WO2013121245A1

WO2013121245A1 - Movement therapy system

Info

Publication number: WO2013121245A1
Application number: PCT/IB2012/003121
Authority: WO
Inventors: Frederic Palay
Original assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
Priority date: 2011-12-29
Filing date: 2012-12-28
Publication date: 2013-08-22

Abstract

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a movement therapy system may include an overlay mattress with movable sections, panels or panes. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include an overlay mattress with inflatable chambers, in one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include therapy modules that may vibrate, massage, compress, warm, and/or cool in order to, for example, stimulate blood flow and/or movement in a portion of a patient's body. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include therapy slings, structured slings and/or enhanced therapy slings. The therapy slings, structured slings, and/or enhanced therapy slings may be used in connection with a lifting mechanism to move portions of a patient's body. Such movement may include raising and lowering portions of a patient's body. The structured slings may limit the amplitude, angles and/or speed of movement of a patient's body. The enhanced therapy slings may supply vibration, massage, compression, heat, and/or cold to a portion of a patient's bod)' at the same time that the portion of the patient's body is being moved. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include a programmable means for controlling movements of one or more of the components of the movement therapy system. For example, a programmable controller may control the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, tilt, and/or sequencing of movements of one or more of the components of the movement therapy system.

Description

DESCRIPTION

MOVEMENT THERAPY SYSTEM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001 ] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/581,482, filed December 29, 2011 incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present invention relates generally to physical therapy and, more particularly, to systems and methods for movement therapy.

[0003] Prolonged immobility, inactivity or bed rest can have severe physical and psychological consequences for a patient. For example, a patient that is immobile for a prolonged period of time may experience complications to major organ systems, including the skin and musculoskeletal systems, the cardiopulmonary system, and the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. Complications to the skin and musculoskeletal system of an immobile patient may include pressure sores, muscle weakness, atrophy, and deceased bone density. These complications can lead to disability and dysfunction and, in the case of decreased bone density, can predispose a patient to fractures when the patient is mobilized. Complications to the cardiopulmonary system may include cardiovascular deconditioning, hypostatic hypotension, deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and atelectasis. Complications to the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems may include a predisposition to constipation, fecal impaction, urinary tract stones and infection, and fecal and urinary tract incontinence. The psychological consequences for a patient that is immobile for a prolonged period of time may include depression, sensory deprivation from a lack of environmental stimulation, and, in some cases, deliriousness.

[0004] To avoid such complications, patients may undergo movement therapy, traditionally conducted with the aid of a physical therapist. In many cases, a physical therapist is required to help a patient complete movement therapy by assisting the lifting and lowering of a patient's limbs or moving portions of a patient's torso. In some cases, a physical therapist may also apply massage or other touch-related therapy to a patient in connection with or instead of other movement therapy, in any event, the work of a physical therapist can be physically strenuous. As a result, a physical therapist may be subject to occupational injury or decreased productivity if the work proves too taxing. In addition, the assistance provided by physical therapists may vary by the individual physical therapist, leading to confusion or displeasure on the part of the patient, SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a movement therapy system may include an overlay mattress with movable sections, panels or panes. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include an overlay mattress with inflatable chambers. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include therapy modules that may vibrate, massage, compress, warm, and/or cool in order to, for example, stimulate blood flow and/or movement in a portion of a patient's body. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include therapy slings, structured slings and/or enhanced therapy slings. The therapy slings, structured slings, and/or enhanced therapy slings may be used in connection with a lifting mechanism to move portions of a patient's body. Such movement may include raising and lowering portions of a patient's body. The structured slings may limit the amplitude, angles, acceleration, velocity, and/or speed of movement of a patient's body. The enhanced therapy slings may supply vibration, massage, compression, heat, and/or cold to a portion of a patient's body at the same time that the portion of the patient's body is being moved. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include a programmable means for controlling movements of one or more of the components of the movement therapy system. For example, a programmable controller may control the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, and/or sequencing of movements of one or more of the components of the movement therapy system.

[0006] Therefore, it can be appreciated that there is a significant need for a movement therapy system configured as an overlay mattress. It can further be appreciated that there is a significant need for a movement therapy system capable of moving portions of a patient's body. It can further be appreciated that there is a significant need for a movement therapy system that may vibrate, massage, compress, warm, and/or cool in order to, for example, stimulate blood flow and/or movement in a portion of a patient's body. It can further be appreciated that there is a significant need for a movement therapy system that may supply vi bration, massage, compression, heat, and/or cold to a portion of a patient's body at the same time that the portion of the patient's body is being moved by the movement therapy system. It can further be appreciated that there is a significant need for a movement therapy system that may include a programmable means for controlling movements of one or more of the components of the movement therapy system. Embodiments of the present invention can provide these and other advantages, as will be apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying figures,

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG. 1 shows examples of movement therapy sequences that may be implemented in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress of the present invention.

[0009] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress of the present invention with subsurface movement.

[0010] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress of the present invention in use with a patient. [0011 ] FIG. 5 sho ws a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress of the present invention with inflatable chambers.

[0012] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress of the present invention with inflatable chambers inflated.

[ 0013] FIG. 7 shows a si de view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress of the present invention with inflatable chambers inflated.

[0014] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of two therapy modules of the present invention.

[0015] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of three therapy modules of the present invention. [0016] FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a therapy lift of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 10B shows one embodiment of a user interface of the present invention. [0018] FIG. 11A shows one embodiment of a structured sling of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 11 B shows one embodiment of a structured sling of the present invention with articulated connections.

[0020] FIG. I IC shows one embodiment of a stmctured sling of the present invention with an articulated connection.

[0021] FIG. 1 1 D shows one embodiment of a structured sling of the present invention configured as a one-piece sling.

[0022] FIG. HE shows one embodiment of a lower arm support of a stmctured sling of the present invention. [0023] FIG. 1 1 F shows one embodiment of a structured sling of the present invention in use with a patient.

[0024] FIG. 12 shows one embodiment of a therapy lift of the present invention with a therapy sling.

[0025] FIG. 13 shows one embodiment of a therapy sling of the present invention in use on the calf muscle of a patient.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a movement therapy system may include an overlay mattress with movable sections, panels or panes. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include an overlay mattress with inflatable chambers. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include therapy modules that may vibrate, massage, compress, warm, and/or cool in order to, for example, stimulate blood flow and/or movement in a portion of a patient's body. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include slings, stmctured slings and/or therapy slings. The slings, stmctured slings, and/or therapy slings may be used in connection with a lifting mechanism to move portions of a patient's body. Such movement may include raising and lowering portions of a patient's body. The stmctured slings may limit the amplitude, angles, acceleration, velocity, and/or speed of movement of a patient's body. The therapy slings may supply vibration, massage, compression, heat, and/or cold to a portion of a patient's body at the same time that the portion of the patient's body is being moved. In one embodiment, a movement therapy system may include a programmable means for controlling movements of one or more of the components of the movement therapy system. For example, a programmable controller may control the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, and/or sequencing of movements of one or more of the components of the movement therapy system.

[0027] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 which shows examples of movement therapy sequences that may be implemented in one embodiment of the present invention. Movement therapy may induce movement of various joints of a patient 100. For example, movement therapy may induce movement of a patient's neck 101, shoulders 103, elbows 104, wrists 105, hips 106, knees 107, ankles 108, and multiple points of a patient's spine 102. Movement therapy sequences may include raising and lowering the arms 109-1 10 and legs 111-1 1 of a patient in multiple positions and directions. Movement therapy sequences may include movement of a patient's torso 1 13-114.

[0028] Reference is now made to FIG. 2 which shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress 200 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the overlay mattress 200 is shown to be rectangular in shape and includes an upper surface 209. In other embodiments, the overlay mattress 200 may include of other shapes, sizes, and configurations capable of supporting a person such as, for example, a bed, mattress, pad, mat, cot, or stretcher. In one embodiment, the overlay mattress 200 may be configured to overlay the upper surface of a mattress. For example, the overlay mattress 200 may be placed on top of the mattress of a bed prior to use and removed from the top of the mattress of a bed after use. In one embodiment, the overlay mattress 200 may mount or attach to a bed to, for example, firmly position the overlay mattress 200 on the bed.

[0029] in this embodiment, the overlay mattress 200 is shown to be partitioned into eight different sections. For example, the overlay mattress 200 is shown to include a headrest section 201, a right-arm section 202, a torso section 203, a left-arm section 204, a right-leg section 205, a left-leg section 206, a right- foot section 207, and a left-foot section 208. In one embodiment, one or more of the sections may move. In one embodiment, one or more of the sections may move in sequence, in series or independently of one another. In other embodiments, the sections of the overlay mattress 200 may include other shapes, sizes, and configurations capable of moving such as, for example, panels, panes, plates or sheets. In one embodiment, one or more sections may be raised, recessed and/or framed within the upper surface of the overlay mattress 200.

[0030] In one embedment, the outer surfaces of the sections may rest in the same plane to create a single level surface to support a patient. It can be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the sections described herein as being a left or right section may function in connection with the limbs of a patient on the right or left side of a patient depending on whether the patient is prone or supine to the overlay mattress 200. In one embodiment, for example, the right-leg section 205 may move a patient's right leg when the patient is in a supine position with respect to the overlay mattress 200 but may move a patient's left leg when the patient is in a prone position with respect to the overlay mattress 200.

[0031] Reference is now made to FIG. 3 which shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress 200 of the present invention with subsurface movement. In this embodiment, various sections of the overlay mattress 200 have been raised and other sections are in a lowered position. For example, the headrest section 201, the right-arm section 202, the left-arm section 204, the left-leg section 206, and the right- foot section 207 have each been raised or elevated. On the other hand, the torso section 203, the right-leg section 205, and the left foot section 208 are in a lowered position. In this embodiment, the raised sections are shown to have rotated so that one end of each section has been raised higher than the other end of the section. For example, the distal end 300 of the right-foot section 207 may be raised but the proximal end 301 of the right- foot section 207 may remain lowered at the same level as the surface of the sections of the overlay mattress 200 that are in a lowered position. In this way, the upper surface of the right-foot section 207 may tilt as the right-foot section 207 is raised. The tilt of the right-foot section 207 may, for example, flex the right foot of a patient to stretch the patient's right calf muscle. In one embodiment, the angle and direction of tilt of one or more sections may be adjusted or varied.

[0032] In one embodiment, one or more sections may include a top that forms a portion of the upper surface 209 of the overlay mattress 200 when the section is in a lowered position. A section may also include multiple sides. In one embodiment, the multiple sides may only be exposed when a portion of the section is raised or elevated. For example, the left-leg section 206 may include a top 302, a front side 303, a left side 304, and a right side (not shown). [0033] In one embodiment, the height that one or more sections may be raised or lowered may be adjusted or varied. In one embodiment, the speed, velocity or acceleration that one or more sections may be moved may be adjusted or varied. In one embodiment, the overlay mattress 200 may be configured with a programmable controller that may control the height, amplitude, velocity, acceleration, tilt, number of repetitions, and/or sequencing of movements of one or more of the sections. In one embodiment, the overlay mattress 200 may include a user interface. The user interface may allow a caregiver and/or a patient to dictate various functions of the overlay mattress 200 such as the height, amplitude, velocity, acceleration, tilt, number of repetitions, and/or sequencing of movements of one or more of the sections. [0034] Reference is now made to FIG. 4 which shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress 200 of the present invention in use with a patient 400. In this embodiment, various sections of the overlay mattress 200 have been raised and other sections are in a lowered position. For example, the headrest section 201, the right-arm section 202, and the left-leg section 206 have each been raised. On the other hand, the torso section 203 (not shown), the left-arm section 204, the right-leg section 205, the left foot section 208, and the right-foot section 207 are in a lowered position. In this embodiment, the overlay mattress 200 is shown to be resting on the upper surface of a hospital-bed mattress 401. One end 401a of the hospital-bed mattress 401 has been raised. The overlay mattress 200 may be configured to overlay a mattress that may adjust into different configurations. In one embodiment, the overlay mattress 200 may be comprised of flexible materials that may- bend or may be folded.

[0035] In one embodiment, a spring 402 may move one or more sections of the overlay mattress 200. In other embodiments, one or more sections may be moved by various means such as, for example, mechanical systems, electromechanical systems, hydraulic systems, or compressed gas systems. In this embodiment, the head-rest section 201 may move the head of the patient 400 by raising and lowering, the right-arm section 202 may move the right arm of the patient 400 by raising and lowering, and the left-leg section 206 may move the left leg of the patient 400 by raising and lowering. In this embodiment, the left-leg section 206 is configured to include a crease or fold 406. The crease or fold 406 may be the highest point 406 of the left-leg section 206 when the left-leg section 206 is raised. The crease or fold 406 may be aligned with the knee joint 405 of the patient 400 or, in the case of other sections, with one or more other joints of a patient 400. [0036] Reference is now made to FIG. 5 which shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress 500 of the present invention with inflatable chambers

501 a-d. In this embodiment, the overlay mattress 500 is comprised of an air mattress that is shown to be inflated. In other embodiments, the overlay mattress 500 may include other shapes, sizes, and configurations capable of supporting a patient, including, for example, other types of mattresses. The overlay mattress 500 is shown to be connected to a controller

502 by an air hose 503. The controller 502 may inflate the overlay mattress 500 by injecting air into the mattress via the air hose 503. The overlay mattress is also shown to include four inflatable chambers 501a~d. Each of the inflatable chambers 501a-d are shown to be connected in series to an air hose 504 which is connected to the controller 502. In this embodiment, the inflatable chambers 501 a-d are shown to be deflated. A patient 505 is shown to be resting on her back on the overlay mattress 500.

[0037] The overlay mattress 500 may include one or more inflatable chambers 501 a-d. The inflatable chambers 501 a-d may be generally rectangular in shape and may extend for the width of the overlay mattress 500. in other embodiments, the inflatable chambers 501 a-d may comprise other shapes, sizes, and configurations capable of inflating such as that, for example, of a pillow, pad or cushion. In one embodiment, one or more of the inflatable chambers 501 may be configured to lift a portion of a patient's body when the inflated and to lower a portion of a patient's body when deflated. In one embodiment, the overlay mattress 500 may include a combination of one or more inflatable chambers 501 and one or more movable sections of the type described above.

[0038] Reference is now made to FIG. 6 which shows a perspective view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress 500 of the present invention with inflatable chambers 501 a-d inflated. In this embodiment, the inflatable chambers 501 a-d have been inflated so that the upper surface of each inflatable chamber 501 a-d rests higher than the upper surface of the overlay mattress 500. The controller 502 may inflate the inflatable chambers 501 a-d by injecting air into the inflatable chambers via the air hose 504. Similarly, the controller 502 may deflate the inflatable chambers 501 a-d by withdrawing air from the inflatable chambers 501a-d via the air hose 504. In one embodiment, one or more of the inflatable chamber 501 a- d may be inflated or deflated in sequence, in series or independently of one another. In one embodiment, a controller 502 may control the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, and/or sequencing of the inflating and deflating of one or more of the inflatable chambers 501 a-d. In one embodiment, the overlay mattress 500 may be configured to allow a caregiver and/or a patient 505 to dictate various functions of the overlay mattress 500 such as the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, and/or sequencing of the inflating and deflating of one or more of the inflatable chambers 501 a-d.

[0039] Reference is now made to FIG. 7 which shows a side view of one embodiment of an overlay mattress 500 of the present invention with inflatable chambers 501 a-d inflated. In this embodiment, the mflatable chambers 5Qla~d are shown to be supporting a patient 505 above the surface of the overlay mattress 500. The inflatable chambers 501 a-d may be positioned such that the inflatable chamber 501 a may support the upper back of the patient 505, the inflatable chamber 501b may support the lower back of the patient 505, the inflatable chamber 501c may support the buttocks of the patient 505, and the inflatable chamber 501d may support the upper leg of the patient 505,

[0040] Reference is now made to FIG. 8 which shows a perspective view of one embodiment of two therapy modules 800 and 801 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the therapy module 800 includes a base 802 and a movement surface 803. The therapy module may also include a chord 804. The bottom side of the base 802 may be flat and may be configured to rest upon or attach to a surface supporting a patient, such as, for example, a bed, a sheet or an overlay mattress. The movement surface 803 may be rounded on its edges and may include a depression 809, in one embodiment, shape of the movement surface 803 may be similar to the shape of a saddle. The shape of the movement surface 803 may be configured to inhibit a portion of a patient's body that is resting on the movement surface 803 from moving off of the movement surface 803, such as by rotating or slipping. For example, the movement surface 803 may be configured to restrict certain movements of a leg or arm resting within the depression 809. In one embodiment, the therapy module 800 may include a chord 804 to, for example, supply power to and/or control the therapy module 800. in other embodiments, the therapy module 800 may be battery powered and/or remotely controlled. In one embodiment, the therapy module 800 may vibrate, massage, compress, warm, and/or cool. In one embodiment, the therapy module 800 may vibrate, massage, compress, warm, and/or cool in order to stimulate blood flow in the portion of the body of a patient that is resting on the movement surface 803, [0041 ] Referring still to FIG. 8, the therapy module 801 may include a base 805, a movement surface 807, a wrap 807, and a chord 808. In this embodiment, the base 805 may be raised or lowered. For example, the base 805 may be raised or lowered in order to better position the therapy module 801 with respect to a patient and/or to apply movement therapy to a patient. In one embodiment, the base 805 may be raised and lowered, for example, to stretch a muscle that is simultaneously experiencing vibration, massage, compression, heat and/or coldness from the movement surface 806. In one embodiment, a therapy module 802 may be combined with an overlay mattress 500 that may include one or more inflatable chambers 501 and/or an overlay mattress 200 that may include one or more movable sections of the type described above. In one embodiment, the movement of the base 805 and/or the vibration, massage, compression, heat, and/or cold of the movement surface 805 may be controlled with the inflating or deflating of inflatable chambers 501 and/or the movement of the sections of the type described above in connection with the overlay mattress 200. In one embodiment, the therapy module 801 may include a wrap 807. The wrap may secure a portion of a body to the movement surface 806, such as, for example, by strapping a limb to the movement surface 806. In one embodiment, the wrap 807 may attach to the ends of the movement surface 806.

[0042] Reference is now made to FIG. 9 which shows a perspective view of one embodiment of three therapy modules 903-905 of the present invention. In this embodiment, a patient 901 is shown lying on her back on a bed 900. A therapy module 903 is shown placed under the upper left leg of the patient 901 . This therapy module 903 may be, for example, stretching, and/or stimulating blood flow to the vicinity of, the left hamstring of the patient 901. A therapy module 904 is also shown underneath the upper right arm of the patient 901. This therapy module 904 may be, for example, raising and lowering the right arm of the patient 901 to induce movement of the right shoulder of the patient 901. A therapy module 905 is also shown placed under the head of the patient 901. This therapy module 905 may be, for example, raising and lowering the head of the patient 901 to induce movement of the neck of the patient 901.

[0043] Reference is now made to FIG. 10A which shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a therapy lift 1008 of the present mvention. In one embodiment, a therapy lift 1008 may include a lift 1000, an arm 1001 , and slings 1002-1004, as well as structured slings (described below) and therapy slings (described below). In one embodiment, the lift 1000 may be positioned adjacent to a bed 1005, The arm 1001 may be configured to attach to the lift. The arm 1001 may extend over the bed 1005 and may be configured to attach to one or more slings 1002-1004. For example, the sling 1002 may attach to the arm 1001 and may be positioned to support the head of a patient 1006, the sling 1003 may attach to the arm 1001 and may be positioned to support the right arm of a patient 1006, and the sling 1004 may attach to the arm 1001 and may be positioned under the upper left leg of a patient 1006. The lift may also include a user interface 1007. In other embodiments, the arm 1001 may consist of other shapes, sizes, and configurations capable of extending over at least a portion of a surface supporting a patient and attaching to one or more therapy slings 1002. The arm 1001 may, for example, include one or more combinations or variations of the arm 1001 shown in FIG. 10A. In other embodiments, the slings 1002-1004 may include of other shapes, sizes, and configurations capable of supporting at least a portion of a body such as, for example, a strap, support, band, belt or tie. In one embodiment, the slings 1002-1004 may attach to the arm 1001 with surgical chord or another elastic material, [0044] In one embodiment, the lift 1000 may move one or more of the slings 1002-1004. Such movement may be repetitive and may include raising and lowering one or more of the slings 1002-1004. In one embodiment, the height that one or more of the slings 1002-1004 may be moved may be adjusted or varied. In one embodiment, the speed that one or more of the slings 1002-1004 may be moved may be adjusted or varied. In one embodiment, one or more of the slings 1002-1004 may move in sequence, in series or independently of one another. In one embodiment, the lift 1000 may be coniigured with a programmable controller that may control the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, and/or sequencing of movements of one or more of the slings 1002-1004. The therapy lift 1008 may also be configured to provide movement therapy to a patient in combination with one or more of the therapy modules and/or one or more of the overlay mattresses described herein.

[0045] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 GB which shows one embodiment of a user interface 1007 of the present invention. The user interface 1007 may allow a caregiver and/or a patient to select various functions of the lift 1000 such as the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, and/or sequencing of movements of one or more of the slings 1002-1004. [0046] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 1 A which shows one embodiment of a structured sling 1100 of the present invention. In one embodiment, the structured sling 1100 may include one or more of a head support 1101, an upper arm support 1102, a lower arm support 1103, a torso support 1104, and/or an upper leg support 1105. The structured sling 1100 may be configured to attach to a lift (not shown) via straps 1 106. For example, the structured sling 1100 may be configured to provide movement therapy to a patient in combination with, or in place of, the therapy slings described above. In one embodiment, the structured sling 1100 may be configured to attach to a portion of a patient's body. For example, the torso support 1104 may be configured to strap around the small of the back of a patient and the upper leg support 1105 may be configured to strap around the upper leg of a patient.

[0047] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 IB which shows one embodiment of a structured sling 1 100 of the present invention with articulated connections 1108-1 110. in one embodiment, the structured sling 1100 may include one or more of a head support 1 101 , an upper arm support 1102, a lower arm support 1103, a torso support 1104, an upper leg support 1105, a lower leg support 1107, and/or articulated connections 1108-1 1 10. In one embodiment, the upper leg support 1105 may connect to the lower leg support via one or more articulated connections 1108. In one embodiment, the upper leg support 1 105 may connect to the torso support 1104 via one or more articulated connections 1109. In one embodiment, the upper ami support 1 102 may connect to the lower arm support via one or more articulated connections 1110. In other embodiments, the articulated connections 1108- 1 1 10 may include of other shapes, sizes, and configurations capable of articulating movement between one or more components of a structured sling 1100 such as, for example, a hinge, pivot, pin, hydraulic cylinder, or gas spring. In one embodiment, the structured sling 1100 may be configured to increase or limit the amplitude or distance of movement of a patient. In one embodiment, the structured sling 1100 may be configured to increase or limit the angles of movement of a patient. In one embodiment, the structured sling 1 100 may be configured to increase or limit the speed of the movement of a patient.

[0048] Reference is now made to FIG. 11C which shows one embodiment of a structured sling 1 100 of the present invention with an articulated connection 1109. In this embodiment, the structured sling 1100 includes a torso support 1104 and an upper leg support 1105. In this embodiment, the upper leg support 1105 is configured to attach to both the upper right leg of a patient and the upper left leg of a patient. In this embodiment, the upper leg support 1105 is configured to connect to the torso support 1 104 via the articulated connections 1 109 and 1109a. The articulated connection 1109a may connect to the torso support 1104 at a location approximate to the centerline of the torso of the patient and approximate to the patient's chest. The articulated connection 1109a may connect to the leg support 1105 at a location approximately centered between the legs of the patient.

[0049] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 I D which shows one embodiment of a structured sling 1 100 of the present invention configured as a one-piece sling. In one embodiment, the structured sling 1100 may comprise a single article that includes multiple support components. For example, the structured sling 1 100 may comprise a single article that includes one or more of an upper arm support 1 102, a lower ami support. 1103, a torso support 1104, an upper leg support 1 105, and a lower leg support 1107.

[0050] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 IE which shows one embodiment of a lower arm support 1103 of a structured sling 1100 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the lower arm support 1103 is being raised or lowered via a strap 1 106. The lower arm support 1103 is shown to be wrapped around the forearm of a patient. The movement of the lower arm support 1103 is shown to be encouraging movement of the wrist, elbow, and shoulder of the patient.

[0051] Reference is now made to FIG. 1 IF which shows one embodiment of a structured sling 1 100 of the present invention in use with a patient. In this embodiment, the structured sling 1100 includes a torso support 1104, an upper leg support 1105, and an articulated connection 1.109. The torso support .1 .104 may include an eye 1111 or other means for attaching the torso support 1104 to a lifting mechanism. In this embodiment, the eye 111 1 is positioned at a location of the torso support 1104 such that an upward force 1 112 applied to the eye 11 1 1 will encourage rotational movement 1113 of the patient. The rotational movement 1113 may include, for example, the movement of a patient from, a supine position to a sitting position. In one embodiment, the eye 1 1 1 1 may be positioned on or near the centerline of the chest portion of the torso support 1104.

[0052] Reference is now made to FIG. 12 which shows one embodiment of a therapy lift .1206 of the present invention with a therapy sling 1200. In this embodiment, the therapy sling 1200 is shown to enclose a significant portion of the right leg of a patient 1205, The therapy sling is shown to extend from the middle of the foot to the upper thigh of the patient 1205, The therapy sling 1200 may include an attachment mechanism 1201. For example, a strap 1202 may attach to the attachment mechanism 1201 and to the arm 1207 of a lift 1203 so that the lift 1203 may move the therapy sling 1200. In one embodiment, the therapy sling 1200 may include a controller 1204. In one embodiment, the therapy sling 1200 may supply vibration, massage, compression, heat and/or coldness to a portion of the body of the patient 1205.

[0053] Reference is now made to FIG. 13 which shows one embodiment of an therapy sling 1200 of the present invention in use on the calf muscle of a patient 1205. In this embodiment, the therapy sling 1200 is shown placed on the lower right leg of a patient 1205. The therapy sling 1200 may be u-shaped, may include a u-shaped frame, may include a strap 1300, may include pads 1301 on its inner surfaces, and may include an attachment mechanism 1201. In this embodiment, the therapy sling 1200 is shown to be supplying vibration to the calf muscle of the right leg of a patient 1205 at the same time that the right leg of the patient 1205 is being moved by a lifting mechanism that is connected to the therapy sling 1200. The therapy sling 1200 may also be configured to provide movement therapy to a patient in combination with one or more of the therapy lift, the slings, the structured slings, the therapy modules and/or the overlay mattresses described herein. In one embodiment, the therapy sling 1200 may include a programmable controller. The programmable controller may control the supply by the therapy sling 1200 of one or more of the following: vibration, massage, compression, heat and/or coldness to a portion of the body of the patient 1205. In one embodiment, the therapy sling 1200 may include a user interface configured to communicate to a programmable controller.

[0054] While the present system and method has been disclosed according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that other embodiments have also been enabled. Even though the foregoing discussion has focused on particular embodiments, it is understood that other configurations are contemplated. In particular, even though the expressions "in one embodiment" or "in another embodiment" are used herein, these phrases are meant to generally reference embodiment possibilities and are not intended to limit the invention to those particular embodiment configurations. These terms may reference the same or different embodiments, and unless indicated otherwise, are combinable into aggregate embodiments. The terms "a", "an" and "the" mean "one or more" unless expressly specified otherwise. [0055] When a single embodiment is described herein, it will be readily apparent that more than one embodiment may be used in place of a single embodiment. Similarly, where more than one embodiment is described herein, it will be readily apparent that a single embodiment may be substituted for that one device. [0056] In light of the wide variety of possible devices and methods for movement therapy, the detailed embodiments are intended to be illustrative only and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention. Rather, what is claimed as the invention is all such modifications as may come within the spirit and scope of the following claims and equivalents thereto. [0057] None of the descriptions in this specification should be read as implying that any particular element, step or function is an essential element which must be mcluded in the claim scope. The scope of the patented subject matter is defined only by the allowed claims and their equivalents. Unless explicitly recited, other aspects of the present invention as described in this specification do not limit the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A movement therapy system comprising:

an overlay mattress, said overlay mattress including one or more sections that are configured to elevate above the upper surface of said overlay mattress.

2. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to be mounted to the top of a mattress of a bed.

3. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to attach to a bed.

4. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said overlay mattress comprises one of the following: a bed, a mattress, a pad, a mat, a cot, or a stretcher.

5. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections consists of eight sections.

6. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a headrest section.

7. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a right-arm section.

8. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a torso section.

9. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherem said one or more sections includes a left-arm section.

10. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherem said one or more sections includes a right-leg section.

11. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a left-leg section.

12. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a right-foot section.

13. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a left-foot section.

14. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections may move in sequence, in series or independently of one another.

15. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections, when in a lowered position, are configured to rest in the same plane as said upper surface of said overlay mattress.

16. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein a distal end of said one or more sections is configured to elevate to a height greater than that of a proximal end of said one or more sections.

17. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections are configured to rotate.

18. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections include a top that forms a portion of said upper surface of said overlay mattress when said one or more sections are in a lowered position.

19. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections are configured to include multiple sides that are only exposed when said one or more sections are raised.

20. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a top, a front side, a left side, and a right side.

21. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections are configured to elevate such that the upper surface of said one or more sections is at a tilt.

22. The movement therapy system of claim ! wherein said one or more sections are configured to tilt at various angles and/or directions.

23. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections are configured to tilt and the direction and/or angle of said tilt may be adjusted or varied.

24. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections are configured to elevate to a height that may be adjusted or varied,

25. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections are configured to elevate and lower to heights that may be adjusted or varied.

26. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein the said one or more sections are configured to move at multiple amplitudes, speeds, velocities, or accelerations.

27. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to adjust or vary the amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, or number of repetitions of movement of said one or more sections.

28. The movement therapy system of claim 1 further comprising a programmable controller.

29. The movement therapy system of claim 1 further comprising a programmable controller configured to control one or more of the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, tilt, and/or sequencing of movements of said one or more sections,

30. The movement therapy system of claim 1 further comprising a user interface.

31. The movement therapy system of claim 1 further comprising an interface configured to allow a caregiver or a patient to select one or more of the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, tilt, and/or sequencing of movements of said one or more sections.

32. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to overlay a mattress that may adjust into different configurations.

33. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherem said overlay mattress is comprised of materials that may bend or fold.

34. The movement therapy system of claim 1 further comprising a system to move said one or more sections consisting of one or more of the following: a mechanical system, an electro-mechanical system, a hydraulic system or a compressed gas system.

35. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a crease.

36. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections includes a crease that is configured to align with a joint of a patient.

37. The movement therapy system of claim 1 wherein said one or more sections are configured to elevate or lower a portion of a patient's body.

38. The movement therapy system of claim 1 further comprising at least one inflatable chamber.

39. A movement therapy system comprising:

an overlay mattress configured to raise and lower at least one panel above the upper surface of said overlay mattress, wherein said at least one panel is configured to lower to a position such that the top of said at least one panel may form a portion of said upper surface of said overlay mattress.

40. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to be mounted to the top of a mattress of a bed.

41. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to attach to a bed.

42. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said overlay mattress comprises one of the following: a bed, a mattress, a pad, a mat, a cot, or a stretcher.

43. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel consists of eight panels.

44. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel includes a panel at the head of said overlay mattress that is configured to move the head of a patient.

45. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel includes a panel along the right side of said overlay mattress that is configured to raise and lower the right arm of a patient.

46. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel includes a panel in the center of said overlay mattress that is configured to raise and lower the torso of a patient.

47. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at l east one panel includes a panel along the left side of said overlay mattress that is configured to raise and lower the left arm of a patient.

48. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel includes a panel along the right side of said overlay mattress that is configured to raise and lower the right arm of a patient.

49. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at l east one panel includes a panel along the left side of said overlay mattress that is configured to raise and lower the left arm of a patient.

50. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel includes a panel along an end of said overlay mattress that is configured to move the right foot of a patient.

51. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel includes a panel along one end of said overlay mattress that is configured to move the left foot of a patient.

52. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel may move in sequence, in series or independently of other panels.

53. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel, when in a lowered position, is configured to rest in the same plane as said upper surface of said overlay mattress.

54. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein a distal end of said at least one panel is configured to raise to a height greater than that of a proximal end of said at least one panel.

55. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel is configured to rotate.

56. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel is configured to include multiple sides that are only exposed when said at least one panel is raised.

57. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherem said at l east one panel includes a top, a front side, a left side, and a right side.

58. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherem the top of said at least one panel is configured to slope towards a patient supported by said overlay mattress.

59. The movement therapy system, of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel is configured to slope at multiple angles and/or directions.

60. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel is configured to slope at a direction and/or angle that may be adjusted or varied.

6.1. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel is configured to raise to a height that may be adjusted or varied.

62. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel is configured to raise and lower to heights that may be adjusted or varied.

63. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein the said at least one panel is configured to move at more than one height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, tilt, and/or sequencing.

64. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to adjust or vary the amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing of movement of said at least one panel.

65. The movement therapy system of claim 39 further comprising a programmable controller.

66. The movement therapy system of claim 39 further comprising a programmable controller configured to control one or more of the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, tilt, and/or sequencing of movements of said at least one panel.

67. The movement therapy system of claim 39 further comprising a user interface.

68. The movement therapy system of claim 39 further comprising an interface configured to allow a caregiver or a patient to dictate one or more of the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, tilt, and/or sequencing of movements of said at least one panel.

69. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to overlay a mattress that may adjust into different configurations.

70. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said overlay mattress is comprised of materials that may bend or fold.

71. The movement therapy system of claim 39 further comprising a system to move said at least one panel consisting of one or more of the following: a mechanical system, an electro-mechanical system, a hydraulic system or a compressed gas system.

72. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel includes a fold.

73. The movement therapy system of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel includes a fold that is configured to align with a joint of a patient.

74. The movement therapy system, of claim 39 wherein said at least one panel is configured to elevate or lower a portion of a patient's body.

75. The movement therapy system of claim 39 further comprising at least one inflatable chamber.

76. A movement therapy system comprising:

an overlay mattress with at least one inflatable chamber that is configured to raise a portion of a patient's body to a height above the upper surface of said overlay mattress and to lower said portion of said patient's body to said upper surface of said overlay mattress.

77. The movement, therapy system of claim. 76 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to be placed on the top of a bed.

78. The movement therapy system of claim 76 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to attach to a bed.

79. The movement therapy system of claim 76 wherein said overlay mattress comprises one of the following: a bed, a mattress, an air mattress, a pad, a mat, a cot, or a stretcher.

80. The movement therapy system of claim 76 wherein said at least one inflatable chamber is generally rectangular and extends the width of said overlay mattress.

81. The movement therapy system of claim 76 wherein said at least one inflatable chamber comprises one or more of the following: a pillow, a pad or a cushion.

82. The movement therapy system of claim 76 further comprising a controller configured to inflate and deflate said at least one inflatable chamber.

83. The movement therapy system of claim 76 further comprising a controller configured to inflate and deflate said at least one inflatable chamber at an adjustable or varied height, speed, and/or sequencing.

84. The movement therapy system of claim 76 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to allow a patient and/or a caregiver to inflate and deflate said at least one inflatable chamber at an adjustable or varied height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, tilt, and/or sequencing.

85. The movement therapy system of claim 76 wherein said at least one inflatable chamber consists of at least two inflatable chambers configured to inflate or deflate in sequence, in series or independently of one another.

86. The movement therapy system of claim 76 wherein said at least one inflatable chamber includes an inflatable chamber configured to support the upper back of a patient, an inflatable chamber configured to support the lower back of said patient, an inflatable chamber configured to support the buttocks of said patient, and an inflatable chamber configured to support at least one upper leg of said patient.

87. A movement therapy system comprising:

a therapy module including a base underlying a movement surface, said movement surface configured to support a portion of a patient's body on its upper surface and configured to supply vibration, compression, heat or cold to said portion of said patient's body.

88. The movement therapy system of claim 87 wherein said base is configured to attach to a surface supporting said patient.

89. The movement therapy system of claim 87 wherein the edges of said movement surface are rounded.

90. The movement therapy system of claim 87 wherein said upper surface of said movement surface includes a depression.

91. The movement therapy system of claim 87 wherein said upper surface of said movement surface is saddle-shaped.

92. The movement therapy system of claim 87 further comprising a wrap configured to secure said portion of said patient's body to said upper surface of said movement surface.

93. The movement therapy system of claim 87 wherein said base is configured to raise and lower said movement surface.

94. The movement therapy system of claim 87 wherein said base is configured to raise and lower said movement surface at the same time that said movement surface supplies supply said vibration, said compression, said heat or said cold to said portion of said patient's body.

95. A movement therapy system comprising:

an arm configured to attach to a lift and configured to extend over at least a portion of a surface supporting a patient when said arm is attached to said lift;

at least one sling configured to connect to said arm and configured to support a portion of said patient's body; and

a programmable controller configured to control the movement of said arm.

96. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said arm is configured to attach to multiple slings.

97. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said sling consists of one or more of the following; a strap, a support, a band, a belt or a tie.

98. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling is configured to support the head, an arm or a leg of said patient.

99. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes a strap consisting of surgical chord or a similarly elastic material.

100. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said movement of said arm comprises repetitive raising and lowering of said arm.

101. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said programmable controller is configured to control one or more of the following variables of said movement of said arm: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

102. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said arm is configured to attach to multiple slings and said programmable controller is further configured to control the movement of said arm to move said multiple slings in series, in sequence or independently of one another.

103. The movement therapy system of claim 95 further comprising an interface configured to communicate with said programmable controller.

104. The mo vement therapy system of claim 95 further comprising an interface configured to communicate with said programmable controller and configured to allow a caregiver and/or patient to select values for one or more of the following variables of said movement of said arm: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

105. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more of: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

106. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling is configured to strap around said portion of said body of said patient.

107. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes at least one articulated connection configured to connect to at least two of: a head support, an upper arm support, a Sower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

108. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support configured to connect a torso support via one or more articulated connections.

109. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper arm support configured to connect a lower arm support via one or more articulated connections.

110. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support configured to connect a lower leg support via one or more articulated connections.

1 1 1. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling is configured to limit one or more of the following movements of said patient: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

112. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support configured to connect to the upper right and left legs of said patient, a torso support configured to wrap around the torso of said patient, and at least one articulated connection configured to connect to said upper leg support and said torso support.

113. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling is comprised of a single article and includes at least two of the following: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

114. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes a torso support with an eye positioned on or around the centerline of the chest portion of said torso support.

115. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling is configured to enclose at least a part of said portion of said patient's body and is configured to supply one or more of the following to said part of said portion of said patient's body: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

116. The movement therapy system of claim 95 wherein said at least one sling includes a u-shaped frame configured to enclose a limb of said patient and is configured to supply one or more of the following to said limb: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

1 17. A movement therapy system comprising:

a lift with an arm configured to extend over at least a portion of a surface supporting a patient;

at least one sling configured to connect to said arm and configured to support a limb of said patient;

a programmable controller configured to control movements of said arm, wherein said movements include raising and lowering said limb of said patient; and a programmable interface configured to allow programming of said programmable controller.

118. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said arm is configured to attach to more than one sling.

1 19. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said at least one sling consists of one or more of the following: a strap, a support, a band, a belt or a tie.

120. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said limb may include the head, an arm or a leg of said patient.

121. The movement therapy system of claim 1 17 wherein said at least one sling includes at least one strap,

122. The movement therapy system of claim 1 17 wherem said at least one sling includes at least one strap consisting of surgical chord or a similarly elastic material .

123. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said movement of said ami includes repetitive raising and lowering of said arm.

124. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said programmable controller is configured to control one or more of the following variables of said movement of said arm: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

125. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said arm is configured to attach to multiple slings and said programmable controller is further configured to move said arm such that said multiple slings move in series, in sequence or independently of one another.

126. The movement therapy system of claim 1 17 further comprising an interface configured to communicate with said programmable controller.

127. The movement therapy system of claim 117 further comprising an interface configured to communicate with said programmable controller and configured to allow a caregiver and/or patient to select values for one or more of the following variables of said movement of said arm: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

128. The movement therapy system of claim 1 17 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more of: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

129. The movement therapy system of claim 1 17 wherein said at least one sling is configured to strap around said limb.

130. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said at least one sling includes at least one articulated connection configured to connect to at least two of: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

131. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more articulated connections configured to connect to an upper leg support and a torso support.

132. The movement therapy system of claim 1 17 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more articulated connections configured to connect to an upper arm support and a lower arm support.

133. The movement therapy system of clai 117 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more articulated connections configured to connect to an upper leg support and a lower leg support.

134. The movement therapy system of claim 1 17 wherein said at least one sling is configured to limit one or more of the following movements of said patient: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

135. The movement therapy system of claim 1 17 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support configured to connect to the upper right and left legs of said patient, a torso support configured to wrap around the torso of said patient, and at least one articulated connection configured to connect to said upper leg support and said torso support.

136. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said at least one sling is comprised of a single article and includes at least two of the following: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

137. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said at least one sling includes a torso support with an eye positioned on or around the centerlme of the chest portion of said torso support.

138. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said at least one sling is configured to enclose at least a part of said limb and is configured to supply one or more of the following to said limb: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

139. The movement therapy system of claim 117 wherein said at least one sling includes a u-shaped frame configured to enclose said limb and is configured to supply one or more of the following to said limb: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

140. A movement therapy system comprising:

a lift with an arm configured to extend over at least a portion of a surface supporting a patient; and

a programmable controller configured to control movements of said ann based on desired movements of at least one sling, said at least one sling configured to connect to said arm and configured to support a portion of said patient's body, wherein said programmable controller is further configured to control the supply by said at least one sling of one or more of the following: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

141. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said arm is configured to attac to multiple slings.

142. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more of the following: a strap, a support, a band, a belt or a tie.

143. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling is configured to support the head, an arm or a leg of said patient.

144. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes a strap consisting of surgical chord or a similarly elastic material,

145. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said movements of said arm include repetitive raising and lowering of said arm.

146. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said programmable controller is further configured to control one or more of the following variables of said movements of said arm: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

147. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said arm is configured to attach to multiple slings and said programmable controller is further configured to control the movement of said arm to move said multiple slings in series, in sequence or independently of one another.

148. The movement therapy system of claim 140 further comprising an interface configured to communicate with said programmable controller.

149. The movement therapy system of claim 140 further comprising an interface configured to communicate with said programmable controller and configured to allow a caregiver and/or patient to select values for one or more of the following variables of said movements of said arm: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

150. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more of: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

151. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling is configured to strap around said portion of said patient's body.

152. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes at least one articulated connection configured to connect to at least two of: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

153. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support, a torso support, and one or more articulated connections.

154. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper arm support, a lower arm support and one or more articulated connections.

155. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support, a lower leg support and one or more articulated connections.

156. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling is configured to limit one or more of the following movements of said patient: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing,

157. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support configured to connect to the upper right and left legs of said patient, a torso support configured to wrap around the torso of said patient, and at least one articulated connection configured to connect to said upper leg support and said torso support.

158. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling is one piece with at least two of the following: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

159. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes a torso support with an eye positioned on or around the centerline of the chest portion of said torso support.

160. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling is configured to enclose at least a part of said portion of said patient 's body and is configured to supply one or more of the following to said part of said portion of said patient's body: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

161. The movement therapy system of claim 140 wherein said at least one sling includes a u-shaped frame configured to enclose a limb of said patient and is configured to supply one or more of the following to said limb: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

162. A movement therapy method comprising:

positioning a patient adjacent to a lift such that at least a portion of said lift extends over at least a portion of said patient;

supporting a portion of said patient's body with at least one sling configured to attach to said lift;

selecting a height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing on an interface configured to communicate with a programmable controller, said programmable controller configured to control movements of said portion of said lift that extends over at least a portion of said patient.

163. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said lift is configured to attach to multiple slings.

164. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more of the following: a strap, a support, a band, a belt or a tie.

165. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling is configured to support the head, an arm or a leg of said patient.

166. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes a strap consisting of surgical chord or a similarly elastic material.

167. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said movements of said lift include repetitive raising and lowering of said at least one sling.

168. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherem said programmable controller is further configured to control one or more of the following variables of said movements of said arm: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

169. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said lift is configured to attach to multiple slings and said programmable controller is further configured to control the movement of said lift to move said multiple slings in series, in sequence or independent])' of one another,

170. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes one or more of: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower ann support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

171. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling is configured to strap around said portion of said patient's body.

172. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes at least one articulated connection configured to connect to at least two of: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

173. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support, a torso support, and one or more articulated connections.

174. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper arm support, a lower ann support and one or more articulated connections.

175. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support, a lower leg support and one or more articulated connections.

176. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling is configured to limit one or more of the following movements of said patient: height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions or sequencing.

177. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes an upper leg support configured to connect to the upper right and left legs of said patient, a torso support configured to wrap around the torso of said patient, and at least one articulated connection configured to connect to said upper leg support and said torso support.

178. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling is one piece with at least two of the following: a head support, an upper arm support, a lower arm support, a torso support, an upper leg support, and a lower leg support.

179. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes a torso support with an eye positioned on or around the centerline of the chest portion of said torso support.

180. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling is configured to enclose at least a part of said portion of said patient's body and is configured to supply one or more of the following to said part of said portion of said patient's body: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

181. The movement therapy method of claim 162 wherein said at least one sling includes a u-shaped frame configured to enclose a limb of said patient and is configured to supply one or more of the following to said limb: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

182. A movement therapy system comprising:

a sling configured to attach to a lift, configured to support a limb of a patient within a u-shaped frame, and configured to supply one or more of the following to said limb: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

183. The movement therapy system of claim 182 further comprising a programmable controller configured to control said supply of one or more of the following to said limb: said vibration, said massage, said compression, said heat, and said cold.

184. The movement therapy system of claim 182 further comprising a programmable controller and a user interface configured to communicate with said programmable controller.

185. The movement therapy system of claim 182 further comprising a programmable controller and a user interface configured to allow a caregiver and/or a patient to select levels of one or more of the said supply of one or more of the following to said limb: said vibration, said massage, said compression, said heat, and said cold.

186. A movement therapy system comprising: a sling configured to attach to a lift, configured to enclose a portion of a limb of a patient, and configured to supply one or more of the following to said portion of said limb: vibration, massage, compression, heat, and cold.

187. The movement therapy system of claim 186 further comprising a programmable controller configured to control said supply of one or more of the following to said limb: said vibration, said massage, said compression, said heat, and said cold.

188. The movement therapy system of claim 186 further comprising a programmable controller and a user interface configured to communicate with said programmable controller.

189. The movement therapy system of claim 186 further comprising a programmable controller and a user interface configured to allow a caregiver and/or a patient to select levels of said supply of one or more of the following to said limb: said vibration, said massage, said compression, said heat, and said cold.

190. A movement therapy system comprising:

an overlay mattress containing an upper surface configured to support a patient, said upper surface including at least one pane; wherein said overlay mattress is configured to raise said at least one pane above said upper surface.

191. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is raised, recessed and/or framed within the upper surface of the overlay mattress.

192. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to be mounted to the top of a mattress of a bed.

193. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to attach to a bed.

194. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said overlay mattress comprises one of the following: a bed, a mattress, a pad, a mat, a cot, or a stretcher.

195. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane consists of eight panes configured to move a limb, the torso, or the head of a patient.

196. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to move the head of a patient.

197. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to move the right arm and/or the left arm of a patient.

198. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to move a patient's torso.

199. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to move the ri ght leg and/or a left leg of a patient.

200. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein at least one pane is configured to move the right foot and/or left foot of a patient.

201. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to move in sequence with, in series with or independently of other panels or movement therapy systems.

202. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane, when in a lowered position, is configured to rest in the same plane as said upper surface of said overlay mattress.

203. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein a distal end of said at least one pane is configured to elevate to a height greater than that of a proximal end of said at least one pane.

204. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to rotate.

205. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane includes a top that forms a portion of said upper surface of said overlay mattress when said at least one pane is in a lowered position.

206. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to include multiple sides that are only exposed when said at least one pane is raised.

207. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane includes a top, a front side, a left side, and a right side.

208. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to raise such that the upper surface of said at least one pane is at an incline.

209. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to slope at various angles and/or directions.

210. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein the upper surface of said at least one pane is configured to slope and the direction and/or angle of said slope may be adjusted or varied.

211. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherem said at least one pane is configured to raise to a height that may be adjusted or varied .

212. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherem said overlay mattress is configured to raise and lower said at least one pane to heights that may be adjusted or varied.

213. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherem the said at least one pane is configured to move at multiple amplitudes, speeds, velocities, and/or accelerations.

214. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to adjust or vary the amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, or number of repetitions of movement of said at least one pane.

215. The movement therapy system of claim 190 further comprising a programmable controller.

216. The movement therapy system of claim 1 0 further comprising a programmable controller configured to control one or more of the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, tilt, and/or sequencing of movements of said at least one pane.

217. The movement therapy system of claim 190 further comprising a user interface.

218. The movement therapy system of claim 190 further comprising an interface configured to allow a caregiver or a patient to select one or more of the height, amplitude, speed, velocity, acceleration, number of repetitions, ti lt, and/or sequencing of movements of said at least one pane.

219. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said overlay mattress is configured to overlay a hospital bed that may adjust into different configurations,

220. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said overlay mattress is comprised of materials that may bend or fold.

221. The movement therapy system of claim 190 further comprising a system to move said at least one pane consi sting of one or more of the following: a mechanical system, an electromechanical system, a hydraulic system or a compressed gas system.

222. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane includes a crease or fold.

223. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane includes a crease or fold that is configured to align with a joint of a patient.

224. The movement therapy system of claim 190 wherein said at least one pane is configured to move a portion of a patient's body.

225. The movement therapy system of claim 190 further comprising at least one inflatable chamber.