U.S. patent application number 13/529005 was filed with the patent office on 2012-12-27 for motorized lower body rehabilitation device and method.
Invention is credited to Lizbeth Bouchard, Marc Bouchard.
Application Number | 20120329611 13/529005 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47362377 |
Filed Date | 2012-12-27 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20120329611 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bouchard; Marc ; et
al. |
December 27, 2012 |
Motorized Lower Body Rehabilitation Device and Method
Abstract
Disclosed is a motorized rehabilitation apparatus and method for
disabled, impaired or injured individuals, which trains a proper
gait, increases blood flow, relieves stress, and reconditions lower
body muscles and joints. The device comprises a powered stationary
bicycle having a seat, handle grips, and rotating foot pedals that
receive motive input from an electric motor and user input. The
device further includes a pair of thigh braces that are connected
together between the user's thighs via a hingeable link and chain
that controls and trains an individual's limbs through the pedal
rotation. The disclosed method further combines the present bicycle
device for rehabilitation in conjunction with visual stimuli in the
way of a three dimensional television display that stimulates
endorphins, relieves mental stress and allows the motive input from
the bicycle and mild user input to exercise the limbs of a user
without focusing on the rehabilitation activity.
Inventors: |
Bouchard; Marc; (Surrey,
CA) ; Bouchard; Lizbeth; (Surrey, CA) |
Family ID: |
47362377 |
Appl. No.: |
13/529005 |
Filed: |
June 21, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61500327 |
Jun 23, 2011 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/57 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 1/0262 20130101;
A61H 1/0214 20130101; A61H 2201/5043 20130101; A61H 2201/1215
20130101; A61H 2203/0437 20130101; A61H 2201/0176 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/57 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/06 20060101
A63B022/06 |
Claims
1. A walking gait training and lower body rehabilitation device,
comprising: a motorized stationary bicycle device having a frame, a
user seat, a pair of user pedals forward of said seat, and a motor
and drivetrain assembly for rotating said pedals via first and
second pedal crank; a visual stimulus forward of said seat.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein said pedals further comprise a
securement means for securing said user's feet to each pedal.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein said motor is variable speed and
controllable by said user.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein said visual stimulus further
comprises a television.
5. The device of claim 4, wherein said television further comprises
a three dimensional display technology.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein said visual stimulus is a
projector that projects images away from said user and onto a
surface.
7. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a control brace
connecting to a first and second thigh region of said user, said
brace comprising a first and second removable thigh cuff
surrounding each thigh and connected therebetween via at least one
link having a pivotable connection to each cuff.
8. The device of claim 7, wherein a first link and a second tether
are utilized for increased freedom of movement.
9. The device of claim 1, further comprising a control interface
for controlling said pedal rotation speed, direction and
operation.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein said motor and drivetrain
assembly further comprise a means of monitoring back pressure
against a desired operational direction, wherein said pedal cranks
are ceased if a threshold back pressure is applied by a user to
prevent injury or further unwanted rotation.
11. The device of claim 1, wherein said seat is adjustable position
relative to said foot pedals is adjustable via a sliding platform
connection that is positionally securable via a pin lock mechanism
along said frame.
12. A walking gait training brace, comprising: a control brace
connecting to a first and second thigh region of a user, said brace
comprising a first and second removable thigh cuff surrounding each
thigh and connected therebetween via at least one link having a
pivotable connection to each cuff.
13. A walking gait training and lower body rehabilitation method,
comprising the steps of: utilizing a stationary and motorized pedal
bicycle to rotate a user's legs in a reciprocal motion; utilizing a
visual stimulus in front of said user to improve mood, stimulate
said user's mind and release endorphins, and to further distract
and encourage said user while his or her legs are being
mobilized.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of:
allowing the user to input force on the bicycle pedals if desired
and able.
15. The method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of:
controlling the motion of said user's legs using a pair of linked
thigh braces to control said user's thighs and improve said user's
gait.
16. The method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of:
utilizing a feedback means of monitoring back pressure against said
pedal bike operational direction, and ceasing said pedal cranks if
a threshold back pressure is applied by a user to prevent injury or
further unwanted rotation.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/500,327 filed on Jun. 23, 2011, entitled
"Mobilizer 1." The patent application identified above is
incorporated here by reference in its entirety to provide
continuity of disclosure.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field Of The Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to exercise and rehabilitation
equipment. More specifically, the present invention relates to a
powered stationary bicycle and method of rehabilitation that trains
a proper gait and provides exercise and rehabilitation for
impaired, injured or disabled individuals.
[0004] Stationary bicycles and exercise machines are utilized
extensively for rehabilitation sessions to build strength, increase
range of motion and mobility, and to further introduce muscle
activity to individuals to improve fitness or to recover physical
ability. These devices are generally stationary bicycles and
similar devices that receive input from the individual transferring
energy in the form of work into the device rotation or movement.
While these devices are helpful for injured individuals and those
with slight impairment, they are strenuous for those individuals
with severe impairments, physical ailments, injuries and the
elderly. Traditional stationary bicycles and rehabilitation
machines of this type receive their motive input from the user. The
present invention relates to a rehabilitation means and method that
provides its own motive input and accepts measured input from the
user during exercise and rehabilitation session.
[0005] For the impaired, elderly or injured, a motorized stationary
bicycle provides a means to move a user's limbs and introduce
motion that may otherwise be painful or difficult. This induced
motion facilitates blood flow into the extremities, loosens joint
stiffness and begins to exercise damaged or underutilized muscles.
Devices of this type exist in the art, and are generally related to
limb movement machines or motorized bicycle machines that
facilitate movement for impaired users. The present invention
discloses an improvement to such devices and a method of
rehabilitation that is particularly suited for reducing pain,
improving an individual's gait and further for relaxing the user
while engaging in the activity.
[0006] The present method and device contemplates a motorized
stationary bicycle in conjunction with a thigh brace element and a
visual stimulus that allows the user to avoid focusing on the
exercise and enjoy the activity without contemplating its operation
or success. Specifically, the present invention provides a
motorized set of pedals and a seat for a user to operate their legs
in a rotational manner, while the thigh brace controls the user's
upper leg region and the visual stimulus allows the user to focus
on a scene, movie or other visually interesting or motivating
activity. Visual entertainment stimulates endorphins, a natural
protein that combats stress and pain for overall well being, while
the operation of the bicycle and motion of the user's legs retrains
the user and exercises atrophied or damaged limbs. The present
invention trains an individual's gait, relieves stressed and
weakened joints and muscles, reconditions injured or healing joints
such as those with knee and hip replacements, and utilizes an
adjustable inner thigh brace to maintain proper alignment at
variable pedal speeds. The method and device retrain the brain
through muscle repetition and muscle memory. It has been shown that
the combination of elements and the method of use provided herein
benefit the elderly, those with special needs and anyone else
wishing to strengthen their lower body, mobilize their joints, and
realign their walking gait.
[0007] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0008] Devices have been disclosed in the prior art that relate to
rehabilitation and exercise bicycles. These include devices that
have been patented and published in patent application
publications. These devices generally relate to motorized and
pedal-driven apparatuses specifically designed for impaired or
disabled users having rotatable cranks for limb movement. While
these devices provide novel means of exercise, they fail to
contemplate the unique aspects that allow the present device to
successfully train and exercise an impaired or disabled user. The
devices deemed most relevant to the present disclosure are herein
described for the purposes of highlighting and differentiating the
unique aspects of the present invention, and further highlighting
the drawbacks existing in the prior art.
[0009] Specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 6,740,010 to Sze discloses a
motorized stationary bicycle for lower body rehabilitation, wherein
the bicycle comprises a frame, a pair of pedals and an electric
motor and drivetrain for driving the pedals. The drivetrain is
claimed as a drive shaft, coupler, worm gear and toothed gear for
transforming the motor rotation into rotation of the pedals. The
devices is designed such that once the motor is rotating, the gears
cause the step pedals to turn in a synchronized motion, inducing
leg movement of the exerciser while limiting frictional damage by
way of incorporation of the drivetrain worm gear. While disclosing
a novel and specifically designed stationary bicycle having an
electric motor and drivetrain, the Sze device does not disclose the
novel rehabilitation elements of the present invention. The present
invention utilizes a powered stationary bicycle for rehabilitation,
however the key components for its success include the incorporate
of visual stimuli and a specifically designed leg brace that
controls and stimulates thigh movement.
[0010] Another such device is U.S. Pat. No. 4,402,502 to Peters,
which discloses an exerciser for disabled persons that comprises a
frame having rotatable pedal and hand cranks for connection to the
limbs of a user. The cranks are include a means of firmly holding
the operators respective limbs while in use, while optionally
supplying a motive means of rotating the cranks. A clutch is
included to power the cranks while the motive means is in operation
without causing damage, while the frame itself is designed to
accommodate disable users in a wheelchair. The Peters device
describes a novel means of introducing motion or allowing limb
exercise for disabled users. However, the structure and operation
of the Peters device differs considerably from the present
invention, which is related specifically to a lower body
rehabilitation device that is powered, includes visual stimuli and
a brace for leg rehabilitation purposes.
[0011] Similar to the Peters device, U.S. Pat. No. 3,991,749 to
Zent discloses an exercising apparatus having rotatable foot pedals
and hand crank arms, wherein a seated user places his feet on the
pedals and grasps the crank arms. A motor within the housing the
device drives the foot pedals and crank arms in a rotational
motion, wherein the crank arms and pedals are connected along the
sides of the device frame. Several embodiments are for driving the
cranks and for the direction of travel between the crank arms and
foot pedals; however the structure and intent of the Zent device
similarly fails to disclose the novel features of the present
invention. While related to exercise equipment having motive power,
the Zent device does not contemplate the elements that comprise the
present invention apparatus or rehabilitation method.
[0012] Finally, U.S. Pat. No. 6,220,991 to Sellers discloses a
motorized exercise bicycle that includes a frame having a pedal
assembly interlinked with an electric motor, a fan blade wheel and
reciprocating handle bar assembly. The motor drives the pedal
assembly and reciprocates the handles to assist physically
challenged or disabled users during exercise. The device includes a
frame with an upstanding seat portion having the user's legs
suspended below the seat. Similar to the aforementioned exercise
and rehabilitation devices in the prior art, the Sellers device
fails to disclose the novel rehabilitation elements and the
structure of the present invention, wherein a powered stationary
bicycle and method of use is provided for the physically
challenged, elderly and those requiring rehabilitation
exercise.
[0013] The present invention provides a means to train those with
proper walking ailments or conditions with a means to recover
strength and realign their body for a proper walking structure. The
present invention further provides a means of exercise and
rehabilitation for disabled, impaired or elderly individuals who
may otherwise not be able to readily pedal a standard stationary
bicycle independent of motorized input. The incorporation of a
thigh control element facilitates proper training of a walking
motion, while the visual stimulus allows the user to relax and
enjoy the activity and not contemplate or becoming quickly tired of
its operation. The visual stimulus increases compliance with
regular training and encourages the user to provide input to the
device for increasing strength and exercise. It is submitted that
the present invention substantially diverges in design elements and
steps from the prior art, and consequently it is clear that there
is a need in the art for an improvement to existing walking gait
training and rehabilitation devices. In this regard the instant
invention substantially fulfills these needs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known
types of motorized stationary bicycles now present in the prior
art, the present invention provides a new device and method
associated with a motorized stationary bicycle, wherein the same
can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when
correcting a user's walking gait, rehabilitating impaired or
injured users, and further for introducing exercise to those unable
to utilize standard stationary bicycles.
[0015] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
provide a new and improved walking gait training and rehabilitation
device that has all of the advantages of the prior art and none of
the disadvantages.
[0016] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
motorized stationary bicycle that is particularly suited for those
with walking gait or posture disabilities, including motor
development and control disorders such as cerebral palsy.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
motorized stationary bicycle that is particularly suited for
injured or impaired users requiring exercise and muscle development
prior to walking or exercising independently of motorized
input.
[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
motorized stationary bicycle that is particularly suited for
elderly individuals that may have muscle and joint pain, wherein
exercise and increased blood flow facilitates pain relief and
improve motor function.
[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
motorized stationary bicycle having a means to control a user's
upper legs for properly training and controlling the thigh region
through each pedal rotation.
[0020] A final object of the present invention is to provide a
motorized stationary bicycle having a visual stimulus to encourage
users, release endorphins and to redirect attention away from the
exercise at hand for increased effectiveness thereof and compliance
with regular exercise routines.
[0021] Other objects, features and advantages of the present
invention will become apparent from the following detailed
description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] Although the characteristic features of this invention will
be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and
manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood
after a review of the following description, taken in connection
with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are
provided throughout.
[0023] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the present device.
[0024] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the present device and
associated method.
[0025] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the present device in a
working state, along with a close-up view of the limb control
brace.
[0026] FIG. 4 shows a view of the control interface of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the user chair
adjustability.
[0028] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the limb control
brace.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0029] Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like
reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like
or similar elements of the walking gait training and lower body
rehabilitation device. For the purposes of presenting a brief and
clear description of the present invention, the preferred
embodiment will be discussed as used for training proper walking
gait, building leg strength and improving overall health of users
through motorized input. The figures are intended for
representative purposes only and should not be considered to be
limiting in any respect.
[0030] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, there are shown a
perspective and side view of the present walking gait training and
lower body rehabilitation device. The apparatus of the present
invention comprises a seated and motorized bicycle assembly having
a frame 16, a seated user chair 11, and a motorized set of foot
pedals 14 that position the user such that the user's legs are
forward of their torso while seated therein. Along the frame 16 is
a housing 15 adapted to contain a motor drive means for the foot
pedals 14, which comprises a belt-driven assembly having an
electric motor and drivetrain that induces controlled and variable
speed rotation of the foot pedals, which are each attached to a
rotary member within the housing via their respective pedal cranks.
The motorized pedals are driven in a uniform rotational direction
and at opposite phases, as is commonly provided in bicycle and
stationary bicycle devices. Each foot pedal includes a platform
upon which the user may exert force, along with a plurality of
straps that are adapted to form over the exterior of a user's shoe
and secure their feet to each pedal 14. The user chair 11 provides
a location for which the user to sit, while the user's feet are
extended forward and secured into each foot pedal 14. The motor
drives the pedals in a given rotational direction based on a
desired speed and direction chosen by the user or a healthcare
professional overseeing the user. Speed of the pedals is controlled
via a control interface 13 in front and in reach of the user chair
11, wherein the user may reach and control the speed while the
device is in operation and the user is engaged therewith. Above the
control interface 13 is an emergency stop 24 button, which may be
readily depressed if operation of the device is immediately desired
due to injury or emergency complications.
[0031] The motorized pedal device is a uniquely designed structure
that has similarities to commonly found exercise and motorized
stationary bicycles, however the configuration of the present
device, its construction and intended use are unique. Along the
housing 15 is located a junction 30, along with a controller for
the motor assembly. These elements accept NC power, distribute
power to the electric motor and control the overall operation of
the apparatus. Within the housing 15 is a means of monitoring
backpressure on the cranks of each foot pedal 14, wherein the
desired rotation during operation is known and resistive force
encountered from the user's legs and feet on the cranks is
continually monitored. If the condition arises wherein resistance
from the user reaches a given threshold based on feedback loop of
the measuring means, the operation of the device ceases and the
pedals stop rotating. This safety mechanism prevents the motorized
assembly from rotating a user in a manner that may be harmful, and
further considers the user's input as a means to prevent
uncontrolled or harmful rotation of his or her limbs. Force applied
in the direction of the device operating rotation is accepted and
encouraged, as the user is increasing output and obtaining higher
levels of exercise. The belt driven motor allows this input via
slippage of the drive belt if necessary.
[0032] Further provided by the present apparatus and method is a
means of visual stimulation 19 for the user while in operation,
which preferably is provided in the form of a forward-mounted or
stand-alone television device, and preferably projects three
dimensional scenes or movies to motivate and stimulate the user
during workouts or rehabilitation sessions. In use, a user is
seated in the chair 11 with his or her legs secured within each
foot pedal 14 and placed forward of his or her seated position in
the chair 11. A speed is chosen on the control interface 13,
whereby the legs of the user are moved in a reciprocal motion
similar to pedaling a bike or engaging in a walking motion. The
user is capable of providing input into the pedals 14 as the device
is in operation; however this is not required for proper operation
as the motor drives the user's legs independently of external
input. Further input from the user, however, can facilitate greater
exercise and physical output, facilitating blood flow and loosening
of the joints and muscles within the lower body. While the user's
legs are being mobilized, the visual stimulation relieves mental
stress, stimulates the release of endorphins and further to relaxes
or motivates the user while operating the device.
[0033] The visual stimulation 19 provides scenic views, a movie or
set of images that are adapted to improve the overall experience
and effectiveness of the exercise. The television may be mounted to
the frame 16 or alternatively positioned in front of the user and
unattached from the frame. It is not desired to limit the structure
of the present device to one that accommodates a television stand,
but rather to disclose elements of the overall assembly that are
necessary for affecting the desired results, while realigning one's
walking gait, rehabbing an injured or impaired individual, or
further providing an exercise device for the elderly. In place of a
television and stand, an image or motion picture projector may
further be provided forward of the user and project thereaway from,
wherein visual stimulation is provided via the projected image and
scene emanating along a wall surface facing the user. This
embodiment requires an adequate projection surface for proper
operation, but does not require the physical aspects of the
television or a stand therefor.
[0034] Further elements of the present device include user handles
26 that extend from the seat 11 for the user to grasp during
operation of the device, along with a safety shutoff cord that
allows the motor to cease when the user desires. The shutoff cord
extends from the user to the control interface 13, whereby removal
of a clip attached to the cord from the interface 13 shuts down the
device in a similar fashion as a treadmill safety tether. The frame
16 is one that is adapted to support the chair 11 and the housing
15 that controls the motorized pedals 14 of the assembly. It may be
positioned on rollers 18 or lie flat against a ground surface if so
designed. Adjustment of the seat position is further contemplated
in the way of an adjustable seat support 12, wherein the distance
between the seat 11 and the pedals 14 is adjustable, the angle 29
of the seat, the height and tilt of the seat are also readily
adjustable. The seat itself is mounted to the frame utilizing
pneumatic piston that allows for height adjustability above the
seat support 30, while the support 30 attaches to a slideable
platform 17 along the upper portion of the frame 16. This slideable
platform 17 is positionable along the frame using a pin engagement
that locks the two together and prevents relative motion, allowing
for distance adjustability between the seat 11 and the pedals
14.
[0035] The present device is a motorized pedal operated
rehabilitation device for lower body exercise, training and
rehabilitation. It is unique in that it trains an individual's
gait, relieves stressed and weakened joints and muscles,
reconditions injured or healing joints such as those with knee and
hip replacements, and further maintains proper alignment of the
user's legs and lower body at variable operational speeds. The
device is adapted to retrain the user's brain through repetition of
movement, muscle memory and strength development, wherein the
user's legs are moved and the user's mind is stimulated to produce
tangible results while the user's mind is not focused on the
activity or is stimulated by the visual projection in front of the
user. The device allows for adjustable speeds for varying stages of
rehabilitation, and is ideal for use by physicians, physical
therapists, and trainers.
[0036] Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a perspective view
of the present invention in a working state, wherein a user 21 is
seated within the chair and her feet are securely fastened to each
pedal 14. The user is engaged by the turning pedals, while the
visual stimulation is operational for mental amusement and
stimulation purposes. Three dimensional stimulation has been shown
as most effective, wherein the user employs polarized or similar
three dimensional glasses 31 technology and a three dimensional
televisions or projection technology to be more fully engaged by
the visual images projected therefrom. As the pedals 14 are driven,
the users legs are moved in a reciprocal manner, wherein the motor
can drive the pedals 14 in either rotational direction, forward or
reverse. Increased blood flow and manipulation of the user's leg
joints facilitates healing, training and strength development for
atrophied or impaired limbs.
[0037] Connecting to both of the user's thigh region is a limb
control brace 22, which comprises a first and second
thigh-receiving cuff 23 that is attachable to the user's thighs
using a removable attachment means. Between the two cuffs 23 is at
least one hingeable link 25 having its terminal ends pivotably
attached to each cuff interior portion and the link having an
adjustable length. This link 25 ensures the legs of the user stay
in close proximity to one another during the pedal rotation,
preventing uncontrolled movement and further training the user's
lower body a proper walking posture and motion. The hingeable ends
of the link allow the thighs to operate in a scissor manner while
being driven by the foot pedals 14, however splayed or limb
interference is prevented by the link maintaining the desired
distance between thighs.
[0038] Also included may be a linkage or a tether that further
prevents movement of the thighs, wherein the tether provides a less
rigid means of constraining the user's thighs while working in
conjunction with a single rigid linkage. This provides greater
freedom of movement and user control between his or her legs, which
is desired by higher strength or further developed users requiring
less limb control assistance. Together, the control brace 22, the
motive operation of the pedals 14 and the visual stimulus function
to introduce motion, exercise and therapy for an ailing, elderly or
impaired individual.
[0039] Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a perspective view
of the present motorized bicycle control interface 13, which
comprises rotational speed control, a rotational direction control
for the pedals, an operation on/off switch, and further two means
of ceasing power to the assembly in the event of an emergency. A
removable clip 28 closes a circuit that allows functionality of the
motor, wherein the clip 28 may be removed if the user desires the
machine to quickly cease operation. This is a common feature of
motorized exercise machines, including treadmills and bicycles,
wherein an emergency situation such as the user falling or hurting
themselves may prevent them from quickly turning down the speed and
ceasing the operation of the device, which may otherwise cause
injury to the user. Also provided is an emergency stop button 24
above the interface that can be depressed to cease operation of the
device in the event of an emergency or the end of a workout.
Positioning of the control interface 13 is preferably along the
frame and in front of the user or along the motor housing of the
assembly and in close proximity to the seated user, wherein ready
access to the interface is achievable while seated and the device
is in operation. The emergency tether is connected to the user to
allow the clip 28 to be easily removed from the interface in the
event of an emergency.
[0040] Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a perspective view
of the seat adjustability elements that allow the user seat 11 to
be adjusted to accommodate users of different size and gender and
those having particular seating preferences. The seat is supported
by an upstanding post 30 that supports the seat platform. Mounted
on the platform is a pneumatic cylinder that is adjustable via a
seat height crank handle 34, which introduces air in the cylinder
or allows it to escape and thus lower the seat 11. Further provided
is the seat bottom angle adjustment 33 with respect to the frame
level, seat back tilt adjustment 32, and further the handle bar
positioning adjustment 34. The handle bar adjustment changes the
angle of the handle bars 26 with respect to the seat for improved
overall ergonomics. Therefore, the seat is readily adjustable for
any user, wherein the seat may be moved, tilted, raised, lowered
and angled to provide the most comfortable seating and leg position
while the user's legs are being rotated.
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a view of the
present control brace 22 of the present invention. The control
brace 22 provides a pair of cuffs 23 that securably and removably
connect to the thigh portions of the user's legs while the user is
seated and the device is operating the user's legs in a reciprocal
manner. At least one hingeable link 25 between the braces prevents
the user's legs from separating or flailing wildly with respect to
one another, and for aligning the user's legs in a proper position
through the pedal travel. A secondary link or chain may also be
provided to further control the user's legs in more than one
discrete location. The use of a tether or chain as a second link
reduces the overall constraint of the device and allows more
freedom of movement for more controlled and advanced users. The
control brace trains a user's legs to adjust their walking gait,
particularly for those having conditions that result in unsteady
gait, scissor and toe walking or those with involuntary spasms that
hinder a normal walking gait. Through repeated use of the assembly
and the control brace 22, the user's brain and muscles are trained
a proper gait that can improve the user's ability to walk by
themselves or improve their gait while away from the device.
[0042] It is realized that many individuals have an improper
walking gait, which can affect their complete body alignment. This
misalignment can also negatively impact a person's posture and can
stem from a number of different impairments or disabilities.
Without a proper means of rehabilitation or training, individuals
may notice that their joints begin to cease operation as they
should and muscles begin to atrophy, while some may also experience
poor circulation as a result of poor mobility. The present device
is adapted to provide an exercise, rehabilitation and training
device for several classes of users, including: impair or
handicapped users, those with disorders that affect lower body
movement, the elderly, and finally the injured and recovering. The
device trains an individual's gait, increases blood flow, relieves
joints and muscle pain, reconditions injured or healing joints such
as those with knee and hip replacements, and improves leg function
for those having health conditions that otherwise limit mobility or
operation.
[0043] Associated with the apparatus of the present invention is an
accompanying method of use, wherein a method of rehabilitation,
training and exercise for impaired, injured or elderly persons is
disclosed. The method comprises utilizing a motorized pedal bicycle
to rotate a user's lower body and legs in a reciprocal motion,
while also allowing the user to input force on the bicycle pedals
if desired and able. The method further comprises utilizing a
visual stimulus to improve the individual's mood, stimulate the
mind and endorphin release, and to further distract and encourage
the user while his or her legs are being mobilized. Finally, the
method contemplates controlling the motion of the user's legs using
a pair of linked thigh braces, which control the thighs of a user
and improve the user's gait.
[0044] It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has
been shown and described in what is considered to be the most
practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however,
that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and
that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the
art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be
realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts
of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape,
form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are
deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and
all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings
and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed
by the present invention.
[0045] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only
of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact
construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly,
all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to,
falling within the scope of the invention.
* * * * *