U.S. patent application number 10/494118 was filed with the patent office on 2005-02-24 for exercise device to prevent dvt.
Invention is credited to McKenzie, Noel Robertson.
Application Number | 20050043149 10/494118 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 9924818 |
Filed Date | 2005-02-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050043149 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McKenzie, Noel Robertson |
February 24, 2005 |
Exercise device to prevent dvt
Abstract
In order to provide an exercise device to give movement of the
calf muscles to help pump blood from the legs to the heart and
thereby reduce the risk of DVT, an oval or elliptical shaped
oscillator is provided which can be used by a seated person by
rocking the device backwards and forward underneath the foot. Lift
is provided by the dual can effect of the rocking device, reacting
with the floor, which increases the angle of the foot so as to flex
the calf muscles.
Inventors: |
McKenzie, Noel Robertson;
(Worthing, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GOTTLIEB RACKMAN & REISMAN PC
270 MADISON AVENUE
8TH FLOOR
NEW YORK
NY
100160601
|
Family ID: |
9924818 |
Appl. No.: |
10/494118 |
Filed: |
October 25, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
October 31, 2002 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB02/04944 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/79 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 22/16 20130101;
A61H 2205/10 20130101; A61H 2209/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/079 |
International
Class: |
A63B 023/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 31, 2001 |
GB |
0126063.7 |
Claims
1. An exercise device comprising a solid body having a first
surface for contacting the instep of the foot of a user and a
second surface for contacting a floor surface wherein the outer
profile of the first and second surfaces correspond to a
substantially symmetrical ellipse, an asymmetrical ellipse, an
ovoid, oblong or round edge polygon, the first and second surfaces
being configured so that rolling the second surface over a floor
surface causes at least a part of the first surface to rise with
respect to the floor surface, wherein a cross section of a foot
contacting zone of the device has a greatest dimension and a least
dimension, the ratio between the least dimension and the greatest
dimension being in the range 1.0:1.05 to 1.0:2.0.
2. An oscillating device that functions under the instep that
employs an elliptical shape or offset motion, to provide an
increase in height or lift for the foot when rocked or rotated in
either direction, and wherein a cross section of a foot contacting
zone of the device has a greatest dimension and a least dimension,
the ratio between the least dimension and the greatest dimension
being in the range 1.0:1.05 to 1.0:2.0.
3. A device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cross section of
the device corresponds to a 20.degree. to 60.degree. ellipse or
ellipsoid, preferably a 35-40.degree. ellipse or ellipsoid.
4. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the ratio
between the least dimension and the greatest dimension is in the
range 1.0:1.15 to 1.0:2.0, preferably 1.0:1.2 to 1.0:1.9, most
preferably 1.0:1.4 to 1.0:1.8.
5. A device according to any preceding claim, comprising a solid
body or a hollow body.
6. A device according to any preceding claim, comprising two halves
which may be releasably fixed together.
7. An exercise device according to any preceding claim, wherein the
device is in the form of a round edged polygon and the ratio
between the least dimension and the greatest dimension is in the
range 1:1.5-1.0:2.0.
8. A device according to any of claims 1-6, where in the solid body
corresponds to a substantially symmetrical ellipse, an asymmetrical
ellipse or an avoid, wherein the cross section of the device
corresponds to a 20.degree. to 60.degree. ellipse or ellipsoid.
Description
[0001] This invention relates to devices for exercising the human
body, and the legs in particular.
[0002] Recently, it has become more widely understood that seated
and inactive persons, such as aircraft passengers, may be prone to
deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), occurring in the min over longer
journey times and affecting the legs in particular. Normally,
movement of the calf muscles helps to pump blood from the legs to
the heart. However, if the legs are rented or inactive for extended
periods, such as in the case of long haul air travel, there is a
risk of blood clots forming in the legs, although these may be
dispersed through exercise that activate the calf muscles to
increase the flow of blood. Whilst seated this can be best achieved
by rocking the foot at the ankle which, primarily, generates
movement in the calf muscle group.
[0003] Certain exercise devices for the legs are produced that may
be operated whilst seated for the relief of DVT. However, these
devices need setting up and may not always fully exercise the calf
muscles due to imprecise action through not being operated
correctly. The present invention sets out to provide improvements
in these respects.
[0004] The present inventor has realised that a simple and highly
effective exercise device may be provided in the form of a rigid
body comprising a foot-contacting surface and a floor-contacting
surface which are configured so that rolling the floor-contacting
surface over a floor surface will cause the foot-contacting surface
to rise above the floor surface. Surprisingly, the action of
lifting the foot causes the calf muscles to contract in a way which
helps to pump blood through the veins in the leg. Repeated
operation of the device in a rocking, oscillating or rolling motion
causes a repeated contraction and relaxing of the calf muscles and
can help resist the formation of clots and deep vein
thrombosis.
[0005] The present invention accordingly provides an exercise
device comprising a solid body having a first surface for
contacting the instep of the foot of a user and a second surface
for contacting a floor surface wherein the outer profile of the
first and second surfaces correspond to a substantially symmetrical
ellipse, an asymmetrical ellipse, an ovoid, oblong or round edge
polygon, the first and second surfaces being configured so that
rolling the second surface over a floor surface causes at least a
part of the first surface to rise with respect to the floor
surface, wherein a cross section of a foot contacting zone of the
device has a greatest dimension and a least dimension, the ratio
between the least dimension and the greatest dimension being in the
range 1.0:1.05 to 1.0:2.0.
[0006] The present invention further provides an oscillating device
that functions under the instep that employs an elliptical shape or
offset motion, to provide an increase in height or lift for the
foot when rocked or rotated in either direction, and wherein a
cross section of a foot contacting zone of the device has a
greatest dimension and a least dimension, the ratio between the
least dimension and the greatest dimension being in the range
1.0:1.05 to 1.0:2.0, 1.0:1.15 to 1.0:2.0.
[0007] According to the present invention, an oblong length of
material is shaped to act as a support and fulcrum for the foot
whilst seated. The oscillator is located under the instep, just
forward of the ankle, so that it can be rocked, or oscillated,
backwards and forwards by the foot which, primarily, respires the
effort of the calf muscles, thus increasing blood flow in the leg
concerned.
[0008] Preferably, the second surface is a smoothly curving surface
or a surface defined by a plurality of small stepped surface
segments whose edges lie on a smooth curve. Suitably, if the
surface comprises small surface segments, each surface segment is
no wider than 2 cm, preferably no wider than 1.5 cm and preferably
no wider than 0.8 cm. Preferably, the first surface is also curved,
being defined by a smooth curve or a series of stepped surface
segments in a similar way to the second curved surface. Suitably,
the first and second surfaces define a closed body.
[0009] The necessary rising action is achieved because the body is
generally non-circular, being elliptical, ovoid, oblong or
polygonal with rounded edges.
[0010] All of these figures have the advantage that, when they are
pushed, pulled, rocked, oscillated or rolled across a floor
surface, using the foot, a rising action is generated in the foot,
causing the calf muscles to contract.
[0011] The first and second curved surfaces may have substantially
the same form so that the device can be used with either surface in
contact with the floor or with the foot.
[0012] The device may comprise a section of a cylinder or prism
whose cross section has the shape described above. Alternatively,
it may be a section of a conoid, a pair of conoids meeting at their
bases, or a cylindroid, having outwardly bowed side walls in a
manner of a barrel, or inwardly bowed side walls.
[0013] The body may even be in a form of a distorted ball.
[0014] The body may be formed of any suitable material, for
example, metal, synthetic material such as thermoplastic or
composite material, wood, paper, paper mache or any other suitable
material. A suitable material is polystyrene. The device may be
formed by any suitable technique, such as moulding. It may be
formed as a solid body or it may comprise a hollow body.
[0015] Where the body is in form of a hollow body, it may be open
at at least one end, so that items may be stored inside the body.
Removable closure means may be provided for at least one end of the
body.
[0016] The body may be symmetrical about at least one and
preferably two planes of symmetry, suitably, the planes of symmetry
intersect one another at right angles.
[0017] Where the device comprises a symmetrical body, it can be
placed any way round or anyway up and will still function.
[0018] The shape of the body is further defined by defining the
shape of the cross section of a foot-contacting zone of the device.
In the foot contacting zone, a cross section, extending between a
foot contacting portion and ground contacting portion will have a
greatest dimension and a least dimension. For example, if the shape
were elliptical, these would be the distance along the minor axis
and the distance along the major axis.
[0019] Suitably, the greatest dimension is in the range 50-150 mm
more preferably 50-100 mm. Preferably, the least dimension is in
the range 20-10 mm, more preferably 25-60 mm, The ratio between the
least and the greatest dimension is in the range of 1.0:1.05 to
1.0:2.0, preferably 1.0:1.15 to 1.0:2.0 more preferably 1.0:1.2 to
1.0:1.9 most preferably around 1.0:1.5 to 1.0:1.8.
[0020] The first and second surfaces may be textured to improve
grip. For example, they may be roughened, matt, ridged, stepped or
grooved to improve contact and friction.
[0021] Where the shape comprises an ellipse or at least
approximates to an ellipse, the shape may be defined with reference
to a plane dissecting a circular section cylinder at an angle. The
angle between the plane and a plane which is perpendicular to the
axis of the cylinder is referred to. In this case, the shape of the
foot-contacting portion is suitably defined by a 20-60.degree.
ellipse or ellipsoid, preferably a 35-40.degree. ellipse or
ellipsoid.
[0022] If the difference between the greatest and least dimension
is not sufficiently large, an insufficient lifting action is
obtained. Suitably, a lift in the range 10-25 mm is obtained when
rolling the device over a distance of about 5 cm.
[0023] If, however, the difference between the greatest dimension
and the least dimension is too much, the device becomes difficult
to operate. Further, if the difference is too small, the object
will tend to approximate too much to a smooth cylinder and may roll
around floor in an uncontrolled fashion, providing a hazard to
other people.
[0024] The body may comprise at least two parts which fit together
for use. The parts may define between them a space for enclosing
objects. The shape must be constructed in a way, known to the
person skilled in the art, so that it can bear the weight of at
least the leg of a fully grown adult.
[0025] Alternatively, the body may comprise two geometrically
similar parts, one of which is slidably mounted in the other, so
that the device may be opened like a telescope.
[0026] The present invention further provides a method of
exercising the foot, comprising placing an exercise device
according to the invention between the instep of the foot and a
floor surface and rocking, oscillating or rolling the foot and the
device backward and forwards.
[0027] It is a particular advantage of the present invention that
it may be used while the user is in a seated position. For example,
it may be used by a passenger in an aircraft or other vehicle
whilst at their seat, allowing for use with minimal interference.
It employs a natural foot action. The device may be used
substantially silently, as it does not require hinges or other
moving parts. The device may be prepared for use simply by placing
it on the ground, making it easy to operate.
[0028] Preferably, the device is formed of material, thickness and
size which allow its weight way to be small. Preferably, the weight
is in the range 50-250 gms more preferably 100-150 gms.
[0029] Optional feature of the invention may include a timer device
for setting off a warning, for example a flashing light, buzzer or
other device for alerting a user that it is time to exercise.
[0030] The lifting motion imparted to the leg may be taken up by
movement of the foot or movement of the whole leg, according to the
preference of the user.
[0031] In either case, the calf muscles will be contracted, with
the accompanying beneficial effect.
[0032] By way of example, a specific embodiment of the invention,
referred to in the description as an oscillator, will now be
described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0033] FIG. 1 shows in perspective, the general configuration of
the oscillator.
[0034] FIG. 2 shows in perspective, the oscillator in position
under the in step.
[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates in end view, the alternating positions of
the oscillator.
[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates the top and underside details of the
oscillator.
[0037] FIG. 5 shows the oscillator in two parts.
[0038] Referring to FIG. 1, an oblong, oval-shaped oscillator 7,
which may be of solid or hollow construction, is designed to
function under and across the instep of the foot whilst supporting
the full weight of the leg and foot on its upper surface, as
indicated by the arrows, and with the underside being in contact
with the floor at 8. The oscillator and foot may then be rocked
backwards and forwards on the spot by applying alternate pressure
with the ball of the foot and heel, with shoes on or off. The
oscillator 7 is symmetrical in design so that either surface may
provide the floor-contacting surface or the foot-contacting
surface.
[0039] According to FIG. 2, the oscillator 7 is shown in position
with the leg near vertical and arrows indicating the rocking motion
of the foot.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 3, the central principle employed in the
oscillator is that the dual cam effect of the rocking ellipsoid,
reacting with the floor, lifts either the front or back of the foot
as it is progressively rotated so that the following occurs.
Diagram A shows the oscillator rocked forwards by pressure on the
ball of the foot so that the rear lobe of the ellipse has risen,
giving an increase in height shown at C which is lifting the heel
and increasing the angle of the foot to the horizontal plane so as
to fully flex the calf muscles. Diagram B shows the oscillator
rocked backwards by downward pressure of the heel which is lifting
the front of the foot and also increasing its angle to the
horizontal plane so as to fully flex the calf muscles in reverse.
The `pumping` effect of the calf muscles can thus be controlled and
varied depending on the degree of effort applied to the rocking
action, affecting the angle of the foot.
[0041] The oscillator may also have an asymmetrical, or egg-shaped,
outer profile which provides a variation in lift characteristics,
if required.
[0042] According to FIG. 4, the plan view of the upper and lower
surfaces of the oscillator shows lateral ridges 9 which improve
grip and control slippage at the foot and floor interfaces when in
use. If the oscillator is of hollow construction, end cap(s) 10 may
be removable to access items that may be kept within.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 5, the oscillator may be constructed of
two separate halves with the horizontal join surfaces shown at 11.
The oscillator may function as a single unit if the halves are
joined together, or it may be separated to provide two units that
may be used with the flat surfaces uppermost in contact with the
feet.
[0044] The oscillator 7 shown in FIGS. 1 and 5 of the drawings
comprises an elliptical sectioned prism.
[0045] When seen in cross section, the width along the major axis
is 57 mm and the depth along the minor axis is 33 mm, corresponding
to a 36.degree. ellipse.
[0046] The prism section is preferably of length of 106 mm. The
device is formed of thermoplastic material and weighs 120 gms.
[0047] In order to determine the effectiveness of the device
according to FIG. 1 for increasing blood flow and for resisting
DVT, live tests were carried out at a leading Medical Centre.
[0048] Ten healthy subjects of both sexes were individually tested
at half hourly intervals to evaluate how using the device of FIG. 1
affected blood flow in the legs. A standard economy class aircraft
seat was provided in which each subject remained for the duration
of the test. A sensor was attached to each leg to monitor venous
outflow Vo in the femoral region. The left leg (LT) was kept static
as a control throughout the test while the right (RT) foot and leg
were exercised. the object being to determine blood flow
differential in the legs as a result of right leg activity alone,
thus indicating blood flow improvement directly attributable to the
exercise device of FIG. 1.
[0049] The subjects were seated and totally inactive for the
initial two hours so that the fall off in venous outflow could be
monitored in both legs. Thereafter, at half hourly intervals, the
right foot were exercised for one minute duration using the device
of FIG. 1 and the Vo readings were taken 15 minutes after cessation
of exercise. Exercise was conducted every 30 minutes for one minute
only.
[0050] The following results were obtained.
[0051] After two hours, venous outflow from the unexercised left
leg was reduced by 43.5%. In contrast, venous outflow in the right
leg, 15 minutes after exercise was ceased had only reduced by
19.57%. Further, venous capacitance was measured. The venous
capacitance of the left leg after two hours had increased by 34.66%
whereas it had only increased by 30.1% in the right leg.
[0052] It can be seen that there is 55% improvement in blood flow
produced by just one minute of exercise. This value compares
directly with blood flow improvements obtained by normal walking
action for the same time in a similar test environment.
[0053] The present invention has been described above by way of
example only. Modification can be made within the spirit of the
invention which extends to equivalents of the features described.
The invention also consists in any individual features described or
implicit herein or shown or implicit in the drawings or any
combination of any such features or any generalisation of any such
features or combination.
* * * * *