BALANCE RE-TRAINER

摘要

A balance training apparatus is disclosed for supporting individuals with a reduced ability to maintain balance while standing, comprising means for biasing a user towards an upright position when deviating therefrom in two planes. The apparatus comprises a variable spring system that combines a 2-degrees-of-freedom joint with said biasing means into a single element in a simple and advantageous construction. The apparatus comprises two vertical supportive rods connected to a base by said joints and a bracing for support of the pelvis of a user. The bracing is connected to the upper end of the rods by joints having one degree of freedom. The vertical rods have a lower, elastic part that connects a stiffer, upper part of the rod to the base and constitutes the joint there between as well as constitutes the biasing means. Further is disclosed a balance training apparatus comprising compliant knee supporting means arranged to support the front side of the upper end of the shanks and following the movements of the individual in the said two planes, so as to assist the knee extensor muscles for retraining purposes.