Abductor contraction, variable leg/knee/thigh/trunk and spinal decompression exercise and rehabilitation apparatus and method

[0001] This application claims priority from provisional application Ser. No. 60/850,763, filed Oct. 12, 2006.

[0002] This invention relates generally to body decompression exercise, stretching, strengthening and rehabilitation apparatus, and methods more particularly providing for abductor contraction/stretching and adductor contraction/stretching during relative bending, extending of flexing of the user's trunk, thighs, knees, claves and legs while creating a greater stretch of the hamstrings, gluteal and spinal musculature by altering the position of the legs, thighs, knees, hips and trunk from 90 to 30 degrees more or less while performing flexion, extension and rotational movements of the spine.

[0003] Many people suffer from muscle imbalance, outer pelvic abductor muscular dominance and ligament instability causing loss of abdominal core strength, which contributes and creates lower back muscular instability and dominance resulting in the developmental loss of symmetry of intrinsic and extrinsic muscle of the body. This results in compressive imbalance syndromes which can contribute to vascular and neurological deficiencies which can harmfully affect people, particularly the aged. There is a need for an abductor stretching and decompression exercise apparatus with adjustable and variable leg/calf/knee/thigh/trunk and spinal decompression means whereby those who suffer from the aforementioned can exercise biomechanically efficiently to strengthen the necessary musculature to ensure balance, co-ordination and therefore stability and ability to create and reinforce a strong symmetrical development of the body with emphasis on the abductor (outer thigh), abdominal and lower back stability.

[0004] It is a major object of the invention to provide specific methods of exercise and apparatus or equipment that is operable or usable in such manner as to meet the above needs. Basically, the apparatus serves to decompress, distract or extends the user's spine to relieve compression and biomechanical stress while extending or flexing the thighs, knees and legs creating a stretch reflex of the gastrocnemius, soleus, plantaris, popliteal, hamstrings, gluteal and lumbar musculature relieving pressure on spinal disc, and associated anatomy including the nerves and blood vessels. In this regard, the apparatus aids in inducing abductor (outer thigh) contraction, which approximates the posterior aspect of the os ilium while decreasing load on the sacroiliac joints anteriorily. This procedure is accomplished by use of a flat seat using abduction methods, and particularly with a lateral thigh winged seat that ensures abductor contraction or outer thigh grip causing adductor stretching at the same time. Abductor contraction also stimulates lateral abdominal muscle contraction, thereby emphasizing inner pelvic muscle stretching, which is accomplished through isokinetic exercise methods external rotation and movement associated with abductor contraction and inverted flexion or extension movements. This controlled, biomechanical movement not only stretches the adductors, hamstrings, piriformis, gluteus maximus, erector spinal and associated musculature while decompressing the spine, but also strengthens the abductor, lateral or internal/external abdominis obliquus, rectus abdominis and associated abdominal and outer pelvic musculature.

[0005] Those who suffer from pathomechanical syndromes including tipped uteruses, bladder, prostrate dysfunction, erectile dysfunction or muscular instability and therefore internal organ pressure or compression in a vertical or horizontal plane as well as those patients with lower abdominal vascular, muscular, and neurological compression, can often benefit from isokinetic and active exercises that produce a combined action of forward flexion and abduction or extension and abduction with the benefit of variable adjustability for trunk, thigh, knee and leg extension and or flexion depending on the needs of the user. Depending on the cause of compression and load adductor or internal rotation of the os ilium may also be beneficial in which the aforementioned variable leg/knee/thigh positions are also applicable.

[0006] In some cases, stretching of the abdominal viscera may be helpful. In those cases, extension and even hyperextension may be accomplished with abductor contraction, thereby emphasizing the outer thigh muscle balance relative to adductor dominance as enabled by the invention.

[0007] The apparatus of the invention can be used and altered to accomplish a horizontal prone or supine position of the patient in order to perform abdominal sit-ups and curls with varying degrees of load and difficulty by altering the height of the support platform depending upon the needs of the patient for muscular contraction and work load required while emphasizing abductor contraction. An adjustable frame means is provided and allows for height and load variability, from 0 degrees to 45 degrees, therefore creating quadriceps and iliopsoas stretch, as well as abductor and rectus abdominuus contraction thereby altering the load on the associated joints and musculature of the leg, knee, thighs, hips and trunk by carrying the length and degree from vertical to horizontal angle 90, 70, 50, 30 degrees of the vertical rear seat post with a horizontal stabilizing T-bar brace. This creates a stretching and decompression of the user's body with rotational movement upon a base horizontal axis allowing the patient multiple and varying degrees of rotation stretching or strengthening the rectus abdominuus, abdiminis obliquus, abductor and other associated internal pelvic musculature. Means associated with the base and winged seat induces stretching of the user's adductor and associated musculature of the inner thighs while contracting the abductor and associated musculature of the outer thighs relatively away from one another in response to the trunk pivoting, for producing posterior or external rotation of the user's ilium, thereby inducing stretching of the adductor, inguinal ligaments and associated musculature repositioning the os ilium onto the sacrum. The winged seat apparatus can also be rotated on the horizontal pivotal axis thereby increasing or decreasing spinal load, contraction or resistance. These techniques are beneficial to those suffering from the aforementioned maladies and particularly scoliosis, kyphoscoliosis, degenerative disc disease, arthritis and are believed unique with respect to the multiple angles, uses, and contour formation of the novel apparatus. A winged seat associated with the platform and variable vertical post with adjustable horizontal stabilizing T-bar brace also contributes to flexion or extension and induced contraction of the user's outer thighs and legs away from each other maximizing spinal decompression for those suffering from adductor dominance.

[0008] The apparatus may also have a telescopic vertical single post, dual posts or A-frame to vary the height and angles of the flat or winged seat, both for prone or supine positions, allowing for changes of biomechanical stress throughout the body. Such apparatus may be dismantled for use by the military, athletic teams or others who can benefit from the portability and use of this apparatus.

[0009] Yet another object is to provide method, exercise, stretching and rehabilitative apparatus that includes:

• • [0010] a) a support means,
  • [0011] b) a flat or winged seat with base plate and variable rear vertical post with adjustable horizontal stabilizing T-bar brace mounted on the support means to support the user's thighs and legs, and to allow pivoting of the user's trunk about a generally horizontal axis as the user relatively flexes or extends his trunk, thighs, knees and legs,
  • [0012] c) and other means associated with the flat or winged seat to induce stretching of the inguinal ligaments and associated adductor musculature relatively away from each other in response to trunk pivoting producing posterior and external rotation of the user's os ilium and pelvis, thereby inducing approximation of the user's os ilium toward the sacrum, distracting and decompressing the spine,
  • [0013] d) the other means including a posterior vertical adjustable post with a T-bar brace. The posterior vertical adjustable post can be positioned more or less 90, 70, 50, 30 degrees, the variable adjustable angulations of changes work load or mechanical stress on all the associated joints, muscles and structures of the body decompressing and ensuring symmetrical balance and coordination achieved by means of distractive forces and counter balancing inverted exercises.

[0014] The crosspiece may be pivotally mounted to pivot about a horizontal transverse axis relative to the platform. Auxiliary strut means may be connected to the crosspiece and to the support means at a level below the platform; and the auxiliary strut means may include relatively movable members adjustable to control the tilt angle of the crosspiece. Elevation of the horizontal crosspiece which the platform seat rests upon and attached to the vertical adjustable telescopic tubes with holes and stabilizing security pins providing the means by which multiple heights may be achieved by lifting the horizontal crosspiece and platform seat to desired height and placing the pins in the appropriate holes.

[0015] Yet another object is the provision of a horizontal crosspiece mounted on the support means and carried for adjustable positioning relative to the platform. Carriage structure may be supported on the support means to carry the crosspiece for adjustable positioning in multiple dimensions, relative to the platform. Both the platform and crosspiece may have common pivoted support to pivot about the same horizontal axis, relative to the support means. The horizontal stabilizing means by which the pivotal action of the mounted seat can rotate in a horizontal transverse axis around the crosspiece is stopped by means of stop blocks, hinged or other means mounted on the crosspiece which control how far the seat is allowed to rotate. In order for the user to mount the rear T-brace horizontal stabilizing bar with calf/knee pads, the adjoining seat is positioned in a vertical position compared to the floor with the T-bar angled at 90 degrees or parallel to the ground. It is the forward rotational forces and body weight of the user that creates pivotal rotation in the horizontal transverse axis until the user's feet are vertical or in a desired angle as the user's body is inverted. It is this means and action with the variable degrees of user's calf/knee/thigh and trunk with abductor and external rotation of the os ilium or adductor and internal rotation of the os ilium that provides an extremely beneficial distractive and decompressive method, exercise and rehabilitative apparatus for those with weak abdominal muscles and who have unstable backs. It is these bad back pain sufferers especially those who have spinal compression and degeneration with adductor or abductor dominance who will receive the greatest benefits of this unique and novel apparatus and method.

[0016] As the spine and associated anatomy is decompressed, circulation and oxygenation throughout the body is increased. The Autonomic Nervous System made up of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves are stimulated thereby increasing motor and sensory function of the body creating and enhancing balance and co-ordination, acupuncture meridians are also stimulated increasing Yin/Yang Chi flow. This process of homeostasis is significantly enhanced by decompressing the body directly benefiting all persons from athletes, to non-athletes, military, police, firemen or anyone who suffers from macrotraumatic high compressive stress/impact and or accumulative micro traumatic compression injuries often seen in children as well as the aged, all who will significantly be helped by these decompression means, methods and uses of the apparatuses.

[0017] These and other objects and advantages of the invention, as well as the details of an illustrative embodiment, will be more fully understood from the following specification and drawings, in which:

[0071] In FIG. 1, FIG. 1aa, and FIG. 2, the illustrated preferred exercise apparatus and method includes a support means 10 in the form of a first pair of leg members 11, the front legs jointed by a distal/inferior cross-member 13a, front horizontal cross floor brace; and a second pair of leg members 24 rear legs joined by cross-member 13b. The rear horizontal cross floor brace, legs 11 front left and 14 rear left are interconnected and supported superiorly by triangular ribbed delta member 16(1). Front left port sleeve 16a on the left interconnects superiorly with leg 11, on the right by means of the rear delta port sleeve 16b, leg 14 interconnects superiorly into the delta same is true for legs 12 and 15 on the opposite right side of the triangular delta by means of port sleeves 16c and 16d. Legs 11-14 are cross-braced by 19c on the left and one the right legs 12-15 are cross-braced by 19d. Crosspiece/member 17 supports the seat base and contoured winged seat member inferiorly, and also adjoins 17a left telescopic rigid post and 17b right telescopic rigid post both having holes at one inch increments for vertical variable height adjustment post 17a is located within the midsection of 16e, a mid delta telescopic port, 17b right telescopic rigid post with variable holes for vertical variable height adjustment is located within the midsection of opposite delta 16f and both are adjusted by means of inserting a pin 16q-1 in hole 16h on the left; on the right pin 16q-2 in hole 16i. All legs are secured in the delta via insertion/port sleeves 16a, b, c, and d, on the right. Stabilizer bar 18a interconnects front leg 11 with rear leg 14 on the left. Stabilizer bar 18b interconnects front leg 12 with rear leg 15 on the right. Handgrip support 19a is located on 11. Handgrip support 19b is located on 12. Legs 11, 14 and 12, 15 are interconnect by means of triangular ribbed delta superiorly and by means of cross floor braces 13a, 13b inferiorly. These make up the A-Frame to provide support for a horizontal or transverse platform 20. FIGS. 1a, b, c and d illustrate the support means of the flat or winged contoured seat on which the user's thighs rest at 21 and 22. The platform/seat 20 connected to 17 by 17c cross support bracket and base plate 20a and 20b secure means/pins/bolts/bearings, 20c pivotal blocks or other means, whereby the platform is then pivotal about a horizontal axis. Alternatively, the platform may be locked in multiple positions, relative to the trunk, thigh, leg, knee and calf, as shown in FIG. 1a multiple seat appositions 20 and 1b multiple vertical post with horizontal T-bar brace positions 30, 31 adjustable vertical post member attached to 32 U-shaped member at 90, 70, 50, 30 degrees, are provided.

[0072] The platform 20 seat and base plate 20a, 20b extends transversely, as seen in FIGS. 1d and 1f, to provide user's thigh support regions 21′ and 22′ which may be flat or downwardly concave throughout their lengths anterior to posterior direction indicated by arrow 24. Also, the platform ahs a convexly rounded surface 25 which faces horizontally in the direction of arrow 24, to engage and push against the user's body at the juncture of his (or her) trunk 28 and thighs, i.e., the forward pelvic area. Note that the downwardly concave regions 21′ and 22′ merge with concave regions 21a and 22a at downward surface 25, as seen in FIG. 1, 1a, 1b, 1c and 1d. This accommodates to the user's thighs when the thighs 21 and 22 and legs extend horizontally, and in FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 trunk 28 extends or hangs downwardly, below 20 platform/flat or contoured winged seat with base plate 20a, 20b or 20c level.

[0073] FIGS. 1-3 and 1d also show a crosspiece 30 mounted on the support means 20 via a vertical post 31 to extend in spaced relation to the platform upper surface, over the user's leg region supported on the platform. The crosspiece may be carried by a central rigid telescopic vertical member 31 which extends downwardly and merges with a rigid U-shaped member 32 attached to the seat base plate by bolts 32a or other means with variable hole 32b by means of a security pin 32c, to permit variably angled extension at 90, 70, 50 and 30 degrees or variations thereof, more or less attached to the platform. See also FIGS. 1b, 1c, 1d, 1cc. Likewise, vertical positioning of the crosspiece 30 is adjustable by means of hole 36 in the crosspiece adjustable frame 37, and pin 38 extending through hole 36 and through a selected hole 39 in member 31. The crosspiece 30 is convexly contoured at 61 and 62 (see FIG. 1cc) to engage the rear side of the user's legs, FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4 for example, proximate the back side of the user's thigh/knee joint at 30a and to block upward displacement of the thighs 21 and 22 relative to the platform 20, to enable trunk stability during trunk swinging and twisting.

[0074] In accordance with the invention and its methods of use, other means FIGS. 1d, 1AA, 1BB, 1CC, 2, 3, 21a and 22a are provided in association with the platform to induce contraction of the user's thighs relatively away from one another in an abduction response to trunk pivoting, for producing posterior rotation of the user's os ilium, thereby inducing distraction and a stretching of the user's adductor and associated anatomy including but not limited to muscles, ligaments, tendons and approximating the sacroiliac joints, at the os ilium anterior, relieving pressure on the spine. Adductor pad or pads 21b and 22b conversely stretch and decompress the spine and sacroiliac joints in an opposite manner when the adductor muscles are engaged. The reverse is true if there is abductor dominance and adductor contraction is necessary by emphasizing adductor contraction while stretching and decompressing the abductor musculature.

[0075] Such other means advantageously includes a thigh grip element 21a and 22a projecting into the outer thigh region of the user's legs (see FIGS. 1a, 2, and 3), to be gripped or clamped by user's thighs while rotating the thighs externally as the apparatus user swings his trunk in varying positions, benefiting the spin, pelvic and sacroiliac regions, as referred to. Elements 21a and 22a may advantageously comprise a pad integral with the platform and tapering upwardly, as seen in FIGS. 1d, 2 and 3. Showing tapered sides 21a and 22a to the lateral winged pad. The user's thighs are induced to externally rotate, in use of the apparatus, as seen in FIGS. 1d, 2 and 3. The platform 20, flat seat or saddle pad 21a, 21b, 22a and 22b together define an upwardly facing saddle-like structure with vertical post 31, 37 crosspiece adjustable frame; pin 38 and telescopic horizontal T-bar part of crosspiece 30 together define an inverted, saddle-like structure with concave surface regions. Calf/knee/thigh pads 61, 62 and winged saddle seat 20, base plate 20a, and 20b secure means 20c pivotal blocks 21a and 22a abductor pads 21b and adductor pads 22b fit the user's thighs at opposite sides and are horizontally offset, as shown, in the direction of arrow 24, as seen in FIGS. 1a, 1b, 1c 1AA, 1BB, 1CC, 2, 3 and 4 and make up the seat assembly.

[0076] The open spacing of the supporting legs of all devices identified in FIGS. 1-35 provide spacious room for user body movement but more specifically as in FIGS. 1-23, legs 11, 12 and legs 14, 15 allow the user's head, trunk and arms to hang freely and twist, as during flexion or extension. This helps relieves spinal compression, especially in the thoracic, lumbar and sacroiliac regions. Hand grips 19a and 19b may be provided on the legs 11 and 12, as shown, to project normal thereto. The legs may be fixed or telescopically interconnected sections. See for example FIG. 28 connected together as by pine 362.

[0077] In FIGS. 1dd, 1ee, and 1ff the seat 400 is attached to Seat Plate Base 401 which is bolted to Seat Plate 402 that is welded to Pivot Tube 403. Tube 403 has extended Insert Stop Pins 404 inserted into 90 Degree Upper Fitting 405 with a 50% horizontal controlled radius that limits the rotation of the Pivot Tube 403 and Seat from vertical −5 degrees to a 90 degree angle parallel to the floor. Each end of the Pivot tube shaft size distally is reduced. On each of the ends of this distal shaft is a Bushing which fits into the 90 degree Upper Fitting 405 and in which the Pivot Tube rotates. Pivot Tube 403 is secured into 90 Degree Upper fitting 405 by Bearing Cover 408.

[0078] FIGS. 1gg and 1hh show elements of the apparatus similar to those shown in FIG. 1, in assembled and exploded view form. Elements are identified as follows:

[0079] 1A Front Base

[0080] 1B Rear Base

[0081] 1C Pivot Tube

[0082] 1D Discontinued

[0083] 1E Seat Plate

[0084] 1F 3 Way Fitting

[0085] 1G Upper Fitting

[0086] 1H Downtube

[0087] 1I Post Bracket

[0088] 1J Post

[0089] 1K Leg Post

[0090] 1L Leg Cushion

[0091] 1M Seat Cushion

[0092] 1N Bearing Cover

[0093] 1O Handle

[0094] 1P Angled Handle

[0095] 1Q Seat Plate Base

[0096] 1R Leg Screw

[0097] 1S Leg Screw

[0098] 1T Leg Screw

[0099] 1U Cross Arm

[0100] 1V Bushing

[0101] The structure in FIG. 4 is the same as FIGS. 1-3 the body 400 demonstrating trunk flexion/inverted abdominal curl with legs/knees bent at 90 degree s (the method of exercise) and, the crosspiece 30 may be carried by a central rigid telescopic adjustable vertical post member 31 which extends downwardly and merges with a rigid U-shaped member 32 attached to the seat base plate 20a and attached by bolt 32a or other means with variable hole or holes 32b for a security pin 32c. The angle may be altered 90, 70, 50 and 30 degrees or variations thereof, more or less. Attached to the platform at 32 (see FIGS. 1b, 1c, 1d and 1CC) as an adjustable vertical post 31 with variable horizontal T-bar brace 30, 31, adjustable vertical post member, vertical post slider 37 and calf/knee pads 61, 62 behind the legs/calf/knee/legs making up the elements that support the user and allow him to flex his knees at 90 degrees, more or less.

[0102] FIG. 5, the method and apparatus are again basically the same as FIGS. 1-4 with the body demonstrating trunk flexion/inverted abdominal curl, legs/knees bent at 70 degrees. The crosspiece 30 may be carried by a central rigid telescopic adjustable vertical post member 32 attached to the seat base plate 20a, and attached as by bolt 32a, or other means with variable holes 32b by a security pin 32c. The angle may be altered 90, 70, 50 and 30 degrees or variations thereof more or less while attached to the platform. (See FIG. 1b, 1c, 1d and 1CC). As before, vertical post 31 within 32 and with variable horizontal T-bar brace 30, adjustable vertical post member 31, vertical post slider and calf/knee pads 61, 62 behind the legs/calf/knee/legs make up the elements that support the user and allow him to flex his knees at 70 degrees more or less.

[0103] FIG. 7, the method and apparatus is again basically the same as FIGS. 1-6 with body demonstrating trunk flexion/inverted abdominal curl with legs/knees bent at 30 degrees.

[0104] FIG. 8, the method and apparatus is again basically the same as FIG. 1-7 with rear view of body 500 demonstrating trunk rotation with legs/knees bent at 90 degrees.

[0105] FIG. 9, the method and apparatus is again basically the same as FIGS. 1-8 with side/lateral view of body 400 demonstrating flexed trunk rotation with legs/knees bent at 90 degrees.

[0106] FIG. 10, the method and apparatus is again basically the same as FIGS. 1-9 with side/lateral view of body 500 demonstrating flexed trunk rotation with legs/knees bent at 70 degrees.

[0107] In FIG. 11, the method and apparatus are again basically the same as FIGS. 1-10 with side/lateral view is of body demonstrating flexed trunk rotation with legs/knees bent at 50 degrees.

[0108] In FIG. 12, the method and apparatus are again basically the same as FIGS. 1-11 with side/lateral view of body demonstrating flexed trunk rotation with legs/knees bent at 30 degrees.

[0109] In FIG. 13, the method and apparatus are again basically the same as FIGS. 1-12 with side/lateral view of body demonstrating a trunk extension with legs/knees 500 bent at 90 degrees.

[0110] In FIG. 14, the method and apparatus are again basically the same as in FIGS. 1-13 with side/lateral view of body demonstrating trunk extension with legs/knees 500 bent at 70 degrees.

[0111] In FIG. 15, the method and apparatus are again basically the same as FIGS. 1-14 with side/lateral view of body demonstrating trunk extension with legs/knees bent at 50 degrees.

[0112] In FIG. 16, the method and apparatus are again basically the same the same as FIGS. 1-15 with side/lateral view of body demonstrating trunk extension with legs/knees bent at 30 degrees.

[0113] In FIG. 17, the method and modified apparatus, shown include an A-Frame hinged at 35 and secured in place by means of 36a pivot bolt in pivot hole 36, telescopic front legs 11 and 12 with grip security pin 53 to set the elevation. Handgrip 19a stabilizes user, on mounting and using the apparatus. This modified apparatus demonstrates multiple and variable positions and includes components as described before.

[0114] In FIG. 18, same as FIG. 17, the modified apparatus and method shows body 500 standing in a vertical up right position within 35, the hinged A-Framed, and 20, the flat or contoured winged seat with 20a base plate and other means, positioned at a 90 degree angle, parallel to the floor.

[0115] In FIG. 19, the modified apparatus and method is shown with the user in a semi flexed cradling position within the A-Framed device. During this method, the user and seat are rocked/cradled from 0-210 degrees more or less, seat 20 is set as shown. Hinge 35 is locked by means 399. Grip security pin 53 sets the elevation in front legs.

[0116] FIG. 20, same as FIG. 19, the modified apparatus and method showing the user in a semi flexed cradling position hands/arms extended to rear legs within the A-Framed hinged device. During this method, the user and seat are rocked/cradled from 0 degrees flexion to 90 degrees more or less, seat 0 degrees vertical to 90 degrees horizontal parallel to the floor more or less.

[0117] FIG. 21, the modified apparatus and method shows the user in a tucked flexed position hands/arms position.

[0118] FIG. 22, the modified apparatus and method shows the user in a full trunk extended to tucked flexed position hands/arms position may be variably positioned within the A-Framed hinged device. During this method the user performs a full hyper extended to inverted abdominal curl with seat horizontal parallel to the floor.

[0119] FIG. 23, same as FIG. 22 with user's legs extended at angle set at 30 degrees.

[0120] FIG. 24 is a side elevation showing the modified apparatus and method with posterior 45 degree double/bilateral legs or posts 101 providing support adjoining the floor base support frame 102, the user hanging in a spinal/trunk flexed position legs bent 90 degrees, adjustable vertical post 31 with variable horizontal T-bar brace 30 and calf/knee pads behind the legs 61, 62, knees bent 90 degrees, again generally the same as in FIGS. 1-23, the platform 20 flat or contoured seat, 20a, 20b, 21a, 21b, 22a and 22b and crosspiece assembly 30-38 the same. A grip bar 110 is added to project below a platform 20, base plate 20a to have connection with the platform, to be hand gripped by the user, as seen in FIG. 24. This allows the user to pull himself or herself upwardly in a flexion abdominal curl toward the underside of the platform from the position, as seen in FIGS. 24-27, to thereby even further relieve spinal pressure in the spin and more specifically the lumbar and sacroiliac region. Also, the user may extend his or her arms to extend backwards FIGS. 13-16, 22, 23 or into FIGS. 8-12 position and controllably twist the trunk, as enabled by left and right hand push or pull on the grip bar or bars. Also in FIGS. 2 4, the forward legs 100 and 101 of the apparatus extend downwardly in diverging relation to connect to a base 102 having U-shape, as shown, and to project beneath the platform 20, base plate 20a, 30 variable horizontal T-bar brace and pads, 31 central rigid telescopic vertical member, 37 vertical post adjustable slider are set at a 90 degree angle or any variation thereof from 90-30 degrees more or less with knees/legs bent at 90 degrees.

[0121] FIG. 25 same as FIG. 24 with knees/legs 500 bent at 70 degrees.

[0122] FIG. 26 same as FIG. 24 with knees/legs bent at 50 degrees.

[0123] FIG. 27 same as FIG. 24 with knees/legs bent at 30 degrees.

[0124] FIGS. 28-33 show a modified version and method of the FIGS. 1-27 apparatus, wherein the support means for the platform 20 flat seat or contoured winged seat and base plate 20a comprises two laterally spaced vertical upright posts 350 and 351, and an upper lateral member 352 carried by 350 and 351. A hinge at 353 has elements plate 354 and 355 respectively connected to 352 (the top of 351) and to the platform 20 underside, as seen in FIG. 28. A lower lateral member 357 as seen in FIGS. 28a and 28b connects the lower ends of uprights 350 and 351, and elongated horizontal support struts 365a and 366a connect to 350, 351 and 357. The structure/means/support and method of creating variable leg/thigh/trunk support are the same as in FIGS. 1-27, and the crosspiece 30 may be carried by a central rigid telescopic vertical member 31 which extends downwardly and merges with a rigid U-shaped member 32 attached to the seat base plate by bolt 32a or other means with variable hole 32b by means of a security pin 35c. The angle may be altered at 90, 70, 50 or 30 degrees or variations thereof more or less, attached to the platform. (See FIGS. 1b, 1c and 1d). Adjustable vertical post 31 within 32, with variable horizontal T-bar brace 30, 37 vertical post slider and calf/knee pads 61, 62 behind the legs/calf/knee/legs make up the elements that support the user and allow him to flex his knees at 90 degrees more or less in the same manner as in FIGS. 1-27. Uprights 350 and 351 may each include lengthwise, height adjustable sections 350a and 350b, and 351a and 351b, as seen in FIGS. 28, 28a, to vary the elevation of parts 20 (flat or contoured winged seat) and leg support apparatus 30. Security pins 361 and 362 fit through holes 363 and 364 in the sections 351a, 351b and 350a and 350b, to secure them in lengthwise adjusted positions. Hand holds 365 and 366 are provided on support struts 365 and 366a, handholds 367 and 368 are provided on support 365 and 352.

[0125] In FIG. 29 the exercise method and positions of the user 320 include a trunk hyper extended position with leg support apparatus 30, 30a, 31, 37 set at a 90 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 90 degrees. FIGS. 29, 29a, 29b and 29c show varying angle degrees 90-30 and demonstrate the unique versatility of the method of exercise allowing the user to assume multiple angles of trunk/thigh/knee/leg positions stretching one side of the body while strengthening the other.

[0126] FIG. 29a same as FIG. 29 in a trunk hyper extended position with leg support apparatus 30, 30a, 31, 37 set at a 70 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 70 degrees.

[0127] FIG. 29b same as 29 with leg support apparatus 30, 30a, 31 set at a 50 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 50 degrees.

[0128] FIG. 29c same as 29 with leg support apparatus 30, 30a, 31 set at a 30 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 30 degrees.

[0129] FIG. 30 note the exercise method and positions of the user 320 in a trunk flexed or abdominal curl position with leg support apparatus 30, 30a, 31, 37 set at a 90 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 90 degrees. FIGS. 30, 31, 32 and 33 show varying degrees 90-30 of body positioning, and more or less demonstrate the versatility of the method of exercise, allowing the user to assume multiple angles of trunk/thigh/knee/leg positions stretching one side of the body while strengthening the other.

[0130] FIG. 31 method and apparatus same as FIG. 30 in a trunk flexed or abdominal curl position with leg support apparatus 30, 30a, 31, 37 set at a 70 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 70 degrees.

[0131] In FIG. 32, method and apparatus same as FIG. 30 show a trunk flexed or abdominal curl with leg support apparatus, set at a 50 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 50 degrees.

[0132] In FIG. 33, method and apparatus as in FIG. 30 show trunk flexed or abdominal curl with leg support apparatus 30, 30a, 31 set at a 30 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 30 degrees.

[0133] In FIGS. 34, 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, 34e, 34f and 34g method and apparatus in the same, with platform 120, seat 20a base plate and support apparatus 20b pivot support mechanism, 20c pivot hinge and that leg/knee/thigh crosspiece 30 generally the same as previously described; however, the rear crosspiece 30 extends or projects forwardly over a major extent of the platform, as shown. The user's legs or thighs fit between 120 seat and 30 leg/knee/thigh support apparatus, as in FIGS. 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, 34e, 34f and 34q as the user bends forward on the crosspiece 30 against the user's thighs, the body tilted and pivoted forward during exercise involving pivoting of both the platform and the crosspiece (carried by the platform) about a horizontal axis as between the solid and broken line positions seen in FIG. 34. For example, pivoting of the seat may be through a range between 0 degrees to 90 degrees, more or less, while pivoting of hate body 320 may vary, full flexion to full extension. A single horizontal post 90 and single telescopic vertical post 97 are interconnected by single vertical post 97a and secured by means of 97b security pin, these single vertical posits 97, 97a, 90 in combination supporting the platform for such pivoting. A U-shaped horizontal base 98 is connected to the vertical post 97, 97a, 90 and extends under the platform counterbalancing the platform and crosspiece. A rear projection 98a non skid push off pad enables the user to gain maximum traction to accomplish an inverted posture without slipping. Stabilizing hand grips 99 help the user control postural positions when mounting and exiting the apparatus. Like all other apparatuses as mentioned in FIGS. 1-33, full trunk extension and flexion can be achieved with adduction and internal rotation of the OS illium/pelvis or abduction and external rotation of the os illium/pelvis.

[0134] FIG. 35 method and apparatus is same as FIGS. 34, 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, 34e, 34f and 34q, the exercise positions indicated and methods of the user with legs/knees/thighs bent or positioned at a 90 degree angle, more or less, defining this rehabilitative, decompression exercise device.

[0135] In FIG. 35 the platform 120 is generally like that shown in FIGS. 1-34 with seat 20 flat or contoured referenced as seat 120, but is unitary i.e., the concave portion 80′ and the lateral superiorly flared winged seat 81 being integral with the rest of the platform.

[0136] The crosspieces 30, 30a, 31 are set for a 90 degree angle, with knees/legs bent at 90 degrees. A single post structure 132 is connected at its upper end to the platform, as via horizontal extent 132a, and which may include sections 132b and 132c for telescopic and adjustable interconnection, as by security locking pin 134. The section 132a is attached at 135 to a horizontal base member 136 projected beneath the platform 120. Lateral horizontal members 137 and 138 are connected to the base 136 and project laterally to stabilize the structure. Note the user 140 in a leg or thigh support mode, via the platform and crosspiece and with trunk hanging below platform level, enabling twisting as shown to help relieve pressure at the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacroiliac. Positions demonstrated in FIGS. 1-34 can be achieved using this apparatus, all trunk extension/flexion and abductor/adductor decompression and rehabilitation methods of exercises included.

[0137] In FIG. 35a method and apparatus are made as FIG. 35, with rear leg/knee/thigh support apparatus 30, 30a, 31 set at a 110 degrees or more.

[0138] In FIG. 35b method and apparatus are same as FIG. 35, with rear leg/knee/thigh apparatus 30, 30a, 31 set at a 70 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 70 degrees.

[0139] In FIG. 35c method and apparatus are same as FIG. 35, with rear leg/knee/thigh apparatus 30, 30a, 31 set at a 50 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 50 degrees.

[0140] In FIG. 35d method and apparatus are same as FIG. 35, with rear leg/knee/thigh apparatus 30, 30a, 31 set at a 30 degree angle with knees/legs bent at 30 degrees.

[0141] In FIG. 35e method and apparatus as shown demonstrate the versatility of positioning vertical post 31 into rigid U-shaped member 32 attached at 32a to the base plate with anterior hole 32a or posterior hole 34. Repositioning from hole 32a to 34 allows for greater options and range of motion of 31 increasing flexion of leg/knee/thighs to 110 degrees or more. Like all other apparatuses mentioned FIGS. 1-34 full trunk extension and flexion can be achieved with adduction and internal rotation of the os ilium/pelvis or abduction and external rotation of the os ilium/pelvis.

[0142] In FIG. 36, shows front, sides, and rear view of the platform 20 winged contoured seat. The tapered sides 21a and 22a of the lateral winged contoured seat create an abductor or externally rotating of the os ilium when the user applies weight on them, with his/her thighs, during the use of the apparatus, as seen in FIGS. 1d, 2-33. The platform 20, winged abductor contoured pad 21a and 22a, and adductor inner thigh pad 21b and 22b together define an upwardly facing saddle-like structure, front seat contoured area 24 and 25 that allows the user to comfortably flex his/her trunk, maximizing benefits of performing an inverted abdominal curl while strengthening or stretching the abductor or adductor musculature thereby ensuring the development of symmetrical pelvic balance and spinal decompression at the same time.

[0143] FIGS. 36c and 36d shows an underneath/bottom view of the seat, illustrating front (FIG. 36c) and rear (FIG. 36d) views, same as FIG. 36, with methods and benefits as described in FIGS. 36, 36a and 36b the same.

[0144] FIG. 37 shows a modification that includes the support means 70 in the form of a forward leg member or members 71 extending almost vertically, and a rearward leg member 72 extending at less than 45 degrees from horizontal, both resting on a support surface 73. Each leg member or members may be telescopically adjustable, as indicated by structure at 74 and 75.

[0145] The plat form 80 is generally the same as platform 20 flat or winged contoured seat, base plate 20a, but defines an L-shaped notch 81 at its underside to accommodate the platform or rocking or pivoting between the positions shown in FIGS. 37 and 37b. Note that the uppermost end of leg member or members 72, indicated at 72a, is received in the notch 81 in FIG. 37 position. The remainder of the structure of the platform 80 (20) includes winged contoured seat and crosspiece 30, and their interconnections and variable adjustability central rigid telescopic vertical member 31, which extends downwardly and merges with a rigid U-shaped member 32 attached to the seat base plate 20a by bolt 32a or other means with variable hole 32b. By means of a security pin 32c, platform angle may be altered 90-30 degrees, or variations thereof, attached to the platform. (See FIGS. 1c, and 1d). See also adjustable vertical post 31 within 32 with variable horizontal T-bar brace 30, 37 vertical post slider and calf/knee pads 61, 62 in front of the legs to block upward displacement of the anterior thighs 21 and 22 relative to the platform.

[0146] A backboard 82 is secured to the top 72b of the leg members 72, to support the back of an user/exerciser whose legs and thighs fit over the structure 80 and 30 in a manner as previously described FIG. 37b this device also allows the user to lie on his back on the board 82 and extend his legs 403 over the nose or surface 25 at the locations of the rearward sides of the knees. His lower legs may then extend downwardly and between the structures 80 and 30 with variable adjustable positions from 30 to 90 degrees or more. He may then rock his legs upwardly and downwardly in such position, and also do sit-ups while adducting or abducting his thighs and internally or externally rotating his pelvis, the benefit of which will stabilize core abdominal strength reducing pressure on the spin specifically the lumbar and sacroiliac regions.