EP3846762B1 - Vibrating massage table - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to the field of devices intended for therapeutic or relaxation use.

The present invention will find its application mainly in the field of massage tables.

However, such application should not be construed as limiting; indeed, the present invention could also be applied in the field of tables intended more particularly for the relaxation and/or the decompression of the intervertebral joints of a patient, for example after a muscular effort.

The invention relates more particularly to a massage table which can produce, advantageously, vibrations propagating to the entire body of the person placed on said table.

We already know, in the state of the art, in particular from the French patent FR2992853 , such a vibrating massage table, the latter comprising at least one support foot on which rests a tilting plate about a central axis for tilting a patient taking place on said table so that the patient's feet are placed at a higher level than that of his head.

The plate comprises at least one motor means propagating vibrations and at least one means for retaining the patient.

The top of the massage table is subdivided longitudinally into several transverse cushions each adapted to a part of the body, one of the cushions being adapted to the patient's ankles and feet, said cushion being activated in vibrations by at least one motor means, said vibrations being propagated from the ankles and feet to the entire body of the patient.

In general, the massage tables used by physiotherapists and masseurs comprise a top, allowing a person to place themselves in a lying position, and a plurality of legs supporting said plate and resting on the ground, and can transmit vibrations to the patient who is to be handled.

Advantageously, such a massage table comprises means enabling the user to fold it up easily, in particular when the latter has to travel to the homes of people who are to be massaged.

To this end, we know, from the patent document FR 970160 , a vibrating table whose top is divided into different elements capable of vibrating independently of each other, with the aim of promoting post-traumatic rehabilitation or treating different ailments, such as obesity and nervous diseases.

We also know, from the patent document EN 1108031 a table combining vibration and mechanical traction to treat a patient. More particularly, the table described in this document can oscillate in a vertical plane around an axis and has a central axis supporting vibrating plates, the orientation of which can be modified in torsion and, for certain plates, the position in translation relative to the central axis of the table.

We also know, from the patent document EN 1585871 a specific device for the mechanical treatment of the spine and bone connections, that is to say in particular the pelvic ring, the shoulder girdle and the occipital region. More particularly, the table described in this document is tiltable around an axis and it is equipped with a single vibrating plate supporting the patient's torso, so that the vibrations are directed upwards, whatever the the inclination of said vibrating plate. The vibrations can be adjusted in number and amplitude.

The patent document RU 2270649 is, for its part, relating to a stationary set of decompression by vibrations, the objective of which is to allow decompression of the spine under the effect of vibrations. The vibration mechanism of this device is located under the surface of the table, which is tiltable. The table according to this document is also equipped with a device allowing a maintenance on the one hand of the feet of the patient, and on the other hand holding the patient's head, for example by means of a chin rest. The inclination of the table causes the patient's spine to be extended under the weight of his body, and the vibrations are applied to a part located at the head of the table, which corresponds to the level where the patient's neck is. patient.

Thus, in this document, a single plate, the one located at the head of the table, is mobile and transmits vibrations to the patient's body, which does not allow optimal treatment of the whole body. In addition, maintaining the patient's head can be difficult for the latter.

In addition, the massage tables proposed in the state of the art do not allow a modification of the angular position of certain parts of the body independently of the other parts of the body, which can prove to be particularly advantageous for improving the effectiveness of the treatment given to the patient.

The invention offers the possibility of overcoming, at least in part, the various drawbacks of the state of the art by proposing a table intended to relax or to treat the whole body of a patient, and by allowing an effective treatment of the entire body of the patient who is on said table.

In a particularly interesting way, many elements making up the massage table of the invention are modular and adaptable, in particular angularly and in height, in order to be able to offer an optimized treatment according to each patient and the pathology for which he must be treated.

To this end, the present invention relates to a vibrating massage table comprising at least one support foot on which rests a tabletop capable of tilting, around a joint with a central axis, or not, allowing a precise inclination of a patient, regardless of whether he sits on his back or on his stomach on said table, his ankles thus being placed at a higher level than that of his head.

The table top is subdivided longitudinally into several transverse cushions each adapted to a part of the body, considering the average height of a person in adulthood, one of the cushions at least being adapted to the patient's ankles and feet, said cushion being activated in vibrations by at least one motor means, said vibrations being propagated from the ankles and feet to the entire body of the patient.

• un premier coussin, à l'une des extrémités du plateau, adapté à recevoir la tête du patient et comportant préférentiellement un support cervical ;
• un deuxième coussin adapté au thorax du patient ;
• un troisième coussin adapté aux lombaires du patient ;
• un quatrième coussin adapté au bassin et aux cuisses du patient ;
• un cinquième coussin adapté aux mollets du patient ;
• ledit au moins sixième coussin, à l'autre extrémité du plateau, adapté aux chevilles et aux pieds du patient, et activé en vibrations,

lesdits coussins étant aboutés, dans le sens de la longueur de la table, par leurs bords transversaux respectifs.Advantageously, the tray comprises:

• a first cushion, at one end of the plate, adapted to receive the patient's head and preferably comprising a cervical support;
• a second cushion adapted to the patient's thorax;
• a third cushion adapted to the patient's lower back;
• a fourth cushion adapted to the patient's pelvis and thighs;
• a fifth cushion adapted to the patient's calves;
• said at least sixth cushion, at the other end of the plate, adapted to the patient's ankles and feet, and activated in vibrations,

said cushions being abutted, in the direction of the length of the table, by their respective transverse edges.

The table of the invention has the particularity of comprising means for modifying the height of at least one of the cushions and/or means for modifying the inclination of at least one of the cushions, such modification of the inclination being effected by raising one or the other of the transverse edges of said cushion.

In an exemplary embodiment of the massage table of the invention, said first cushion, suitable for receiving the patient's head and preferably comprising cervical support, said second cushion, suitable for the patient's thorax, said third cushion, suitable for the lower back of the patient, said fourth cushion adapted to the patient's pelvis and thighs and said fifth cushion, adapted to the patient's calves, are provided with such means for modifying the height and such means for modifying the inclination by raising one or the other of the transverse edges of said cushions, while said at least one sixth cushion is provided solely with such means for modifying the height.

Thus, it is possible to adjust the height and the inclination, with respect to the general plane of the plate, of each or almost of the said cushions which compose it, each cushion being adapted to receive a part of the body of the patient, and thus form an undulation over the entire length of the plate of the vibrating massage table of the invention.

The table top is subdivided into two frames, a first frame and a second frame, articulated to each other at an articulation so as to allow variation of the articulation angle α1 made by said first frame of the tray relative to said second frame.

Such an angle of articulation α1 between said first frame and said second frame of the plate is preferably between +15° and -8°.

More specifically, the first chassis of the tray can comprise said first cushion, said second cushion and said third cushion while said second chassis can comprise said fourth cushion, said fifth cushion and said at least one sixth cushion.

Thus, the length of the first chassis, which comprises said first cushion, said second cushion and said third cushion, is greater than the length of the second chassis, which itself comprises said fourth cushion, said fifth cushion and said at least one sixth cushion .

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the cushion, adapted to the patient's ankles and feet, is subdivided into two juxtaposed portions, said portions being activated, preferably alternately, in vibrations by at least one motor means, through a transmission belt and a shaft in contact, via its two ends, with each of said two juxtaposed portions.

More preferably, each of the two juxtaposed portions of the cushion adapted to the patient's ankles and feet comprises at least one means for retaining the patient's ankles and/or feet.

According to another feature of the invention, at least one of the transverse cushions is movable in sliding relative to the other cushions.

Preferably, it is the first, second, third, fourth and fifth cushions, provided with linear bearings, which are movable relative to each other by sliding, over a limited stroke, on two parallel rails located on each side of the plate.

Interestingly, the plate also includes means for managing the sliding capable of limiting the sliding of these mobile cushions.

These sliding management means preferably consist of jacks, for example equipped with springs, with which each of said cushions is provided.

Said springs provided with a cylinder make it possible to control the relaxation or the fixing of the cushions with respect to each other. This race will be adapted advantageously according to the needs or not of a segmentation of the cushions with respect to each other. This segmentation will be determined according to the height and weight of each patient.

Advantageously, tilting means around a central axis articulation allow the tray to be tilted by an angle α2 less than or equal to 18° relative to the horizontal, so that the feet of a patient taking place on said tray are placed at a higher level than that of his head.

As regards, now, said means for modifying the height of at least one of the cushions, these are suitable for varying the height of at least one of the cushions up to a maximum elevation 150 mm from the base position of said cushion.

As regards the inclination of at least one of the cushions, this can advantageously vary by an angle α3 of between +45° and -45°, the modification of the inclination being effected by raising the either of the transverse edges of said cushion.

The possibility of inclination of +45 to −45° of one of the cushions is obtained in cooperation or not with the raising of said cushion, and in cooperation or not with the lifting of the neighboring cushions.

Advantageously, said table is equipped with a management module at least for the height and/or the inclination of the cushions and, if necessary, for the angle of articulation of the two frames of the tabletop and the angle of inclination of the board.

The present invention has many advantages. On the one hand, the table can be used both for preventive purposes and for curative. Indeed, the table can for example be used following a physical effort, thus providing the treated patient with a relaxing effect, and this in particular at the level of the neuro-musculo-skeletal complex. This brings together the nervous system, the skeleton, the muscles and the tissues allowing the maintenance and the connection between the elements of the human body, such as the cartilage, the tendons and the ligaments.

In addition, the vibration system, placed preferentially at the level of the cushions supporting the ankles and feet, allows a transmission of short and rapid vibrations, which then spread to the rest of the body starting from the lower part of the body, allowing a sensation overall relaxation and softness.

In addition, the presence of means for modifying the height of at least certain cushions as well as means for modifying the inclination by lifting one or the other of the transverse edges, leads to an optimal modularity of each part of the table for its perfect adaptability to the patient and to the treatment to be applied to it. It is indeed possible to form an undulation through the movement of the cushions, which can be adapted according to the appropriate treatment decided by the therapist.

Finally, the possibility of combining an articulation between two frames constituting the plate of the vibrating massage table, with the inclination around the central tilting axis of said plate confers a particularly significant modularity on said table. Thus, it is conceivable that the whole of the plate tilts around the preferentially central axis for a certain inclination of the plate, then that one of the two frames of the plate is still inclined, with respect to the other frame, through of the articulation of the tray, also from a certain angle.

• la figure 1 représente schématiquement un mode de réalisation particulier d'une table de massage selon l'invention, vue de côté, au niveau de laquelle deux coussins, en l'occurrence le coussin adapté au thorax et celui adapté aux bassins et aux cuisses d'un patient, étant inclinés par soulèvement de l'un de leurs bords transversaux, tandis que les autres coussins restent à l'horizontale, dans un plan parallèle au plan général du plateau de la table, le coussin adapté aux lombaires du patient étant élevé par soulèvement égal de ses deux bords transversaux ;
• la figure 2 représente schématiquement un mode de réalisation d'une table de massage selon l'invention, selon une vue de côté, le plateau étant subdivisé en deux châssis articulés l'un à l'autre au niveau d'une articulation, l'un des châssis, destiné à accueillir les membres inférieurs d'un patient couché sur le dos, étant relevé par rapport au second châssis maintenu sensiblement à l'horizontale, la configuration de la table permettant un positionnement du patient sur le dos ;
• la figure 3 est une autre représentation de la table de massage représentée sur la figure 2, le plateau de ladite table étant incliné d'un angle α2 de l'ordre de 18° par rapport à l'horizontale grâce à l'articulation centrale, en sorte que les pieds du patient soient placés à un niveau plus élevé que sa tête ;
• la figure 4 représente schématiquement une vue en perspective d'un mode de réalisation d'une table de massage selon l'invention, sur le plateau de laquelle le coussin adapté au thorax, le coussin adapté aux lombaires, le coussin adapté au bassin et aux cuisses du patient présentent une inclinaison par rapport à l'horizontale obtenue par le soulèvement de l'un des bords transversaux de chacun des coussins susmentionnés, tandis que le coussin adapté à la tête, celui adapté aux mollets et celui adapté aux chevilles et aux pieds du patient, subdivisé en deux portions juxtaposées, sont en élévation par rapport au plateau de ladite table de massage ;
• la figure 5 représente schématiquement une vue en perspective d'un mode de réalisation d'une table de massage selon l'invention, le plateau étant subdivisé en deux châssis articulés l'un à l'autre au niveau d'une articulation, l'un des châssis, destiné à accueillir les membres inférieurs d'un patient, étant abaissé par rapport au second châssis maintenu sensiblement à l'horizontale, la configuration de la table permettant un positionnement du patient sur le ventre ;
• les figures 6a, 6b, 6c et 6d représentent plusieurs vues schématiques d'un mode de réalisation particulier d'un détail de la table de massage vibrante selon l'invention, en l'occurrence l'un des coussins que comporte le plateau de ladite table, par exemple le coussin adapté à recevoir la tête du patient ou le coussin adapté à recevoir les lombaires ou le coussin adapté au bassin et aux cuisses ou le coussin adapté aux mollets d'un patient, dans différentes positions ; les vues 6a et 6b montrent ledit coussin incliné et en élévation par rapport à sa position de base au niveau du plateau de ladite table, tandis que les vues 6c et 6d illustrent ledit coussin en position de base au niveau du plateau et à l'horizontale, sans élévation ni inclinaison ;
• les figures 7a, 7b, 7c et 7d représentent plusieurs vues schématiques d'un mode de réalisation particulier d'un détail de la table de massage vibrante, en l'occurrence le coussin adapté aux chevilles et aux pieds du patient, subdivisé en deux portions juxtaposées, dans différentes positions; les vues 7a et 7b montrent ce coussin en élévation par rapport à sa position de base au niveau du plateau de ladite table tandis que la vue 7c illustre ledit coussin en position de base au niveau du plateau, à l'horizontale, et la vue 7d illustre une vue en perspective de la structure sur laquelle repose les deux portions juxtaposées du coussin adapté aux chevilles et aux pieds du patient ;
• la figure 8 représente, de manière schématique, une vue en perspective d'un mode de réalisation particulier du pied sur lequel repose le plateau de la table de massage vibrante ;
• la figure 9 illustre une vue en perspective d'un exemple de réalisation du premier châssis composant le plateau de la table de massage vibrante, destiné à recevoir les lombaires, le thorax et la tête ;
• la figure 10 représente une vue en perspective d'un exemple de réalisation du second châssis composant le plateau de la table de massage vibrante, destiné à recevoir le bassin, les cuisses, les mollets et les pieds ;
• la figure 11 consiste en un schéma du système de contrôle ;
• la figure 12 illustre un exemple d'interface utilisateur de la table de massage vibrante de l'invention.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the detailed description which will follow of the non-limiting embodiments of the invention, with reference to the appended figures in which:

• the figure 1 schematically represents a particular embodiment of a massage table according to the invention, seen from the side, at the level of which two cushions, in this case the cushion adapted to the thorax and that adapted to the pelvis and thighs of a patient, being inclined by raising one of their transverse edges, while the other cushions remain horizontal, in a plane parallel to the general plane of the the table, the cushion adapted to the patient's lower back being raised by equal lifting of its two transverse edges;
• the figure 2 schematically represents an embodiment of a massage table according to the invention, according to a side view, the top being subdivided into two frames hinged to each other at an articulation, one of the frames , intended to accommodate the lower limbs of a patient lying on his back, being raised relative to the second frame maintained substantially horizontally, the configuration of the table allowing positioning of the patient on his back;
• the picture 3 is another representation of the massage table shown in the figure 2 , the top of said table being inclined at an angle α2 of the order of 18° with respect to the horizontal thanks to the central articulation, so that the patient's feet are placed at a higher level than his head ;
• the figure 4 schematically represents a perspective view of an embodiment of a massage table according to the invention, on the top of which the cushion adapted to the thorax, the cushion adapted to the lower back, the cushion adapted to the patient's pelvis and thighs have an inclination with respect to the horizontal obtained by raising one of the transverse edges of each of the aforementioned cushions, while the cushion adapted to the head, the one adapted to the calves and the one adapted to the patient's ankles and feet, subdivided into two juxtaposed portions, are in elevation relative to the top of said massage table;
• the figure 5 schematically represents a perspective view of an embodiment of a massage table according to the invention, the top being subdivided into two frames articulated to each other at an articulation, one of the frames , designed to accommodate lower limbs of a patient, being lowered relative to the second frame maintained substantially horizontally, the configuration of the table allowing positioning of the patient on his stomach;
• them figure 6a , 6b , 6c and 6d represent several schematic views of a particular embodiment of a detail of the vibrating massage table according to the invention, in this case one of the cushions that the top of said table comprises, for example the cushion adapted to receive the patient's head or the cushion adapted to receive the lower back or the cushion adapted to the pelvis and the thighs or the cushion adapted to the calves of a patient, in different positions; views 6a and 6b show said cushion inclined and in elevation with respect to its basic position at the level of the top of said table, while views 6c and 6d illustrate said cushion in basic position at the level of the top and horizontal , without elevation or inclination;
• them figure 7a , 7b , 7c and 7d represent several schematic views of a particular embodiment of a detail of the vibrating massage table, in this case the cushion adapted to the patient's ankles and feet, subdivided into two juxtaposed portions, in different positions; views 7a and 7b show this cushion in elevation with respect to its basic position at the level of the top of said table, while view 7c illustrates said cushion in basic position at the level of the top, horizontally, and view 7d illustrates a perspective view of the structure on which rests the two juxtaposed portions of the cushion adapted to the patient's ankles and feet;
• the figure 8 schematically represents a perspective view of a particular embodiment of the foot on which the plate of the vibrating massage table rests;
• the figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the first frame making up the top of the table vibrating massage, intended to receive the lumbar, the thorax and the head;
• the figure 10 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the second frame making up the plate of the vibrating massage table, intended to receive the pelvis, the thighs, the calves and the feet;
• the figure 11 consists of a diagram of the control system;
• the figure 12 illustrates an example of user interface of the vibrating massage table of the invention.

As depicted on the figures 1 to 10 of the attached drawings, the present invention relates to a vibrating massage table 1 that can be used both for the well-being of the patient who lies on said table 1 and to treat this patient when the latter is suffering from musculoskeletal disorders .

The table 1 according to the invention comprises in particular a top 2 resting on at least one foot 3, said top 2 being advantageously composed of a first frame 21 and a second frame 22.

The plate 2 of the vibrating table, composed of the two frames 21, 22, is capable of tilting through an articulation 4 of axis 40 which is preferably a central axis 40, and therefore of tilting, thus allowing a gradual inclination of the body of the patient who is lying on said table 1.

The mechanism allowing the top 2 of the table 1 to tilt can consist of any means known to those skilled in the art and suitable for this purpose.

More preferably, these tilting means consist of two electric cylinders 270, one of which is visible in the figures, allowing the rotation of the plate 2 around the articulation 4 of central axis 40, said cylinders advantageously making it possible to control the inclination of said plate 2.

Preferably, the patient's body is inclined so that his feet are directed upwards while the head is directed downwards from the plate 2, relative to the horizontal. This advantageously allows a natural extension of the patient's body.

In particular, with reference to the picture 3 , the tilting means of the plate 2 around the central axis 4 can allow an inclination of the plate 2 at an angle α2 less than or equal to 18°, preferably less than or equal to 15°, with respect to the horizontal, always taking into account the fact that the feet of a patient taking place on said plate 2 must be placed at a higher level than that of his head.

The patient thus lying on the inclined plate 2 is preferably retained on said plate 2, so as not to slip out of it. To this end, this table 1 comprises at least one retaining means, not shown in the figures.

Preferably, this retaining means makes it possible to hold the patient on the table 1 by means of the latter's lower limbs, for example the feet or the ankles, and is for example in the form of straps, not illustrated on the figures.

This retaining means can also consist of a pelvic belt system, for example in the event of the absence of lower limbs.

The table 1 according to the invention also comprises at least one motor means 13, illustrated in particular on the figure 7b and 7d , making it possible to propagate vibrations, so that at least a part of the patient's body is subjected to vibrations which can have a relaxing effect and/or a therapeutic effect.

Reference will be made in more detail to this motor means 13 that said table 1 comprises in the remainder of the description.

Particularly advantageously, the plate 2 of the vibrating massage table 1 according to the invention is subdivided into a plurality of transverse cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 each of these cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 being adapted to receive a specific part of the patient's body lying on said table 1.

According to a feature of the invention, one of the cushions, the cushion 10, is more particularly suited to the patient's ankles and feet.

The cushion 10 is advantageously activated in vibrations by at least one motor means 13, illustrated on the figure 7b and 7d , and being able to be located under said cushion 10, so that vibrations are propagated to the whole of the patient's body by preliminary vibration of the patient's ankles and feet.

More particularly, still with reference to these figure 7b and 7d , this motor means 13 transmits, through a transmission belt 14, vibrations to a shaft 15, itself being connected to said cushion 10, so as to propagate these vibrations to the feet and ankles of the patient resting at the level of the cushion 10, then to the entire body of the patient lying on said massage table 1.

According to a particular embodiment of the present massage table 1, said cushion 10 adapted to the patient's ankles and feet is subdivided into two juxtaposed portions 11, 12, as illustrated in particular on the figure 4 and 5 .

Particularly advantageously, at least one, and preferably each, of these two portions 11, 12 of the cushion 10 comprises means for retaining the patient's body, for example in the form of straps intended to hold the patient's ankles.

Restraint by a lower zone of the body is clearly preferable to restraint by the head, since the latter possibility can give the patient an unpleasant sensation, such as for example a sensation of strangulation.

In addition, when the patient is held by straps at his ankles, he can attach himself to the plate 2. In addition, the patient preferably has at his disposal a means for immediately stopping the vibrations. , as well as a means for controlling the inclination of the plate 2 so that, if he wishes, he can stop the propagation of vibration at any time and cause the plate 2 of the massage table 1 to return to a horizontal position. This advantageously makes it possible to open up the use of the table 1 according to the invention to self-medication, in particular in sports halls.

Preferably, it is the two portions 11, 12 of the cushion 10 which will propagate the vibrations initially to the lower zone of the patient's body, the feet and the ankles, then to the whole of the latter's body.

To do this, the two portions 11, 12 of the cushion 10 are activated in vibration by the presence of at least one motor means 13, as already mentioned above.

More particularly, preferably, each of said portions 11, 12 of the cushion 10, adapted to the feet and ankles of the patient, can be activated, alternately, one then the other, by a motor means 13. Such activation portions 11, 12 of the cushion 10 makes it possible to generate vibrations on each of the two portions 11, 12. The latter therefore vibrate alternately from one another.

Preferably, and as illustrated in the figure 7b , the two portions 11, 12 of the cushion 10 are activated and vibrated by means of a single motor means 13, through a transmission belt 14 and a shaft 15 in contact, via its two ends, with each of said two portions 11, 12.

In other words, said portions 11, 12 vibrate alternately, for example thanks to the action of transition means through in particular a system using an eccentric.

Preferably, the motor means(s) 13 make it possible to propagate vibrations, both short and at a high frequency, to the whole of the patient's body, starting from the feet and ankles. of this one. This advantageously leads to a feeling of relaxation and softness in the patient who is lying on the table 1 according to the invention.

• un premier coussin 5, à l'une des extrémités du plateau 2, adapté à recevoir la tête du patient et comportant avantageusement un support cervical, non représenté sur les figures ;
• un deuxième coussin 6 s'adaptant au thorax du patient ;
• un troisième coussin 7 adapté aux lombaires du patient ;
• un quatrième coussin 8 adapté à la fois au bassin et aux cuisses du patient ;
• un cinquième coussin 9 adapté aux mollets du patient.

According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the vibrating massage table 1 also comprises, in addition to the cushion 10 adapting to the feet and ankles of the patient, and considering the average size of a person at the age adult (about 1.65 m for women and 1.80 m for men):

• a first cushion 5, at one end of the plate 2, adapted to receive the patient's head and advantageously comprising a cervical support, not shown in the figures;
• a second cushion 6 adapting to the patient's thorax;
• a third cushion 7 adapted to the patient's lower back;
• a fourth cushion 8 adapted both to the patient's pelvis and thighs;
• a fifth cushion 9 adapted to the patient's calves.

Thus, the cushion 10 adapted to the patient's ankles and feet, and activated in vibrations, is considered to be the sixth cushion, and is positioned at the other end of the plate 2, in comparison with the positioning of the first cushion 5 adapted in the head.

Said cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 are butted in the direction of the length of the table 1 by their respective transverse edges 203.

Particularly to the invention, the present vibrating massage table 1 comprises means for modifying the height of at least one of said cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and/or means for modifying the inclination of at least one of the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 by lifting one or other of the transverse edges 203 of said cushion 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.

Thus, on the figure 1 of the attached drawings, there is illustrated an embodiment in which the cushions 6 and 8, adapting respectively to the thorax and to the pelvis of the patient, are raised and inclined by lifting one of their transverse edge 203 located on the side of the cushion 7, while the other cushions 5, 7, 9 and 10 are kept in a horizontal position, the cushion 7 adapted to the lower back having an elevation.

On the figure 4 , is illustrated an embodiment in which the cushions 6, 7, 8 have an inclination by lifting only one of their transverse edges 203, while the cushions 5, 9, as well as the two juxtaposed portions 11, 12 of the cushion 10 adapted to the patient's ankles and feet have undergone an elevation relative to their basic position in contact with the plate 2 of the table 1.

It should be noted that, within the meaning of the invention, it is considered that the height of a cushion has been modified when the two transverse edges have been raised relative to their basic position in contact with the plate 2 of the table 1, while that, if only one of the two transverse edges has been raised with respect to its basic position, the second having not moved, it is considered that there has only been a modification of the inclination of the cushion in question.

It should also be noted that if the two transverse edges of a cushion rise while one rises more than the other, there is a modification of both the height and the inclination of the cushion in question. , relative to its basic position in contact with the plate 2 of the table 1.

Thus, through the massage table 1 of the invention, it is possible to position certain parts of the patient's body, in particular his head, his thorax, or even his legs, at an angle which is adapted treatment, and determined by a professional, regardless of whether the patient is positioned on his stomach or on his back. It is thus possible to create an undulation by means of the cushions, this undulation being adapted to the anatomy and to the treatment of the patient.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, all the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 of the top 2 of said table 1 are provided with such means for modifying the height and such means for modifying the inclination by lifting one or the other of the transverse edges of said cushions.

In a different exemplary embodiment, said first cushion 5 adapted to receive the patient's head and comprising a cervical support, said second cushion 6 adapted to the patient's thorax, said third cushion 7 adapted to the patient's lower back, said fourth cushion 8 adapted to the pelvis and thighs of the patient and said fifth cushion 9 adapted to the patient's calves are provided with such means for modifying the height and such means for modifying the inclination by lifting one or the other of the transverse edges of said cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, while said at least one sixth cushion 10 is provided only with means for modifying the height of the cushion, the latter remaining horizontal.

In this example, and with reference to figures 6a to 6d , said first cushion 5, like said second, third, fourth and fifth cushions 6, 7, 8, 9 have two transverse edges, the first rising by means of a first cylinder 51, while the second transverse edge , opposite the first, rises by means of the action of a second cylinder 52, and the two columns 252, 253 stabilized by a spacer 254 under said first cushion 5, the columns being mounted through a pivot joint 250 at their respective transverse edges.

Thus, the columns 252, 253 are driven in elevation through motor means of the cylinder type 52.

In the hypothesis, represented on the figure 6a and 6b , where the cylinder 51 rises from a height less than the elevation height of the columns 252, 253, this results in a modification of the height and a modification of the inclination of the cushion 5, with respect to its position base illustrated on the figure 6c and 6d .

As mentioned previously, if only the cylinder 51 is driven in elevation, while the columns 252, 253 do not move, there is only a modification of the inclination of the cushion 5. It is the same if only the columns 252, 253 and the cylinder 52 are driven in elevation.

Obviously, all of the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 can be equipped with similar means to be able to act on their position in height and in inclination.

Thus, it is possible for the inclination of the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 to vary by an angle α3 of between +45 and -45° with respect to the horizontal. This is illustrated more particularly in the figure 6a .

The possibility of inclination of +45 to -45° of one of the cushions is obtained in cooperation or not with the lifting of said cushion on one side, in cooperation or not with the lifting of the neighboring cushions.

It is also possible for the cushion 10 adapted to the patient's ankles and feet to be equipped with similar means. However, such an embodiment is not shown.

Even more preferably, with reference to figures 7a to 7d , said sixth cushion 10, advantageously comprising two juxtaposed portions 11, 12, is provided only with means for modifying the height of said cushion 10, being in the form of a plurality of columns mounted to slide through the structure of the tray 2.

Thus, the portion 11 of the sixth cushion 10 is mounted on four columns of which two columns 111 and 112 are visible on the figure 7b and 7d , while the portion 12 of the same cushion 10 is also mounted on four columns, of which two columns 121 and 122 are visible on these figure 7b and 7d . The columns are mounted on a plate 16 and the assembly is suitable for slide through the structure of the plate 2 of the table 1 to pass from a first low position, illustrated in the figure 7c , in a high position, visible on the figure 7a and 7b .

The maximum elevation of the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 that the plate 2 of the table has is equal to 150 mm, relative to the lowest basic position of each of said cushions 5, 6, 7 , 8, 9, 10.

It should also be noted that, very preferably, the plate 2 of the massage table 1 of the invention is subdivided into two frames, a first frame 21, and a second frame 22 hinged to each other at the level of the articulation 41 of the plate, with axis 42, so as to allow a variation of the articulation angle α1 made by the first frame 21 or the second frame 22 of the plate 2 with respect to the other frame 22, 21.

Preferably, the articulation angle α1 between the two frames 21, 22, more particularly between the plane of the first frame 21 and the plane of the second frame 22, can be between 0 and +15°, when the patient is lying down. on the table 1 on the back, as shown in the figure 2 , and between 0 and -8°, the patient being, in this case, lying on his stomach, this possibility being illustrated on the figure 5 .

Thus, in other words, the massage table of the invention can take both a V-shaped configuration ( figure 2 ), through the two frames 21, 22 articulated to each other at the level of the articulation 41 of axis 42 of the plate 2, allowing positioning of the patient on his back, an inverted V configuration ( figure 5 ) advantageously allowing positioning of the patient lying face down on the table 1 of the invention.

Preferably, a mechanism consisting of two electric cylinders 271, one of which is visible in the figures, allows the articulation of the two frames 21, 22 of the plate 2 around the axis of articulation 41, said cylinders 271 allowing more particularly, advantageously, to control the inclination of the second frame 22.

Obviously, in addition to the articulation between the first frame 21 and the second frame 22 which constitute it, at the level of the articulation 41 of axis 42, the plate 2 of the vibrating massage table 1 can also tilt around its articulation 4 with a central axis 40 according to the angle α2 as illustrated on the picture 3 , which confers a particularly significant modularity to said table 1. Thus, it is possible for the whole of the plate 2 to tilt around the central axis 4 (or not) for an inclination of the plate 2 by an angle α2 less than or equal to 18° relative to the horizontal, then that the frame 22 of the plate 2 is still inclined through the articulation 41 of the plate 2 by an angle α1 which can range from −8° up to 15°.

The articulation 41 of axis 42 of the plate 2, the first frame 21 and the second frame 22 constituting the plate 2, and the central axis 40 for the tilting of the whole of the plate 2 are thus preferentially juxtaposed and parallel, different heights, and staggered in the longitudinal direction.

As illustrated on the figure 2 and 3 in particular, the first frame 21 of the plate 2 comprises the said first cushion 5, the said second cushion 6 and the said third cushion 7 while the second frame 22 of the plate 2 comprises the said fourth cushion 8, the said fifth cushion 9 and the said at least one sixth cushion 10.

The first frame 21 and the second frame 22 of the plate 2 can be of equal or substantially equal length, however, it is also possible, always with reference to the figure 2 and 3 , that the length of the first frame 21 of the plate 2 is greater, even slightly, than the length of the second frame 22 of the plate 2.

Preferably, at least one of these cushions 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 is movable in sliding relative to the others, for example along an axis longitudinal to the plate 2 of the table 1.

However, even more preferentially, at least one of the transverse cushions 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 is movable relative to the other cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 by sliding, over a limited stroke, on two parallel rails 260, located on each side of the plate 2, and visible on the figures 9 and 10 , thanks to the linear bearing 261, illustrated, him, on the figure 6d .

Thus, it is the first five cushions 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, respectively adapted to the head, thorax, lumbar, pelvis and thighs of the patient, as well as the cushion adapted to the calves, which are movable the relative to each other by sliding, over a limited race, and this on two parallel rails 260 located on each side of the plate 2 of the table of massage 1 according to the invention, while the sixth cushion 10 remains stationary.

This last characteristic advantageously allows, during the inclination of the plate 2 of the table 1 and under the pressure of the body of the patient lying on said plate 2, that the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 accompany the extension of the body in particular by sliding along the rail, the density of the cushions absorbing part of the weight of the body which generates grip. The body nevertheless has innate abilities to moderate extension within physiological limits.

According to a particular embodiment, the massage table 1 according to the invention also comprises means for managing sliding, not shown in the appended figures. Said sliding management means are preferably associated with each of the longitudinally movable cushions, for example the five cushions 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, so as to allow a limitation of the sliding of these cushions.

The presence of these integrated means therefore makes it possible to manage the sliding of cushions which may be mobile, in particular the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, so that they follow the natural movement of the patient's body at the time of its extension during the inclination of the plate 2 of the table 1. The sliding management means are also useful when the table 1 returns to the horizontal position, at the end of the treatment session, when the patient's body undergoes compression. Thanks to the action of these means, the body regains its normal gravitational compression.

In a particularly advantageous manner, said means for managing the sliding able to limit the sliding of the movable cushions, in particular the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 consist of cylinders fitted to each of the said cushions.

Through these means, it is possible to associate at least two, or even more than two, cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 between them, to thus form one or more segment(s) of cushions.

Only the cushion 10 is vibrating and generates a vibratory frequency which will travel along the patient's body. The other cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, mounted on the parallel rails 260 accompany the natural extension of the body associated with the slope of the plate 2. However, these cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 can be fixed together so as to limit the extension and to segment the vibratory frequency.

It should be noted that the massage table 1 according to the invention may also comprise at least one anti-jamming system fitted to each of the cushions, to prevent the patient from getting his fingers caught during the movement of said cushions in sliding or elevation by each other. relation to others.

Advantageously, the table 1 of the invention is further equipped with a management module 100, illustrated in the figure 11 , at least for the height and/or the angle of inclination α3 of the cushions and, where appropriate, for the angle of articulation α1 between the first frame 21 and the second frame 22 of the plate 2 as well as for the management of the tilt angle α2.

This management module 100 is also capable of controlling the vibration parameters of the sixth cushion 10, in particular the frequency and the intensity, by controlling the motor means activating the vibrations of said sixth cushion 10, more particularly one and/or the other juxtaposed portions 11, 12 of this sixth cushion.

The management module 100 can be controlled, for example by a health professional, by means of a user interface as represented on the figure 12 which can be displayed on a touch display 101 of the massage table 1, or else on a remote touch pad 105.

Said interface makes it possible to act on all the parameters of the vibrating massage table 1 which can be modified and part of which has been listed above.

Thus, the information is sent from the touch display 101 or the touch pad 105 to a processor card 102 of the module 100, directly as regards the touch display 101 or indirectly via a local network 104 in the case of the tablet Touch 105 (Wi-Fi and/or Ethernet). An electronic card 103 comprising the power components provides the interface between the control of the processor 102 and the various actuators, in this case the jacks 51, 52 each equipping the cushions 5 to 10 for their lifting and / or their inclination, the cylinders 270, 271 for inclination respectively of the plate 2 and the frames 21,22, and the motor 13.

This management module 100 is associated with software that can be configured and/or updated, for example by means of a computer 106, making it possible to adapt, preferably, automatically the positioning of the table 1 and its cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, to the morphology of the patient, in particular his height and his weight, this information being entered into the software manually. A scale can, for example, be connected in conjunction with the management module 100, or an automatic weight sensor can be incorporated into the table 1.

The different information can also be shared via the local network 104 and/or the internet network 107.

It should also be noted that predefined programs may advantageously be available on the user interface, these programs being developed from a large collection of data obtained through fundamental and clinical research, and may be automatically adjusted according to the height and weight of the patient.

In addition, advantageously, once a program has been determined for a patient, in particular with regard to the vibrational frequency, the slope, the orientation, in particular of the cushions 5 to 9, and the time of the session, the patient will be able to implement this program by connecting to the management module 100, at a health practitioner, a sports hall, in an airport, or in any other place and whatever the country, equipped with the table of vibrating massager 1 according to the invention, in order to recover more quickly after a long-haul flight, for example.

Thus, the vibrating massage table 1 according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to combine a treatment of the human body by the vibrations, propagated via the cushion 10, with a more or less significant inclination of the body, made possible by the tilting of the tray 2, and allowing passive stretching of the body by gravity. In addition, the mobility by longitudinal sliding in particular of the first five cushions 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 allows gentle support for the extension of the body by gravity.

Such an association between the vibrations, propagated from the feet and the ankles, and a variable inclination of the plate 2 of the table 1, can in a particularly interesting way, open the way to neurovertebral decompression in particular of the intervertebral discs. Such decompression makes it possible to promote micro-oxygenation of the intervertebral joints which is generally accompanied by decompression of the spinal nerves (also called rachidian nerves), which are notably responsible for the sensitivity and motor skills of the limbs as well as the regulation neurovegetative.

Different dynamic processes including the circulation of blood, lymphatic and cerebrospinal flows occur at every moment, at the level of the pelvis, the spine and the skull in the form of waves.

Tilting and vibration will adjust and harmonize this primary wave motion which in turn will restore the inherent mobility of the spinal and pelvic joints. It is therefore this form of passive elongation, without forced traction, and oscillation that will allow neurovertebral decompression, whether of traumatic and/or inflammatory origin.

In addition, the propagation of vibration waves from one of the extremities of the human body, in this case a propagation from the feet and the ankles, makes it possible to avoid the setting up of a defensive physiological state in the patient, this which can occur, for example, when several parts of the body vibrate simultaneously or when the vibrations are transmitted through the patient's head.

The vibrating massage table 1 according to the invention can advantageously be used for therapeutic purposes; indeed, the association between the vibrations and the stretching of the body by gravity accompanied by a displacement of the cushions, for example the cushions 5 to 8, makes it possible in particular to treat problems of protrusion of the intervertebral discs, ranging from simple disc protrusion to the herniated disc.

According to another advantageous application, this vibrating massage table 1 can be used before and/or after more or less physical exertion. less intense. The characteristics of said table 1 will allow a particularly beneficial relaxing effect for the body of the patient treated, and in particular at the level of the musculoskeletal complex.

Thus, the vibrating massage table 1 according to the invention has both a preventive application and a curative application for a patient. Many physiological parameters can be improved thanks to the characteristics of table 1, either by the change of position with regard to the gravity vector, including the different possibilities of inclination, or by vibrations, or by a specific combination of the two systems, adapted to each case.

Thus, for example, the inclination of a patient on the massage table of the invention could be at the initiative of the osteotendinous reflex and, in combination with the vibratory activity, will promote without risk the release of tendons, ligaments , discs, their physiological waste products, and will also have the effect of improving blood circulation and that of cerebrospinal fluid for the repair of damaged tissues.

It should also be noted that the present vibrating massage table 1 is not limited to vertebral treatments and to the treatments of musculoskeletal disorders, but can also be implemented in the treatment of other pathologies, in particular in pulmonary, circulatory, lymphatic, and those involving a weak immune system. It has been proven that the vibrations or the modulation of the position relative to the vector of gravity, allow an elevation of the lymphocytes, a reduction in the inflammatory markers and simultaneously an increase in the anti-inflammatory markers.

Indeed, unlike basic inversion tables, the elevation of at least one of the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, as well as the preferential inclination of at least one of the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, by supporting the lumbar curvature, will reduce orthostatic stress and reduce the risk of elevated blood pressure and intraocular pressure.

Also, the Trendelenburg position, with the patient's body lying flat, on the back, with the latter tilted with the feet at a higher level than of the head, associated with an elevation of at least one of the cushions 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, improves splanchnic vasoconstriction and venoconstriction, as well as venous return, by the double action of l increased muscle tone in the walls of blood vessels, and activation of the abdominal pump.

As regards the interest of the vibrating massage table 1 in respiratory pathologies, by the combination of gravity and vibrations, by contributing to strengthening the contractility of the muscles, said table 1 participates in particular in the drainage of the sinuses, bronchi and the respiratory system in general. Also, table 1 will be particularly useful in the case of treating patients suffering from pathologies such as sinusitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, etc.

In addition, the vibrating massage table 1 can be used as a medical bed, in particular to avoid thrombosis in the patient in a situation of prolonged bed rest. Here, note the specificity of the joint 41 which, by providing a new angulation allows the elevation of the lower limbs without excessive inclination of the rest of the body and in particular of the neck and the head.

On the other hand, the inclination and/or the vibrations will make it possible to stimulate the proprioceptive receptors by initializing the muscular adaptation, and to reinforce the structure of the muscular fibers by relaunching the muscular activity, without constraint.

The vibrating massage table according to the invention can have many other therapeutic applications in particular, for example usefulness in the treatment of neurological disorders such as those caused by Parkinson's disease or those of multiple sclerosis, postural control, balance, coordination and walking, fibromyalgia, spasticity, etc.

Claims (11)

1. Vibrating massage table (1) comprising at least one support foot (3) on which a plate (2) rests which is capable of tilting about a hinge (4) having a central or non-central axis (40) and allows a patient lying on said table (1) to be inclined such that the patient's feet are placed at a higher level than that of their head, said plate (2) comprising a plurality of transverse cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) which are each suitable for a part of the patient's body, a first cushion (5) at one end of the plate (2) which is suitable for receiving the patient's head, a second cushion (6) which is suitable for the patient's thorax, a third cushion (7) which is suitable for the patient's lower back, a fourth cushion (8) which is suitable for the patient's pelvis and thighs, a fifth cushion (9) which is suitable for the patient's calves, at least one sixth cushion (10), at the other end of the plate (2), which is suitable for the patient's ankles and feet, said at least one sixth cushion (10) being vibrated by at least one motor means (13), said vibrations being propagated from the ankles and feet to the entire body of the patient, said cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) being aligned end-to-end, lengthwise to the table (1), by their respective transverse edges (203), said table (1) being characterized in that it comprises means for modifying the height of at least one of the cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) and means for modifying the inclination of at least one of the cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10), the inclination being modified by lifting either of the transverse edges (203) of said cushion (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) and in that the plate (2) of the table (1) is subdivided into two frames, a first frame (21) and a second frame (22) which are hinged to each other at a hinge (41) so as to allow a variation of the hinge angle α1 by said first frame (21) of the plate (2) relative to said second frame (22).
2. Vibrating massage table (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said first cushion (5) which is suitable for receiving the patient's head, said second cushion (6) which is suitable for the patient's thorax, said third cushion (7) which is suitable for the patient's lower back, said fourth cushion (8) which is suitable for the patient's pelvis and thighs and said fifth cushion (9) which is suitable for the patient's calves are provided with such means for modifying the height and such means for modifying the inclination by lifting either of the transverse edges (203) of said cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9), while said at least one sixth cushion (10) is provided only with such means for modifying the height.
3. Vibrating massage table (1) according to either of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hinge angle α1 between the first frame (21) and the second frame (22) of the plate (2) is between +15° and -8°.
4. Vibrating massage table (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first frame (21) of the plate (2) comprises said first cushion (5), said second cushion (6) and said third cushion (7) while said second frame (22) of the plate (2) comprises said fourth cushion (8), said fifth cushion (9) and said at least one sixth cushion (10), the length of said first frame (21) being greater than the length of said second frame (22).
5. Vibrating massage table (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cushion (10) which is suitable for the patient's ankles and feet is subdivided into two juxtaposed portions (11, 12), said portions (11, 12) being alternately vibrated by a motor means (13) via a transmission belt (14) and a shaft (15) which are in contact, by means of their two ends, with each of said two portions (11, 12).
6. Vibrating massage table (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each of the two juxtaposed portions (11, 12) of the cushion (10) which is suitable for the patient's ankles and feet comprises at least one means for holding the patient's ankles and/or feet.
7. Vibrating massage table (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first (5), second (6), third (7), fourth (8) and fifth (9) cushions are each provided with a linear bearing (261) and are movable relative to each other by sliding, over a limited distance, on two parallel rails (260) which are located on each side of the plate (2), said plate (2) also comprising sliding management means which are capable of limiting the sliding of the movable cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9), said sliding management means consisting of cylinders which have springs and are provided in each of said movable cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9).
8. Vibrating massage table (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that means for tilting about a hinge (4) having a central axis (40) allow the plate (2) to be tilted by an angle α2 less than or equal to 18° relative to the horizontal, such that the feet of a patient lying on said plate (2) are placed at a higher level than that of their head.
9. Vibrating massage table (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inclination of at least one of the cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9) varies by an angle α3 between +45° and -45°, the inclination being modified by raising either of the transverse edges (203) of said cushion (5, 6, 7, 8, 9).
10. Vibrating massage table (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said means for modifying the height of at least one of the cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) are capable of varying the height of at least one of the cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) up to a maximum elevation of 150 mm with respect to the basic position of said cushion (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10).
11. Vibrating massage table (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is provided with a management module (100) at least for the height and/or the inclination of the cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) and for the hinge angle α1 of the two frames (21, 22) of the plate (2) and the inclination angle α2 of the plate (2).

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