showing the use of suspended water bags for the counter-balancing weights in place of the "bucket" weight. Figure 13 is a top perspective, simplified view of the ^πX" frame element of Figure 11, similar in content to that of Figure 12, but with the counter-balancing weights being placed on a platform or tray hingedly connected to the rear legs of the "X" frame element.

BEST MODES For Carrying Out The INVENTION

- "A" Frame Embodiment (Figs. 1-4) - As may best be seen in Figures 1 & 4, the initial, exemplary, preferred embodiment of the overall system of the present invention includes upper or top support members 9 and lower, telescoping support members in the form of vertically adjustable, telescoping legs 7, together forming two, inverted "U"-shaped tubular frame members 10. Additionally two weighing sub-systems are used, traction applying weight (s) 4 and counter-balancing or stabilizing weight (s) 6 placed on a hinged platform or tray 5.

The basic support structures or frame 10, forming in side view an "A" configuration as pictured in the figures, may be made for example of metal or other suitable material and, generally speaking, is coincidentally similar in structure to the stand used for a child's swing set and other such recreational yard toys. However, its use in a lumbar traction apparatus, as in the present invention, is unique. For convenience, it will be referred to as_^an "A" type support frame. (The legs 7/9 with their crossbar latch 11 form the letter "A" when erected in their operative disposition and viewed from the side, as in Figure 4) .

The "A" frame component stand of the traction device is light and can be folded easily for storage. As noted supra, the "A" support frame includes legs 7 and pivotally interconnected, latchable crossbars 11. The inverted "U"- shaped tubular frame members are connected together at their tops by an encircling loop or tube 2, which allow them to be pivoted with respect to one another. Anti-slip rubber caps 15 (note Figure 2) are placed over the bottom tips of the two

"front" legs. These rubber caps 15 help prevent the "A" support frame 7-10 from sliding on smooth floors.

The "A" support frame 10 in the preferred embodiment can be for example forty-three inches high (folded) and twenty-two inches wide. Naturally, this height and width could be varied to attain an even greater range of utility, if so desired. The apparatus that is used to selectively determine the height of the stand, namely the telescoping legs 7, incorporates spaced holes in to selected ones of which support pins or rods 8 are slidingly engaged for height 5^" adjustment. The leg elements 7 and 9 support the encircling crossbar tube 2, which in turn supports the pulleys 1 for the lines 3 for the traction weights 4.

The two laterally spaced, centrally located pulleys 1 are fixedly attached to the support bar 2 by either welding 0 or; cXamping. The pulleys 1 in the figures of the preferred embodiment: a e relatively inexpensive.

The two, locking crossbar latches 11 of the "A" support frame 9 allow the stand to be hingedly closed up for storage, or fully opened for use by utilizing hinge 5 member (s), which are attached to frame tube members 9 via spot welds or rivets. Each locking crossbar latch 11 comprises two metal pieces pivotally attached to allow the crossbar elements to collapse at their center and come together (note Figure 2) when the stand is closed (Figure 3) , 0" and return to the supporting, rigid straight position when fully opened (Figure 4) . When the weight of the traction containers is applied, a vertically directed, downward vector gives enhanced supporting strength to the entire unit.

One of the major problems encountered with currently 5^" available home lumbar traction devices is instability. Prior to the present invention, currently available home lumbar traction devices could tilt and fall over in various directions, perhaps even falling into bed with the user. A key and innovative feature of the present invention is the TJ3 use of counter-weight(s) 6 on the "A" support frame device, utilizing the hinged, counter balance weight platform or tray 5.

This is accomplished in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 & 4 by placing one or more container(s) of water 6 53 on counter balance platform 5, which is hingedly attached to the base of the rear ones of the legs 7. The counter balancing weights in a commercial product could, for example, utilize sealable water containers, such as for example water bags. These could be similar to those available and seen used in the preferred embodiment for the traction weights 4 to provide the traction force to the sling or patient belt 50. Thus, the counter balance tray 5 attached via hinges

12 to the base of the back ones of the legs 7 (Figure 4) acts as a platform for the counter balance weights 6. This concept and part of this device should not be confused with the water containers 4 hanging from the support frame 2, which supply the weight for the traction force, the two weighing sub-systems 6 and 4 serving two totally different functions.

The integral tray or counter balance platform 5 is hinged to the back legs 7 of the support frame. When opened (as in Figure 4) , it sits down horizontally on the floor, and containers of water 6 are placed on it, providing the counter-balancing needed. When closed for storage, the tray 5 is folded flat up against the legs 7 as in Figure 3, thereby not adding any bulk to the unit when in jstorage. Water has been used in the preferred embodiments as the means for applying both the counter balance to the "A" support frame and the traction weight to the belt or sling 50. However, sand, metal discs or other weighty materials could also be used. These materials however would have to be purchased and carried home, while water is available in the home, and is inexpensive and easily disposed of for storage of the device, and hence is currently preferred.

In use the "A" support frame 10 is placed at the foot of the user's bed. It can abut the bed if desired or stand completely free, and there is no necessity that the stand receive any support from the patient's bed or extend under the patient's bed, as has been necessary in the prior art. This is achieved by utilizing the counter-balancing, anchoring weight(s) 6. The water container(s) 6 in Figure 4 contain for example approximately eighteen (18 lbs.) pounds of water.

Ropes or lines 3 are threaded through the eyes or races of both pulleys 1. These ropes are then attached to the traction weights 4. The figures show this weight being provided by two commercially available containers or bags 4. These containers 4 are marked, so that filling to a certain marked level provides a given number of pounds of weight or traction force.

The containers 4 contain for example approximately thirteen pounds of water each. Most neurosurgeons use between eight and fifteen pounds on each side, depending on the user's size. Naturally, the greater the counter- balancing anchoring weight(s) 6, the greater the stability. The counter-balancing weight(s) needed rise in proportion to the traction weight to be applied.

The user or patient puts on for example a commercially available pelvic waist band or sling 50. These are manufactured by several firms and are available at medical and orthopedic supply stores. The band 50 can be in the form of for example a belt-like device.

The user or patient lays in bed, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 4, in alignment with the tractio.n unit. The ropes or lines 3, which had been placed on the bed 60, are now attached to the pelvic waist band 50. In doing this, the traction weights 4 are elevated from the floor, and lumbar traction is applied to the patient. The ropes or lines 3 are tied to metal rings on the pelvic waist band 50, or alternatively, this could be accomplished with a clasp or series of clasps on the end portions of the rope 3.

Pillows or a wedge shaped foam cushion (not illustrated) can be placed beneath the knees to achieve maximum comfort and benefit, if desired. In conclusion, although particularly suited for home use, the above-described embodiment of course could also be used to administer lumbar traction in a hospital or physical therapy unit setting, when appropriate.

When the traction system is no longer needed, the "A" frame members 10 are collapsible into a substantially flat disposition as shown in Figure 3. The water is emptied out of for example the bags 4, 6, and everything, including the lines 3 and the belt 50, conveniently stored together in, for example, a compact box.

- "L" Frame Embodiment (Figs. 5-10B) - As generally discussed in the above general summary 5 discussion of the invention, an alternative embodiment of the present invention includes an "L" configuration stand. As may be seen in Figures 5, 6A and 6B, the "L" stand comprises a base 107, which is hingedly affixed to support arms 109 joined at their top by a horizontally disposed, stabilizing 0 crossbar 102. The base 107 incorporates into it the counter weight stabilizing platform taught in the "A"- frame embodiment supra. Thus, counter balancing weight(s) 106 are placed upon the fixed platform portion 105 of the base 107, in order to stabilize and strengthen the overall traction system.

The support arms 109 and base 107 may be angularly adjusted via "support tracks" or braces 111 attached from, for example six inches from the base of the support arm to the base, for example, six inches from the intersection of the base and arm. The angle D between the upwardly extending arms and the horizontally disposed base of the "L" configuration may be adjusted in terms of angulation, if the tracks 111 employ one or more intermediate indentations or notches (note Figure 9) designed to allow said intermediate notch to act as an alternate, lower point of support for the arms.

This may best be seen in the close-up view of Figure 9. The "support track" or brace 111 is attached to the base via a rivet or nut, bolt, and washer arrangement 114. The support track 111 incorporates an elongated, open track or slot having upper indentations^" or spaced notches 116A and 116B for adjusting and setting the angulation to a fully opened (116B) or semi-opened (116A) angulation, varying the effective vertical height of the pulleys 101. The result is _ that the stand may be adjusted to the number of different angles (thereby translated as having the ability to vary the tension line height) , as there are notches 116B+ on the support track; said variance of the effective height and thus variance of load traction angle is desirable for proper height adjustment of the stand. This adjustment is necessary as the lines should be as horizontal as possible from the waist band 150 to the pulleys 101 for most effective tension; thus it is desirable to have the stand adjusted to the height of the bed.

This concept of line angulation and its relation to different bed heights is illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B, respectively. "HI" represents the typical minimum height of beds 60B, while "H2" represents the typical maximum height of beds 60A, as based on statistical studies. It is desirable that the effective height of the upwardly extending arms 109 be above the maximum bed height "H2" in order that the line(s) 103 do not contact or drag against the relatively high beds 60A.

On the other hand, the more horizontal the line(s) 103 are, the more efficient or effective is the application of the lumbar traction force for a particular weight 104. However, a fair degree of variance is permissable and indeed desirable within the range of prescribed traction force to be applied to a patient, and the height is not absolutely critical. Thus, a single height stand is possible, as generally shown in Figures 6A & 6B.

However, if so desired, some variation may be desirable to more particularly apply the traction forces to- the patient, and such a variable height sub-system for the "L" shaped embodiment is shown in Figure 9.

Thus, when the angle of the line(s) 103 becomes to great, .pass for example the angle shown in Figure 6B, lowering of the effective height of the pulley(s) 101 brings the angle closer to the horizontal.

Each track or slotted portion 111, which forms a brace between the connected legs, has at its ends indentations or notches 113, the lower one of which is used to keep the unit in a folded and closed position when employed as in Figure 8. As can be seen with reference to Figure 9, the arms and base of the "L" configuration may be adjusted in terms of height with the use of a series of two or more notches located and spaced along the length of the slots of the bracing "support tracks" 111 attached from each arm to its corresponding base; the exemplary tracks employ indentations or notches designed to allow the notch to act as a point of support for the arms. 5 The frame is held in the selected notch position via the utilization of knob 108 which, through a nut 117, washer

117 and bolt 117 arrangement, tightens or loosens the system for stability.

Also seen in Figure 9 is the means of hingedly 0 affixing the upwardly extending support arms or legs 109 to the horizontally disposed base legs 107. Each of the support arms 109 is attached via a nut and bolt or rivet arrangement

118 to holding member 112, which is spot welded or otherwise attached to the base 107. Also, rubber members 115 may be ^; applied to the four corner areas of base 107, as an aid in preventing the unit from scratching or sliding on the floor.

Figure 5 further illustrates the variance in width of the range B of patients' waists likely to be encountered in use based on statistical study, and the angular variance A resulting from the range B. Ideally the lines 103 should be parallel for maximum traction force to be applied to the patient for a particular weight 106, although some angulation is permissable within the range of forces prescribed for a patient. To provide the best lateral stance for the stand on the floor and yet more narrowly present the lines 103 to the patient for a near if not complete parallel presentation to the patient, the upwardly extending legs 109 are angled inwardly. This makes the spacing between the top portions of ^" the legs 109 (and hence the length of the crossbar 102) less than the spacing between the horizontal legs 107.

"C" indicates the "center line" of the traction force being applied to the patient and the desirability of having the patient centered between the lines 103 and pulleys 101 for an even spread of the lumbar traction forces to the sides of the patient. It is desirable that the lateral placement of the tension lines 103 not vary greatly from the width of the patient's waist. Excess variance would result in less efficient tension exerted upon the waistband 150 and possibly cause the applied traction force to be below and thus outside of the prescribed range due to excess vectoring of the forces 5 laterally to the side.

The traction ropes or lines 103 pass from the patient's bed through pulleys 101 built into the top of the upwardly extending, support arms or legs 109. The lines are then attached to traction weights 104, which are suspended 0 behind the. support arms. Gravity provides the desired weϋghrmg: r traction effect. Tubular, cross member 102 joins the upper portions of the two support arms 109 and acts to stabilize the entire system.

As may be seen in Figure 10B, the tension weight 104, 5 in for example the form of a water bag, is connected to the tension line 103 via clasp 122 and ringlet holder 121. A metal rod with a centrally located "U" indentation, into which the ringlet holder 121 is positioned, is incorporated as a standard item into the water bag 104. As seen in 0 Figures 10A and 10B, the tension weight line 103 passes through an opening in the support arm 109 across pulley 101 to the patient on the bed.

As may be seen in Figure 10A, a cleat 120 is permanently attached to the inner side of each one of the 5^" support arms 109 for storing tension line 103 when the stand is not in use, or, as may be seen in Figure 10B, initially supporting tension weight 104 via the ringlet holder 121, thus relieving tension from the line 103, during for example the initial setting up of the system. J_κ. For set up, the user or patient simply places the base legs 107 on the floor and pivotally lifts support arms 109 about pivot pin 108 on the supports 112 to the desired angulation provided by the selected notch (for example 116A or B) in the support tracks 111. The user then places the 55 counter balancing weight(s) 106 on the platform portion 105 on the base 107. The counter balance weight(s) 106 can comprise water bags (as illustrated), sand bags, metal disks, etc. The user then attaches the tension weights 104 to tension lines 103, which have been passed through and over the pulleys 101. The bags 104 are initially suspended from the cleats 120 as shown in Figure 10B. The other ends of the lines 103 are attached to the sides of the belt 150.

The system is now ready for operation and, once the lines 103 are further pulled up, disengaging the closed ring elements 121 from the upper end extensions of the cleats 120, tension is then applied to the patient through the lines 103. The overall operation and theory of the "L" embodiment is similar to that of the "A" embodiment supra, and, thus, the latter should be referred to for additional information. - "X" Frame Embodiment (Figs. 11-13) - As can best be seen in Figure 11, the further, third, "X" frame, exemplary, preferred embodiment of the overall system of the present invention includes an upper or top, "H" shaped frame member 210 and a lower, supporting, "X shaped frame member 220. Additionally two weighing sub-systems are use, traction applying weight 230 and a counter-balancing or stabilizing weight 240.

The lower support structure 220 can be made of metal and can have an "X" configuration in side view, as pictured in the figures. This frame 220 is similar in structure to the familiar item used as the legs for T.V. dinner tables or trays and other such tables. However, its use in a lumbar traction apparatus, as in the present invention, is unique.

For convenience, it will be referred to as an "X" type support frame. (The legs form the letter "X" when viewed from the side) . It is believed that the "X" support frame 220 has not been used in a lumbar traction device prior to this time.

This component 220 of the traction device is light and can be folded easily for storage. The "X" support frame 220 includes legs 221 and cross-bars 222. Anti-slip rubber caps can be placed over the bottom tips of the four legs to help prevent the "X" support frame 220 from sliding on smooth floors. "Anti-shift" modifications can also be made in the interfacing between the upper frame member 210 and the lower frame member 220. An elevation or metal attachment or upwardly extending protrusion (not illustrated) on the outer _ edges of the crossbars 222 of the "X" support frame 220 would be effective in preventing any lateral shifting of the "H" support frame 210 with respect to the legs 221. (The "H" support frame 210 will be described in detail below.) A rubber ring also might be as effective. The point is that a simple r.e.ta-ining device may be attached to the "X" support frame.220, if desired, to prevent lateral slippage of the "H" support frame 210.

The "X" support frame 220 can be for example forty-three inches high (folded) and twenty-two inches wide. Naturally, this height and width could be varied to attain an even greater range of utility.

The apparatus that is used to selectively determine the height of the stand, namely the upper frame member 210, holds the "X" support frame 220 by the hooks 215, as ' explained more fully below, in position and carries the pulleys 213 for the traction weights 230, is referred to for purposes of convenience as the "H" support frame 210. (It looks like the letter "H" when viewed from the top or in plan view.) In an embodiment actually built, hollow aluminum pipe or tubing was used for both the "sides" 211 and the crossbar 212 of the "H" support frame 210. (Note Figure 11.) Alternatively, flat pieces or plates of metal could be used for either the side members or the crossbar or both.

The crossbar 212 can be fixed to the sides 211 at ^; their mid-points with for example bolts. This could also be accomplished with, for further examples, welding or interlocking grooves.

The two laterally spaced pulleys 213 are attached to the "H" support frame 210 with hanging eyelets 214. Welded c or clamped pulleys could be substituted. The pulleys 213 in the figures of the preferred embodiment are relatively inexpensive. Higher quality pulleys with rigid fixation to the "H" support frame 210 might be desirable for a commercial product.

The exemplary length of the sides 211 of the "H" support frame 210 in the preferred embodiment is twenty-six and a half inches long.

The series of "hooks" 215 that are selectively used to attach the "H" support frame 210 to the "X" support frame 220 can be seen in Figures 11 & 12. In the embodiment actually built, these hooks 215 were made. from pipe braces attached to the underside of the "H" support frame 210 with metal screws. The exemplary embodiment illustrated has three exemplary sets of opposed hooks 215, allowing the selection of three different heights for the overall stand.

This hooked interconnection between the two frame members 210, 220 provides good structural stability to the entire unit. As noted, the multiplicity of opposed hook sets 215 are an important feature, because it is the means, not only for interconnecting the two frame members, but also for varying or adjusting the effective height of_^ the overall stand. The more distant hooks 215* of the "H" support frame 210 will provide the lowest level of the "X" type support frame 220. The more centrally located hooks of the "H" support frame 210 will correspondingly give a greater height to the "X" support frame 220. The two crossbars 222 of the "X" support frame 220 are simply set inside the hooks on the side bars of the "H" support frame 210 to attain the desired height. This can be appreciated by studying the figures of the "H" support frame 210 and the completely assembled and utilized apparatus illustrated in Figure 11. When the weight of the traction containers is applied, a vertically directed, downward vector gives strength to the entire unit.

As discussed. Figure 11 shows multiple sets of opposed, spaced hooks 215 on the underside of the sides 211 of the "H" frame 210. An exemplary alternative would be to have one set of opposed hooks on each side 211, whose positions are adjustable along the length of the sides 211 of the "H" support frame 210. Also, the length of the "H" support frame 210 could be varied to accommodate more hooks 215 for an even wider range of heights. Likewise, the width of the "H" support frame 210 could be varied to accommodate different widths needed for, for example, more than two 5. spaced tensioning weights 230. Rubber protectors should be placed on all exposed edges of the "H" support frame 210 for protection and safety.

It is believed that an "H" frame support comparable to that of frame member 210 has not heretofore been used in a 0 home lumbar traction device.

A key and innovative feature of the present invention is- the use of counter-weight(s) on the "X" support frame device 220.

This was accomplished in the exemplary embodiment 5 actually built and in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 11 by suspending a bucket of water 240 from the back of the "X" support frame 220. This counter balance could be accomplished in a commercial product with, for further example, the sealable water containers 340 shown in Figure 0 12. These could be similar to those available and seen used in the preferred embodiment for the traction weights 230 to provide the traction force to the sling or patient belt 250.

Thus, ropes or hooks 241, 341 and containers 240, 340 attached directly to the back cross-bar 222 of the "X" 5 support frame 220 (Figures 11 & 12) or, as a further exemplary variation, a tray 441 hinged on the base of the back legs (Figure 13) could be used to hold or attach this balancing weight. Figure 12 illustrates the back bar 222 of the "X" support frame 220 with two exemplary containers of 0 water suspended from it. This concept and part of this device should not be confused with the water containers 230 hanging from the "H" support frame 210, which supply the weight for the traction force, the two weighing sub-systems 230 and 240 (340) serving two totally different functions. 5 As noted. Figure 13 illustrates another means of applying the counter-balancing weight to the "X" support frame 220. An integral tray or platform 441 is hinged to the back legs 221 of the support frame 220. When opened, it sits on the floor, and containers of water 440 are placed on this tray, providing the counter-balancing needed. When closed for storage, the tray 441 is folded flat up against the legs 221, thereby not adding any bulk to the unit when in storage. 5^ In use the "X" support frame 220 is placed at the foot of the user's bed. It can abut the bed or stand free, and there is no necessity that the stand receive any support from the patient's bed or extend under the patient's bed, as has been necessary in the prior art. The "H" support frame 210 10 is. placed atop the "X" support frame 220. The multiple hooks

215. αr variable position hooks are then used to obtain the appropriate height for the overall stand.

The counter-balancing, anchoring weight (s) 240, 340 is/are attached to the "X" support frame 220. This counter-

15 balancing, anchoring weight can take many forms as discussed earlier. The bucket 240 in the photograph contains for example approximately eighteen (18 lbs.) pounds of water.

Ropes or lines 231 are threaded through the eyes or races of both pulleys 213. These ropes are then, attached to 205 the traction weights 230. The figures show this weight being provided by two commercially available containers or bags 230. These containers 230 are marked so that filling to a certain marked level provides a given number of pounds of weight. The containers 230 contain for example approximately 25^: thirteen pounds of water each. Most neurosurgeons use between eight and fifteen pounds on each side, depending on the user's size. Naturally, the greater the counter¬ balancing anchoring weight (s) 240, 340, 440, the greater the stability. When two containers 340 with for example 3503 approximately twenty pounds of water in each are used, approximately eighteen to twenty pounds of weight on each side can be used for traction. The counter-balancing weight (s) needed rises in proportion to the traction weight to be applied and the concomitant resistance thereto from the 3-5. patient.

The user or patient puts on for example a commercially available pelvic waist band or sling 250. These are manufactured by several firms and are available at medical and orthopedic supply stores. The band 250 can be in the form of for example a white belt-like device. The user or patient lays in bed, as illustrated in Figure 11, in alignment with the traction unit. The ropes or lines 231, 5 which had been placed on the bed 260, are now attached to the pelvic waist band 250. In doing this, the traction weights 230 are elevated from the floor 270 and lumbar traction is applied to the patient. The ropes or lines 231 are tied to metal rings on the pelvic waist band 250, or alternatively,

-UT this could be accomplished with a clasp or series of clasps on the end portions of the rope 231.

In conclusion, although particularly suited for home use, the above-described embodiments. of course could also be used to administer lumbar traction in a hospital or physical

15 therapy unit setting, when appropriate- When the traction system is no longer needed, the "H" upper frame member 210 is disconnected from the "X" lower frame member 220, with the latter then being collapsible into a substantially flat disposition. The substantially flat

20. upper frame member 210 can then be placed adjacent to or for example on top of or beneath the collapsed leg frame member 220 for compact storage together. If the embodiment of Figure 13 is being used, the tray 441 is merely pivoted up about its hinge connections against the back ones of the legs

25 221. The water is emptied out of for example the bags 230, 340, and everything, including the lines 231 and the belt 250, conveniently stored together in for example a compact box.

Of course the various feature of one of the three

3^'0. basic, exemplary embodiments could be used with one of the others, as desired.

The varying embodiments described herein in detail for exemplary purposes are themselves of course subject to many different variations in structure, design and application.

35 Because many varying and different embodiments may be made within the scope of the inventive concept(s) herein taught, and because many modifications may be made in the embodiments herein detailed in accordance with the descriptive requirements of the law, it is to be understood that the details herein are to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

CLAIMS What is CLAIMED is:

1. A lumbar traction system suitable for home use for a patient lying on a bed or the like, comprising: a stand spaced back from the bed mounted on the floor having an upwardly extending top portion; traction weight means suspended from said top portion of said stand by means of at least one line extending over said stand to a sling connected to the patient's body for applying lumbar traction force to the patient; and counter-balancing weight stabilizing means applied to the rear portion of said stand opposite to the side closest to the patient for counter-balancing the resistance to the traction force applied by said traction weight means to the patient, effectively preventing said frame from being tipped over by the resistance to the traction force.

2. The system of Claim 1, wherein said counter-balancing means includes a platform portion pivotally associated with said top portion of said stand, upon which platform portion counter-balancing weight(s) are placed, said platform portion being moveable from a substantially flat storage disposition up against said top portion of said stand to which it is pivotally associated and down into an at least generally horizontal disposition when in its operative disposition carrying the counter-balancing weight(s).

3. The system of Claim 1, wherein said stand includes at least two laterally spaced, support structures connected together at their top portions with at least one crossbar.

4. The method of providing lumbar traction to a patient lying in a bed or the like, suitable for use in the home, comprising the following steps:

(a) placing a stand with an upwardly extending ^" top member on the floor adjacent to but spaced from the foot of the bed upon which the patient is lying, said stand being placed spaced from and supportable independently of the bed with at least most of its support structure being located past the end of the bed; XD . (c) suspending substantial traction weight(s) from a top portion of said top member of said stand, applying a traction force to the patient through at least one line attached between the traction weight (s) and a sling worn by the patient; and 155 (d) providing counter-balancing weight(s) to the stand on the side distal from the patient, preventing the stand from tipping over despite the resistance to the substantial traction weight (s) being applied on the side of the stand proximal to the patient.

5. The method of Claim 4, wherein in step "d" there is included the further step(s) of:

(d-i) providing a platform portion pivotally associated with said top member of said stand, upon which platform portion counter-balancing weight(s) are placed, said 5 platform portion being moveable from a substantially flat storage disposition up against said top member of said stand and down into an at least generally horizontal disposition for supporting said weight (s) when in its operative disposition carrying the counter-balancing weight(s).

6. The method of Claim 4, wherein there is further included the step(s) of: providing said stand in the form of a frame member including two sets of laterally spaced, pivoted "A" legs 5 connected together by at least one crossbar at their tops, the "A" legs being collapsible together to form a substantially flat structure for storage and being pivotally out to an "A" configuration for support when in its operative disposition; and I0: when the stand is no longer needed for applying lumbar traction to the patient, collapsing said pivoted "A" legs to form a substantially flat structure for storage.

7. The method of Claim 4, wherein there is further included the step(s) of: providing said stand in the form of a frame member including two sets of laterally spaced, pivoted "L members

5 connected together by a crossbar at their top portions, the legs of the "L" members being collapsible together to form a substantially flat structure for storage and being pivotable out for support when in its operative disposition; and, when the stand is no longer needed for applying

10 lumbar traction to the patient, collapsing said legs of said

"L" members to form a substantially flat structure for storage, and placing said substantially flat top frame member adjacent to said collapsed lower frame member for storage.

8. The method of Claim 4, wherein in step "d" there is included the step(s) of: suspending counter-balancing weight (s) from the: backside of said stand.

9. A lumbar traction system suitable for use in the home, comprising: a stand including a frame member made up of two sets of laterally spaced, pivoted "L" members connected 5 together by at least one cross-bar at their top portions between their upwardly extending legs, the legs of the "L" members being collapsible together to form a substantially flat structure for storage and being pivotally- out into an "L" configuration for support when in its operative 10⁾ disposition; traction weight means carried by said frame by means of at least one line extending over the top portion of said frame to a sling connected to the patient's body for applying lumbar traction force to the patient; and 15 counter-balancing weight stabilizing means connected to the rear portion of said frame opposite to the slide closest to the patient for counter-balancing . the traction force applied by said traction weight means to the patient, effectively preventing said frame from being tipped 203 over by the traction force.

10. The system of Claim 9, wherein said counter-balancing means comprises: a platform portion pivotally associated with said upwardly extending legs of said "L" members, upon which

55 platform portion counter-balancing weight (s) are placed, said platform portion being moveable from a substantially flat storage disposition up against said upwardly extending legs to which it is pivotally associated and down into supporting contact with the floor when in its operative disposition carrying the counter-balancing weight(s).

11. The system of Claim 9, wherein each of said "L" members have a base leg which is placed on the floor, and an upwardly extending leg connected thereto, the combination of the two forming the "L" shape of said members when in their operative dispositions.

12. The system of Claim 11, wherein a brace member extends between at least one set of said legs near their connection together.

13. The system of Claim 12, wherein said brace member includes a slot portion and at least two, spaced notches with one of said legs having a locking member extending into said slot portion, the height of said stand and the angle between the two legs being varied by the selective insertion of said locking member into a selected one of said notches.

14. The system of Claim 11, wherein said platform portion is a platform fixedly connected to said base legs and is extended between said base legs.

15. The system of Claim 11, wherein a pulley wheel is located in the top portion of each of the upwardly extending legs over which two of said lines pass, applying the traction force to the sides of the patient.

16. A lumbar traction system suitable for use in the home, comprising: a weight supporting stand including a frame having two sets of laterally spaced, pivoted, "A" shaped legs connected together by at least one cross-bar at their tops, the "A" legs being collapsible together to form a substantially flat structure for storage and being pivotally movable out for support when in its operative disposition; traction weight means suspended from the top portion of said frame by means of at least one_^line extending over said frame to a sling connected to the patient's body for applying lumbar traction force to the patient; and counter-balancing weight stabilizing means applied to he rear portion of said frame opposite to the side 15 closest to the patient for counter-balancing the traction force applied by said traction weight means to the patient, effectively preventing said frame from being tipped over by the resistance to the traction force.

17. The system of Claim 16, wherein said counter-balancing means comprises: a platform portion hinged to the bottom portions of the back legs of said "A" legs, upon which platform 53 portion counter-balancing weight(s) are placed, said platform portion being moveable from a substantially flat storage disposition up against the rear legs to which it is hinged and^"- down into an at least generally horizontal disposition when in its operative disposition carrying the IXP counter-balancing weight(s).

18. The system of Claim 16, wherein said "A" shaped legs are formed from two^', inverted "U" shaped tubes connected together at their tops.

19. The system of Claim 18, wherein the connection between said inverted "U" shaped tubes is provided by at least one encircling loop, allowing said tubes to pivot with respect to one another for collapsing the legs of each "A"

5. together.

20. The system of Claim 18, wherein each of said tubes has at their ends telescoping sections allowing for the variation of height of said stand.

21. A lumbar traction system suitable for use in the home, comprising: a weight supporting stand including a frame having

- two sets of laterally spaced, pivoted, "X"

5 shaped legs connected together by at least one cross-bar at their tops, the "X" legs being collapsible together to form a substantially flat structure for storage and being pivotally movable out for support when in its operative disposition, and

10 - an associated member for holding said "X"

' shaped legs out in their open, supportive disposition in use; traction weight means suspended from the top portion of said frame by means of at least one line extending over said frame to a sling connected to the patient's body for applying lumbar traction force to the patient; and counter-balancing weight stabilizing means applied to the rear portion of said frame opposite to the side closest to the patient for counter-balancing the traction force applied by said traction weight means to the patient, effectively preventing said frame from being tipped over by the resistance to the traction force.