CN100522000C - Therapeutic treatment apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

An improved therapeutic device and method of use wherein the device has a plurality of raised contact elements, each element preferably having an undulating contact surface with one or more crests. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of contact elements are arranged in a row spaced apart from one another. In another arrangement, an elongated single column is provided. A mounting bracket is provided, which enables the user to conveniently position the device and adjust the mounting straps and/or straps to a specific body shape. In one embodiment, the device may include bracket holes into which mounting brackets may be disposed. In another aspect of the invention, adjustable buckles and/or ties are provided which can be used to adjust the length of the strap and secure the device to the wearer in use.

Description

Therapeutic Treatment Devices and Methods

technical field

The present invention relates to a therapeutic treatment device that can be worn by a person and a method of use thereof.

Background technique

Various types of devices are known for treating the musculature, joints or spinal system of a person. Some of these devices take the form of braces used to straighten the spine. Other devices are used to apply pressure to produce a heating or massaging effect. Some of these devices are mechanized to apply vibratory pressure or active heat. Other devices apply pressure passively.

Massage or use of devices applied externally to the body is known to exert pressure and additionally have a pain-relieving and/or relieving effect. A typical pressure applying device is described in German Laid Open Document No. 2,128,410. This device provides a skeleton on which discrete supports are mounted. Each brace has two support surfaces for applying pressure or support to the back of the person wearing the 25 device. A disadvantage of this device is that it is rigid and thus does not conform to the shape of the wearer's body. Additionally, they are generally inelastic in order to easily increase or decrease the size of the area for compression or other treatment. They are also made up of multiple parts.

Another example of a therapeutic device is known in US Patent No. 6,017,257, which relates to a device having one or more coupleable segments, each segment comprising a plurality of contact elements having one or more crests. In use, the contact elements may be positioned in contact with or near the wearer.

Another type of pressure applying device is described in US Patent No. 4,716,898. In that device, a "stimulation member" for applying pressure to the acupuncture point is rigidly connected to the strap device so that the member remains pressed against the intended part of the body.

Contents of the invention

The present invention provides an improved therapeutic device and method of use wherein the device has a plurality of protruding contact elements, each element preferably having an undulating contact surface with one or more crests. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of contact elements are arranged in a row spaced apart from one another. Two or more columns are arranged side by side. In a preferred configuration, a unitary structure is formed in which each contact element is arranged on a mounting surface. Preferably, the arrangement of these elements is molded in a single component, with each contact element protruding from the overall structural arrangement.

The mounting bracket is configured to allow the user to conveniently position the device and adjust the mounting straps and/or straps to their particular body shape. This has the advantage of enhancing the flexibility of the design and improving wearer comfort and therapeutic effect. In one embodiment, the device may include a bracket hole for positioning the mounting bracket therein. The straps in this embodiment are secured to the device using these brackets, or to other mounting structures. Adjustable buckles and/or ties may be used to adjust the length of these straps and secure the device to the wearer during use. The use of detachable mounting brackets has the advantage of ease of maintenance and cleaning.

In another preferred embodiment, a single row of spaced apart contact elements is provided. One or more slidable mounting brackets are provided on the device whereby they can be slid up or down into position for the wearer. One or more stops are provided at the respective top or bottom ends to prevent the bracket from slipping off. Alternatively, fixed strap mounts may be used, or a combination of movable and fixed bracket mounts may be used. The straps in this embodiment are secured to the device using brackets or by using mounting structures. Adjustable buckles can be used to adjust the length of these straps and secure the device to the wearer in use. Preferably, the buckles are capable of attaching the mounting straps without sewing or other forms of attachment, and are convenient for the user to fasten and loosen.

In operation, the device is applied such that the surfaces of the contact elements can contact the wearer's body. Buckles, straps and mounting brackets can be adjusted as required for both comfort and therapeutic effect.

In one embodiment, a carrier bag is provided in which one or more of these therapeutic devices may be housed. An advantage of this arrangement is that the device is concealed, thereby facilitating wearing in public or in a means of transport such as a train or car.

Additionally, the device is preferably made of a flexible material such as molded polymer or other flexible material. In this way, flexing can help maximize contact with the wearer, for example by conforming to the shape and contours of the wearer's body, and thereby increase the surface area in contact with the wearer. Multiple devices can be coupled together.

The therapeutic device can be worn while the wearer is awake or asleep. As the wearer moves, the device can apply massaging, warming and/or stimulating effects to the covered area. Also, the device can apply pressure to the contacted area and can help blood circulation through massage.

The therapy device can be used for the back, spine or joints, such as elbow or knee joints, or for horizontal application on the back, for example on the lower back. Straps may be used in order to secure the device to the body and thereby create contact pressure or to enable the device to be worn while walking around.

Description of drawings

The above and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description given in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters represent like parts, and in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a multi-column embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the invention;

Figure 2 shows a front view of a multi-column embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the invention;

Figure 3 shows a rear view of a multi-column embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 4 shows a top view of a multi-column embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the invention;

Figure 5 shows a bottom view of a multi-column embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 6 shows a first side view of a multi-column embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 7 shows a second side view of a multi-column embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 8 is a view of a method of using an embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a single row embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 10 shows a front view of a single row embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 11 shows a rear view of a single row embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 12 shows a top view of a single row embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 13 shows a bottom view of a single row embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 14 shows a first side view of a single row embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 15 shows a second side view of a single row embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 16 is a view of a method of using an embodiment of a therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figure 17a shows a top view of a mounting bracket according to the present invention;

Figure 17b shows a cross-sectional top view of the mounting bracket according to the invention taken along line b-b of Figure 17e;

Figure 17c shows a first end view of a mounting bracket according to the present invention;

Figure 17d shows a second end view of a mounting bracket according to the present invention;

Figure 17e shows a front view of a mounting bracket according to the present invention;

Figure 17f shows a top view of a mounting bracket and therapeutic treatment device according to the present invention;

Figures 18a-h illustrate a buckle and tie system according to the present invention;

Figures 19a-h illustrate a tie system according to the present invention;

Figure 20 illustrates the use of the buckle system according to the invention;

Figure 21 shows the process of using the tie system according to the present invention; and

Figure 22 shows a carrier bag system according to the present invention.

Detailed ways

In the following paragraphs, the invention will be described in detail by way of example with reference to these drawings. Throughout the description, the preferred embodiments and examples shown should be considered as illustrative rather than limiting of the invention. As used herein, "the present invention" refers to any one of the embodiments described herein and any equivalents. In addition, reference throughout this document to various features of the "invention" does not mean that all claimed embodiments must include the referenced features.

1-8 illustrate side-by-side configurations of therapeutic devices 10 of the present invention. As shown here, there is provided a plurality of columns 20 of contact surfaces 30 which are arranged side by side with respect to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, there are five contact surface columns 20, but it should be understood that any number of columns 20 may be selected to form a therapeutic device 10 having a desired width. In this specification, the term "contact surface" 30 is used interchangeably with "contact element" and refers to a protruding element in a therapeutic device. In the illustrated embodiment, there are six contact surfaces 30 in each column 20, but it should be understood that any number of contact surfaces can be used to provide the desired height and desired therapeutic effect or size of the treatment area. . Each contact element 30 preferably has an undulating shape, with two crests 35 , 35 spaced apart and separated by a curved trough portion 38 . The outer slope 39 of the contact element 30 is preferably also sloped. However, it should be understood that any shape of contact element 30 that achieves the desired effect may be used, such as flat top, triangular, double peak separated by a trough (circular or angular), single round peak, single peak, Three circular peaks with two separating troughs (circular or angular), three peaks separated by two troughs (circular or angular), four circular peaks with four separating troughs (circular or angular) A wave crest, four spikes separated by three troughs (circular or angular), etc. Sides 39 can be sloped or vertical as desired. Likewise, the top surface 37 of each peak 35 may have any desired profile, and in the embodiments shown in Figures 6, 7, 12 and 13, the top surface 37 of the peak has a generally flat profile. However, it can also be curved, pointed or wavy or any other desired contour shape. The part of the device comprising the contact surface will be referred to herein as an "operating part" or "operating unit".

9-16 illustrate another preferred configuration of the therapeutic device 10 of the present invention. In this structure, a single row 20 of operating units 15 with contact surfaces 30 is provided. In one embodiment, there are forty-two contact surfaces 30 in a single column 20 , but it should be understood that any number of contact surfaces 30 may be used to create the desired length and therapeutic contact area of therapeutic device 10 .

These contact surfaces 30 are arranged, as shown in the embodiment shown, on the rear side 40 of the treatment device 10 . The term "back" is used herein interchangeably with "mounting structure" to refer to the portion of the therapeutic device 10 that is provided with the mounting surface 30 . The contact surface 30 may optionally be mounted on the back 40, or may be integrally formed therewith. If the contact surface 30 is mounted on the back 40, any suitable mounting material having sufficient strength to mount the surface 30 on the back 40 may be used, such as mechanical fasteners such as rivets or screws, mating protrusions and holes, or adhesives. agents such as glue, wax, or any other sticky material.

In one embodiment of the invention, a plurality of contact elements are arranged on the mounting structure. Preferably, these contact elements are integrally formed with the mounting structure, for example by a molding process or an injection molding process. Additionally, the device is preferably formed from a flexible material such as molded polymer or other flexible material. In this way, flexing can help maximize contact with the wearer, for example by conforming to the shape and contours of the wearer's body, and thereby increase the surface area in contact with the wearer.

In a preferred embodiment, in a multi-peak embodiment, each contact element is 4 cm wide, has at least one peak that is 6 mm high (i.e. extends 6 mm from the mounting structure), and preferably has two such peaks, But it is also possible to use more crests and the contact element to be 3 mm high between the crests. Of course, contact elements of any other size and shape may be provided so long as they can be arranged to provide contact or proximity to the wearer.

In the example of embodiment shown in Figures 1-8, the operating unit is 10 cm wide by 22 cm long and comprises 30 female ribs (ie contact elements) arranged in 5 columns with 6 female ribs each. Of course, other sizes and numbers of ribs may be used. For example, if a larger coverage area is required, each column can be lengthened, or one or more can be added, or longer columns can be used and one or more can be added.

In the example of embodiment shown in Figures 9-16, the operating unit is 4 cm wide by 66 cm long and comprises 42 concave ribs (ie contact elements) arranged in a single row. Of course other sizes and numbers of ribs can also be used.

In another embodiment of the invention, the operating unit is made of PVC material, such as a medically approved PVC compound. Of course, any other suitable material may be used, such as other polymeric materials or other moldable materials.

Optional straps and mounting elements are also provided in one embodiment of the invention. These straps and mounting elements are used to mount the operative portion of the therapeutic device 10 to the user. Two examples of a user 100 wearing the therapeutic device 10 are shown in FIGS. 8 and 16 .

In the embodiment shown in Figures 9-16, a slidable mounting bracket 110 is provided. These mounting brackets 110 engage with the elongated operating unit 15 of the treatment device 10 as shown in FIGS. 9 and 17f. These brackets 110 can slide the operating unit up and down in any manner required by the user. In this embodiment, a protrusion 120 is provided at one end of the column 20 . In another embodiment, protrusions 120 are provided at both ends. These protrusions 120 are used to prevent the slidable mounting bracket 110 from slipping off these ends. In a preferred embodiment of the operation of the present invention, the first mounting bracket 110 is positioned near the neck of the user 100, the second is positioned downwards in the middle of the column 20 of the operating unit 15, and the third mounting bracket 110 is positioned behind the lower in the back or around the waist. This arrangement is believed to be suitable for mounting the device 10 to the user 100 along the user's spine in a comfortable and secure manner, although other arrangements may also be used.

In one embodiment, the mounting bracket 110 is bent at the bend 130 to approximate the angle between the side wall 39 and the rear face 40 . In this way, the mounting bracket 110 fits securely on the device 10 . Preferably, these mounting brackets also have curved edges 140 to reduce the possibility of hazards or user discomfort. This circular and matching shape is required to enhance the ability of the mounting bracket 110 to slide easily along the operating unit 15 of the device 10 for positioning.

17a and 17b show respective side and side cross-sectional views of the mounting bracket 110 . Fig. 17b is a cross-sectional view taken along line b-b shown in Fig. 17e. Figures 17c and 17d show corresponding end side views. Figure 17e shows a front view. FIG. 17 f shows a side view of the mounting bracket 110 provided on the operating unit 15 of the single-column embodiment of the treatment device 10 . The mounting bracket includes side holes 150,155. The inner surface 160 of the mounting bracket optionally includes a groove 165 extending along the length from the side hole 150 to the side hole 155 . The strip can be withdrawn through the side holes 150 , 155 and along the groove 165 .

FIG. 16 shows an alternative for applying the therapeutic device 10 to the back of the wearer 100 . In the illustrated embodiment, the device 10 is positioned along the spine so as to position the contact element 30 near the user's spine. Preferably, the operative portion of the device is as long as the spine, but other lengths such as shorter or longer may be chosen. In this illustration, the straps 113, 115 and 117 are mounted on the operating unit 15 of the device 10 using a mounting bracket 110 provided along the device. One or more slidable mounting brackets 110 are optionally used, and stops 120 are preferably provided at one or both ends of the therapeutic device 10 . As in the other illustrated embodiments, the contact element 30 is arranged on the inside, ie on the skin or clothing side. Alternatively, the wearer may apply the device directly to the skin, or may have a barrier, such as clothing, between the device and the skin.

A method of using the device 10 by applying a strip will now be described. Examples of buckles and strap ties that may be used with straps 112 , 113 , 115 and 117 are shown in FIGS. 18a-h , 19a-h , 20 and 21 . These straps are preferably made of elastic threads so as to be stretchable, but non-stretchable straps could equally be used.

A tie is shown in Figures 19a-h. The tie is preferably used in conjunction with straps 113 and 115 , but it could be used with any of straps 113 , 115 or 117 . In one embodiment, one end of the strap 113 is fastened in substantially fixed and adjustable relation to the corresponding end of the strap 15, which passes over the user's shoulders, upon insertion using a tie. up and down in the front, and the strap 115 passes under the user's arms and up in the front. As described herein, they are adjustably tied together using ties, but they may be tied, buckled or fastened in any manner to hold them in place. The tie is used where it is desired to join two strap ends together in an adjustable manner. One end of a strap, such as one end of strap 113, is passed through and secured to the tie. Another strap end, such as one end of strap 115, is pulled through in a slidably adjustable manner. Alternatively two ends of the same strip could be bundled together, but the embodiment described here would be one end of strip 113 and one end of strip 115 .

The tie includes two mating parts, an insertion part 201 and a receiving part 202 . A fixed strap end (such as the end of one of the straps 113) is pulled through a corresponding hole formed in each of the inserting and receiving portions 201, 202, and then the inserting portion 201 cooperates with the receiving portion 202 to form a Secure the connection and tighten the strap in place. In operation, the secured strap end is first pulled through the aperture 215 of the binder receiving portion 202 until it passes the other end and out of the aperture 216 . The hole 215 is preferably provided in the angled surface 203 of the receiving portion 202 so as to facilitate insertion of the strap into the hole 215 . The optional second aperture 216 of the tie receiving portion 202 may be wider than the first aperture 215 . The strip is then pulled through the hole 211 of the insertion part 201 and then back again through the hole 216 of the receiving part 202 and out of the hole 215 . The insert portion 201 is then slid into the receiving portion 202, thereby securing the strap in place. As shown, the insertion portion 201 preferably includes an extension portion 210 sized to fit with the strap into the aperture 216 of the receiving portion 202 . In use, the insertion portion is inserted until all of the extension portion 210 is inserted within the receiving portion 202 . This insertion process is shown in FIG. 21 , where the arrows show the direction of relative movement between parts 201 and 202 . In one embodiment, there are protrusions and grooves to lock the two parts 201, 202 in place. For example, the insertion portion 201 may include a protrusion 204 received in a groove 205 of the receiving portion 202 . To complete the attachment of the strap ends, the ends of strap 115 may be threaded through holes 212 and 213 of insertion portion 201 to the desired length. Preferably, the tie is applied such that the sloped side (side B, as shown in Figure 19h) is located near the user's body for greater comfort. In this orientation, the strips (as shown at 115, 113 in Figure 19h) that pass out of the tie fit into the tie and provide a softer touch. Also, while the surfaces are shown as sloped, they could be square or curved; it will be appreciated that sloped or trapezoidal surfaces better fit into possible skinfolds of the user, thereby minimizing discomfort. Thus, we have described attaching one end of strap 113 to one end of strap 115 using the tie around the user's shoulders. The other end of the same strap can also be tied together over/under the user's other shoulder using another tie.

Another embodiment of a suitable buckle/fastener combination is now described with reference to strap 117 and Figures 18a-h. In this embodiment, two strap ends of the same strap are connected to each other by said buckle/fastener. The buckle/tie includes three parts, the tie receiving portion 224 , the tie inserting portion 221 and the buckle plug portion 217 . In operation, one end of strap 117 can pass through holes 150 and 155 of mounting bracket 110 . The other end of the strap 117 is first guided through the hole 225 of the tie receiving portion 224 until it passes through the other end and through the hole 226 . Tie receiving portion 224 is similar to receiving portion 202 described above. The hole 225 is preferably provided in the sloped surface 243 of the tie receiving portion 224 to facilitate insertion of the strap into the hole 225 . The optional second hole 226 of the tie receiving portion 224 is wider than the first hole 225 . The strip is then drawn through the hole 222 of the binder insertion portion 221 and then back again through the hole 226 of the binder receiving portion 224 and out of the hole 225 . The insert portion 221 is then slid into the hole 226 of the receiving portion 224, thereby securing the strap in place. As shown, the insertion portion 221 preferably includes an extension portion 240 sized to fit within the aperture 226 of the receiving portion 224 along with the strap. The insertion portion 221 is preferably inserted until all the extension portions 240 are inserted into the receiving portion 224 . In one embodiment, there are protrusions and recesses to lock the two parts 224, 221 in place. For example, the insertion portion 221 may include a protrusion 244 received within a pocket 245 of the receiving portion 224 .

The fastener insertion portion also includes a buckle insertion portion 246 . Of course any buckle type suitable for positioning and holding the strap ends in place may be used. In the illustrated embodiment, a three pole plug is provided such that the buckle insertion portion 246 includes three poles 223 . The buckle plug portion 217 has a side hole 220 for receiving an edge 247 of the outermost rod 223 . The middle rods 223 of the buckle insertion portion 246 are generally straight, while the outermost two rods 223 have edges 247 with curvature to enable snapping when the buckle insertion portion 246 is inserted into the buckle plug portion 217. The buckle moves and the edges snap fit with the holes 220 . The side bars are flexible and set apart sufficiently to enable a snap action when inserted into holes 220 to secure the strap 117 around the waist of the wearer 110 of the device 10 . The three-bar plug 223 of the lumbar support is designed to open automatically when the force exerted on the strap 117 exceeds a certain value. This warns the wearer that the length of the strap 117 must be adjusted so that the device can be worn comfortably. Such a buckle insertion process is shown in FIG. 20 , where the arrows show the direction of relative movement between parts 217 and 221 .

The use of the straps and buckles will now be described with reference to Figure 8, which shows an alternative use for applying the therapeutic device 10, for example, to the lower back region of the wearer. In this illustration, strap 112 is mounted on the device using mounting brackets 110 (i.e., 110a, 110b, 110c, and 110d) provided in optional mounting bracket holes 119 formed in device 10, such as in back 40. middle. Mounting brackets 110a - d are shown secured to device 10 using two holes 119 therein. Both ends of each of these mounting brackets 110a - d are pushed through corresponding holes 119 . The strap may then be threaded through bracket 110 (eg, through holes 150 , 155 thereof and along groove 165 of inner surface 160 ), thereby securing the strap to device 10 . The strip can then be used to mount the device 10 on the user. The contact element 30 is arranged on the inner side, ie on the skin or clothing side. Alternatively, the wearer may apply the device directly to the skin, or have a barrier such as clothing between the device and the skin.

In the illustrated embodiment, in order to secure the strap 112 to the device 10, four mounting brackets 110 (110a to 110d) are provided so that four corresponding pairs of holes 119 are used for mounting on the device 10. The strap 112 is pulled through the side holes of the mounting brackets 110a and 110b, then through the tie 224 of the buckle, then through the hole 222 of the plug portion 221 of the lumbar support, and back through the tie 224, It then returns through the remaining mounting brackets 110c and 110d, for example through their respective side holes 150,155. The beginning and ending portions of the strap 112 are pulled together through the holes 218 and 219 of the socket portion 217 of the lumbar support. In use, it is desirable to smooth the loose ends of the straps 112, but they may also be uneven. When the strap is adjusted as desired, the tie 224 is pushed onto the straight side of the plug portion 221 of the lumbar support, thereby securing the strap in the buckle.

In an alternative embodiment shown in Figure 22, a carrying bag 233 for mounting the therapeutic treatment device 10 is provided. In one embodiment, the carrying bag 233 has one or more pockets 234 where one or more therapeutic devices 10 are located. In the illustrated embodiment, three pockets 234 are provided. It should be appreciated that any form of equipment may be used, such as a single column format as shown in Figure 9 (of any desired length), or a multi-column format such as shown in Figure 1 (again of any desired size). Any desired number of devices 10 may also be provided within each pocket. In one embodiment, multiple columns of treatment devices 10 (such as that shown in FIG. 9 ), each having 23 or 24 contact elements 30 disposed thereon, are used. Three such devices 10 are provided in each pocket 234 of the carrying bag 233, making a total of nine devices. Of course, other numbers, sizes and shapes can be chosen. In this embodiment, the upper portion 233b of the carrying bag 233 occupies about 1/6 of the length and is stitched at its sides, while the short sides are not stitched. Portions 233a and 233c of the carrying bag 233 have three vertical portions formed by two parallel stitching lines extending in the longitudinal direction. At about 2/6 of the length of the bag, there is a seam (or seams) 239 across the width of the bag 233, thereby completely closing the portion 233c and will be provided in its enclosing pocket (if any). words) within the device 10 package. Optionally, no device 10 is provided within section 233c. An aperture 240 for the therapeutic device 10 to enable it to be placed in (or removed from) a pocket located in the portion 233a is located on the upper side of the portion 233a. Near the upper side of part 233a and in the middle of part 233b, an optional strap 235 is sewn, through which a fastening string 236 can be pulled. One end of the cord 236 is pulled through two holes on one side of the buckle 237 while the other end of the cord 236 is pulled through two holes on the other side of the buckle 237. holes. The buckle 237 may be of any shape, but in the embodiment shown is rectangular with rounded edges; four holes are evenly spaced along its length. An example application of this embodiment is use in public places where the therapeutic device 10 is hidden from view by the carrying bag 233 . In use, the device is mounted on the user (for example on the user's back) in such a way that its lower end 233b is disposed on the lower back, and the bag with the therapeutic device 10 is held together by the stretch cord 236. The middle portion of 233a is set at, for example, the middle portion of the user's back.

By placing the therapeutic treatment device on the user's back, the user can obtain various benefits. For example, but not limitation, a properly adjusted device 10 according to the present invention may encourage the wearer to keep his back in a good position and improve posture. This promotes good use of the muscles, thereby helping to reduce and/or eliminate possible back pain. The contact element 30 with its protruding parts also has a massaging effect, which can improve the comfort of the muscles and spine and help improve blood circulation in the massaging area. In embodiments where device 10 is positioned along the spine, 35 may be positioned on a corresponding side of the spine to provide a massaging action along the sides of the spine. Additionally, placing the device on the user's back can warm the placement area and have benefits for the tissues, nerves, muscles, etc. in the affected area. Due to these multiple actions, back pain relief has been observed in many users.

Thus, it can be seen that a therapeutic device and method of use thereof are provided. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the invention may be practiced by other than the preferred embodiments which are given in this specification by way of illustration and not limitation. It is pointed out that equivalents to the specific embodiments described in this description can also implement the invention.

Claims (28)

1. A therapeutic treatment device (10) comprising: a support structure (40) which is integral and has a plurality of mounting bracket holes (119) formed therein; A plurality of contact elements (30) protruding from said support structure (40) and fixedly mounted on said support structure, each contact element (30) having a plurality of crests (35), each crest (35) Having an apex (37) and extending therefrom sides (38, 39) towards said support structure (40), said contact elements (30) are arranged in at least two columns (20), each of these columns (20) comprising at least two contact elements (30) spaced apart from each other; and A first mounting bracket (110) is mounted on the therapeutic treatment device by being partially disposed within at least one of said mounting bracket apertures (119). 2. The therapeutic treatment device according to claim 1, characterized in that the support structure (40) and the contact element (30) are formed integrally with each other. 3. The therapeutic treatment device according to claim 1, characterized in that the support structure (40) and the contact element (30) are molded from a polymeric material as a one-piece structure. 4. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 1, wherein a plurality of mounting bracket holes (119) are used to receive a plurality of mounting brackets (110), and the strap (112, 113, 115 or 117) passes through at least One of the mounting brackets is connected to the therapeutic treatment device. 5. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 1, wherein said mounting bracket (110) defines at least two through holes (150, 155) through which said strip (112, 113, 115 or 117) passes One of the through holes (150, 155) penetrates into the mounting bracket (110) and out of the other of the through holes (150, 155). 6. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 4, further comprising fastening means mounted on said strap (112, 113, 115 or 117), said strap having first and second strap ends, The securing means allows the first and second strap ends to be secured in substantially fixed relation to each other. 7. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 6, wherein said securing means comprises a tie comprising: a tie insertion part (201); and A tie receiving portion (202). 8. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 6, wherein said securing means comprises a buckle means comprising: A buckle insert comprising: A tie receiving part (224); a binder insertion portion (221) capable of cooperating with said binder receiving portion (224); and a protruding buckle insertion portion (246); A buckle receiving portion (217) for mating with said protruding buckle inserting portion (246). 9. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 6, wherein: each of said first and second strap ends includes a strap (112, 113, 115 or 117) terminating at a last strap end; and The fixtures include: A binding member receiving portion (202), which is formed with first and second holes (215, 216), the strip can pass through the first hole (215) into the binding member receiving portion (202) and through a second aperture (216) extends through the tie receiving portion (202); and A binding member insertion portion (201) formed with a third hole (211) through which the strip can pass, the binding member insertion portion (201) comprising a A second aperture (216) fits the protruding insertion member (210) within the binder receiving portion (202). 10. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 6, wherein: each of said first and second strap ends includes a strap (112, 113, 115 or 117) terminating at a last strap end; and The fixtures include: a tie device for fastening a first strap end and a second strap end in substantially fixed and adjustable relationship to one another, each of said first and second strap ends comprising The strap terminating at the end of the last strap, the binding means comprising: A receiving part (202), it comprises the first hole (215) of described receiving part (202) and the second hole (216) of described receiving part (202), and described first hole (215) is used for said first strap end is withdrawn therefrom into said receiving portion (202), said second aperture (216) for withdrawing said first strap end therefrom and out of said receiving portion (202) ; an insertion portion (201) cooperable with said receiving portion (202), comprising a hole in said insertion portion (201) through which a first strap end can be withdrawn and said first The strip end can then be withdrawn through said second hole (216) of said receiving part (202) and threaded out through said first hole (215) of said receiving part (202); means (217, 220, 246, 247) for mating said receiving portion (202) and said inserting portion (201) together, which positions said first strap end relative to said tie The device is essentially fixed in place. 11. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 8, wherein a first hole is defined in the binding member insertion portion, and wherein a second hole and a third hole are further defined in the binding member insertion portion. hole, the second strap end is pulled through the second hole of the binding member insertion portion, and the second strap end is pulled through the second hole in the binding member insertion portion One hole is then pulled through a third hole of the tie insertion portion. 12. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 8, wherein the first strap end and the second strap end are located on respective first and second straps. 13. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 8, wherein the first strap end and the second strap end are located on opposite ends of a single strap. 14. A therapeutic treatment device (10) comprising: a support structure (40) which is integral and has a plurality of mounting bracket holes (119) formed therein; A plurality of contact elements (30) integrally formed with said support structure (40), each contact element (30) comprising at least one crest (35), each crest (35) having an apex (37) and extending therefrom Extending sides (38, 39), said contact elements (30) are in at least two columns (20), each of these columns (20) comprising at least two contact elements (30) spaced apart from each other; A first mounting bracket (110) is mounted on the therapeutic treatment device by being partially disposed within at least one of said mounting bracket apertures (119). 15. A therapeutic treatment device comprising: a support structure (40) which is integral and has a plurality of mounting bracket holes (119) formed therein; a plurality of contact elements (30), each contact element (30) comprising at least one crest (35), each crest (35) having an apex (37) and sides (38, 39) extending therefrom; said contact elements (30) are arranged in a single row (20) in a fixed position on the support structure (40); and a stopper (120) arranged on said support structure (40); A first mounting bracket (110) is slidably disposed on said therapeutic treatment device by being disposed partially along a corresponding guide surface. 16. The therapeutic treatment device according to claim 15, characterized in that the support structure (40) and the contact element (30) are formed integrally with each other. 17. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 15, wherein the support structure (40) has first and second ends, and the stop (120) is disposed between the first and second ends. at one of the two ends. 18. The therapeutic treatment device according to claim 15, characterized in that the support structure (40) defines a first guide surface on one side of the column (20) of contact elements (30) and The second guide surface on the opposite side of the column (20) of contact elements (30). 19. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 18, further comprising: at least one strap (112, 113, 115 or 117) mounted on said therapeutic treatment device using a mounting bracket (110), each of said at least one strap comprising at least one strap end; and At least one securing means is mounted on the strap such that respective strap ends can be secured in a substantially fixed relationship to each other. 20. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 19, further comprising: a second mounting bracket (110); At least two of said straps (112, 113, 115 or 117) are mounted on the therapeutic treatment device using first and second mounting brackets (110), respectively, and wherein each of said straps (112, 113, 115 or 117) comprising at least one strip end; and Said fixing means are mounted on at least two of said straps (112, 113, 115 or 117) such that one of the strap ends of one said strap can be positioned relative to a strap of the other said strap. One of the ends is secured in a substantially fixed relationship. 21. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 19, wherein said securing means comprises a tie comprising: an insertion part (201); and A receiving section (202). 22. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 19, wherein said securing means comprises a buckle means comprising: A buckle insert section, which includes: A tie receiving part (224); a binder insertion portion (221) engageable with a binder receiving portion (224); and a protruding buckle insertion portion (246); and A buckle receiving portion (217) for mating with said protruding buckle inserting portion (246). 23. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 19, wherein: said strip ends comprise first and second strip ends, each said strip end comprising a strip (112, 113, 115 or 117) terminating at a last strip end; and The fixtures include: A binding part receiving part (202), it is formed with first and second hole (215, 216), and strip can be passed in the binding part receiving part (202) through the first hole (215) and through the second a hole (216) passes through the tie receiving portion (202); and A binding member insertion portion (201) formed with a third hole (211) through which the strip can pass, the binding member insertion portion (201) comprising a The second aperture (216) fits the protruding insert member (210) within the binder receiving portion (202). 24. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 20, wherein: said strip ends comprise first and second strip ends, each said strip end comprising a strip (112, 113, 115 or 117) terminating at a last strip end; and The fixtures include: A tie means for securing a first strap end and a second strap end in a substantially fixed and adjustable manner to each other, each of said strap ends including a terminating last strap end The strap at the place, the tie device includes: A receiving portion (202) comprising a first hole (215) for withdrawing said first strap end therefrom into said insertion portion of the receiving portion (202) and for pulling said first strap end a second aperture (216) of the receiving portion (202) from which the end is withdrawn and passed through the receiving portion (202); an insertion portion (201) cooperable with a receiving portion (202), comprising an aperture (211) in said insertion portion (201) through which the first strap end can be withdrawn, and wherein said The first strap end can then be withdrawn through said second hole (216) of said receiving part (202) and threaded out through said first hole (215) of said receiving part (202); means (217, 220, 246, 247) for mating said receiving portion (202) and said inserting portion (201) together, which positions said first strap end relative to said tie The device is essentially fixed in place. 25. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 24, wherein a first hole is defined in the binding member insertion portion, and wherein a second hole and a third hole are further defined in the binding member insertion portion. hole, the second strap end is pulled through the second hole of the binding member insertion portion, and the second strap end is pulled through the first hole in the binding member insertion portion The hole is then pulled through a third hole of the tie insertion portion. 26. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 24, wherein the first strap end and the second strap end are located on respective first and second straps. 27. The therapeutic treatment device of claim 24, wherein the first strap end and the second strap end are located on opposite ends of a single strap. 28. A method of using a therapeutic treatment device, the method comprising: providing an operating unit (15) of a therapeutic treatment device (10) according to any one of claims 1, 14 and 15; installing at least one mounting bracket (110) on said operating unit (15); applying the strip (112, 113, 115 or 117) using the mounting bracket (110); and Respective ends of the straps are secured relative to each other using securing means.

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