Self-exercise device for limited mobility patients and method of exercise

Abstract

A device for use by an individual with limited mobility to engage in self-exercise while confined to a bed or wheelchair. A mobile platform carries a support frame having a horizontal beam which can be moved into position over the individual. A plurality of openings formed are formed at spaced-apart positioned along the beam to enable releasable fitment of one or more exercise strap units into selected ones of the openings. The strap units include flexible elastic strands which can be arranged in supporting relationship with an anatomical structure, such as the arm, leg or torso, of the individual. While lying in bed or sitting in a wheelchair, the individual can repetitively pull on and stretch the strands for self-exercise.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] This invention relates to devices and methods for enhancing self-exercise by individuals with limited mobility, e.g. those who are partially or fully immobile. [0003] 2. Description of the Related Art [0004] In the prior art various exercise devices and methods such as weights, elastic ropes and mechanical apparatus have been employed for use by patients in hospitals, medical clinics and as out-patients such as in physical therapy facilities or at home. However, the prior devices have not been found completely suitable for proper self-exercise by patients who are partially or fully immobile, such as those confined to a bed or in a wheelchair. It would be desirable to provide a device which enables immobile patients to self-exercise in a manner that allows a range of exercise motion to decrease pain, promotes mobility through the spine and extremities, and assists with functional movement and to regain ambulation ski...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] Another object is to provide devices and methods of the type described which allow a range of exercise motion for immobile patients to decrease pain, to promote mobility through the spine and extremities, to assist with functional movement and to regain ambulation skills.

Problems solved by technology

However, the prior devices have not been found completely suitable for proper self-exercise by patients who are partially or fully immobile, such as those confined to a bed or in a wheelchair.

Despite the various exercise devices in the prior art, there has heretofore not been provided a suitable and attractive solution to these problems and disadvantages.

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