U.S. patent application number 11/910130 was filed with the patent office on 2011-02-10 for inter-scapular bolster.
This patent application is currently assigned to INTEGRAL ORTHOPEDICS INC.. Invention is credited to Hoi Cheung, Tracy Newkirk, Frederik Wendelboe.
Application Number | 20110031791 11/910130 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37054015 |
Filed Date | 2011-02-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110031791 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Newkirk; Tracy ; et
al. |
February 10, 2011 |
INTER-SCAPULAR BOLSTER
Abstract
A back support for supporting at least a portion of the back of
a user is provided. The back support includes a backrest and an
inter-scapular bolster. The backrest has a lumbar support that is
shaped to engage the lumbar region of the user and to urge the
lumbar spine of the user towards a neutral curve. The
inter-scapular bolster has a bolster body. The bolster body is
connected to the backrest and is positioned for engaging the user
between the scapulae, wherein the bolster body has a bottom that is
positioned to engage the user no lower than approximately the lower
edge of the T8 vertebra of the user.
Inventors: |
Newkirk; Tracy; (San Rafael,
CA) ; Wendelboe; Frederik; (Pembroke Pines, FL)
; Cheung; Hoi; (Etobicoke, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BROOKS KUSHMAN P.C.
1000 TOWN CENTER, TWENTY-SECOND FLOOR
SOUTHFIELD
MI
48075
US
|
Assignee: |
INTEGRAL ORTHOPEDICS INC.
Toronto
ON
|
Family ID: |
37054015 |
Appl. No.: |
11/910130 |
Filed: |
March 29, 2006 |
PCT Filed: |
March 29, 2006 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US06/11298 |
371 Date: |
September 11, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60666764 |
Mar 29, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
297/230.13 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 7/42 20130101; A47C
7/467 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/230.13 |
International
Class: |
A47C 7/42 20060101
A47C007/42 |
Claims
1. An inter-scapular bolster for positioning between the scapulae
of a user, comprising: a bolster body, having a bottom and
connectable to a backrest at a support position for engaging the
user between the scapulae wherein in use, the bolster body urges
the user's shoulder joints rearward and adducts the scapulae.
2. An inter-scapular bolster as claimed in claim 1, wherein, when
the bolster body is in the support position, the lower edge of the
bolster body is positioned to engage the user approximately at a
height that is within the range of the upper 2/3 of the scapulae of
the user.
3. An inter-scapular bolster as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bolster body is inflatable.
4. An inter-scapular bolster as claimed in claim 3 wherein the
bolster includes a pump and a gas release valve fluidically
connected to the bolster body.
5. An inter-scapular bolster as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bolster is curved in a vertical plane to urge to the spine of the
user towards a neutral curve.
6. An inter-scapular bolster as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
bolster body is less than approximately 7'' long.
7. A back support for supporting at least a portion of the back of
a user, comprising: a backrest having a lumbar support, wherein the
lumbar support is shaped to engage the lumbar region of the user
and to urge the lumbar spine of the user towards a neutral curve;
and an inter-scapular bolster having a bolster body, wherein the
bolster body is connected to the backrest and is positioned for
engaging the user between the scapulae, the bolster body in
conjunction with the backrest defining a fulcrum urging rotation of
the user's clavicle, that has a medial end, in a horizontal plane
about the user's acromioclavicular joint, such that the medial end
of the clavicle is urged anteriorly,
8. A back support as claimed in claim 7, wherein, when the bolster
body is in the support position, the lower edge of the bolster body
is positioned to engage the user approximately at a height that is
within the range of the upper 2/3 of the scapulae of the user.
9. A back support as claimed in claim 7, wherein the bolster body
is inflatable.
10. A back support as claimed in claim 9, wherein the bolster
includes a pump and a gas release valve fluidically connected to
the bolster body.
11. A back support as claimed in claim 7, wherein the bolster is
curved in a vertical plane to urge to the spine of the user towards
a neutral curve.
12. A back support as claimed in claim 7, wherein the bolster body
is less than approximately 7'' long.
13. A back support for supporting as claimed in claim 7 wherein the
bolster body is positioned generally for alignment with the
centerline of the back of the user, wherein the bolster body is
less than approximately 4'' wide
14-18. (canceled)
19. An inter-scapular bolster as claimed in claim 1, wherein, when
the bolster body is in the support position, the bottom of the
bolster body is positioned to engage the user no lower than
approximately the lower edge of the T8 vertebra of the user.
20. A back support as claimed in claim 7 wherein the bolster body
has a bottom that is positioned to engage the user no lower than
approximately the lower edge of the T8 vertebra of the user.
21. A back support as claimed in claim 7 wherein the bolster body
has a depth that is sufficiently large that the bolster body acts
as a fulcrum against which a back of the user rests.
22. A back support as claimed in claim 7 wherein the bolster body
has a depth that is sufficiently small to permit both lateral edges
of the upper portion of the back of the user to be in contact with
the backrest at the same time.
23. A back support as claimed in claim 7 wherein the backrest has a
lumbar support that is shaped to engage a lumbar region of the
user.
24. A back support as claimed in claim 23 wherein the lumbar
support is configured to urge the user's lumbar portion of the
spine towards a neutral curve.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. provisional
application 60/666,764, which is hereby incorporated by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to posture support devices and
more particularly to posture support devices for use with portable
and/or permanent backrests for chairs and seats.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] It is generally recognized that poor posture can lead to
several painful conditions over time. To assist in preventing poor
posture several manufacturers have developed backrests for chairs
and seats, which are intended to improve the posture of the user.
However, there remains a need for further improvements in backrests
to assist the user in maintaining good posture while seated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] In a first aspect, the invention is directed to a back
support for supporting at least a portion of the back of a user.
The back support includes a backrest and an inter-scapular bolster.
The backrest has a lumbar support that is shaped to engage the
lumbar region of the user and to urge the lumbar spine of the user
towards a neutral curve. The inter-scapular bolster has a bolster
body. The bolster body is connected to the backrest and is
positioned for engaging the user between the scapulae, wherein the
bolster body has a bottom that is positioned to engage the user no
lower than approximately the lower edge of the T8 vertebra of the
user.
[0005] In a second aspect, the invention is directed to an
inter-scapular bolster for positioning between the scapulae of a
user. The bolster includes a bolster body. The bolster body is
connectable to a backrest at a support position for engaging the
user between the scapulae. The bolster body has a bottom. When the
bolster body is in the support position, the bottom of the bolster
body is positioned to engage the user no lower than approximately
the lower edge of the T8 vertebra of the user.
[0006] In a third aspect, the invention is directed to a back
support for supporting at least a portion of the back of a user.
The back support includes a backrest and an inter-scapular bolster.
The backrest has a lumbar support that is shaped to engage the
lumbar region of the user and to urge the lumbar spine of the user
towards a neutral curve. The bolster includes a bolster body that
is connected to the backrest and is positioned generally for
alignment with the centerline of the back of the user. The bolster
body is less than approximately 4'' wide. The bolster body has a
bottom that is positioned to engage the user no lower than
approximately the lower edge of the T8 vertebra of the user.
[0007] In a fourth aspect, the invention is directed to an
inter-scapular bolster that is positionable at a suitable height
with respect to the back of the user, that is sized to fit between
the scapulae of the user, and that, in use, urges the shoulder
joints of the user rearward and adducts the scapulae.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The present invention will now be described by way of
example only with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
[0009] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a person exhibiting good
posture, in accordance with the prior art;
[0010] FIG. 1b is a rear elevation view of the person shown in FIG.
1a;
[0011] FIG. 1c is a magnified rear elevation view of a scapula, a
clavicle, a humerus and a sternum from the person shown in FIG.
1a;
[0012] FIG. 1d is a magnified rear elevation view of some of the
muscles, neurovascular structures and skeletal structure of the
person shown in FIG. 1a;
[0013] FIG. 1e is a front elevation view of some of the internal
musculature on the person shown in FIG. 1a;
[0014] FIG. 1f is a front elevation view of some of the skeletal
structure of the person shown in FIG. 1a illustrating the passage
of some neurovascular structures through a gap between the clavicle
and the first rib;
[0015] FIG. 2a is a rear elevation view of person shown in FIG. 1a,
showing abduction of the scapulae resulting from poor posture;
[0016] FIG. 2b is a front elevation view of the skeletal structure
shown in FIG. 1f illustrating the compression of some neurovascular
structures between the clavicle and the first rib;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a back support for
supporting a user in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention whereby the back support includes a backrest and a
bolster;
[0018] FIG. 3a is a side sectional view of the back support shown
in FIG. 3, shown supporting a person;
[0019] FIG. 3b is a horizontal sectional view of the back support
shown in FIG. 3;
[0020] FIG. 3c is another horizontal sectional view of the back
support shown in FIG. 3;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a vertical sectional view of a variant
configuration of a portion of the back support shown in FIG. 3;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a vertical sectional view of a variant
configuration of another portion of the back support shown in FIG.
3;
[0023] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the back support
shown in FIG. 3;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a rear elevation view of the back support shown in
FIG. 3;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the back support shown
in
[0026] FIG. 3;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a rear elevation view of a bolster body from the
back support shown in FIG. 3, in relation to the skeletal structure
of the user;
[0028] FIG. 9a is the rear elevation view of a bolster body from
the back support shown in FIG. 3, in relation to the skeletal
structure of the user;
[0029] FIG. 10 is a magnified side view of a bolster body that is
part of the back support shown in FIG. 3;
[0030] FIG. 11 is a magnified front view of the bolster body that
is part of the back support shown in FIG. 3;
[0031] FIG. 12 is a magnified front view of an alternative bolster
body that could be used as part of the back support shown in FIG.
3;
[0032] FIG. 13 is a magnified front view of another alternative
bolster body that could be used as part of the back support shown
in FIG. 3;
[0033] FIG. 14a is a sectional plan view of the back support shown
in FIG. 3, showing the bolster in engagement with the back of the
user, whereby the bolster has a depth that prevents both lateral
edges of the user's back to contact the backrest;
[0034] FIG. 14b is a sectional plan view of the back support shown
in FIG. 3, showing the bolster in engagement with the back of the
user, whereby the bolster has a depth that permits both lateral
edges of the user's back to contact the backrest;
[0035] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the back support shown in
FIG. 3, illustrating points of contact that occur with the
user;
[0036] FIG. 16 is a front elevation view of a pump that is part of
the bolster shown in FIG. 3;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a rear elevation view of the bolster body shown
in FIG. 6;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a side view of an alternative bolster body to
that which is shown in FIG. 10;
[0039] FIGS. 19-22 are front elevation views of several
configurations of bolster bodies each made up of multiple separate
elements;
[0040] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a bolster that includes a
sleeve for removably attaching the bolster to a backrest, in
accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
[0041] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another bolster that
includes another sleeve for removably attaching the bolster to a
backrest, in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0042] FIG. 25 is a side sectional view of the back support shown
in FIG. 3, shown supporting a person reclining at an angle;
[0043] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the bolster shown in FIG. 3
on a backrest in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention; and
[0044] FIG. 27 is a side view of an optional, additional,
less-functional portion that may be included as part of the bolster
shown in FIG. 3.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0045] For purposes of clarity the terms `circumference` and
`effective circumference` are used herein to refer to the distance
around the perimeter of an object or a portion of the human body,
even though the object or the body portion may not be perfectly
circular.
[0046] Reference is made to FIGS. 1a and 1b, which show a person
10. The person 10 has a body that includes, among other things, a
torso 12, a head 13, a pair of arms 14 and a pair of shoulders 15.
The torso 12 has a front 16 (FIG. 1a), a back 18 (FIG. 1b) and two
sides 20. Skeletal elements that are present in the torso 12 and
arms 14 include, among other things, two scapulae 22 (FIG. 1b), a
spine 24, ribs 26, a sternum 28 (FIG. 1a), two clavicles 30 and two
humeruses 32.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 1c, the scapula 22 and the humerus 32 meet
at a joint 34, which is the shoulder joint 34, also known as the
glenohumeral joint 34. Each clavicle 30 has a first end 35 and a
second end 36. At the first end 35, the clavicle 30 is connected at
a joint 38 to the top of the sternum 28. At the second end 36, the
clavicle 30 is connected to a region of the scapula 22 called the
acromion, shown at 40. The joint between the clavicle 30 and the
acromion 40 is referred to as the acromioclavicular joint and is
shown at 42.
[0048] The first rib is shown at 26a in FIG. 1c, and connects to
the sternum 28 just under the clavicle 30. A gap is present between
the clavicle 30 and the first rib 26a.
[0049] Referring to FIG. 1d, the pectoralis minor muscle, shown at
45, is connected at one end to a pectoralis minor tendon 47, which
is itself connected to a portion of the scapula 22 known as the
coracoid process, shown at 72. At its other end, the pectoralis
minor 45 connects to the third, fourth and fifth ribs, which are
shown at 26c, 26d and 26e.
[0050] Referring to FIG. 1e, the pectoralis major muscle is shown
at 74 and extends between the sternum 28, the clavicle 30 and the
humerus 32.
[0051] Referring to FIG. 1d, several neurovascular structures pass
through the gap, passing over first rib 26a and under the clavicles
30. These neurovascular structures are identified at 44, and
include the brachial plexus, the subclavian vein, and the
subclavian artery. Additionally, the subclavius muscle is present
in the gap, and thus occupies some of the space between the
clavicle 30 and the first rib 26a.
[0052] Several neurovascular structures pass underneath the
pectoralis minor tendon 47, including the brachial plexus and the
axillo-subclavian artery and vein. These neurovascular structures
are identified at 27.
[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1a and 1b, the torso 12 has a first
position, in which the person 10 can be described as having good
posture. When exhibiting good posture, the lumbar and thoracic
portions of the spine 24 are together generally S-shaped, curving
outwards anteriorly in the lumbar region shown at 24l and curving
outwards posteriorly in the thoracic region, shown at 24t.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 1f, when the person 10 exhibits good
posture, sufficient space is present in the gap between the
clavicles 30 and the first rib 26a to permit the vascular
structures 44 that pass through substantially uncompressed.
[0055] Additionally, referring to FIG. 1d, when the person 10
exhibits good posture, sufficient space exists under the pectoralis
minor tendon 47 to permit the passage underneath of the
neurovascular structures 27 with substantially no compression.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 2a, when a person 10 is in a slouched, or
round-shouldered, position, numerous ailments can result,
including, for example, migraine headaches, blurred vision, facial
pressure, tinnitus, neck pain, neck swelling, hand and arm pain,
coldness of the hands and/or feet, back pain, groin pain and
intermittent numbness.
[0057] In a slouched, or round-shouldered, position, the body, and
in particular, the spine 24 no longer has an S-shaped
configuration. As a result, pressure is distributed between the
vertebrae and the discs of the spine 24 in such a way as to urge
the discs to bulge, which can, over time, lead to several problems,
which are known to persons skilled in the art.
[0058] A round-shouldered posture may be acquired as a result of
lifestyle and/or occupation. For example, in some types of
employment, a person 10 uses their pectoral muscles 45 and 74
(FIGS. 1d and 1e respectively) predominantly and the periscapular
muscles and lumbar extensors are typically neglected, resulting in
what is called deconditioning. In a deconditioned state the
combined pull of the pectorals 45 and 74 and the failure of the
periscapular muscles and lumbar extensors together create a
round-shouldered posture.
[0059] As a result of the relatively poorly opposed pull of the
pectorals 45 and 74, the scapula 22 becomes abducted, and thus
moves outwards laterally, as shown in FIG. 2b. The lateral movement
of the scapula 22 causes the clavicle 30 to pivot generally in a
horizontal plane about the acromioclavicular joint 42, whereby its
first, or proximal end 35 is urged rearwardly. This changes the
angle of the clavicle 30 in the horizontal plane relative to the
first rib 26a, and results in a narrowing of the gap. This, in
turn, results in compression of some or all of the neurovascular
structures 44 that pass through the gap, such as, for example, the
brachial plexus and the subclavian vein. The subclavian artery may
be compressed, but this may be less common due to several reasons,
one of which is that the wall of the subclavian artery is
relatively more rigid than at least some of the other neurovascular
structures 44.
[0060] It will be understood that, when compression of the
neurovascular structures 44 is said to take place between the
clavicle 30 and the first rib 26a, one or both of the clavicle 30
and the first rib 26a might not be in direct contact with the
structures 44 that are being compressed. Other elements such as the
subclavian muscle or the infraspinatus which are present in the gap
may be involved in the compression.
[0061] Compression of the neurovascular structures 44 can lead to
several of the ailments noted above. For example, as a result of
the compression of the vascular structures that are included in the
neurovascular structures 44, the resistance to fluid flow in these
vascular structures increases, which results in dilation of certain
veins and tributaries, and increased arterial vascular resistance
due at least in part to the slowed venous flow. The consequences of
venous congestion and increased arterial resistance are well known
in the form of edema and ischemia first in the areas of greatest
vascular impairment and later in other body regions also. Numerous
ailments can result from this condition of compressed neurovascular
structures 44, including, for example, migraine headaches, facial
pressure, neck pain, hand and arm pain and numbness, coldness of
the hands, some forms of non-radicular leg pain and intermittent
numbness.
[0062] As a result of its connection with the sternum 28, the
rearward movement of the first or proximal end 35 of the clavicle
30 causes the sternum 28 (and in particular, the manubrium sternum)
to move rearwardly along with it, thus reducing the distance
between the manubrium sternum and the anterior border of the body
of T3 (the third thoracic vertebra).
[0063] In certain types of people 10 this reduction in the
aforementioned diameter can lead to one or more difficulties. For
example, individuals with a thin, narrow thorax tend to have a
relatively straight cervical and thoracic spinal, saggital
alignment. In such people, a loss of cervical lordosis and
flattening of the thoracic kyphosis leads to a closer approximation
of the posterior surface of the manubrium sternum to the anterior
border of the body of the third thoracic vertebra. For example, in
some people this distance may be less than approximately 5 cm (2
inches). With the proximal ends 35 of the clavicles 30 urged
rearwardly as described above, this distance may be reduced to
approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) to 3.8 cm (1.5 inches). This is
especially true at the head of the first rib 26a which sits deeper
into the thorax than the other ribs 26. This positioning of the
first rib 26a permits it to compress particular veins, such as the
brachiocephalic vein. Other people 10 who may be prone to incurring
difficulties from the reduced `diameter` include individuals who
have pectus excavatum, individuals who have thoracic scoliosis,
individuals who have a loss of cervical lordosis in general, and/or
individuals who are obese.
[0064] In addition to causing the rotation of the clavicle 30 in
the horizontal plane, the movement of the scapula 30 as a result of
deconditioning can also cause a rotation of the clavicle 30
generally about its own length in a clockwise direction from a
viewpoint facing the side of the left shoulder of the person 10,
and in a counterclockwise direction from a viewpoint facing the
side of the right shoulder of the wearer 10. Due to the
configuration of the clavicle 30, this rotation further narrows the
gap between the clavicle 30 and the first rib 26a, thereby adding
to the compression of the neurovascular structures 44 that pass
therethrough.
[0065] In addition to the above, deconditioning of the stabilizer
muscles of the scapula 22 can also lead to `non-neurogenic winging`
of the scapula 22. Non-neurogenic winging of the scapula 22 refers
to an outward movement of the medial edge of the scapula 22 away
from the plane of the back 18, however, it is not caused by damage
to the long thoracic nerve, which is the typical cause of
neurogenic winging. Non-neurogenic winging is instead the result of
the weakened state of the stabilizer muscles that hold the medial
edge of the scapula 22 down in the plane of the back 18.
[0066] Non-neurogenic winging of the scapula 22 causes a rotary
torque to be exerted on the acromioclavicular joint 42, which in
turn causes a downward movement of the clavicle 30. This downward
movement of the clavicle 30 further reduces the size of the gap,
and therefore exacerbates the problem of compression of the
neurovascular structures 44 that pass therethrough.
[0067] Additionally, in situations where drooping of the scapula 22
occurs as a result of deconditioning, the coracoid process 43 and,
in turn, the pectoralis minor tendon 47 may be lowered relative to
their normal position, whereby the pectoralis minor tendon 47
compresses the neurovascular structures 27 that pass underneath.
Compression of these structures 27 results in many of the same
ailments as compression of the structures 44 that pass underneath
the clavicles 30.
[0068] It will be noted that movement of the scapulae 22 can impart
movement to the ribs 26 by way of their connection to the ribs 26
through the scapular stabilizer muscles. Abduction of the scapulae
22, as shown in FIG. 2a can urge the fronts of the ribs 26 to turn
downwards at their joints with the sternum 28. This can result in a
reduction in the volume of the rib cage, which can add resistance
to expansion of the lungs during breathing, thereby hampering
breathing.
[0069] Backrests for chairs are available that provide lumbar
support, which urges the lumbar portion 24l of the spine 24 towards
a neutral curve, thereby generally urging a person towards a more
upright sitting position. However, for several reasons, including
for example, pectoral predominance that exists in many people, the
scapulae 22 remain abducted even when sitting in a chair with
lumbar support.
[0070] Reference is made to FIG. 3, which shows a back support 100,
in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. The
back support 100 includes a backrest 102, an inter-scapular bolster
104 and may optionally include a cover 105. The backrest 102 has a
lumbar portion 106 and a thoracic portion 108.
[0071] The lumbar portion 106 engages the lumbar portion 24l of the
user 10. In a central vertical sectional plane shown in FIG. 3a,
the lumbar portion 106 preferably is curved outwardly (ie. it is
convex) in a forward direction to generally match the neutral curve
of the lumbar spine 24l (see FIG. 3a) and thereby urges the lumbar
spine 24l towards the neutral curve. It is alternatively possible
however, for the lumbar portion 106 of the backrest 102 to have
some other shape that extends outward in a forward direction that
still urges the lumbar spine 24l of the user 10 towards a neutral
curve.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 3, the lumbar portion 106 may have an apex
110 when viewed in a vertical sectional plane. It is alternatively
possible for the lumbar portion 106 of the backrest to be include
some straight segments (see FIG. 4) instead of being solely made up
of a smooth curved surface. In such embodiments, any point along
the segment shown at 112 may be considered to be the apex 110.
[0073] Referring to FIG. 3b, when the lumbar portion 106 is viewed
in a horizontal sectional plane taken at the apex 110, the lumbar
portion 106 may be concave when viewed from the front (see FIG.
3b). The concavity of the lumbar portion 106 may assist in
stabilizing the user 10 in a seated position against the back
support 100. The shape of the lumbar portion 106 is discussed in
further detail below.
[0074] Preferably, the lumbar portion 106 of the backrest 102 is
concave when viewed in a horizontal sectional plane at any point
throughout the height of the lumbar portion 106 to further assist
in stabilizing the user 10 and not just in the horizontal sectional
plane shown in FIG. 3b.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 3a, in the central vertical sectional
plane, the thoracic portion 108 preferably is concave when viewed
from the front, to generally match the neutral curve of the
thoracic portion 24t of the spine 24 (see FIG. 3a) and thereby
urges the thoracic spine 24t towards the neutral curve. It is
alternatively possible however, for the thoracic portion 108 of the
backrest 102 to have some other shape that extends inward in a
forward direction that still urges the thoracic spine 24t of the
user 10 towards a neutral curve.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 3, the thoracic portion 108 may have an
apex 114. It is alternatively possible for the thoracic portion 108
of the backrest 102 to be include some straight segments (see FIG.
5) instead of being solely made up of a smooth curved surface. In
such embodiments, any point along the segment shown at 115 may be
considered to be the apex 114.
[0077] When viewed in a horizontal sectional plane taken at the
apex 114 (FIG. 3), the thoracic portion 108 may be generally flat
(see FIG. 3c). By making the thoracic portion 108 flat along the
horizontal sectional plane, the thoracic portion 108 avoids
obstructing movement of the arms of the user 10 while seated.
[0078] Preferably, the thoracic portion 108 of the backrest 102 is
flat when viewed in a horizontal sectional plane at any point
throughout the height of the portion of the thoracic portion 108
that is above the apex 114 to further assist in avoiding
obstruction of movement of the arms of the user 10.
[0079] Based on the described possible shapes for the lumbar and
thoracic portions 106 and 108, their combined shape in the central
vertical sectional plane may be a relatively gentle S-shape (best
seen in FIG. 3a), which preferably generally matches the neutral
curve of the lumbar and thoracic portions 24l and 24t of the spine
24.
[0080] The lumbar and thoracic portions 106 and 108 of the backrest
102 may be similar to the lumbar and thoracic portions of the
backrest described in copending U.S. provisional patent application
60/734,273, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
[0081] Reference is made to FIG. 6. The backrest 102 may include a
support member 116 and a cushion layer 117. The support member 116
may be a rigid or semi-rigid piece that is made from any suitable
material, such as a suitable polymeric material, such as for
example, a medical grade, high impact polystyrene provided by
Chi-Mei in Taiwan. Other resiliently flexible materials can be
used. For instance polymeric materials such as a polyurethane-based
material, a polycarbonate-based material, an ABS-based material, a
polypropylene-based material, a fiberglass-type material may be
used. Alternatively, other materials such as wood or metallic
materials (eg. plywood or steel) may be used.
[0082] The cushion layer 117 may be made from any suitable
material, such as, for example, egg-crate foam rubber (also
referred to as polyurethane foam). The egg-crate foam may, for
example, have a total thickness of 28 mm with a 10 mm base and a 18
mm egg crate pattern on top of the base. A density of 34 kg/m3 may
be used for the foam rubber.
[0083] The backrest 102 may be a portable item that mounts to a
preexisting chair, so that the backrest 102 may be transported for
use on chairs in different locations, such as, for example, a chair
at home and a chair at work. In such an embodiment, the backrest
102 may attach to the chair by any suitable means. For example, the
backrest 102 may include backrest attachment straps 119 (see FIG.
7) which are adjustable in length and which secure the backrest 102
to the preexisting backrest of the chair. Alternatively, some other
means for attaching the backrest 102 to a chair may be
provided.
[0084] As an alternative, the backrest 102 may be non-portable, and
may itself make up the backrest of a chair. In that case, the
backrest 102 need not include attachment straps 119.
[0085] The inter-scapular bolster 104 (FIG. 6) has a bolster body
111 that extends outwards from the thoracic portion 108 (FIG. 3a)
of the backrest 102 and supports the user 10 between the scapulae
22 (best seen in FIG. 9). Referring to FIG. 3a, by extending
outward from the front surface of the backrest 102, the bolster
body 111 urges the shoulder joints 34 of the user 10 rearward when
the user is seated and has their back 18 pressed against the
bolster body 111.
[0086] The bolster body 111 has a top 118 and a bottom 120. The
overall length of the bolster body 111 between the top 118 and
bottom 120 is shown at L (see FIG. 3). Referring to FIG. 9, the
bottom 120 of the bolster body 111 is positioned sufficiently high
on the back support 100 (shown in dashed outline) to engage the
back 18 of the user 10 at or preferably above the lower edge of the
T8 vertebra, where it has an increased effect in urging the
shoulder joints 34 rearward (see arrows 121 in FIG. 9a) when the
back 18 of the user 10 is pressed thereagainst, and has a reduced
likelihood of causing discomfort to the user 10 as a result of
pressure on the spine 24, relative to portions of back supports of
the prior art that extend outward to engage the user below the T8
vertebra.
[0087] It is optionally possible for the bolster 104 to include a
less-functional portion 200 that extends below the T8 vertebra, but
that does not extend out sufficiently from the backrest 102 to
cause substantial discomfort to the user 10 (see FIG. 27). For
example, this less-functional portion 200 of the bolster 104 may
extend out from the backrest 102 by less than 1'' if the bolster
body 111 is relatively soft, or by less than 1/2'' if the bolster
body is relatively firm. In other words, the less-functional
portion 200 if present, would not extend out from the backrest 102
enough to cause significant urging of the user's spine 24 (FIG. 3a)
away from its position otherwise relative to the backrest 102, or
to cause significant discomfort to the user 10. It will be
understood that the less-functional portion 200 may be attached to
the bolster body 111 and may even be contiguous with the bolster
body 111, but is not part of the bolster body 111. It is
contemplated that this less-functional portion 200 is likely to be
omitted from the bolster 104 in most embodiments.
[0088] By engaging the user 10 at or above the lower edge of the T8
vertebra, the bottom 120 of the bolster body 111 is generally not
lower than the bottoms of the scapulae 22, also referred to as the
inferior poles of the scapulae 22. The bottoms or inferior poles of
the scapulae 22 are shown at 123. A line 122 shows the level of the
bottom 120 of the bolster body 111 relative to the bottoms 123 of
the scapulae 22.
[0089] More preferably, the bottom 120 of the bolster body 111 is
positioned to engage the user 10 approximately at a height that is
within the range of the upper 2/3 of the scapulae 22, as shown by
the dashed outline of the bolster body 111 in FIG. 9a, which
further improves the performance of the bolster 104 in urging the
shoulder joints 34 of the user 10 rearward during use.
[0090] Referring to FIG. 3a, the top 118 of the bolster body 111 is
preferably positioned sufficiently low to avoid contacting the
user's head 13 and urging the user's head 13 forward, which can
cause discomfort to the user 10.
[0091] The bolster body 111 has an overall width W, which is
sufficiently small that the sides of the bolster body 111 do not
interfere with the adduction of the scapulae 22 when the back of
the user 10 is pressed against the bolster body 111 and the user's
shoulder joints 34 are urged rearward. Thus, the bolster body 111
fits between the scapulae 22 of the user 10 when the scapulae 22
are in their adducted position as a result of the rearward movement
of the shoulder joints 34.
[0092] Referring to FIGS. 11, 12 and 13, the bolster body 111 may
have any suitable shape along its sides, which are shown at 124.
For example, referring to FIG. 13, the sides 124 may be generally
parallel. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the sides 124
may be generally shaped so that they are less wide than the width W
proximate the bottom 120. Referring to FIG. 9a, during use of the
bolster 104, the scapulae 22 may rotate in such a way that the
bottoms 123 of the scapulae 22 rotate medially as the shoulder
joints 34 move rearwardly. It is possible that such medial rotation
could cause the bottoms 123 of the scapulae 22 to be positioned
closer medially than the superior borders of the scapulae, shown at
126. The optional smaller width of the bolster body 111 proximate
the bottom 120 provides sufficient clearance to permit the bolster
body 111 to avoid interfering with the bottoms 123 of the scapulae
22 during such medial rotation.
[0093] The transition from the widest section of the bolster body
111 to the thinner section may have any shape, as shown in the
exemplary embodiments in FIGS. 11 and 12.
[0094] Referring to FIG. 10, the depth of the bolster body 111 is
shown at D and represents how far the bolster body 111 extends
outwards from the plane of the backrest 102. Referring to FIG. 14a,
the depth D of the bolster body 111 may be sufficiently large that
the bolster body 111 acts as a fulcrum against which the back 18 of
the user 10 rests. In such an instance, one or both lateral edges
of the upper portion of the back 18 of the user 10 would be spaced
from the backrest 102.
[0095] Referring to FIG. 14b, it is alternatively possible for the
bolster body 111 to have a depth D that is sufficiently small to
permit both lateral edges of the upper portion of the back 18 of
the user 10 to be in contact with the backrest 102 at the same
time. In such an instance, the bolster body 111 and the lateral
edges of the backrest 102 make up three points of contact by the
user 10, shown at 128a, 128b and 128c respectively (see FIG. 15).
The three points of contact 128a, 128b and 128c form a triangle in
a generally horizontal plane and thereby brace the user 10 (the
user 10 is not shown in FIG. 15) against lateral movement in the
event that the user 10 is urged laterally. This resistance to
lateral movement can be advantageous in situations where the user
is urged laterally. For example, where the user 10 is a bus driver,
the user 10 is urged laterally when the bus turns a corner as a
result of centrifugal force. The three triangular points of contact
128a, 128b and 128c brace the user 10 against the centrifugal
force. This bracing effect can take place even in an embodiment,
such as that shown in FIG. 14b, where the thoracic portion 108 of
the backrest 102 does not have substantial concavity to it when
viewed in a horizontal sectional plane. By avoiding a concave shape
for the thoracic portion 108 of the backrest 102, the user 10 is
not urged into a shoulders-forward position and has relatively more
room to move his or her arms while seated than against a backrest
with a concave thoracic portion. A shoulders-forward position is
less desirable for the user 10 because it would encourage the
problems described above for poor posture.
[0096] It will be noted that the internals of the user's body have
not been illustrated in FIGS. 14a and 14b. The outline of the
user's body is shown only to illustrate whether contact does or
does not occur based on the depth D of the bolster body 111.
[0097] It will be understood that the user 10 may contact the back
support 100 over some or all of the distances between the points
128a, 128b and 128c in addition to contacting the back support 100
at the points 128a, 128b and 128c. Alternatively, the user 10 may
contact the back support 100 over none of the distances between the
aforementioned three contact points.
[0098] In addition to the horizontal bracing effect that takes
place with the three points of contact 128a, 128b and 128c, bracing
additionally can occur in the plane of the user's back 18 depending
on the shape of the backrest 102. Referring to FIG. 15, the lumbar
portion 106 of the backrest 102 has lateral edges 128d and 128e.
Contact between the body of the user 10 and the back support 100 at
the three points 128a, 128d and 128e and may occur over none, some
or all of the distances between these points. The three contact
points 128a, 128d and 128e form a triangle in the plane of the
user's back 18 (not shown in FIG. 15), and thus provide a bracing
effect which resists movement of the upper body of the user 10
laterally.
[0099] It will be noted that the bracing effect provided by the
triangular shape formed by the contact points 128a, 128d and 128e
reduces the need to provide the thoracic portion 108 of the
backrest 102 with a substantial concavity to hold the user in place
when viewed in a horizontal sectional plane.
[0100] Referring to FIG. 3, to fit a range of sizes of users 10,
the back support 100 may be provided in several sizes. For example,
the back support 100 may include a small size, a medium size and a
large size. The small size back support 100 may have a bolster body
111 that is less than or equal to 6 inches long, less than or equal
to 3 inches in depth and less than or equal to 3 inches in width.
The medium size back support 100 may have a bolster body 111 that
is less than or equal to 6.5 inches long, less than or equal to 3.5
inches in depth and less than or equal to 4.5 inches in width. The
large size back support 100 may have a bolster body 111 that is
less than or equal to 7 inches long, less than or equal to 4 inches
in depth and less than or equal to 6 inches in width. Other sizes
of back support 100 may be provided in addition to or instead of
the sizes listed above.
[0101] Referring to FIG. 9, it will be noted that the bolster body
111 need not fill the entirety of the space between the scapulae
22. The effect of the bolster body 111 can be achieved even if the
bolster body 111 is only a few inches wide, eg. less than
approximately 3.5-4 inches wide for people of medium build and even
for people of large build.
[0102] Referring to FIG. 10, the depth D of the bolster body 111
may vary along its length. For example, the outer face of the
bolster body 111, shown at 130, has a curve when viewed in a
vertical sectional plane that generally matches the neutral curve
of the spine 24 (FIG. 3a) so that it urges the spine 24 of the user
10 towards a neutral curve when the user 10 is seated against the
bolster body 111.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 6, the bolster 104 may be made in any
suitable way. For example, the bolster 104 may include an
inflatable bladder 132 that makes up the bolster body 111, a fluid
conduit 134, a pump 136 and a release valve 138. The pump 136 is
fluidically connected to the bladder 132 by means of the conduit
134. The pump 136 is used to inflate the bladder 132 with a
selected amount of fluid, (eg. air) which provides the bolster body
111 with a depth that is selectable based on the amount of fluid
contained in the bladder 132.
[0104] Referring to FIG. 16, the pump 136 may have any suitable
structure. For example, the pump 136 may be manually operable, and
may comprise a resilient compressible bulb 140 with a closable air
inlet, as is known to persons skilled in the art of manually
inflatable devices.
[0105] The release valve 138 may have any suitable structure. For
example, the release valve 138 may comprise a threaded cap 142 that
covers an air aperture into the fluid conduit 134. When the cap 142
is screwed tightly over the air aperture, it seals against air
leakage out from the conduit 134. When the cap 142 is unscrewed,
air can escape from the conduit and therefore from the bladder 132,
permitting the bladder 132 to be selectively deflated entirely or
partially.
[0106] Referring to FIG. 10, the bladder 132 may also have any
suitable structure. For example, the bladder 132 may be formed from
two bladder pieces 144a and 144b, which are thermally sealed
together at their edges, thereby forming a flange portion 146 about
the perimeter of the bladder 132. Referring to FIG. 17, tie down
apertures 148 may be provided at selected points on the flange
portion 146. Straps 150 connect the backrest 102 to the bladder 132
by means of the tie down apertures 148, to secure the bladder 132
in position on the backrest 102.
[0107] As shown in FIG. 10, the two bladder pieces 144a and 144b
may be approximately the same size, such that the seal is formed
generally in the middle of the bladder 132. However, in such an
embodiment, as the bladder 132 expands, the flange portion 146
moves away from the backrest 102. Thus, the ends of the straps 150
attached at the flange portion 146 are also urged away from the
backrest 102. This can detract from the comfort of the back support
100 during use. This can also detract from the appearance of the
back support 100 if the cover 105 (FIG. 6) is tight-fitting, since
the straps 150 (FIG. 10) will urge the cover 105 (FIG. 6) away from
the backrest 102 in the vicinity of the bolster body 111.
[0108] In an alternative construction shown in FIG. 18, the first
bladder piece 144a, which rests against the backrest 102 is smaller
than the second bladder piece 144b. As a result, most or
substantially all of the expansion in the bladder 132 takes place
in the second bladder piece 144b, and little of it takes place in
the first bladder piece 144a. Thus, the flange portion 146 formed
around the perimeter of the bladder 132 does not move away from the
backrest 102 much during expansion of the bladder 132. This reduces
or eliminates the movement of the straps 150 away from the backrest
102 during expansion of the bladder 132.
[0109] Instead of being made inflatable, the bolster body 111 may
be made in some other way. For example, the bolster body 111 may be
made from a polymeric foam material that is resilient and flexible
but which has sufficient rigidity to urge the shoulder joints 34
(FIG. 9) rearward when the user's back 18 is pressed
thereagainst.
[0110] As another alternative, the bolster body 111 may be made
from a plurality of separate elements, as shown in FIGS. 19, 20, 21
and 22 instead of being made from a single element, as shown in
FIG. 11. Furthermore, the configuration of the group of separate
elements may be any suitable configuration, so long as they do not
inhibit the adduction of the scapulae during use.
[0111] Referring to FIG. 23, the bolster body 111 may mount to the
backrest 102 by any other suitable connection means instead of the
straps 150 (FIG. 18). In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 23, the
bolster 104 includes a sleeve 152 which can be mounted onto the
backrest 102. The sleeve 152 may be made with a closed top 154. By
having a closed top 154, the bolster body 111 is limited as to how
low it can be mounted on the backrest 102. This can therefore
prevent the bolster body 111 from being mounted too low, where it
will not be as in urging the shoulder joints 34 rearward, and where
it can cause discomfort to the user 10.
[0112] In an alternative embodiment, shown in FIG. 24, however, the
sleeve 152 can be provided with an open top 156. This permits the
bolster body 111 to be mounted at any selected height on the
backrest 102, regardless of the height of the backrest 102.
[0113] The sleeve 152 in either or both of the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 23 and 24, may be made from an elastic material that can grip
the backrest 102 by elastic force over a range of shapes and sized
of backrest 102, and thereby retain the bolster body 111 at a
selected position.
[0114] By providing a bolster 104 with the sleeve 152 (with either
an open top such as the top 154 shown in FIG. 23 or a closed top
such as the top 156 shown in FIG. 24), the bolster 104 can be
mounted to an existing backrest 102 that was already in possession
by the user 10. Thus, the user 10 does not have to purchase the
entire back support 100 including the backrest 102 and the bolster
104. The user 10 could purchase the bolster 104 with sleeve 152
thereby potentially reducing the cost of the purchase.
Additionally, the bolster 104 with the sleeve 152 is more compact
and lighter and thus is more easily transportable than a portable
back support 100 having the bolster 104 and backrest 102.
Additionally, the sleeve 152 permits the bolster 104 to be mounted
to a backrest 102 that is non-portable (ie. a backrest 102 that is
part of a chair 158).
[0115] Referring to FIG. 24, the sleeve 152 could alternatively
include bolster attachment straps 157 to assist in attaching the
bolster body 111 to the backrest 102. In embodiments wherein the
backrest 102 is a portable device that is placed against a
permanent backrest on a chair 158, the bolster attachment straps
157 could also be used to wrap around both the backrest 102 and the
permanent backrest of the chair 158. This particular configuration
is not shown in FIG. 24, since FIG. 24 does not show a portable
backrest 102, but instead shows a backrest 102 that is part of the
chair 158.
[0116] When the user 10 is seated against the back support 100 it
may be advantageous for the back support 100 to be angled back by
some angle Th, which may be, for example, approximately 10 degrees
(see FIG. 25) relative to the vertical. When the back support 10 is
angled thus, the downward force exerted by the weight of the body
of the user 10, urges the user 10 into the back support 100 and
against the bolster body 111, whereas if the back support 100 were
completely upright, the force of engagement between the user 10 and
the bolster body 111 would be expected to come largely from the
user 10 urging himself or herself back into the back support 100,
which may be difficult in some situations, such as with an office
chair with wheels, for example. However, the back support 100 is in
any case contemplated to be effective and useful even in an
embodiment wherein it is upright in an office chair with wheels,
where it is not as easy to generate a force between the user 10 and
the bolster body 111.
[0117] Referring to FIG. 6, the cover 105 may be made any suitable
way, such as, by two cover pieces 105a and 105b which are joined
along a peripheral seam. The cover 105 may be made from any
suitable material, such as a breathable and washable material.
[0118] The rearward movement of the shoulder joint 34 (FIG. 9a)
urges rotation of the clavicle 30 in the horizontal plane about the
acromioclavicular joint 42, such that the first, or medial end 35
of the clavicle 30 is urged anteriorly. This movement of the
clavicle 30 opens the gap between it and the first rib 26a, thereby
reducing or possibly eliminating any compression taking place of
the neurovascular structures 44 (FIG. 1f) that pass
therethrough.
[0119] Additionally, the movement of the clavicles 30 moves the
manubrium sternum forward (anteriorly) increasing the distance, or
`diameter` between the manubrium sternum and the anterior border of
the body of T3 (the third thoracic vertebra), thereby alleviating
(at least in some individuals) compression of certain veins, such
as the brachiocephalic vein.
[0120] Additionally, the rearward movement of the shoulder joint 34
and any medial movement of the shoulder joint 34 adducts the
scapula 22 (moves the scapula 22 medially). The movement of the
scapula 22 medially, rotates the clavicle 30 about its own axis in
a direction that is clockwise from a viewpoint facing the side of
the right shoulder of the wearer 10 and counterclockwise from a
viewpoint facing the side of the right shoulder of the wearer
10.
[0121] Additionally, the resulting medial movement of the scapula
22 elevates the pectoralis minor tendon 47 (FIG. 1d), reducing any
compression that may take place on the neurovascular structures 27
(FIG. 1d) that pass underneath.
[0122] Additionally, the rearward movement of the shoulders 15
urges the spine 24 of the wearer 10 towards its neutral position,
shown in FIG. 1a. As a result, pressure is redistributed between
the vertebrae and the discs of the spine 24 in such a way as to
reduce any bulging of the discs.
[0123] As a result of the above effects, the back support 100 and
the presence of the bolster 104 can be effective in reducing
ailments associated with neurovascular compression that has been
described above in relation to poor posture and deconditioning. For
example, use of the bolster 104 and back support 100 can be
effective in reducing migraine headaches associated with poor
posture and deconditioning.
[0124] The benefits provided by the back support 100 or bolster 104
shown and described herein may not exist for every individual.
However, some individuals will receive at least some of the
benefits of the back support 100 or bolster 104.
[0125] Referring to FIG. 26, it will be appreciated that it is less
important for the thoracic portion 108 of the backrest 102 to have
a curve that generally matches the neutral curve of the spine 24.
Benefit is obtained through the use of the bolster 104 even if the
thoracic portion 108 of the backrest 102 is uncurved, since the
presence of the bolster 104 causes the rearward urging of the
shoulder joints 34 and the consequent adduction of the scapulae
22.
[0126] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 24, the bolster 104 provides
some benefit to the user 10 by urging the shoulder joints 34
rearward and adducting the scapulae 22 even with a backrest 102
that has a lumbar portion 106 that is straight and therefore does
not generally match the neutral curve of the spine 24.
[0127] While the above description constitutes the preferred
embodiments, it will be appreciated that the present invention is
susceptible to modification and change without departing from the
fair meaning of the accompanying claims.
* * * * *