WO2022160011A1

WO2022160011A1 - Rehabilitation apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2022160011A1
Application number: PCT/AU2022/050040
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nicholas John PIGGOTT
Original assignee: Piggott Nicholas John
Priority date: 2021-01-29
Filing date: 2022-01-28
Publication date: 2022-08-04

Abstract

Provided is rehabilitation apparatus (10) comprising a base (12), at least one linear guide rail (14) supported on the base (12), at least one carriage (16) configured to be operatively guided along the base (12) by said guide rail (14), and at least one footplate (18) adjustably mounted to the carriage (16), said footplate (16) configured to receive a user's foot (20). Apparatus (10) also includes at least one biasing member (22) arrangeable to interconnect the carriage (16) and the base (12) so that said member (22) counteracts translation of the carriage (16) along the guide rail (14) in a predetermined and configurable manner. Further included is a braking arrangement (24) configured to controllably arrest guided translation of the carriage (16). In this manner, apparatus (10) enables a user to urge the carriage (16) along the base (12) with user-configurable force whilst allowing controlled braking as required.

Description

REHABILITATION APPARATUS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention broadly relates to medical rehabilitation apparatus, and particularly to rehabilitation apparatus for people suffering from profound weakness of a lower limb(s) due to a medical condition, such as stroke, a neurological condition, ICU-acquired weakness, post knee or hip orthopaedic surgery, and/or the like.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application .

[0003] Rehabilitation equipment for treatment of medical conditions is known. For example, devices exist to facilitate postoperative rehabilitation for re-establishing joint motion, muscle strength around a joint and overall joint function.

[0004] However, many conventional rehabilitation devices are generalist pieces of equipment, not unlike some exercise machines, designed for use in different positions, such as standing, sitting or lying down in order to treat different parts of the body, typically the arms and legs. These conventional devices are generally targeted towards a patient with a higher level of motor function and operate on the premise that users have the ability to sit or stand safely. [0005] Applicant has identified a shortcoming in the art of medical rehabilitation devices able to treat patients with a profound weakness of the lower limb(s) , often resulting from conditions such as stroke, certain neurological conditions, ICU acquired weakness, post-knee or -hip orthopaedic surgery, or the like. In particular, Applicant has identified the need for a device useable with patients who are unable to safely sit or stand unsupervised and/or those who do not have complete control of their lower limb(s) . In particular, such patients having profound weakness of the lower limb(s) face falling risks when sitting or standing and are generally susceptible to rapid and sudden musculature fatigue which may result in forced, rapid hip and knee flexion.

[0006] The current invention was conceived with these shortcomings in mind in an attempt to ameliorate the art of rehabilitation of patients with a profound weakness of the lower limb ( s ) .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] According to an aspect of the invention there is provided rehabilitation apparatus comprising: a base; at least one linear guide rail supported on the base; at least one carriage configured to be operatively guided along the base by said guide rail; at least one footplate adjustably mounted to the carriage, said footplate configured to receive a user's foot; at least one biasing member arrangeable to interconnect the carriage and the base so that said member counteracts translation of the carriage in a first direction along the guide rail in a user-selectable and configurable manner ; and a braking arrangement configured to arrest translation of the carriage along the rail , said braking arrangement comprising a brake rod pivotably mounted on the base , said brake rod defining a pawl configured to engage with angled brake apertures defined by the carriage so that translation of the carriage is arrestable in a second direction opposed to said first direction; wherein the apparatus enables a user to urge the carriage along the base with user-configurable force whil st allowing controlled braking as required .

[ 0008 ] In an embodiment , the base comprises a substantially flat platform or tray to position the apparatus on a bed or similar body support to prevent interference of a bed covering, such as linen, sheets , blankets , etc . , with operation of said carriage , said base configured to present a flat and/or even abutment surface at a bottom thereof to minimise puncture risk to a pressure mattress , an inflatable mattress , or the like .

[ 0009 ] Typically, the base includes a deployable anchor assembly configured to releasably anchor the apparatus to a bed or similar body support , said anchor assembly comprising at least one anchor plate slidably arranged on the base , the anchor plate slidably deployable between a mattress and a footboard of a bed, in use , so secure the apparatus on the bed .

[ 0010 ] In an embodiment , the deployable anchor assembly comprises a foldable anchor platform for lying f lat on a bed in order to maintain the base in position proximate a lower limb of the user, said foldable anchor platform further forming a carry-case for the apparatus.

[0011] In an embodiment, the anchor assembly includes a strap for strapping the base to a bed.

[0012] In an embodiment, the anchor assembly includes a mounting bracket for releasably mounting the apparatus to a bed .

[0013] Typically, the carriage comprises a linear bearing in which the guide rail is received to guide the carriage along the base.

[0014] In an embodiment, the guide rail comprises a curvilinear rail defining a translation path which is selectable to serve a specific clinical outcome.

[0015] In an embodiment, the guide rail is interchangeable to define different selectable translation paths serving different clinical outcomes.

[0016] Typically, the footplate is adjustably mounted to the carriage to allow angular adjustment of said footplate to accommodate various angles for receiving a user's foot.

[0017] In an embodiment, the footplate is adjustably mounted to the carriage to adjust a height of a user's foot above the base.

[0018] Typically, the footplate includes a restraint to secure a user's foot thereto, such as a foot strap, or the like . [0019] In an embodiment, the footplate defines a grasping handle to facilitate external manipulation of the carriage by a therapist or other assistant.

[0020] In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises two linear guide rails arranged in parallel on the base, each guide rail supporting a carriage thereon in order to accommodate both lower limbs of a user.

[0021] In an embodiment where the apparatus comprises two guide rails, the guide rails are typically configured so that a distance between them is adjustable.

[0022] In an embodiment, the biasing member comprises a resiliently elastic member.

[0023] Typically, the resiliently elastic member comprises an elastic cord, such as TheraBand™ or TheraTube™ line of products, or bungee or shock cord, or the like.

[0024] In an embodiment, the biasing member comprises a magnetic and/or electromagnetic arrangement which is configured to counteract translation of the carriage along the guide rail in a predetermined and configurable manner.

[0025] Typically, in embodiments where the apparatus comprises two carriages, said apparatus includes a linkage arrangement configured to selectively couple said carriages so that movement of said carriages are brought into relationship.

[0026] In an embodiment, the linkage arrangement is configured to couple the carriages for simultaneous unidirectional translation, i.e. the carriages move together in the same direction.

[0027] In an embodiment, the linkage arrangement is configured to couple the carriages for simultaneous opposite directional translation, i.e. when one carriage moves in one direction, the other carriage moves in an opposite direction.

[0028] In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a leg guide assembly configured to engage a user' s leg to maintain a positioning of said leg relative to the apparatus as the carriage with user's foot translates along the guide rail.

[0029] In an embodiment, the leg guide assembly comprises a leg cradle for receiving a user' s leg, said leg cradle pivotally and/or slidably mounted on a leg guide lever, which is pivotally arranged relative to the base.

[0030] In an embodiment, the leg guide assembly includes a biasing member to counteract movement of the user' s leg relative to the base.

[0031] In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a repetition counter configured to count a number of translations of a carriage along the guide rail.

[0032] In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a force sensor configured to monitor a force applied by a user on the footplate .

[0033] In an embodiment, the leg guide assembly includes a force sensor configured to monitor a force applied by a user' s leg, such as a hip external rotation force. [ 0034 ] In an embodiment , the apparatus includes a holder for an electronic device , such as a smartphone , the repetition counter and/or force sensor arrangeable in signal communication with the device adapted to display information about use of the apparatus to a user .

[ 0035 ] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided rehabilitation apparatus substantially as herein described and/or illustrated .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which :

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view representation of example constituent parts of rehabilitation apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a diagrammatic exploded view representation of the rehabilitation apparatus of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is diagrammatic perspective view representation of the rehabilitation apparatus of Figure 1 when secured to a bed;

Figure 4 is a diagrammatic perspective view representation of an example of an interaction between a carriage and base of the rehabilitation apparatus linked via a resiliently elastic member ; Figure 5 is a diagrammatic side-view representation of rehabilitation apparatus with a user' s foot received thereby, in use ;

Figures 6a and 6b are diagrammatic front-view representations of a carriage of the rehabilitation apparatus of Figure 1 , showing adj ustment of a footplate thereof ;

Figures 7 and 8 are diagrammatic side view representations of the rehabilitation apparatus of Figure 1 , in use ; and

Figure 9 is a diagrammatic side view representation of the rehabilitation apparatus of Figure 1 including a leg guide assembly .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[ 0036 ] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several nonlimiting embodiments thereof . This description is included solely for the purposes of exempli fying the present invention to the skilled addressee . It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above .

[ 0037 ] In the figures , incorporated to illustrate features of the example embodiment or embodiments , like reference numerals are used to identi fy like parts throughout . Additionally, features , mechanisms and aspects well-known and understood in the art will not be described in detail , as such features , mechanisms and aspects will be within the understanding of the skilled addressee . [ 0038 ] The present invention broadly provides for rehabilitation apparatus 10 generally intended to treat patients with a profound weakness of the lower limb ( s ) . Apparatus 10 is intended to prevent hyper extension of the knee during treatment , as target patients may be unable to properly control an af fected lower limb into and out of endrange extension, particularly being unable to unlock a knee from a hyper extended position .

[ 0039 ] For af fected patients or users , such repetitive rapid hyper extension of the knee may act as a mechanism of inj ury . It is also intended that apparatus 10 should maintain functional position of the hip throughout a limb extension pathway . Due to potential weakness of internal and external rotators of the hip, the intended user may be unable to maintain the femur in an upright position, as well as being unable to recruit the appropriate musculature and achieve full range extension when the hip is externally rotated .

[ 0040 ] Due to the intended use of apparatus 10 , it is typically used by a user in a supine position, i . e . lying on their back . The user may also be assisted by a therapi st or similar assistant , such as a family member, which has been shown to improve recovery and motivation due to emotional support and interaction .

[ 0041 ] Referring now to the accompanying drawings , there is shown examples of rehabilitation apparatus 10 in accordance with aspects of the present invention . Such rehabilitation apparatus 10 generally comprises a base 12 , at least one linear guide rail 14 supported on the base 12 , at least one carriage 16 configured to be operatively guided along or over the base 12 by said guide rail 14 , and at least one footplate 18 adj ustably mounted to the carriage 16 , said footplate 18 configured to receive a user' s foot 20 . It is to be appreciated that the exempli fied embodiments are non-limiting and variations on their shape and interaction are possible , expected and included within the scope of the present invention .

[ 0042 ] The guide rail 14 finds particular application as it enables a precise path of travel of the carriage 16 to be predetermined . Accordingly, a speci fic movement is achievable in either forward or rearward direction by a patient or user' s lower limb by having a suitably-configured guide rail or rails 14 . Additionally, the skilled addressee is to appreciate that the guide rail 14 , while described as linear, may also comprise a curvilinear rail in certain embodiments , as required . In addition, apparatus 10 may comprise a number of interchangeable rails 14 , varying between linear and curvilinear, which a user or patient may select depending on requirements . Such varying rails may serve di f ferent clinical outcomes , for example .

[ 0043 ] Apparatus 10 also includes at least one biasing member, such as a resiliently elastic member 22 , which is operatively arrangeable to interconnect the carriage 16 and the base 12 so that said elastic member 22 counteracts translation of the carriage 16 along the guide rail 14 in a predetermined and configurable manner . The resiliently elastic member or members 22 may comprise an elastic cord, such as TheraBand™ or TheraTube™ line of products , or bungee or shock cord, or the like . Such elastic members 22 allow precise force to be required by the user in order to suit their rehabilitation needs . While elastic cords are exempli fied, it is to be appreciated any other suitable biasing means may be apposite , such as springs , magnetic or electromagnetic arrangements , pneumatic or hydraulic arrangements , or the like . Depending on requirements , such biasing member may be configured to bias movement of the carriage 16 in one or both directions of translation along the guide rail 14 , as required . Typically, the biasing member 22 counteracts translation of the carriage 16 in a first direction 19 along the guide rail in a user-selectable and configurable manner, as shown .

[ 0044 ] Apparatus 10 further generally includes a braking arrangement 24 which is configured to controllably arrest guided translation of the carriage 16 . In the exempli fied embodiment , the braking arrangement 24 comprises a brake rod 23 which is pivotably mounted on the base 12 , said brake rod 23 defining a pawl 27 which is configured to engage with angled brake apertures 29 defined by the carriage 16 , as shown . In this manner, translation of the carriage 16 is arrestable in a second direction 21 generally opposed to the first direction 19 . Usefully, braking arrangement 24 generally includes a brake handle 25 on an opposite side of brake rod 23 , which facilitates in a user applying the brake . For example , the brake arrangement 24 is a ' fail-safe ' configuration when a user rests a hand thereon, with li fting of the handle 25 required to release the pawl 27 . Additionally, angled apertures 29 allow the carriage to release ratchet-style when travelling in the first direction 19 , where a user is required to counteract the biasing member 22 , with potentially uncontrolled translation in the second direction 21 automatically arrestable by the brake arrangement 24 .

[ 0045 ] In an embodiment , the base 12 is configured and/or adapted to position the apparatus 10 on a bed or similar body support . Typically, the base 12 comprises a substantially flat platform or tray and is generally si zed, shaped and/or configured to prevent interference of a bed covering, such as linen, sheets , blankets , etc . , with operation of the carriage 16 , i . e . avoid entanglement of bed covering with operation of apparatus 10 . Additionally, the base 12 is generally configured to present a flat and/or even abutment surface at a bottom thereof to minimise puncture risk to a pressure mattress , an inflatable mattress , or the like . By having the base 12 configured as described, facilitates use in a supine position, often on a pressure of inflatable mattress , as found in hospitals and clinics .

[ 0046 ] In an embodiment , the base includes a deployable anchor assembly 26 which is generally configured to releasably anchor the apparatus 10 to a bed or similar body support . In one embodiment , the anchor assembly 26 comprises at least one anchor plate 32 which is slidably arranged on the base 12 , as shown, with the anchor plate 32 slidably deployable between a mattress and a footboard of a bed, in use , so secure the apparatus 10 on the bed . In an embodiment , the anchor assembly 26 may also include a mounting bracket for releasably mounting the apparatus to a bed, such as a conventional hospital bed, or the like .

[ 0047 ] Additionally, or alternatively, in an embodiment the deployable anchor assembly 26 comprises a foldable anchor platform 36 for lying flat on a bed in order to maintain the base in position proximate a lower limb of the user, said foldable anchor platform 36 further forming a carry-case for the apparatus 10 when suitably folded . In an embodiment , the anchor assembly 26 may also include a strap 40 for strapping the base 12 to a bed . Variations hereon are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure . [0048] In this broad manner, apparatus 10 enables a user to urge the carriage 16 along the base 12 with user-configurable force, by appropriate selection and configuration of the elastic member (s) 22, whilst also allowing controlled braking during use, as required. Such braking finds particular application in treatment of patients with a profound weakness of the lower limb(s) , as any unwanted or unintended translation of the carriage 16 can be controlled or prevented. In addition, the braking arrangement 24 is generally configured so that a user in a supine position can control and use it, e.g. via brake handle 25, as described above.

[0049] Typically, the footplate 18 is adjustably mounted to the carriage 16 to allow angular adjustment of said footplate 18 in order to accommodate various angles for receiving a user's foot 20, as well as adjusting a height of the user's foot 20 therein. Such adjustable mounting may take a variety of forms, such as the tab and slot arrangement shown in the accompanying figures. Typically, the footplate 18 includes a restraint 30 to secure a user's foot 20 thereto, such as a foot strap, or the like. Such restraint 30 typically assists a user in urging the carriage in a forward or rearward direction 19 and 21, respectively, for example. In one embodiment, the footplate 18 also defines a grasping handle (not shown) to facilitate external manipulation of the carriage by a therapist or other assistant, such as a family member of a user or patient. Such assistance is known to provide improved outcomes due to emotional support it provides.

[0050] In a typical example, apparatus 10 comprises two linear (or curvilinear) guide rails 14 arranged in parallel on the base 12, said parallel rails 14 guiding the carriage 16 along the base 12. Typically, the carriage 16 comprises a linear bearing 38 in which each guide rail 14 is received to guide the carriage 16 along the base 12. It is also to be appreciated that the guide rails 14 may define a space-variable translation path for the carriage 16. For example, where two parallel curvilinear rails 14 are used, they may impart a specific and predetermined rotation to the carriage 16 as said carriage 16 travels on the rails, said translation serving a particular clinical outcome. In an embodiment where the apparatus 10 comprises two guide rails 14, the guide rails 14 are typically configured so that a distance between them is adjustable, i.e. slidably adjustable on the base 12, as shown in Figure 6, or the like.

[0051] In such embodiments where the apparatus 10 comprises two carriages 16, said apparatus 10 may include a linkage arrangement (not shown) configured to selectively couple said carriages 16 so that movement of said carriages are brought into relationship.

[0052] For example, in an embodiment, the linkage arrangement may be configured to couple the carriages 16 for simultaneous unidirectional translation, i.e. the carriages 16 move together in the same direction. In a further embodiment, the linkage arrangement may be configured to couple the carriages 16 for simultaneous opposite directional translation, i.e. when one carriage moves in one direction, the other carriage moves in an opposite direction. Such a linkage arrangement may comprise a pulley arrangement bringing the carriages 16 in a push-pull relationship, or the like. With such a linkage arrangement, a user can use a non-affected lower limb to assist an affected lower limb, for example. [0053] Fo r example, an affected limb may be used to translate a carriage in a forward or rearward direction against a biasing force of the biasing member 22. Once such movement is completed, the linkage arrangement may be engaged to allow an unaffected limb to return the carriage to a starting position, or the like.

[0054] In an embodiment, an example of which is shown in Figure 9, the apparatus 10 includes a leg guide assembly 34 which is generally configured to engage a user's leg 28 to maintain a position of said 28 leg relative to the apparatus 10 as the carriage 16 with user's foot 20 translates along the guide rail 14. Such a leg guide assembly 34 generally facilitates in proper treatment of a user to achieve a desired clinical outcome, as required, and may obviate the use of leg supports 48, as shown in Figure 8.

[0055] In a typical embodiment, the leg guide assembly 34 comprises a leg cradle 42 for receiving a user's leg 28, said leg cradle 42 pivotally and/or slidably mounted on a leg guide lever 44, as shown, which is pivotally arranged relative to the base 12. Additionally, the leg guide assembly 34 may include a biasing member 46, similar to elastic 22, to counteract movement of the user's leg 28 relative to the base 12. Variations on the specific configuration of the leg guide assembly 34 may vary, as will be appreciated by the skilled addressee .

[0056] In an embodiment, the apparatus 10 includes a repetition counter (not shown) which is configured, for example, to count a number of translations of the carriage 16 along the guide rail 14. In an embodiment, the apparatus 10 may also include a force sensor (not shown) which is configured to monitor a force applied by a user on the footplate 18, and/or a force applied by a user's leg via the leg guide assembly 34, such as a hip external rotation force, or the like. As will be appreciated by the skilled addressee, such repetition counter and force sensor (s) may take a variety of forms, such as an electronic arrangement, or the like.

[0057] In an embodiment, the apparatus 10 may further include a holder (not shown) for an electronic device, such as a smartphone, the repetition counter and/or force sensor (s) arrangeable in signal communication with the electronic device which is adapted to display information about use of the apparatus 10 to a user. For example, the electronic device may be adapted with a suitable software application or 'app' to receive information from the repetition counter and/or force sensor (s) in order to provide clinically-useful information to the user and/or a therapist treating the user, or the like.

[0058] While the present invention has been exemplified as rehabilitation apparatus for users suffering with a profound weakness of the lower limb(s) , it is to be appreciated that apparatus 10 may also be suitable for use in the gerontological population to maintain and/or improve physical function. Similarly, apparatus may also easily be adapted to be suitable for individuals with higher levels of physical function, e.g. as exercise apparatus for athletes, or the like.

[0059] Applicant believes it particularly advantageous that the present invention provides for apparatus 10 which is generally portable, quick and easy to set up and facilitates modifiable resistance when treating patients with profound weakness of the lower limb(s) . Apparatus 10 can also be realised in an affordable manner and supports independent user operation in a manner which is safe in consideration of user' s impairment .

[0060] Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth. In the example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail, as such will be readily understood by the skilled addressee .

[0061] The use of the terms "a", "an", "said", "the", and/or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the claimed subject matter) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including, " and "containing" are to be construed as open- ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter .

[0062] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer," "beneath, " "below, " "lower, " "above, " "upper, " and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element (s) or feature (s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0063] It is to be appreciated that reference to "one example" or "an example" of the invention, or similar exemplary language (e.g., "such as") herein, is not made in an exclusive sense. Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter are described herein, textually and/or graphically, for carrying out the claimed subject matter.

[0064] Accordingly, one example may exemplify certain aspects of the invention, whilst other aspects are exemplified in a different example. These examples are intended to assist the skilled person in performing the invention and are not intended to limit the overall scope of the invention in any way unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Variations (e.g. modifications and/or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application.

Claims

1 . Rehabilitation apparatus comprising : a base ; at least one linear guide rail supported on the base ; at least one carriage configured to be operatively guided along the base by said guide rail ; at least one footplate adj ustably mounted to the carriage , said footplate configured to receive a user' s foot ; at least one biasing member arrangeable to interconnect the carriage and the base so that said member counteracts translation of the carriage in a first direction along the guide rail in a user-selectable and configurable manner ; and a braking arrangement configured to arrest translation of the carriage along the rail , said braking arrangement comprising a brake rod pivotably mounted on the base , said brake rod defining a pawl configured to engage with angled brake apertures defined by the carriage so that translation of the carriage is arrestable in a second direction opposed to said first direction; wherein the apparatus enables a user to urge the carriage along the base with user-configurable force whil st allowing controlled braking as required .

2 . Apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the base comprises a substantially flat platform or tray to position the apparatus on a bed or similar body support to prevent interference of a bed covering, such as linen, sheets , blankets , etc . , with operation of said carriage , said base configured to present a flat and/or even abutment surface at a bottom thereof to minimise puncture risk to a pressure mattress , an inflatable mattress , or the like .

3. Apparatus of either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the base includes a deployable anchor assembly configured to releasably anchor the apparatus to a bed or similar body support, said anchor assembly comprising at least one anchor plate slidably arranged on the base, the anchor plate slidably deployable between a mattress and a footboard of a bed, in use, so secure the apparatus on the bed.

4. Apparatus of claim 3, wherein the deployable anchor assembly comprises a foldable anchor platform for lying flat on a bed in order to maintain the base in position proximate a lower limb of the user, said foldable anchor platform further forming a carry-case for the apparatus.

5. Apparatus of either of claims 3 or 4, wherein the anchor assembly includes a strap for strapping the base to a bed.

6. Apparatus of any of claims 3 to 5, wherein the anchor assembly includes a mounting bracket for releasably mounting the apparatus to a bed.

7. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the carriage comprises a linear bearing in which the guide rail is received to guide the carriage along the base.

8. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the footplate is adjustably mounted to the carriage to allow angular adjustment of said footplate to accommodate various angles for receiving a user's foot.

9. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the footplate is adjustably mounted to the carriage to adjust a height of a user's foot above the base.

10. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the footplate includes a restraint to secure a user's foot thereto, such as a foot strap, or the like.

11. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the footplate defines a grasping handle to facilitate external manipulation of the carriage by a therapist or other assistant.

12. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 11, which comprises two linear guide rails arranged side-by-side on the base, each guide rail supporting a carriage thereon in order to accommodate both lower limbs of a user.

13. Apparatus of claim 12, wherein the guide rails are configured so that a distance between them is adjustable.

14. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the biasing member comprises a resiliently elastic member.

15. Apparatus of claim 14, wherein the resiliently elastic member comprises an elastic cord, such as TheraBand™ or TheraTube™ line of products, or bungee or shock cord, or the like .

16. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the biasing member comprises a magnetic and/or electromagnetic arrangement which is configured to counteract translation of the carriage along the guide rail in a predetermined and configurable manner . 22

17. Apparatus of claim 12, which includes a linkage arrangement configured to selectively couple said carriages so that movement of said carriages are brought into relationship.

18. Apparatus of claim 17, wherein the linkage arrangement is configured to couple the carriages for simultaneous unidirectional translation, i.e. the carriages move together in the same direction.

19. Apparatus of claim 17, wherein the linkage arrangement is configured to couple the carriages for simultaneous opposite directional translation, i.e. when one carriage moves in one direction, the other carriage moves in an opposite direction.

20. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 19, which includes a leg guide assembly configured to engage a user' s leg to maintain a position of said leg relative to the apparatus as the carriage with user's foot translates along the guide rail.

21. Apparatus of claim 20, wherein the leg guide assembly comprises a leg cradle for receiving a user' s leg, said leg cradle pivotally and/or slidably mounted on a leg guide lever, which is pivotally arranged relative to the base.

22. Apparatus of either of claims 20 or 21, wherein the leg guide assembly includes a biasing member to counteract movement of the user's leg relative to the base.

23. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 22, which includes a repetition counter configured to count a number of translations of a carriage along the guide rail. 23

24. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 23, which includes a force sensor configured to monitor a force applied by a user on the footplate .

25. Apparatus of any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the leg guide assembly includes a force sensor configured to monitor a force applied by a user's leg, such as a hip external rotation force.

26. Apparatus of any of claims 23 to 25, which includes a holder for an electronic device, such as a smartphone, the repetition counter and/or force sensor arrangeable in signal communication with the device adapted to display information about use of the apparatus to a user.

27. Apparatus of any of claims 1 to 26, wherein the guide rail comprises a curvilinear rail defining a translation path which is selectable to serve a specific clinical outcome.

28. Apparatus of claim 27, wherein the guide rail is interchangeable to define different selectable translation paths serving different clinical outcomes.