A LEG PHYSIOTHERAPY APPARATUS AND A METHOD FOR OPERATING THE SAME

Abstract

The present invention relates to a leg physiotherapy apparatus (1). The apparatus (1) includes a seat (2), a backrest (3), a pair of armrests (4), and a compartment housing a control unit (33) and power supply unit (6). The knee physiotherapy device (11) is mounted at the front edge of the seat (2). The ankle physiotherapy device (21) is mounted at the bottom of the knee device (11). A user interface device (32) is operably connected to the control unit (33), allowing the patient (7) to select therapy modes. The control unit (33) transmits therapy data to a cloud server (36) via a transceiver (35), enabling real-time monitoring by a physiotherapist or doctor (38) through a monitoring device (37). The therapist can review the therapy parameters, adjust them as necessary, and remotely control the physiotherapy apparatus (1), providing an efficient system for knee and ankle rehabilitation.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to the field of healthcare machine. Particularly the present invention discloses an apparatus for leg physiotherapy and an operating method for healing knee and ankle joint pains. The apparatus is an automatic physiotherapy chair with a user interface device which can be operated by the patient and treated without the need of a therapist.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] The Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in healthcare by aiding in the recovery and rehabilitation of individuals suffering from various musculoskeletal disorders, injuries, or post-surgery recovery. It is especially beneficial for those experiencing mobility challenges, pain, or muscle weakness. The importance of physiotherapy has increased as it offers non-invasive treatment options that improve the range of motion, flexibility, and strength, while reducing pain and stiffness. Regular physiotherapy sessions can also help in preventing complications, enhance circulation, and promote healing. As the global population ages and the incidence of lifestyle-related diseases rises, the demand for effective physiotherapy continues to grow, offering patients a means to regain functional independence and improve their quality of life.

[003] Leg diseases and disabilities often require physiotherapy to restore or enhance mobility and reduce pain. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ligament injuries commonly affect the knee and ankle joints, causing pain and limiting movement. Other conditions like stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease can lead to muscle weakness, coordination problems, and spasticity in the lower limbs. Physiotherapy is also vital in the rehabilitation of individuals with fractures, post-surgical recovery of joint replacements, or ligament reconstructions. Patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy, which affects the nerves in the legs, may experience numbness, making physiotherapy essential to maintain balance and prevent falls. Overall, physiotherapy addresses a wide range of leg-related conditions, ensuring that patients can regain strength, mobility, and function.

[004] Currently, various apparatus and devices are employed for physiotherapy, especially for leg rehabilitation. Manual therapy techniques such as stretching and joint mobilization are often used by therapists. However, advanced machines like Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) devices are widely used in clinical settings to provide controlled and repetitive movements of the knee or ankle joint without active effort from the patient. Motorized exercise bikes, leg press machines, and balance trainers are also commonly used to strengthen the muscles and improve joint mobility. Despite these advancements, most existing apparatuses require the presence of a trained therapist, limiting the patient's autonomy and the convenience of at-home treatments.
[005] The Chinese patent CN110169893B discloses a lower limb rehabilitation training robot designed to address issues of large volume, complex structure, and heaviness often found in conventional rehabilitation devices. The apparatus includes separate left and right leg training units that are mirror-symmetrical in design. Each unit features a position adjusting device, hip joint training device, thigh adjusting device, knee joint training device, crus adjusting device, pedal plate, and a physical therapy device. While this system offers a comprehensive range of lower limb rehabilitation exercises and can be paired with upper limb devices, its primary drawback lies in its limited user control and customization. Despite claims of comfort and compactness, the structure still requires significant space and manual adjustment, which reduces its practicality for at-home use.

[006] The Korean patent KR101360325B1 discloses a knee joint exercise device and method, comprising a seat where the user sits, a first support for securing the thigh, and a second support for supporting the calf. The two supports are connected and controlled by a driving mechanism that rotates the second support, facilitating knee movement. The device includes a movement change sensor that detects alterations in motion and a control unit that adjusts the driving force based on these changes to ensure proper rehabilitation. While the device offers a functional solution for knee rehabilitation by automatically adjusting the force during movement, its limitation lies in its focus solely on the knee joint. Additionally, the device requires preset controls and lacks real-time adaptability for the patient's needs.

[007] There is a growing need for an apparatus that can effectively treat both knee and ankle joint conditions, as these joints are often interrelated in movement and function. Patients with mobility issues, arthritis, or injuries affecting these joints require comprehensive rehabilitation that targets both areas simultaneously to ensure proper recovery. Traditional rehabilitation methods often focus on just one joint, limiting the overall effectiveness of treatment. Furthermore, the availability of a user interface device with various operation and control modes is crucial, as it allows patients to independently manage their therapy sessions. Such an interface enables them to select different modes of treatment, adjust intensity levels, and track their progress without the constant need for a therapist's supervision. This level of autonomy not only enhances patient convenience but also ensures that therapy can be personalized based on real-time needs and comfort, leading to more efficient and tailored rehabilitation.

[008] In light of the limitations of existing physiotherapy devices and the need for more comprehensive, patient-controlled rehabilitation, the present invention aims to provide an advanced solution. The proposed apparatus is designed to address both knee and ankle joint rehabilitation in a single system, offering a fully automated physiotherapy chair equipped with a user-friendly interface. The integration of multiple operation modes ensures that the device can cater to a variety of patient needs, from gentle passive movements for initial recovery stages to more intensive exercises for advanced rehabilitation. By allowing patients to adjust settings and monitor their progress through the interface, the invention empowers them to engage in self-guided therapy, reducing dependency on therapists and facilitating at-home treatment. This innovation not only improves the effectiveness of physiotherapy but also offers a more accessible and convenient solution for individuals with joint mobility challenges.

OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
[009] The main objective of the present is to provide an apparatus and an operation method to provide physiotherapy treatments without the need of a therapist.

[010] Other objective of the present invention is to provide a chair-type apparatus incorporating motorized supports for the knee, calf, and ankle, allowing for integrated lower limb rehabilitation while seated.

[011] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a motorized fixture support for the knee and calf portions of the legs, enabling controlled movement for effective rehabilitation of the knee and calf joints.

[012] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a motorized fixture support for the ankle portion of the leg, facilitating targeted movement and therapy for the ankle joint.

[013] Still another objective of the present invention is to provide a control device mounted near the armrest of the apparatus, allowing the patient to operate and control the therapy independently.

[014] Still another objective of the present invention is to provide a control device with pre-programmed therapy operations, enabling the patient to select various therapy modes and adjust treatment based on individual rehabilitation needs.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[015] The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the present invention or delineates the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concept of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description of the invention presented later.

[016] According to the main aspect of the invention, there is provided a leg physiotherapy apparatus designed to aid in the rehabilitation of both knee and ankle joints. The apparatus consists of a chair structure that includes a seat, backrest, and armrests, which integrates a knee physiotherapy device and an ankle physiotherapy device. These devices are equipped with fixture supports for the knee and ankle, operably mounted using motorized driving means that enable controlled and automated movements during therapy sessions.

[017] According to another aspect of the invention, the apparatus is equipped with a user interface device that allows the patient to independently select therapy modes, such as knee or ankle treatments, and adjust therapy parameters like the number of cycles and duration. This feature provides flexibility and control, allowing patients to customize their therapy based on their specific needs.

[018] According to yet another aspect of the invention, a control unit manages the operation of the knee and ankle physiotherapy devices based on the patient's inputs. The control unit transmits therapy data to a cloud server via a transceiver, enabling real-time monitoring of the therapy session by a physiotherapist or doctor. The remote monitoring allows the therapist to review the selected parameters, make adjustments if necessary, and approve the therapy process.

[019] According to a further aspect of the invention, the apparatus provides a comprehensive solution for knee and ankle rehabilitation, offering the convenience of automated, user-controlled therapy with the additional advantage of remote supervision by medical professionals. This makes the invention suitable for both clinical settings and home-based rehabilitation, enhancing treatment accessibility and efficiency.

BRIEF DECRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[020] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[021] Figure 1 Fig - 1 illustrates the isometric view of leg physiotherapy apparatus according to the present invention.

[022] Fig - 2 illustrates the exploded view of leg physiotherapy apparatus according to the present invention.

[023] Fig - 3 illustrates the knee physiotherapy device of leg physiotherapy apparatus according to the present invention.
[024] Fig - 4 illustrates the Ankle physiotherapy device of leg physiotherapy apparatus according to the main embodiment of the present invention.

[025] Fig - 5 illustrates a block diagram that describes the control system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[026] Fig - 6 illustrates a flow chart that describes the operating method of leg physiotherapy apparatus according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[027] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[028] According to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1 of the drawings discloses the isometric view of leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) according to the present invention. Said leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) generally comprising of a seat (2), back rest (3), a pair of arm rests (4) and legs (5). The bottom portion of the leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) consists of a compartment to place the control unit (32), power supply unit (6) and other electrical and electronic components which are essential to operate the leg physiotherapy apparatus (1). According to the main aspect of the present invention, the said leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) consists of a knee physiotherapy device (11), an ankle physiotherapy device (21) and a user interface device (31) which can be directly operated by the patient (7).

[029] Figure 2 of the drawings discloses leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) according to the present invention in an exploded view. According to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the knee physiotherapy device (11) is mounted at the front edge portion of the seat (2). Said knee physiotherapy device (11) is operably mounted on the said apparatus (1) using the driving means (13a, 13b). The knee physiotherapy device (11) consists of a fixture support plate (12a, 12b) for each leg and the support plates are operably mounted using the driving means (13a, 13b). At the bottom end of each fixture support (12a, 12b), an ankle physiotherapy device (21) is mounted. The ankle physiotherapy device (21) consists of a fixture support plate (22a, 22b) for each ankle and operably mounted using the driving means (23a, 23b).

[030] Figure 3 specifically discloses the knee physiotherapy device (11) of leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) according to one of the embodiments of the present invention. The knee physiotherapy device (11) is mounted at the front edge portion of the seat (2). Said knee physiotherapy device (11) is operably mounted on the said apparatus (1) using the driving means (13a, 13b). The knee physiotherapy device (11) consists of a pair of fixture support plate (12a, 12b) and the said support plates are operably mounted using the driving means (13a, 13b). Said driving means consists of a stepper motor (14a, 14b) and a gear rod (15a, 15b). The upper end portion of the support plates (12a, 12b) consists of a slot (16a, 16b) and the said plates (12a, 12b) are mounted on the seat by inserting the drive gear rods (15a, 15b) in the slots (16a, 16b). The bottom portion of the supporting plates (12a, 12b) consists of a slot (17a, 17b).

[031] Figure 4 specifically discloses the ankle physiotherapy device (21) of leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention. Said ankle physiotherapy device (21) is mounted at the bottom portion of the knee physiotherapy device (11). Said ankle physiotherapy device (21) is operably mounted on the knee physiotherapy device (11) using the driving means (23a, 23b). The ankle physiotherapy device (21) consists of a pair of fixture support plate (22a, 22b) and the said support plates are operably mounted in the end portion of knee supporting plates (12a, 12b) using the driving means (23a, 23b). Said driving means consists of a stepper motor (24a, 24b) and a gear rod (25a, 25b). The upper end portion of the support plates (22a, 22b) consists of a slot (26a, 26b) and the said plates (22a, 22b) are mounted on the fixture support plate (12a, 12b) by inserting the drive gear rods (25a, 25b) in the slots (26a, 26b) and (17a, 17b).

[032] Figure 5 illustrates a block diagram that describes the control system (31) according to another embodiment of the present invention. The control system (31) comprising of a user interface device (32), a control unit (33), a cloud server (36) and a monitoring device (37). The control unit (33) consists of a processing unit (34) which is preferably a micro controller. The drive motors (13a, 13b) and (23a, 23b) are connected with the processing unit (34) and operated by the same. The user interface device (32) is also connected with the processing unit (34) and the patient (7) shall directly select the required therapy through the said user interface device (7). The control unit (33) is connected with the power supply unit (33) and the required power supply is managed by the control unit (33). The data from the control unit (33) is transmitted to the cloud server (36) through the transceiver (35). The collected data is transmitted from the server (36) to the monitoring device (37). The physiotherapist or doctor (38) shall monitor the function of the leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) and the status of the patient (7). The feedback from the doctor (38) shall be wirelessly transmitted to the control unit (33) through the server (36) and the entire operation of the physiotherapy apparatus (1) can be controlled remotely.

[033] Figure 6 of the drawings discloses a flow chart that describes the operating method of leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) according to the operational method of the present invention. The process begins with the patient (7) selecting the desired therapy mode through the user interface device (32). If the knee therapy mode is selected, and the parameters like number of cycles and the duration of treatment are chosen, the Control unit (33) transmits the date to the server (36) through the transceiver (35). The data from the server (36) is further transmitted to the monitoring device (37). The therapist (38) may check the chosen therapy and modify if there are any changes required and further approve the treatment process. The approval signal is transmitted to the processing unit (34) in the control unit (33). The control unit (33), which manages the drive motors (13a, 13b), initiates the movement of the knee physiotherapy device (11) based on the selected parameters.

[034] If the ankle therapy mode is selected, and the parameters like number of cycles and the duration of treatment are chosen, the Control unit (33) transmits the date to the server (36) through the transceiver (35). The data from the server (36) is further transmitted to the monitoring device (37). The therapist (38) may check the chosen therapy and modify if there are any changes required and further approve the treatment process. The approval signal is transmitted to the processing unit (34) in the control unit (33). The control unit (33), which manages the drive motors (23a, 23b), initiates the movement of the ankle physiotherapy device (21) based on the selected parameters.

[035] If the patient does not choose any specific mode, the therapist (38) may choose the required therapy and approve the treatment process. The approval signal is transmitted to the processing unit (34) in the control unit (33). The control unit (33), which manages the drive motors (13a, 13b) and (23a, 23b), initiates the movement of the physiotherapy devices (11 or 21).

[036] Throughout the session, data is continuously monitored and transmitted via the transceiver (35) to the cloud server (36), where it is accessible to a physiotherapist or doctor (38). The therapist can monitor the patient's progress in real time and provide feedback or adjust the therapy settings remotely. The flowchart emphasizes the seamless interaction between the patient-operated control system and the remote monitoring capabilities, ensuring an effective and adaptable physiotherapy treatment.

[037] The present invention provides several advantages over conventional physiotherapy apparatuses. Firstly, it offers a fully automated system for knee and ankle rehabilitation, reducing the need for constant supervision by a therapist. The integrated user interface device allows patients to independently select therapy modes, making it suitable for at-home use. The real-time monitoring and feedback system, facilitated through a cloud server, ensures that therapists can remotely oversee the treatment and adjust parameters as necessary. The apparatus also accommodates customizable therapy settings, enabling tailored rehabilitation based on individual patient needs. Additionally, the compact design with motorized supports for both knee and ankle joints enhances the effectiveness of therapy by providing simultaneous and synchronized movement for both joints. This improves treatment outcomes while ensuring patient comfort and convenience.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A leg physiotherapy apparatus (1) comprising:
- a seat (2) for the patient to sit,
- a backrest (3) coupled to the seat (2),
- a pair of armrests (4) attached to the sides of the seat (2),
- a knee physiotherapy device (11) operably mounted at the front edge of the seat (2), said knee physiotherapy device (11) including a pair of fixture support plates (12a, 12b) for securing each leg of the patient,
- an ankle physiotherapy device (21) operably mounted at the bottom of the knee physiotherapy device (11), said ankle physiotherapy device (21) including a pair of fixture support plates (22a, 22b) for securing each ankle of the patient,
- driving means (13a, 13b, 23a, 23b) configured to control the movement of the knee and ankle physiotherapy devices (11, 21),
- a control unit (33) operably connected to the driving means (13a, 13b, 23a, 23b) for managing the movement of the physiotherapy devices,
- a user interface device (32) operably connected to the control unit (33), allowing the patient to select therapy options, and
- a monitoring device (37) remotely connected to the control unit (33) via a cloud server (36) and transceiver (35), enabling real-time monitoring and feedback by a therapist or doctor (38).
2. The leg physiotherapy apparatus of claim 1, wherein the knee physiotherapy device (11) is mounted on the apparatus (1) using stepper motors (14a, 14b) and gear rods (15a, 15b).

3. The leg physiotherapy apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ankle physiotherapy device (21) is operably mounted to the knee physiotherapy device (11) using stepper motors (24a, 24b) and gear rods (25a, 25b).

4. The leg physiotherapy apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control unit (33) comprises a processing unit (34), preferably a microcontroller, for controlling the drive motors (13a, 13b, 23a, 23b) based on the selected therapy parameters.

5. The leg physiotherapy apparatus of claim 1, wherein the user interface device (32) is mounted near the armrest (4) of the apparatus (1), allowing the patient to independently select therapy modes, set treatment duration, and monitor progress.

6. The leg physiotherapy apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fixture support plates (12a, 12b, 22a, 22b) include slots (16a, 16b, 26a, 26b) for coupling the gear rods (15a, 15b, 25a, 25b) to facilitate movement of the knee and ankle physiotherapy devices.
7. A method for operating a leg physiotherapy apparatus, the method comprising:
- selecting, by a patient (7), a desired therapy mode through a user interface device (32) operably connected to a control unit (33);
- transmitting, by the control unit (33), therapy parameters including the number of cycles and duration of treatment to a cloud server (36) via a transceiver (35);
- relaying the therapy parameters from the cloud server (36) to a monitoring device (37), where a therapist (38) reviews the selected therapy parameters;
- approving, by the therapist (38), the therapy parameters, and transmitting an approval signal to a processing unit (34) within the control unit (33);
- initiating, by the control unit (33), the operation of the selected physiotherapy device, wherein:
(i) if the knee therapy mode is selected, the knee physiotherapy device (11) is operated using drive motors (13a, 13b) based on the approved parameters, or
(ii) if the ankle therapy mode is selected, the ankle physiotherapy device (21) is operated using drive motors (23a, 23b) based on the approved parameters;
- monitoring, by the therapist (38), the ongoing therapy session through the cloud server (36) and making any necessary real-time adjustments;
- transmitting real-time data during the therapy session from the control unit (33) to the cloud server (36) via the transceiver (35); and
- providing feedback or adjusting therapy settings remotely through the monitoring device (37), ensuring an efficient and adaptable physiotherapy treatment process.

8. The leg physiotherapy apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control unit (33) transmits real-time therapy data to the cloud server (36) via the transceiver (35), allowing the therapist or doctor (38) to remotely monitor and adjust the therapy session through the monitoring device (37).

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