Device permitting a user to simulate crawling motions to improve

Abstract

An apparatus permits a user to simulate crawling motions and provides enhanced movements of the person's truncal spinal muscles and joints. The apparatus comprises a flat base for supporting a person in position where there is minimal axial gravity loading of the spine, and hand and knee rests respectively fixed and pivoting relative to the flat base to permit relative motion between axial portions of the spine trunk, especially the upper (thoracic) and lower (pelvic) portions of the person's trunk, while the person remains in the gravity unloaded position. The base mounts a fixed rest and a pivoting or swiveling rest, the swiveling rest comprising a pair of pivoted supports which can move in circular lateral paths independent of each other. In the preferred embodiment the user assumes an all fours position and by kneeling or leaning on the swiveling rest engages in a crawling motion alternating movements of each leg or arm, which causes the upper and lower portions of the trunk to move relative to each other. Normal motion is simultaneously in the frontal and traverse planes of the body. Movement in the transverse plane can be enhanced by incorporating a sloped structure for the swiveling rest of the device to follow. Simultaneous movement in the sagittal plane can also be obtained by having the user flex or extend his body during the exercise. The supports for the hands and knees can be mounted on the same base, mounted in a telescoping or adjustable fashion or positioned in separate but adjacent locations. Extra support can be used if a person is unable to support one or another portion of his body on his own. The pivoting supports can be moved either by the person's own exertions or his exertions can be separately assisted by air cylinders or other means.