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WO2006110545A2 - Harnais et courroie de compression et de propagation de vibrations permettant de limiter la perte osseuse et musculaire - Google Patents

Harnais et courroie de compression et de propagation de vibrations permettant de limiter la perte osseuse et musculaire Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2006110545A2
WO2006110545A2 PCT/US2006/013066 US2006013066W WO2006110545A2 WO 2006110545 A2 WO2006110545 A2 WO 2006110545A2 US 2006013066 W US2006013066 W US 2006013066W WO 2006110545 A2 WO2006110545 A2 WO 2006110545A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
harness
person
vibration actuator
vibration
shoulder
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2006/013066
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2006110545A3 (fr
Inventor
Michael Liebschner
Christopher Gibson
Thomas Rooney
Roland Robb
Zeyad Metwalli
William Elam
Original Assignee
William Marsh Rice University
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by William Marsh Rice University filed Critical William Marsh Rice University
Publication of WO2006110545A2 publication Critical patent/WO2006110545A2/fr
Publication of WO2006110545A3 publication Critical patent/WO2006110545A3/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H11/00—Belts, strips or combs for massage purposes
    • A61H11/02—Massage devices with strips oscillating lengthwise
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H1/00—Apparatus for passive exercising; Vibrating apparatus; Chiropractic devices, e.g. body impacting devices, external devices for briefly extending or aligning unbroken bones
    • A61H1/006—Apparatus for applying pressure or blows for compressive stressing of a part of the skeletal structure, e.g. for preventing or alleviating osteoporosis
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
    • A61H2201/1602—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support
    • A61H2201/165—Wearable interfaces

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to devices and methods to reduce bone and muscle loss. More particularly, the present invention relates to non-invasive devices and methods to reduce bone and muscle loss by compressing regions of the body and actively inducing the propagation of vibrations through the bones, muscles and soft tissue of the body. Background of the Invention
  • Bone loss and muscle loss can lead to a variety of musculoskeletal injuries including fractured bones, since bones and muscles generally weaken as a result of bone loss and muscle loss. Bone loss, muscle loss, and associated musculoskeletal weakening may result from a variety of conditions such as natural aging, degenerative bone/muscle diseases, microgravity or low gravity environments, and lack of physical activity and loading of the musculoskeletal system.
  • Osteoporosis is a relatively common degenerative bone disease in which the bone mineral density is reduced,, and the bone structure is disrupted, which may cause bone loss and bone weakening over time. In the United States, it is estimated that osteoporosis causes a predisposition to more than 250,000 hip fractures yearly.
  • bone and muscle loss and associated weakening of the musculoskeletal system are common in individuals and/or patients who are bedridden, elderly, paraplegic or otherwise unable or unwilling to load their bones and sufficiently utilize their muscles through normal activities.
  • Normal daily activities such as walking, lifting objects, etc. repeatedly place loads on the bones and muscles, and also exercise the muscles, tending to maintain the strength of bones and muscles, reduce muscle atrophy, and in some cases even strengthen bones and muscles.
  • bone and muscle weakening may significantly increase risks for musculoskeletal injuries including bone fractures.
  • Low gravity environments include environments in which the gravitational acceleration and resulting gravitational force is less than that at the earth's surface (e.g., in low-earth orbit or in outer space). For example, it is estimated that astronauts may lose an average of more than 1% bone mass per month spent in space. Weakening of the bones and muscles resulting from the lack of loads (e.g., weight resulting from the effects of gravity) encountered in such environments increases the risks of musculoskeletal injuries and has raised serious concerns about the feasibility of long duration space missions. For instance, on a potential flight to Mars, each astronaut may lose more than 10% of their bone mass just traveling to Mars, and then lose another 10% returning from Mars, putting the astronaut at risk for musculoskeletal problems.
  • such a device may not be sufficient for use with individuals unable or unwilling to stand upright, nor sufficient for use in microgravity or low gravity situations where the weight of the body is significantly reduced and may not provide adequate compression of the skeleton to enhance vibration transmission. Still further, such devices may not permit for focused or localized vibration treatment, potentially resulting in damping of the vibrations before they reach particular regions of the body.
  • the apparatus comprises an adjustable harness operable to be mounted on one or more body parts of a person.
  • the apparatus comprises at least one vibration actuator coupled to the harness, wherein the at least one vibration actuator generates vibrations, and wherein the at least one vibration actuator is positioned between the person and the harness when the harness is mounted to the person.
  • the apparatus comprises an adjustable harness operable to be mounted on one or more body parts of a person.
  • the- apparatus comprises a shoulder harness coupled to a shoulder of the person and the harness, wherein the shoulder harness comprises a collar and one or more loading members, wherein the collar is mounted on a shoulder of the person, and wherein each loading member connects the collar to the harness, and wherein each loading member provides compression to a part of the person.
  • the apparatus comprises an adjustable harness operable to be mounted on one or more body parts of a person.
  • the apparatus comprises a leg harness coupled to the harness and a foot of the person, wherein the leg harness comprises a knee coupling, a foot terminus, and one or more loading members, wherein the knee coupling is mounted about a knee of the person, wherein one or more loading members connect the knee coupling to the harness, wherein one or more loading members connect the knee coupling to a foot of the person, and wherein each loading member provides compression to a part of the person.
  • the system comprises an adjustable harness operable to be mounted on one or more body parts of a person.
  • the system comprises at least one vibration actuator that generates controlled vibrations that is coupled to the harness, wherein the at least one vibration actuator is operable to provide vibrations to the person when the harness is mounted on the person.
  • the system comprises a shoulder harness coupled to a shoulder of the person and the harness.
  • the system comprises a leg harness coupled to a foot of the person and the harness, wherein the shoulder harness and the leg harness each provide compression to a different part of the person.
  • Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of a vibration application system
  • Figure 2 illustrates a posterior view of the vibration application system of Figure 1 worn by an individual
  • Figure 3 illustrates an enlarged view of an embodiment of a vibration actuator coupled to a support structure
  • Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of a compression application system that may be used with the vibration application system of Figure 1;
  • Figure 5 illustrates an anterior view of the compression application system of Figure 4 worn by an individual
  • Figure 6 illustrates a posterior view of the compression application system of Figure 4 worn by an individual
  • Figure 7 illustrates an anterior view of an embodiment of a combined vibration application system and compression application system worn by an individual.
  • the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to... .”
  • the term “couple” or “couples” is intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection may be through a direct connection, or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections.
  • Vibration application system 10 includes a harness 20 and a plurality of vibration actuators 30 coupled to harness 20. Each vibration actuator 30 generates and transmits controlled vibrations to targeted bones, muscles, and tissues of individual 99, which may reduce bone and/or muscle loss. ⁇ ,
  • vibration application system 10 is .configured such that each vibration actuator 30 is positioned on a first side 21 of harness 20, proximal individual 99, between individual 99 and harness 20.
  • This configuration permits each vibration actuator 30 to be held in contact with individual 99 or close enough to individual 99 such that vibrations generated by each vibration actuator 30 may be propagated into soft tissue, bones, and muscles of individual 99.
  • this configuration permits the pressure between each vibration actuator 30 and individual 99 to be adjusted by tightening or loosening harness 20.
  • one or more vibration actuators 30 may be positioned distal individual 99 relative to harness 20.
  • vibration application system 10 is positioned around the lower waist of individual 99.
  • the two outer lateral vibration actuators 30 shown in Figures 1 and 2 are positioned to provide vibrational stimulation to each greater trochanter, while the central vibration actuator 30 is positioned to provide vibrational stimulation to the lower lumbar vertebrae.
  • vibrations applied to each greater trochanter may propagate to other bones and muscles in the pelvic region and upper leg regions ⁇ e.g., femur).
  • vibrations applied to the lower lumbar vertebrae may propagate to other bones in the pelvic region, superior vertebrae, other bones W
  • Targeting the pelvis may be advantageous since the pelvis is particularly susceptible to breaking as a result of weakening from bone loss.
  • the pelvic region and the vertebral column represent the core of the skeletal system, targeting these regions in particular may enhance the likelihood of propagation of vibrations throughout the skeletal system and the muscular system connected to the skeletal system.
  • vibration application system 10 may be positioned at any suitable location of individual 99, and more particularly one or more vibration actuators 30 may be positioned at any suitable location of individual 99 to provide controlled vibrations to specific, targeted bones, muscles, or tissues of individual 99 to reduce bone and/or muscle loss.
  • harness 20 has a first side 21 and a second side 22. Further, harness 20 includes a first end 23 and a second end 24. A longitudinal axis 25 of harness 20 extends between first end 23 and second end 24. In addition, the length of harness 20 is the distance between first end 23 and second end 24.
  • Harness 20 further includes. an attachment mechanism 26 that enables first end 23 to be adjustably and releasably coupled to second end .24.
  • attachment mechanism 26 comprises a buckle 27 and mating holes 28.
  • attachment mechanism 26 may comprise any suitable means of adjustably and releasably coupling first end 23 to second end 24 to create an adjustable belt-like structure including without limitation, buckles, snaps, buttons, adjustable releasable clips, Velcro® (available from Velcro Industries), adjustable connectors, or combinations thereof.
  • first end 23 may be releasably coupled to second end 24 such that the diameter of harness 20 may be adjusted when it is positioned around individual 99, for instance as shown in Figure 3.
  • harness 20 when first end 23 is coupled to second end 24, may be adjusted for different sized individuals and/or for positioning at different locations of the body.
  • harness 20 takes the form of one continuous, closed, elastic belt that may be stretched to be put on and worn.
  • harness 20 further includes a plurality of shoulder harness attachment members 61 positioned along and extending from the upper portion of harness 20, and a plurality of leg harness attachment members 81 positioned along and extending from the lower portion of harness 20.
  • Shoulder harness attachment members 61 and leg harness attachment members 81 may be used to couple additional devices to harness 20, as will be described in more detail below.
  • no shoulder harness attachment members 61 and/or no leg harness attachment members 81 are included on harness 20.
  • the components (e.g., harness 20, vibration actuators 30, etc.) of vibration application system 10 may comprise any suitable materials and size.
  • the relative size of each component and mass of each component are selected such that vibration application system 10 may be relatively lightweight, sleek (i.e., not unduly bulky or large), and comfortable when mounted to individual 99.
  • mass may not significantly affect the comfort of vibration application system 10 in low gravity situations, both the mass and the size of vibration application system 10 may impact its ability to be transported to space. For instance, payload restrictions may effectively place upper limits on the size and mass of vibration application system 10.
  • harness 20 may comprise any suitable material sufficiently flexible to enable harness 20 to conform substantially to the shape of individual 99 and sufficiently strong to support one or more vibration actuators 30.
  • suitable materials include without limitation leather, fabric, mesh, webbed materials, natural fibers, plastic or combinations thereof.
  • harness 20 may be an elastic, stretchable material or an inelastic material.
  • attachment mechanism 26, shoulder harness attachment members 61 and leg harness attachment members 81 may -each comprise any suitable material(s) including without limitation metals (e.g., aluminum), non-metals (e.g., stainless steel, plastic, composites, ceramics, etc.) or combinations thereof.
  • vibration application system 10 may include any number of vibration actuators 30 and may be mounted to any body part to provide vibrational stimulation.
  • FIG 3 illustrates an enlarged view of one vibration actuator 30 coupled to first side 21 of harness 20 by straps 29.
  • a vibration actuator 30 may be coupled to harness 20 by any suitable means including without limitation, straps, Velcro®, pockets provided in harness 20, snaps, adhesive, or combinations thereof.
  • vibration actuator 30 is adjustably coupled to harness 20 by straps 29 having a strap first end 29a fixed to harness 20 and a strap second end 29b fixed to vibration actuator 30.
  • the ability to adjust the location of each vibration actuator 30 along harness 20 permits improved positioning of each vibration actuator 30 in order to better target specific bones and muscles, and also permits vibration application system 10 to be adjusted for positioning around different sized individuals and/or different body parts.
  • the position of vibration actuator 30 relative to harness 20 may be adjusted with a set of buckles, however, in general, vibration actuator 30 may be adjustably coupled to harness 20 by any suitable means that permits adjustment of vibration actuator 30 relative to harness 20.
  • vibration actuator 30 is releasably coupled to harness 20 such that vibration actuator 30 may be completely separated from harness 20. Vibration actuator 30 may be removed for a variety of reasons including without limitation, maintenance, repair, replacement, adjustment, vibration actuators 30 are not needed, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments (not illustrated), vibration actuator 30 may be fixed to harness 20 such that it cannot be easily removed or adjusted.
  • vibration actuator 30 comprises a body 32 and two vibration transmitters 34.
  • each vibration actuator 30 generates vibrations that are transmitted non-invasively through the skin and soft tissue (e.g., muscles, fat, etc.) to one or more bones and/or muscles of individual 99.
  • vibration transmitters 34 contact individual 99 (e.g., at the skin or through clothes) and serve as a point of contact for transmitting vibrations from vibration actuator 30 to individual 99.
  • the semi-spherically shape of vibration transmitters 34 illustrated in Figure 3 also enhances the ability to focus and target the vibrations. For instance, to transmit vibrations to a particular bone or particular muscle just beneath the skin, a vibration transmitter 34 may be positioned proximal the particular bone or muscle.
  • Vibration actuator 30 illustrated in Figure 3 has two vibration transmitters 34, however, in different embodiments, vibration actuator may have any suitable number of vibration transmitters 34. For instance, the two outermost vibration actuators 30 shown in Figure 1 each have one vibration transmitter 34.
  • each vibration actuator 30 are of controlled frequency and controlled amplitude.
  • the frequency and amplitude of one or more vibration actuators 30 is fixed, while in different embodiments, the frequency and amplitude of one or more vibration actuators 30 is variable.
  • control of the frequency and amplitude may be accomplished by any suitable means including without limitation, by the individual 99 using the device, by a physical therapist or physician, by an electronic control system instructed by software run on a computer system, or combinations thereof.
  • the frequency and amplitude of one or more vibration actuators 30 may vary continuously as controlled by a control system and associated feedback system which senses the resonance frequency of the targeted bone, muscle, and/or tissue at period intervals (e.g., 10 times a second). In some embodiments, preferably the frequency and amplitude of the vibrations are optimized to reduce bone loss and/or muscle loss.
  • the frequency range may be adjusted depending on the anatomical site (e.g., hip, lower back, upper back, etc.) and the tissue of interest (e.g., bone or soft tissue).
  • the frequencies of vibrations may be in the range from about 20 to about 300 Hz.
  • the vibration frequencies are between 20 to 50 Hz.
  • the vibration frequencies may be set close to the resonance frequency of the body or anatomical area to which vibration application system 10 is attached.
  • the vibration frequency is between 100 to 200 Hz to stimulate muscles and soft tissues.
  • the vibrational frequencies may differ between vibration actuators 30.
  • the amplitude of vibrations may be set at any suitable level for a particular area of the body (e.g., certain bones, particular area of soft tissue, etc.). In some embodiments, the amplitude of vibrations are on the order of millimeters, generally between 0 and 10 millimeters. Further, the vibrational amplitudes may differ with time and/or between vibration actuators 30.
  • the combination of the frequency and amplitude of vibrations may be controlled to define the acceleration of the vibrations. For instance, the frequency and amplitude of vibrations may be controlled to limit the acceleration of the vibrations to less than IG, where G is the gravitational constant.
  • a control panel (not shown) is provided.
  • the control panel may be mounted to vibration application system 10 or remote from vibration application system 10.
  • Such a control panel may provide any suitable controls including without limitation, an on/off switch, a frequency adjustment, an amplitude adjustment, or combinations thereof.
  • the control panel may communicate wirelessly or by hard wire to vibration application system 10.
  • Each vibration actuator 30 may comprise any suitable device capable of generating controlled vibrations including without limitation DC electric motors, AC electric motors, brushless electric motors, pneumatic devices, hydraulic devices, electromagnetic actuators, electromechanical actuators, piezo-electric actuators, or any means of generating an oscillating force.
  • Vibration actuator 30 may be powered by any suitable means including without limitation, batteries, by electrical connection to a power source, a high pressure fluid source (e.g., a compressor), or combinations thereof.
  • vibration actuator 30 comprises a brushless DC electric motor with an offset weighted flywheel housed within body 32.
  • vibration application system 10 may be worn by individual 99 to non-invasively provide vibrational stimulation to targeted bones and/or muscles of individual 99.
  • vibration transmitters 34 of each vibration actuator 30 are positioned proximal targeted bones and/or muscles of individual 99 to provide vibrations of a desired frequency and amplitude to reduce bone and/or muscle loss.
  • vibration actuators 30 may be positioned to target specific bones and/or muscles, other bones and muscles in contact with the targeted bones and muscles may also be vibrationally stimulated as the vibrations propagate through the musculoskeletal system. For instance, vibrational stimulation of the greater trochanter may travel across the hip joint to the pelvis.
  • the propagation of vibrations between solid objects is improved as the contact surface area between the bodies is increased.
  • the propagation of vibrations between different bones may be enhanced by increasing the contact surface area between such bones.
  • Contact surface area between bones may be increased by loading the bones such that the connected ends of the bones are pushed towards each other ⁇ e.g., putting the bones in compression).
  • Such advantageous loading and compression may be obtained by standing upright, allowing the full weight of the body to be borne by the skeletal system.
  • a compression application system 100 may be employed to compress the skeletal structure of an individual to enhance the propagation of vibrations through the skeletal system.
  • vibration application system 10 may also include monitoring and data collection means that track the treatment of individual 99 with vibration application system 10 by monitoring when vibration application system 10 is turned on/off, how long vibration application system 10 was used, and which individual used vibration application system 10. The ability to monitor and collect such data may be helpful to a physician, physical therapist, and/or individual to optimize treatments with vibration application system 10. The collected data may be transmitted wirelessly or by hard wire from vibration application system 10 to a remote system.
  • vibration application system 10 provides a non-invasive device and method to reduce bone and/or muscle loss.
  • Vibration application system 10 may be worn and used by individuals suffering from osteoporosis, by individuals in microgravity or low gravity environments, and individuals who are unable or unwilling to sufficiently load their bones and muscles by physical activity ⁇ e.g., bed-ridden individuals, paraplegics, elderly, etc.).
  • Select embodiments of vibration application system 10 may be adjusted and customized to fit different individuals and to target different bones and muscles.
  • some embodiments of vibration application system 10 permit targeting of specific bones and muscles without the need to load the musculoskeletal system. Such embodiments may be effectively used by individuals in microgravity or low gravity environments and individuals unable or unwilling to load their bones and muscles by normal physical activities.
  • vibration application system 10 may provide improved convenience as compared to some conventional methods used to treat bone loss with vibrational stimulation.
  • embodiments of vibration application system 10 may be used in bed (e.g., bed-ridden patients, quadriplegics, etc.), while sitting, at work or at home, or while performing tasks.
  • vibration application system 10 may be convenient enough to be used as a preventative measure prior to the onset of degenerative bone conditions to strengthen bones and proactively reduce the effects of degenerative bone conditions such as osteoporosis.
  • Compression application system 100 When mounted to individual 99, compression application system 100 loads and compresses the musculoskeletal system of individual 99.
  • Compression application system 100 includes a shoulder harness 130, a waist harness 120, and a leg harness 140.
  • Shoulder ⁇ harness 130 is coupled to the upper portion of waist harness 120 by shoulder harness attachment members 161.
  • Leg harness 140 is coupled to the lower portion of waist harness 120 by leg* harness attachment members 181.
  • waist harness 120 may be substantially the same as harness 20.
  • Shoulder harness 130 comprises a collar 135, two front loading members 132, and two rear loading members 133.
  • each front loading member 132 has a first end 132a coupled to the front of collar 135 and a second end 132b coupled to shoulder harness attachment member 161 of waist harness 120.
  • each rear loading member 133 has a first end 133a coupled to collar 135 and a second end 133b coupled to leg harness attachment member 181.
  • one or more front loading members 132 and one or more rear loading members 133 are removably coupled to collar 135 and waist harness 120 such that each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133 may be removed, adjusted, and/or replaced.
  • shoulder harness 130 When shoulder harness 130 is worn by individual 99, collar 135 is positioned over the shoulders on either side of the head, and waist harness 120 is positioned about the waist line of individual 99.
  • Each front loading member 132 extends from the front of collar 135, lateral the head, generally downward across the chest to waist harness 120 as best seen in Figure 5.
  • Rear loading members 133 extend from the rear/backside of collar 135 generally downward across the back to waist harness 120 as best seen in Figure 6.
  • shoulder harness 130 illustrated in Figure 4 includes two front loading members 132 and two rear loading members 133
  • shoulder harness 130 may include any number of loading members ⁇ e.g., front loading members 132, rear loading members 133, etc.).
  • one loading member may be coupled to waist harness 120 anterior individual 99, pass over collar 135 lateral to the head and continue down the back and couple to waist harness 120 posterior individual 99.
  • Each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133 may comprise any suitable flexible material that acts like a spring when stretched, thereby generating a force opposite to the direction of stretching that seeks to return the material in its unstretched state.
  • suitable materials include without limitation, rubber bands, elastic, TheraBand® available from Hygenic Corporation, or combinations thereof.
  • Such a suitable material may have a constant spring coefficient or a variable spring coefficient. In other words, the relationship between the length of stretch and the resulting force may be constant (see Equation 1 below as an example), or the relationship between the length of stretch and the resulting force may not be constant (see Equation 2 below as an example).
  • collar 135 may comprise any suitable material(s) that are relatively lightweight, formable to the profile of the shoulders and neck of an individual, and sufficiently strong to withstand any forces applied by the loading members ⁇ e.g., front loading members 132, rear loading members 133, etc.).
  • suitable materials for collar 135 include without limitation, polymers, fabrics, plastics, composites ⁇ e.g., carbon fiber composites), or combinations thereof.
  • each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133 may be stretched between collar 135 and waist harness 120 when collar 135 is placed over the shoulders and waist harness 120 is placed about the waist of individual 99.
  • Such stretching of each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133 may result in forces exerted on the shoulders of individual 99 by collar 135 generally in the direction of arrows 151, and forces exerted about the waist of individual 99 by waist harness 120 generally in the direction of arrows 152.
  • the combination of such forces may result in compression of the skeletal system of individual 99 between the shoulders and waist areas.
  • each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133 may be controlled by varying the length of each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133, as well as by varying the material of each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133. For example, a thicker loading member provides greater elastic force than a thinner loading member of the same material. In embodiments in which each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133 are removably coupled to collar 135 and waist harness 120, the materials and lengths of each front loading member 132 and each rear loading member 133 may be adjusted and customized to achieve the desired forces.
  • different loading members may each be a different length, a different material, generate a different force, or combinations thereof. For example, a shorter loading member stretched a given distance may generate a greater elastic force than a longer loading member of the same material stretched the same distance. As another example, front loading members 132 may be intentionally adjusted/customized to generate less compressional forces than rear loading members 133.
  • Leg harness 140 comprises upper loading members 142, knee couplings 145, lower loading members 146, and foot terminus 147.
  • Each upper loading member 142 has a first end 142a coupled to the front of waist harness 120 and a second end 142b coupled to a knee coupling 145.
  • Each lower loading member 146 has a first end 146a coupled to knee coupling 145 and a second end 146b coupled to foot terminus 147.
  • one or more upper loading members 142 is removably coupled to a knee coupling 145 and waist harness 120 such that each upper loading member 142 may be removed, adjusted, and/or replaced.
  • one or more lower loading member 146s is removably coupled to a knee coupling 145 and a foot terminus 147 such that each lower loading member 146 may be removed, adjusted, and/or replaced.
  • each knee coupling 145 is positioned about the knee of individual 99.
  • each knee coupling 145 is similar to an elastic knee brace that is maintained in position about the knee by elastic compression around the knee area.
  • knee coupling 145 may comprise any suitable device that can maintain its position about the knee under loads from loading members, and serve as a coupling point for one or more loading members (e.g., upper loading members 142, lower loading members 146, etc.).
  • Each upper loading member 142 extends from waist harness 120 generally down the leg to knee coupling 145.
  • each foot terminus 147 is coupled to a foot of individual 99.
  • Each lower loading member 142 extends from waist harness 120 generally down the leg to a foot terminus 147.
  • each upper loading member 142 is coupled to the same lateral side of waist harness 120 as the knee coupling to which it is coupled.
  • leg harness 140 may include any number of loading members (e.g., front loading members 132, rear loading members 133, etc.).
  • one loading member may be coupled to waist harness 120 coupled to a knee coupling 145 and continue to a foot terminus 147.
  • Each upper loading member 142 and each lower loading member 146 may comprise any suitable flexible material that acts like a spring when stretched, thereby generating a force opposite to the direction of stretching that seeks to place the material in its unstretched state.
  • suitable materials include without limitation, rubber bands, elastic, TheraBand® available from Hygenic Corporation, or combinations thereof.
  • Leg harness 140 is configured- such that each upper loading member 142 is stretched between a knee coupling 145 and waist harness 120 when the knee coupling 145 to which it is coupled is positioned about a knee of individual 99 and waist harness 120 is positioned about the waist of individual 99.
  • Such stretching of upper loading members 142 will result in forces exerted on the upper portion of the leg of individual 99 by knee coupling 145 generally in the direction of arrows 157, and forces exerted about the waist of individual 99 by waist harness 120 generally in the direction of arrows 159.
  • the combination of such forces results in compression of the musculoskeletal system of individual 99 between the waist and knee areas.
  • leg harness 140 is configured such that each lower loading member 146 is stretched between knee coupling 145 and foot terminus 147 when the knee coupling 145 and foot terminus to which it is attached are positioned about the knee and foot, respectively, of individual 99.
  • Such stretching of lower loading members 146 will result in forces exerted on the lower portion of the leg of individual 99 by knee coupling 145 generally in the direction of arrows 158, and forces exerted about the foot of individual 99 generally in the direction of arrows 156.
  • the combination of such forces results in compression of the musculoskeletal system of individual 99 between the knee and foot.
  • each upper loading member 142 and each lower loading member 146 may be controlled by varying the length and/or material of each upper loading member 142 and each lower loading member 146.
  • each upper loading member 142 is removably coupled to waist harness 120 and knee coupling 145
  • the materials and/or lengths of each upper loading member 142 may be adjusted and customized to achieve the desired forces along the upper portion of each leg of individual 99.
  • each lower loading member 146 is removably coupled to foot terminus 147 and knee coupling 145
  • the materials and/or lengths of each lower loading member 146 may be adjusted and customized to achieve the desired forces.
  • compression application system 100 may be employed to compress the musculoskeletal system of individual 99.
  • shoulder harness 130 is employed to compress the musculoskeletal system between the shoulders and waist
  • leg harness 140 is employed to compress the musculoskeletal system between the waist and feet.
  • each component of compression application system 100 may comprise any suitable material.
  • each component of compression application system 100 e.g., collar 135, knee coupling 145, waist harness 120, loading members, etc.
  • each component of compression application system 100 is relatively lightweight and minimally bulky such that it may be used by relatively vulnerable individuals (e.g., very young patients, very old patients), individuals with weakened bones (e.g., geriatric patients), etc., in reasonable comfort and convenience.
  • compression application system 100 is preferably relatively lightweight and minimally bulky such that it may be carried along on space missions and subsequently used in microgravity and low gravity environments experienced in space flight.
  • the components of compression application system 100 and associated connections therebetween are preferably sufficiently strong to withstand the forces applied by the loading members 142, 146.
  • the compression of the musculoskeletal system provided by compression application system 100 may provide benefits to individuals in microgravity or low gravity environments.
  • the bones of the musculoskeletal system may tend to move slightly apart since there are little or no loads applied to the musculoskeletal system.
  • due to lack of loads applied to the muscles such environments may also result in muscle atrophy.
  • extended duration stays under such conditions may result in weakening of the bones and muscles.
  • Such detrimental effects may be countered by employing compression application system 100 in microgravity or lower gravity environments in an effort to partially simulate the effects of gravity, thereby preventing and/or reducing the tendency of bones to move apart, bone loss, muscle atrophy, and associated musculoskeletal problems in such environments.
  • compression of the musculoskeletal system may also provide benefits to individuals suffering from osteoporosis, W
  • compression of the musculoskeletal system may reduce bone loss and enhance muscle activity.
  • compression application system 100 illustrated in Figures 4-7 each include a shoulder harness 130 and a leg harness 140, in different embodiments (not illustrated), shoulder harness 130 or leg harness 140 may be used individually. Moreover, in such embodiments, vibration actuators 30 may be included in waist harness 120.
  • compression application system 100 may be configured to provide compression to any suitable part of individual 99.
  • compression application system 100 may be modified to provide compression of the arms between the shoulder and elbow and/or elbow and hands.
  • compression application system 100 may be employed with vibration application system 10 as illustrated in Figure 7.
  • portions of the musculoskeletal system of individual 99 are compressed as vibrations are transmitted to targeted bones and/or muscles.
  • compression of the musculoskeletal system may enhance the propagation of vibrations.
  • bones and muscles other than those specifically targeted may enjoy the benefits of vibrational stimulation (e.g., reduction of bone loss, muscle stimulation, etc.).
  • Such benefits of the combined use of vibration application system 10 and compression application system 100 may be beneficial to individuals suffering from osteoporosis, individuals in microgravity or low gravity environments, and individuals unable or unwilling to load their bones by physical activity (e.g., bed-ridden individuals).
  • vibration application system 10 and compression application system 100 are designed to counter bone loss and/or muscle loss
  • embodiments of vibration application system 10, compression application system 100 both combined may be used by athletes or by physical therapy patients as a muscle development system.
  • embodiments of vibration application system 10 and/or compression application system 100 may be used as an exercise unit through muscle resistance training.
  • embodiments comprise a combination of features and advantages that enable it to overcome various problems of conventional devices and methods used to counter bone loss.
  • certain embodiments may provide relatively lightweight devices and methods to counter bone and/or muscle loss.
  • Such embodiments may be suitable for bed-ridden individuals, very young individuals, and suitable to be brought along on space missions.
  • embodiments may provide mobile devices and methods that can be conveniently employed during normal daily routines, used at home or at the office, or any other desired location.
  • some embodiments provide devices and methods that do not require an individual to stand upright to support his/her own weight in order to treat bone loss.
  • Such embodiments are specifically suited for individuals unwilling or unable to load their bones and muscles by standing (e.g., bed-ridden individuals, paralyzed individuals, etc.) or other physical activity.
  • select embodiments provide devices and methods to target specific bones and muscles for vibration treatment and enhance the propagation of vibrations to other bones and muscles of the interconnected musculoskeletal system.
  • vibration application system 10, compression application 100, or both are used about 15 minutes per day, three days a week.
  • duration and frequency of treatments may be vary depending on a variety of factors including without limitation, physician recommendations, patient comfort level, treatment application, or combinations thereof.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Percussion Or Vibration Massage (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil permettant de limiter les pertes osseuse et musculaire. Dans un mode de réalisation, l'appareil comprend un harnais réglable destiné à être monté sur une ou plusieurs partie(s) du corps d'une personne. Ledit appareil comprend, en outre, au moins un actionneur à vibration couplé au harnais, ledit actionneur générant des vibrations, et étant positionné entre la personne et le harnais lorsque celui-ci est monté sur ladite personne.
PCT/US2006/013066 2005-04-07 2006-04-07 Harnais et courroie de compression et de propagation de vibrations permettant de limiter la perte osseuse et musculaire WO2006110545A2 (fr)

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US66925305P 2005-04-07 2005-04-07
US60/669,253 2005-04-07

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Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2017198283A1 (fr) * 2016-05-16 2017-11-23 Satina Medical Ug (Haftungsbeschränkt) Dispositif de stimulation
WO2018157008A3 (fr) * 2017-02-24 2018-10-04 The Regents Of The University Of Michigan Thérapie vibratoire à actionneurs multiples
WO2021081189A1 (fr) * 2019-10-22 2021-04-29 Bone Health Technologies, Inc. Appareil pour le traitement ou la prévention de l'ostéopénie et de l'ostéoporose, la stimulation de la croissance osseuse, la conservation ou l'amélioration de la densité minérale osseuse, et l'inhibition de l'adipogenèse
US11625994B2 (en) 2014-05-16 2023-04-11 Not Impossible, Llc Vibrotactile control systems and methods
US12008892B2 (en) 2014-05-16 2024-06-11 Not Impossible, Llc Vibrotactile control systems and methods
WO2024151481A1 (fr) * 2023-01-09 2024-07-18 Drmarkinnovations. Vet Llc Dispositifs, systèmes et procédés pour l'amélioration de la cicatrisation d'une fracture osseuse et de la résistance osseuse par traitement par vibration

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3053250A (en) * 1961-05-02 1962-09-11 Doris C Stubbs Vibratory therapeutic treatment applicator
IL114768A (en) * 1995-07-27 2000-06-01 Rudoy Yaakov Vibrator appliance particularly useful for dialysis and/or promoting sleep
US6436062B1 (en) * 1998-03-31 2002-08-20 Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. Massaging appliance

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11625994B2 (en) 2014-05-16 2023-04-11 Not Impossible, Llc Vibrotactile control systems and methods
US12008892B2 (en) 2014-05-16 2024-06-11 Not Impossible, Llc Vibrotactile control systems and methods
WO2017198283A1 (fr) * 2016-05-16 2017-11-23 Satina Medical Ug (Haftungsbeschränkt) Dispositif de stimulation
CN109414369A (zh) * 2016-05-16 2019-03-01 萨蒂纳医疗有限责任公司 刺激装置
AU2016407377B2 (en) * 2016-05-16 2020-07-23 Satina Medical Ug (Haftungsbeschränkt) Stimulating device
US11607364B2 (en) 2016-05-16 2023-03-21 Satina Medical UG Stimulating device
WO2018157008A3 (fr) * 2017-02-24 2018-10-04 The Regents Of The University Of Michigan Thérapie vibratoire à actionneurs multiples
CN110325162A (zh) * 2017-02-24 2019-10-11 密执安州立大学董事会 多致动器振动治疗法
US11491069B2 (en) 2017-02-24 2022-11-08 The Regents Of The University Of Michigan Multiple actuator vibration therapy
WO2021081189A1 (fr) * 2019-10-22 2021-04-29 Bone Health Technologies, Inc. Appareil pour le traitement ou la prévention de l'ostéopénie et de l'ostéoporose, la stimulation de la croissance osseuse, la conservation ou l'amélioration de la densité minérale osseuse, et l'inhibition de l'adipogenèse
WO2024151481A1 (fr) * 2023-01-09 2024-07-18 Drmarkinnovations. Vet Llc Dispositifs, systèmes et procédés pour l'amélioration de la cicatrisation d'une fracture osseuse et de la résistance osseuse par traitement par vibration

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