Title: Acupressure Device and Method of Use

Inventors: Joanna Elizabeth Eubczanska and Thomas Anthony Santucci

FIEED OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an acupressure and massage device and, more particularly, the portable and versatile acupressure device and method of use allowing the user to easily, comfortably, and effectively self-administer acupressure and massage to desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles on the user’s body for massage and therapeutic effects.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Acupressure is a manual massage therapy technique dating back to 1700 BC based on the concept of energetic pathways on the surface of the body called meridians. Arguably the most important component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Qi (pronounced “chee’'), the universal vital lifeforce energy, travels through the meridians to and from all body tissue and organs. Blockage can occur along these pathways which can be cleared by applying acupressure to specific acupuncture points contained within the meridians for relief of pain and tension. While acupuncture entails the use of needles in the specific acupuncture points to produce specific therapeutic effects, acupressure entails applying external pressure to those same points instead. Each meridian contains specific points that produce specific therapeutic effects when stimulated by acupressure. The human back contains one of the most important meridians in the body called the Bladder Meridian, a section of which runs along each side of the spine at one and a half “cun” or thumb-width from the spine. Most pertinent to the present invention is the section of the Bladder Meridian running on the human back from acupuncture points Bladder 11 to Bladder 30 (as further explained below) which is herein referred to as the “back Bladder Meridian.” The Bladder Meridian consists of a total of 67 acupuncture points each designated by a number. Acupuncture’s most important points called “Back-Shu” points are positioned at specific locations on the back Bladder Meridian. The Chinese character “Shu” denoting these points means “to transport,” indicating that they transport Qi to the internal organs. The 12 Back-Shu points correspond to 12 different internal organs, take their name from the corresponding organ, and invoke desired therapeutic effects in the body when stimulated. For example, Back-Shu point No. 15 (BL-15 Xinshu meaning “Heart-Shu”) is located 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinae process of the fifth thoracic vertebrae, and when stimulated invokes the heart meridian, easing tension and promoting relaxation. The importance of Back-Shu points in TCM cannot be over-emphasized. They are particularly important in stimulating the flow of Qi through the back muscles and into the internal organs. TCM techniques such as acupuncture and acupressure promote this flow by clearing blockages within the Bladder Meridian as well as stimulating the Back-Shu points.

The erector spinae muscles, or spinal erectors, a large group of muscles and tendons that straighten and rotate the back, he on each side of the vertebral column and extend along the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical sections of the spine, or from the sacrum to the base of the skull. It is a group of three muscles that plays an important role in the spinal stability and the movement of the vertebral column. Tension or trigger points within these muscles can affect movement and blood circulation, and cause inflammation and pain.

The back Bladder Meridian overlaps the erector spinae muscle group. Thus, pressure applied to a single acupuncture point can stimulate both, the erector spinae muscles and the back Bladder Meridian, simultaneously, including the desired Back-Shu or other acupuncture point.

Due to difficulties in the application of acupressure and massage to one’s back, various devices have been developed to enable a user to self-administer acupressure or massage, including acupressure or massage beds, mats, pads, pillows, hand-held massagers, and cushions. The known devices cannot be comfortably and safely used for an extended period of time. The known acupressure devices comprise microprotrusions big enough to only reach the surface of the skin, and not the underlying muscle. None of these known acupressure devices aim to effectively, comfortably, conveniently, and versatilely allow a user to self-administer acupressure and message for an extended period of time to the desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles on one’s back in a variety of positions and placements, including while resting, watching TV, working, driving, or eating. There is no known device that is a versatile and easily customizable acupressure system for the utmost comfortable, easy to use, and effective application of concentrated and focused acupressure or massage to these points and muscles on the back of the human body that may be used alone by a user by lying on or pressing the back against it, and which may also be attached in a desired position to a plurality of objects and surfaces, including to a wedge pillow. Thus, there is a need for such device. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Broadly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a portable and versatile acupressure device allowing a user to safely and comfortably self-administer acupressure and massage to the desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles of the user’s body for massage and therapeutic effects according to the principles of TCM for extended periods of time.

More particularly, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide a device for self-administration of acupressure and massage comprising an elongated semi-pliable panel hosting rounded knobs for applying and concentrating acupressure and massage to the desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles of the user’s body, which may be used on its own by a user by lying or leaning on or pressing the back against it, or which may also be attached in a desired position to a plurality of objects and surfaces. The knobs may be permanently affixed to the panel or may be removable and/or interchangeable by way of various methods of attachment, including grommets, screws, magnets, rivets, pins, O-rings, hooks, or suction cups that will hold them in their position. The backing may have openings for attachment of removable and/or interchangeable knobs to the panel by grommet, screw, magnet, rivet, O-ring, pin, hook, or suction cup that will hold them in their position on the panel. To affix a removable and/or interchangeable knob to the panel, you attach the connector to the opening in the backing, and remove it when desired. The openings are pre-positioned to receive a connection with a knob, and are optional if a connection does not require an opening, so the panel can be solid if the knobs are affixed by magnet or glue, or are molded as one with the panel and backing. Therefore, the openings are optional. The backing may comprise an optional solid sheet covering the openings in the backing.

The knobs used may vary in number, size, shape, composition/material, or density/hardness, depending on how aggressive and targeted the desired stimulation to the acupuncture points and muscles. The knobs may be removable and interchangeable with knobs of the same or different size, shape, composition/material, and density /hardness. The specific shape, size, number, and placement of the rounded knobs detailed below aim to optimize their position to maximize the area where acupressure is applied and concentrated to the acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and erector spinae muscles on a variety of human body ty pes and sizes, without pinching the skin. It is another object of the present invention to provide a method of use of such acupressure panel.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide such acupressure panel with methods of affixing it in a desired position to other surfaces or objects.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide such acupressure panel with methods of affixing it in a desired position to the front of a wedge pillow using fasteners and an extension band wrapping around the pillow.

The acupressure panel of the present invention is for self-administration of acupressure and massage. The panel comprises a backing with affixed (permanently or removably and/or interchangeably) rounded pre-positioned knobs, arranged in columns parallel to the spine in such a way that they provide space for the spine and align with desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles on the back of the human body, without pinching the user’s skin. The backing is made of semi-pliable material to contour to the human back when pressure is applied. While the backing may be made of any semi-pliable, durable, and heavy-duty’ material (or combination of materials), one method of construction comprises a combination comprising two outer layers of heavy-duty material, such as duck fabric (also known as duck cloth) and a center layer of heavy-duty reinforcing material, such as a material comprising PVC and polyester, so that the backing can contour the user's back while maintaining shape and support. The panel length is in the range of 8 in. to 28 in., and the panel width is in the range of 4 in. to 12 in. The preferred length is 18 in. and width 6 in.

One knob or a plurality of knobs may be affixed to the panel. The knobs are arranged in 1 to 4 columns comprising 1 to 14 knobs each, and are spaced from 2 in. to 5 in. between each knob center. In the preferred arrangement, the knobs are equally spaced at about 3 in. between each knob center, w ith an approximately 1 in. gap between the bottoms of the knobs, and are arranged in 2 parallel columns of 6 knobs each. The knobs are made of solid material such as bamboo, wood, rubber, plastic, magnet, or stone. The density of material used for the knobs, such as wood or rubber, determines the softness or firmness of the applied acupressure. Preferably, the knobs are made of wood or bamboo. The knobs may be of any shape that does not have a tip so sharp or pointy that itpunctures skin or causes discomfort. Preferably, the knobs are rounded and half-spherical, while rounded pointy knobs provide more aggressive and targeted stimulation to the acupuncture points and muscles. The size of the knobs may range from 1 in. to 4 in. in diameter, and at least approximately 1 in. in height. Preferably, the knobs are approximately 2 in. in diameter and 1 in. in height, enabling simultaneous acupressure stimulation to both, the surface meridian and the underlying muscles, being large enough to not only reach the surface of the skin, but also provide acupressure to the underlying muscle, and protruding enough from the backing to provide acupressure to the desired Back- Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles. The knobs may be affixed to the backing permanently or may be removable and/or interchangeable with knobs of the same or different sizes, shapes, density/hardness, or composition/materials, by way of various methods of attachment, including grommets, screws, magnets, rivets, pins, O-rings, hooks, or suction cups that will hold them in their position. The knobs may be of a fixed size or adjustable in height by screwing an adjustable knob or pressing on a knob comprising a collapsible and extendable push button. The knobs may be adjustable in temperature, either prior to the reattachment of the knob to the backing (by heating or cooling with a cooling or heating agent such as a freezer, hot water, or microwave) or once already attached to the backing (with the use of internal heating element). The knobs may rotate or vibrate for an additional massage effect. The knobs may comprise an electrical impulse generator connected to electrodes releasing an electric current for TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) muscle stimulation.

The panel may be used by itself by positioning it vertically, horizontally, or aslant against a flat or semi-flat surface. The panel may be affixed in a desired position to other surfaces or objects, including pillows, chairs, car seats, couches, or beds, using an attachment system comprising fastening members, straps, and buckles. The straps can pivot in any direction while attached to the fastening members, enabling the panel to be attached to a wide variety of objects with the straps hanging from or wrapping around an object horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. The panel may be affixed in a desired position to other objects including pillows, wedge pillows, chairs, car seats, or backrests using an attachment system comprising fastening members and an extension band. The panel may be affixed in a desired position to a wedge pillow using an attachment system comprising fastening members and an extension band.

The height of the wedge pillow may range from 8 in. to 29 in., the width may range from 6 in. to 36 in., and the bottom depth may range from 2 in. to 12 in. The preferred height of the wedge pillow approximates the height and width of the human torso, approximately 22.25 in. height and 16 in. width, combined with the bottom depth of approximately 6 in. The bottom angle of the wedge pillow may range from 33 degrees to 86 degrees. The preferred bottom angle of the wedge pillow is approximately 75 degrees. The wedge pillow may further comprise a neck roller. While the wedge pillow and neck roller may be constructed of any material (or combination of materials), a heavy-duty and resilient fabric that retains shape is preferred as it provides optimal comfort and support with resistance allowing the knobs to provide the desired acupuncture point stimulation to the back while maintaining shape and comfort of the pillow and neck roller. Once such material is duck fabric (also known as duck cloth), which is a heavy-duty, durable, shape-retaining, and hypoallergenic fabric, woven in a basket-style weave using natural 100% cotton fibers. The wedge pillow and neck roller may be filled with any standard pillow fillings or combination thereof. The w edge pillow and neck roller may be filled with a combination of shredded foam and polypropylene weighted stuffing beads. The combination fill may range from 1% to 99% of a soft fill such as shredded foam and a hard fill such as polypropylene weighted stuffing beads. The preferred combination fill may comprise approximately 50% soft fill such as shredded foam and 50% hard fill such as polypropylene weighted stuffing beads, allowing the wedge pillow and the neck roller to become increasingly comfortable with extended use by conforming to the user’s body while retaining support the longer the user lies or leans on it. The wedge pillow and neck roller may be used on their own for comfort and back and neck support without the effects of the panel.

The w edge pillow^ may further comprise a pocket for storing the attachment system or other objects. The wedge pillow may further comprise a plurality of spaced apart MOLLE/PALS looped straps arranged according to the pouch attachment ladder system (PALS) for the attachment of modular lightweight load-carrying equipment (MOLLE) system accessories.

The rounded knobs of the specific shape, size, number, and placement described herein may be affixed directly to other objects or their cases or covers, and arranged in the herein- described columns parallel to the spine in such a way that they provide space for the spine and align w ith desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles on the back of the human body, without pinching the user’s skin.

The primary purpose of the present invention is the effective self-administration of acupressure stimulation to the back Bladder Meridian, desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points, and the erector spinae muscles, while maintaining optimal comfort, versatility, ease of use, and improved posture. The acupressure panel provides concentrated and focused acupressure by way of the knobs to the back Bladder Meridian, desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points, and the erector spinae muscles of a person lying on or pressing the back against the panel. The present invention and the embodiments herein are designed to be able to provide a therapeutic effect while also being comfortable and safe to use for an extended period of time. The present invention and the embodiments herein are designed for the selfadministration of passive acupressure therapy, which does not require additional effort on the part of the user once in place, use, or position. The user may, however, provide effort in the form of pressurized movement of the user’s body over the panel or specific knobs for an additional, more aggressive and targeted stimulation to self-administer acupressure and massage of specific or localized acupuncture points or muscles. For example, if a user has a muscle spasm (often called a knot) in a specific area of the back, applying pressure and/or movement of the back over a single knob under the spasm will provide aggressive and targeted relief to the specific area.

For a more complete understanding of the invention and the objects and advantages thereof, reference should be had to the accompanying drawing and the following detailed description wherein a preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated and described.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description of the invention which follows, together with the accompanying drawings, should not be construed as limiting the invention to the example shown and described, because those skilled in the art to which this invention appertains will be able to devise other forms thereof within the ambit of the appended claims.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention further comprising a neck roller;

FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of each of the separate components of the preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention further comprising a neck roller;

FIG. 4A is a front elevation view of the acupressure panel;

FIG. 4B is a right-side elevation view of the acupressure panel. The left-side of the panel mirrors the left-side;

FIG. 4C is a front elevation view of the acupressure panel w ith fewer than all knobs to isolate specific areas for treatment, and the removable and/or interchangeable knobs used may be of the same or different sizes, shapes, density /hardness, and/or composition/materials;

FIG. 4D is a right-side elevation view of the acupressure panel with fewer than all knobs to isolate specific areas for treatment, and the removable and/or interchangeable knobs used may be of the same or different sizes, shapes, density/hardness, and/or composition/materials. The right-side of the panel minors the left-side;

FIG. 5A is a front elevation view of the preferred embodiment; FIG. 5B is a back elevation view of the preferred embodiment;

FIG. 6A is a front elevation view of the preferred embodiment further comprising a neck roller;

FIG. 6B is a back elevation view of the preferred embodiment further comprising a neck roller;

FIG. 7 is a right-side elevation view of the preferred embodiment further comprising a neck roller, showing an exploded view of the panel attached to the extension band;

FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of the acupressure panel connected to an attachment system (extension band);

FIG. 9A is a right-side elevation view of the acupressure panel showing one manner of its use: the acupressure panel positioned under the back of a user in a supine position;

FIG. 9B is a right-side elevation view of the acupressure panel showing another manner of its use: the acupressure panel positioned under the back of a user in a supine position, with a neck roller;

FIG. 10 is a right-side elevation view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention further comprising a neck roller, showing another manner of its use: the preferred embodiment of the present invention positioned against the back of a user in a seated position;

FIG. 11 is a left-side elevation view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention further comprising a neck roller, showing another manner of its use: the preferred embodiment of the present invention positioned under the back of a user in an angled supine position;

FIG. 12A is a front elevation view of the acupressure panel connected to an attachment system (straps);

FIG. 12B is a left-side elevation view of the acupressure panel connected to an attachment system (straps). The left-side of the panel mirrors the right-side;

FIG. 12C is a side perspective view of two straps of an attachment system connected with a buckle;

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of the acupressure panel connected to an attachment system comprising straps and buckles;

FIG. 14A is a back elevation view of the acupressure panel connected to an attachment system comprising straps and buckles, showing the backing may have openings for attachment of knobs;

FIG. 14B is a back elevation view of the acupressure panel connected to an attachment system comprising straps and buckles, showing optional solid sheet covering the openings in the backing for attachment of knobs;

FIG. 15A is a front elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the acupressure panel adapted for a backrest; FIG. 15B is a back elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the acupressure panel adapted for a backrest;

FIG. 16 is a front elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the acupressure panel adapted for a car seat;

FIG. 17 is a front elevation view of the acupressure panel showing the manner of its use, the acupressure panel in one vertical position against a user’s back;

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of the acupressure panel showing the manner of its use, the acupressure panel in another vertical position against a user’s back.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

It will be readily understood that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention, as represented in FIGS. 1 through 18, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, but merely to serve as a basis for the claims and as a representation basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. The scope of the invention is as broad as claimed herein. The illustrations are merely representative of certain, presently preferred embodiments of the invention. Those presently preferred embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout.

One of ordinary skill in the art will, of course, appreciate that various modifications to the details of the Figures may easily be made without departing from the essential characteristics of the invention. Thus, the following description of the Figures is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain presently preferred embodiments consistent with the invention as claimed.

With reference to the drawings wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the several views, the acupressure panel 100 of the present invention has a backing 101 which may be an elongated piece of semi-pliable material (or combination of materials) such as durable and heavy-duty fabric, rubber, or other resilient material, to contour the human back and provide proper support when pressure is applied. While one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the backing 101 can be made of any semi-pliable, durable, and heavy-duty material (or combination of materials), one method of construction comprises a combination comprising two outer layers of a heavy-duty material, such as duck fabric (also known as duck cloth) and a center layer of heavy-duty reinforcing material, such as a material comprising PVC and polyester, so that the backing 101 can contour the user’s back while maintaining shape and support. The backing 101 is such length and width as to underlie the portion of the user’s body to which it is desired to apply pressure. The panel, generally rectangular, may be of any shape. The panel length may range from 8 in. to 28 in., and the panel width may range from 4 in. to 12 in. The configuration shown in FIGS. 1-18, in which the panel length of about 18 in. approximates the length of the human spine from thoracic spine to the sacrum, and in which the panel width of about 6 in. approximates the bilateral span of the width of the erector spinae muscles of the human back, is preferred as this configuration assists the user in positioning the panel in the desired location under the user’s back and provides for the application of concentrated and focused acupressure to the desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles on one’s back.

One knob or a plurality of knobs may be affixed to the panel. As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, rounded knobs 102 are affixed (permanently or removably and/or interchangeably) to the backing 101. As shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, fewer than all knobs 102 may be used to isolate specific areas for treatment, and the knobs 102 used may be of the same or different sizes, shapes, density /hardness, and/or composition/materials. The panel 100 comprises pre-positioned knobs 102 in such arrangement that provides space for the spine and aligns with the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles, without pinching the user’s skin. The knobs 102 can be affixed (permanently or removably and/or interchangeably) to the backing 101 in an arrangement of 1 to 4 columns comprising 1 to 14 knobs each, with the knobs spaced from 2 in. to 5 in. between each knob center, the spacing between knob centers increasing with the size of the knobs used. The configuration shown in FIGS. 1-18, in which the knobs are equally spaced at about 3 inches between each knob center, with an approximately 1 in. gap between the bottoms of the knobs 102, arranged in 2 parallel columns of 6 knobs 102 each, is preferred as this configuration provides for the application of concentrated and focused acupressure to the desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles on one’s back, while leaving space for the spine. In this arrangement, the knobs 102 align with the back Bladder Meridian, desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points, and the erector spinae muscles of a person lying on or pressing the back against the panel 100.

The knobs 102 may be made of any solid material, including wood, bamboo, rubber, plastic, magnet, or stone. The density of material used for the knobs, such as wood or rubber, determines the softness or firmness of the applied acupressure. The knobs 102 may be of any shape, so long their tip is not so sharp or pointy as to cause puncturing of the skin or discomfort during use. For that reason, rounded knobs, including half-spherical, may be preferred, while rounded pointy' knobs provide more aggressive and targeted stimulation to the acupuncture points and muscles. The size of the knobs 102 may range from 1 in. to 4 in. in diameter, and at least approximately 1 in. in height. The configuration shown in FIGS. 1-18, in which the knobs 102 are made of wood or bamboo, are approximately 2 in. in diameter, and are rounded or half- spherical, is preferred as this configuration provides for the safe and comfortable application of concentrated and focused acupressure to the desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles of the human body. The height of the knobs 102 of at least approximately 1 in. enables simultaneous acupressure stimulation to both, the surface meridian and the underlying muscles. The knobs 102 of the present invention are large enough to not only reach the surface of the skin, but also to provide acupressure to the underlying muscle, and are able to protrude enough from the backing 101 to provide acupressure to the desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and the erector spinae muscles.

The above-mentioned combination of the size, shape, spacing, material, and arrangement of the knobs 102 on the acupressure panel 100 of the configuration shown in FIGS. 1-18 is such that it is designed to align with and provide safely and comfortably concentrated and focused acupressure to the back Bladder Meridian, desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points, and the erector spinae muscles of a person lying on or pressing the back against the panel 100 for an extended period of time. The specific shape, size, number, and placement of the rounded knobs detailed above aims to optimize their position to maximize the area where acupressure is applied and concentrated to the acupuncture points of the back Bladder Meridian and erector spinae muscles on a variety of human body types and sizes, w ithout pinching the skin.

As shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, the knobs 102 may be affixed to the backing 101 permanently or may be removable or interchangeable with knobs 102 of the same or different sizes, shapes, density/hardness, or composition/materials, by way of various methods of attachment, including grommets, screws, magnets, rivets, pins, O-rings, hooks, or suction cups that will hold them in their position 101. As shown in FIGS. 4C, 4D, and 14A, the backing

101 may have openings 104 for attachment of removable and/or interchangeable knobs 102 to the panel 100 by grommet, screw', magnet, rivet, pins, O-rings, hooks, or suction cups that will hold them in their position on the panel 100. To affix a removable and/or interchangeable knob

102 to the panel 100, the user attaches the connector to the opening 104 on the backing 101, and removes it when desired. The openings 104 are pre-positioned to receive a connection with a knob 102, and are optional if a connection does not require an opening 104. so the panel 100 can be solid if the knobs 102 are affixed by magnet or glue, or are molded as one with the panel

100 and backing 101. Therefore, openings 104 are optional. As shows in FIG. 14B, the backing

101 may comprise an optional solid sheet covering the openings 104 in the backing 101.

As shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, the knobs 102 used may vary’ in number, size, shape, composition/material, or density/hardness, depending on how aggressive and targeted the desired stimulation to the acupuncture points and muscles. As shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, the knobs 102 may be removable and interchangeable with knobs 102 of the same or different size, shape, composition/material, and density/hardness. A knob 102 may be of a fixed size or adjustable in height by screwing an adjustable knob or pressing on a knob comprising a collapsible and extendable push button. A knob 102 may also be adjustable in temperature, either prior to the reattachment of the knob 102 to the backing 101 (by heating or cooling with a cooling or heating agent such as a freezer, hot water, or microwave) or once already attached to the backing 101 (with the use of internal heating element). The knobs 102 may rotate or vibrate for an additional massage effect. The knobs 102 may comprise an electrical impulse generator connected to electrodes releasing an electric current for TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) muscle stimulation.

The acupressure panel 100 of the present invention may be used by itself by positioning it vertically against a flat or semi-flat surface, or placing it horizontally or aslant on a flat or semi-flat surface, and then pressing the back against the panel 100 or lying down on the panel 100 and positioning the back so that the knobs 102 apply pressure to the desired acupuncture points and muscles on the back Bladder Meridian. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the user may lie down in a supine position on the acupressure panel 100 by positioning the back so that the knobs 102 apply pressure to the desired acupuncture points and muscles of the back Bladder Meridian.

The acupressure panel 100 of the present invention may also be affixed in a desired position to other surfaces or objects, including pillows, chairs, car seats, couches, or beds. One method of affixing the panel 100 to other objects is the attachment system comprising fastening members 103, straps 500, and buckles 501 shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 13, and 14, where the backing 101 of the acupressure panel 100 comprises fastening members 103 which connect to corresponding fastening members 103 on the straps 500 which then connect using buckles 501 to form an attachment system. This attachment system permits the acupressure panel 100 to be affixed in a desired position to virtually any other surface or object that allows for such atachment by for example hanging or wrapping around. As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, in an alternative embodiment, the acupressure panel 100 may be adapted for a backrest of a chair using the atachment system comprising the atachment straps 500, fastening members 103, and buckles 501. As further shown in FIG. 16, in another alternative embodiment, the acupressure panel 100 may be adapted for a car seat or other type of seat using the atachment system comprising the atachment straps 500, fastening members 103, and buckles 501. In the alternative embodiments, the user may adjust the position of the panel 100 by adjusting the length of the straps 500 and then press against the acupressure panel 100 in a seated position by positioning the back so that the knobs 102 apply pressure to the desired acupuncture points or muscles on the back Bladder Meridian. As shown in FIG. 12A, 15A, 15B, 16, the straps 500 can pivot in any direction while atached to the fastening members 103, enabling the panel 100 to be attached to a wide variety of objects with the straps 500 hanging from or wrapping around an object horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

Another method of affixing the panel 100 to other objects is another atachment system comprising fastening members 103 and an extension band 200 wrapping around objects such as pillows, wedge pillows, chairs, car seats, or backrests. As show n in FIGS. 1, 2, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, and 7, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the acupressure panel 100 may be affixed to the front of a w edge pillow' 300 in a desired position by connecting fastening members 103 to an extension band 200 wrapping around the wedge pillow 300. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. the acupressure panel 100 comprises fastening members 103 which connect to corresponding fastening members 103 on the extension band 200. After a user determines the desired position of the acupressure panel 100 on a wedge pillow' 300, the acupressure panel 100 may then be fixed in place on the wedge pillow 300 by connecting fastening members 103 on one end of the acupressure panel 100 to the fastening members 103 on one end of the extension band 200, then wrapping the extension band 200 around the wedge pillow 300, and then connecting the fastening members 103 on the other end of the acupressure panel 100 to the fastening members 103 on the other end of the extension band 200. The position of the acupressure panel 100 while affixed to the wedge pillow 300 may also be manually adjusted at any time by pulling the panel 100 up or down to the desired position. The user may then lean or lie in a seated, reclined, supine, or angled supine position on the acupressure panel 100 atached to the wedge pillow' 300 by positioning the back so that the knobs 102 apply pressure to the desired acupuncture points and muscles on the back Bladder Meridian.

The height of the wedge pillow 300 may range from 8 in. to 29 in., the width may range from 6 in. to 36 in., and the botom depth may range from 2 in. to 12 in. The configuration shown in FIGS. 1-18, in which the wedge pillow 300 with length and width that approximate the height and width of the human torso, approximately 22.25 in. height and 16 in. width, combined with the bottom depth of approximately 6 in., is preferred as this configuration assists the user in applying and concentrating desired amount of pressure to the back by way of the knobs 102 of the attached panel 100, as well as improving the user's posture by forcing the chest out and the shoulders and arms back. While the bottom angle may range from 33 degrees to 86 degrees, the configuration shown in FIGS. 1-18, in which the bottom angle is approximately 75 degrees, is preferred as this configuration assists in an application of acupressure to the back by w ay of the knobs 102 w hile maintaining proper posture and comfort.

As shown in FIGS. 9B, 10, and 11, a neck roller 400 may be used with the wedge pillow 300 to provide additional support to the user’s neck. As shown in FIGS. 2, 6, and 7, each side of the neck roller 400 may attach to the top comers of the wedge pillow 300 using clasping members 303. The neck roller 400 may also be placed under the user’s knees or feet while in supine, angled supine, reclining, or seated position.

While one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the wedge pillow 300 and neck roller 400 may be constructed of any material (or combination of materials), a heavy-duty and resilient fabric that retains shape is preferred as it provides optimal comfort and support with resistance allowing the knobs 102 to provide the desired acupuncture point stimulation to the back while maintaining shape and comfort of the pillow 300 and neck roller 400. Once such material is duck fabric (also known as duck cloth), which is a heavy-duty, durable, shaperetaining, and hypoallergenic fabric, woven in a basket-style weave using natural 100% cotton fibers.

The w edge pillow 300 and neck roller 400 of the preferred embodiment may be filled with any standard pillow fill or a combination of different fills. A combination of a soft fill such as shredded foam and a hard fill such as polypropylene weighted stuffing beads provides for optimal support, stability, and firmness together with optimal comfort and softness, allowing the knobs 103 to provide acupressure to the back while maintaining the user’s proper posture, while also allowing the pillow 300 and neck roller 400 to retain optimal comfort. The fill combination may range from 1% to 99% of a soft fill such as shredded foam and a hard fill such as polypropylene weighted stuffing beads. The configuration shown in FIGS. 1-18, in which the of the w edge pillow ⁷ 300 and neck roller 400 of the preferred embodiment consist of approximately 50% soft fill such as shredded foam and 50% hard fill such as polypropylene weighted stuffing beads, is preferred as this combination provides optimal comfort and support with resistance allowing the knobs 102 to provide the desired acupuncture point stimulation to the back, and also improves the posture by forcing the user’s chest out and the shoulders and arms back. This combination also allows the wedge pillow 300 and neck roller 400 to become increasingly comfortable with extended use by conforming to the user’s body while retaining support the longer the user lies or leans on it. The wedge pillow 300 and neck roller 400 of the preferred embodiment may be used on their own for comfort and back and neck support without the effects of the panel 100.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 7, 10, and 11, the wedge pillow 300 of the preferred embodiment may comprise a pocket 301 for storing the attachment system 500 or other objects, and may further comprise a plurality of spaced apart MOLLE/PALS looped straps arranged according to the pouch attachment ladder system (PALS) for the attachment of modular lightweight load-carrying equipment (MOLLE) system accessories 302.

The knobs 102 in the above-mentioned combination of the size, shape, spacing, material, and arrangement of the knobs 102 as shown in the configuration in FIGS. 1-18 can also be affixed directly to other objects or their cases or covers, including pillows, wedge pillows, chairs, backrests, car seats, couches, or beds, so that the knobs 102 align with and provide acupressure to the back Bladder Meridian, desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points, and the erector spinae muscles of a person lying on or pressing the back against the object. Such attachment of the knobs 102 to an object may be permanent or removable using attachment members.

The primary purpose of the present invention and the embodiments herein is to enable a user to effectively, safely, and comfortably self-administer concentrated and focused acupressure stimulation and massage to the back Bladder Meridian, desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points, and the erector spinae muscles for an extended period of time, while maintaining optimal comfort, versatility, ease of use, and improved posture. The present invention and the embodiments herein are designed to be able to provide a therapeutic effect while also being comfortable and safe to use for an extended period of time. The present invention and the embodiments herein are designed for the self-administration of passive acupressure therapy, which does not require additional effort on the part of the user once in place, use, or position. The user may, however, provide effort in the form of pressurized movement of the user’s body over the panel 100 or specific knobs 102 for an additional, more aggressive and targeted stimulation to self-administer acupressure and massage of specific or localized acupuncture points or muscles. For example, if a user has a muscle spasm (often called a knot) in a specific area of the back, applying pressure and/or movement of the back over a single knob 102 under the spasm will provide aggressive and targeted relief to the specific area. The arrangement of the knobs 102 on the acupressure panel 100 of the present invention in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1-18 is such that it provides acupressure by way of the knobs 102 to the back Bladder Meridian, desired Back-Shu and other acupuncture points, and the erector spinae muscles of a person lying on or pressing the back against the panel 100 without pinching the user’s skin. The back Bladder Meridian overlaps the erector spinae muscle group. Thus, each knob 102 applying and concentrating pressure to a single acupuncture point can simultaneously stimulate both, the erector spinae muscles and the back Bladder Meridian’s desired Back-Shu or other acupuncture point.

The Bladder Meridian consists of a total of 67 acupuncture points each designated by a number. Acupuncture’s most important points called Back-Shu points are positioned at specific locations on the back Bladder Meridian. The 12 Back-Shu points correspond to 12 different internal organs, take their name from the corresponding organ, and invoke desired therapeutic effects in the body when stimulated. As exemplified in FIGS. 17 and 18, the panel 100 can be placed in different positions vertically under the user’s back so that the knobs 102 apply pressure to the desired acupuncture points on the back Bladder Meridian “BL Meridian” 17.2. The acupuncture points on the back Bladder Meridian 17.2 that the knobs 102 can stimulate range from Bladder 11 17.3 to Bladder 30 17.16. By either adjusting the vertical position of the panel 100 under the back, or by adjusting the position of the back over the panel 100, the user is able to self-administer acupressure and massage to any of the desired acupuncture points on the back Bladder Meridian 17.2 ranging from Bladder 11 17.3 to Bladder 30 17.16, and stimulate the flow of Qi through the back muscles and into the corresponding internal organs when applying and concentrating pressure with the knobs 102 to the following Back-Shu points: Bladder 13 (Lung) 17.4, Bladder 14 (Pericardium) 17.5, Bladder 15 (Heart) 17.6, Bladder 18 (Liver) 17.7, Bladder 19 (Gallbladder) 17.8. Bladder 20 (Spleen) 17.9, Bladder 21 (Stomach) 17.10, Bladder 22 (San Jiao) 17.11, Bladder 23 (Kidney) 17.12, Bladder 25 (Large Intestine) 17.13, Bladder 27 (Small Intestine) 17.14, and Bladder 28 (Urinary Bladder) 17.15. While FIGS. 17 and 18 do not show every acupuncture point of the back Bladder Meridian 17.2, they reference the following:

The back Bladder Meridian 17.2 overlaps the erector spinae muscle group, and so acupressure applied to a single point can simultaneously stimulate both, the erector spinae muscles and acupuncture points on the back Bladder Meridian 17.2. Tension or trigger points anywhere within the erector spinae muscle group, which straighten and rotate the back, can affect movement. Pain can result from the tension itself or from subsequent inflammation or limitation of joint movement or blood circulation. Application of acupressure by way of the knobs 102 along the back Bladder Meridian 17.2 can restore function and relieve pain from erector spinae strain, and release muscle tension in the affected areas, including lower back and the area of sciatic nerve exiting the spine 17.1 at approximately Bladder 25 17.13, Application of acupressure by way of a knob 102 to any acupuncture point invokes desired therapeutic effects in the body, i.e., Bladder 23 17.12, one of the vital acupuncture points for lower back pain, can reduce muscle tension in that area. Each acupuncture point has its own functions (what it does, i.e., unblocks Qi) and indications (what it is used for, i.e., pain).

A user may press against, lean, or he on the acupressure panel 100 of the present invention, including any of the preferred embodiments, for any length of time comfortable to the user, including until feeling increased relaxation and lessened tension.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects. The appended claims are intended to cover, therefore, such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.