A self contained portable traction or back-stretch apparatus (11) comprising a frame assembly (13) with first tensile force application means in the form of two U-shaped members (15) for supporting a person under their arms, and a second tensile force application means (17 or 57) for supporting a person about their waist and hips. The frame assembly (13) is formed of two frames (19) comprising parallel elongate struts (21) and parallel elongate struts (23) connected about a pivot pin (25) in a scissor type relationship. Separation of the force application means (15 and 17 or 57) is limited by a resiliently stretchable mat (37) which also serves to support the weight of a person therebetween. The weight of the person supported in the traction apparatus results in a downward force on the frame assembly (13) which translates to a tensile force applied between the force application means (15 and 17 or 57) and effects traction, providing a degree of intervertebral separation in the person.
An exercising method for stretching the spinal column and strengthening the spinal muscles. The user suspends his body on crutch-like supports and performs a series of exercises by positioning his body and/or the crutches in various angular positions relative to the floor. The crutches may be conventional crutches, or crutches which extend to a level higher than the user's shoulders, straps being provided for holding the body in suspension by the armpits.
A frame with two parallel foot-retention bars (1) and two handles (7) that extend beside the hips of a user lying on a horizontal surface. A user inserts his/her feet between the foot-retention bars, and pushes downward on the handles to stretch the spine. The handles preferably are adjustably extendable to accommodate different user sizes. The foot retention bars push the feet away from the body, producing traction in the spine. Preferably, the foot retention bars are adjustably separable. Preferably, each of the handle assemblies (5-7) is pivotable 180 degrees to a compact storage position within the respective frame portion (3). Optionally, the device can be shipped partially assembled, for completion by the user.
