[0001] The present invention relates to a massage device and methods for using the same and particularly to an adaptable massage device that can be used by the average person without specific training to aid to their physical performance and facilitating recovery.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The use of massage both as an aid to physical performance and as a modality for facilitating recovery from the effects of vigorous exercise has survived from antiquity. The most common massage techniques used today include longitudinal stripping, kneading and deep transverse frictions. These techniques are usually performed by either a massage therapist or a physiotherapist through an allied health consultation generally for a fee.

[0003] Self-massage can also be performed to release muscle tightness or trigger points. Typically, this involves a method performed with a patient's own hands or an external massage device.

[0004] Once a secretive recovery technique used only by professional athletes, coaches and therapists, the use of massage devices has become a more familiar and regular routine for people of all fitness levels.

[0005] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0006] The present invention is directed to a massage device and methods for using same, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0007] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a massage device including a body having a) an opening therein to allow mounting of the body relative to a manipulator,

b) a pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces

c) a treatment configuration located externally of the body and at least partially between the pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces, the treatment configuration including a plurality of shaped protrusions adapted to provide a massaging effect.

[0008] In the context of the present specification, the term "massage" (and its derivatives such as "massaging") is intended to have its broadest possible meaning of working and acting on the body with pressure and the device of the present invention is designed to assist with the application of that pressure.

[0009] The device of the present invention may be used singly or preferably, with others of its general kind to provide a required or desired massaging effect. Where provided in multiples, the devices may have the same configuration or differing configurations in order to provide for enhanced effects stemming from the provision of devices having different treatment

configurations with the overall effect of the different treatment configurations providing different or synergistic effects.

[0010] The device of the present invention is preferably used with a manipulator and in a particularly preferred embodiment, is mounted to or relative to a manipulator in order to allow the device to be moved, by a user, over a body part to be treated.

[0011] The body of the device of the present invention may be solid or hollow. It is preferred that the body will be shaped in order to allow the treatment configuration to be externally available to treat a body part.

[0012] A preferred shape of the body of the device is generally toroidal. A torus is a surface of revolution generated by revolving a circle in three-dimensional space about an axis coplanar with the circle. If the axis of revolution does not touch the circle, the surface has a ring shape and is called a torus of revolution. The toroidal shape of the device of the present invention will preferably not involve revolving a circle shape in three-dimensional space, but revolving and alternate shape such as a rectangular shape in order to form a cylindrical toroid, a trapezoid shape or a trapezoid shape with an arcuate wall. The shapes form generally toroidal bodies of slightly different shapes.

[0013] The body of the device of the present invention can be formed by any one or more materials. It is preferred that the body is substantially rigid, but the body may be partially resilient or totally resilient or a combination of rigid portion with resilient treatment

configurations for example. Preferably, the body is manufactured of a plastic material due to the material characteristics which can be achieved through selection from the available types of plastic and for relatively low-cost. The desired material characteristics will be relatively low weight with relatively high strength and preferably deformation resistance.

[0014] The treatment configuration provided externally of the body and preferably on or relative to an exterior surface of the body may be of the same material(s) as that used to form the body or different material(s).

[0015] The body of the device of the present invention includes an opening therein to allow mounting of the body relative to a manipulator. The opening is preferably generally circular in cross-sectional shape but may be any shape.

[0016] The opening is preferably a bore extending transversely through the body. The opening is preferably used to mount the body and therefore the device relative to a manipulator. The opening is preferably approximately central. The opening is preferably provided through at least one, and preferably both of the spaced apart annular side surfaces of the body. The opening is preferably the same dimension all the way through.

[0017] The body of the device of the present invention includes a pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces. Both of the side surfaces are typically generally circular with the opening through the body of the device rendering the side surfaces annular in shape. The side surfaces will typically abut a portion of the manipulator, other devices such as weight plates or collars (to be explained below) or other adjacent massage devices. The side surfaces of the body may be planar but may be or include an interlocking configuration.

[0018] One or both of the side surfaces may be provided with a locking or fixing formation or assembly in order to allow a massage device to be at least temporarily fixed relative to one or more adjacent massage devices or other devices such as weight plates or collars or to a portion of a manipulator.

[0019] The locking or fixing formation may be of any type. For example, a surface finish may be provided on one or both of the side surfaces to increase the friction of the side surfaces.

[0020] One or both of the side surfaces may be associated with or include a shim or friction pad provided relative thereto in order to assist with the engagement or abutment with adjacent surfaces. The shim or friction pad may be attached to one of the side surfaces (at least temporarily) and/or will be removable therefrom.

[0021] One or more locking protrusions may be provided. One or more locking openings may be provided. In a particularly preferred embodiment, an array of alternating locking protrusions and locking openings are provided relative to at least one, and preferably both of the side surfaces.

[0022] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the locking protrusions and locking openings may be shaped, preferably wedge shaped which will preferably increase the positive

engagement. When used in combination with adjacent devices with a similar array of locking protrusions and locking openings, the locking protrusions of a side surface of one massage device will preferably be received in the locking openings provided in a side surface of an adjacent massage device in order to lock a pair of massage devices relative to one another.

[0023] The preferred locking protrusions and locking openings may extend over the full height of the side surface or alternatively, over only a part of the height of the side surface. As mentioned above, it is preferred that the locking protrusions and locking openings alternate about the substantially central opening provided through the body.

[0024] Where wedge shaped locking protrusions and locking openings are provided, it is preferred that the corners of any locking protrusions or locking openings are chamfered to assist with self alignment of the protrusions in corresponding openings during engagement.

[0025] It is further preferred that the locking protrusions and locking openings are sized to provide a clearance fit which is preferred but an interference fit may be used for example if the locking protrusions and/or locking openings are slightly resilient as this may form a more positive interlock.

[0026] The body of the massage device of the present invention includes a treatment configuration located externally of the body and at least partially between the pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces, the treatment configuration including a plurality of shaped protrusions adapted to provide a massaging effect.

[0027] The treatment configuration is typically provided on or relative to an outer surface of the body of the massage device between the pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces. The treatment configuration will typically include a plurality of shaped protrusions extending from an external surface. As mentioned above, the external surface may be shaped. It is preferred that each of the plurality of shaped protrusions is also shaped. In this way, both the shape of the external surface and the shape of the shaped protrusions can be used to tailor the massaging effect which is provided by the massage device.

[0028] Usually, all of the shaped protrusions on a single massage device will be of the same configuration but there may be situations where shaped protrusions of different shapes can be provided on a single body.

[0029] The shape of the shaped protrusions may be ramp or aerofoil shaped. Preferably, the shaped protrusions may include an inclined surface leading from an outer surface of the body of the massage device to a level above that outer surface, have an arcuate transition and then a depending portion extending back to the outer surface of the body. Generally, the depending portion will be substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the body and the inclined surface will typically be at an angle of up to 45° but preferably, approximately 15° to 20° relative to the outer surface of the body.

[0030] The inclined surface may be slightly convex. The depending surface may be slightly convex. Convex shapes may provide enhanced treatment by providing a shaped activation surface for activating or releasing muscles, tendons or nerves of the like.

[0031] The shaped protrusions may be solid or hollow. It is preferred that the shaped protrusions be closed on all sides. The shaped protrusions in this form will typically be substantially rectangular when viewed in plan.

[0032] The shaped protrusions will typically be provided in an array over the outer surface of the body between the pair of side surfaces. The array will normally be a regular array. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the shaped protrusions may be provided in a series of rows of spaced apart shaped protrusions. In this configuration, alternating rows are typically offset from one another.

[0033] The shaped protrusions may have any size and in deed, the size of the shaped protrusions may be chosen for a particular massaging effect. A lesser number of larger shaped protrusions may provide a more targeted massaging effect whereas a larger number of small shaped protrusions may provide a more general effect by acting to spread the applied load over a larger surface area. Typically, where larger shaped protrusions are provided, a lesser number will be provided in where smaller shaped protrusions are provided, a larger number will be provided.

[0034] The number of shaped protrusions in each row will typically depend upon the size of both the shaped protrusions and the dimension of the body. Where larger protrusions are provided, the protrusions are preferably provided with a pair of spaced apart protrusions in a first row followed by one protrusion in an adjacent row located substantially between the pair of spaced apart protrusions in the first row and then a third row including a pair of spaced apart protrusions is provided and so on about the device. Where smaller protrusions are provided, the protrusions are preferably provided in alternating rows of either 2 or 3, or 3 or 4 spaced apart protrusions for example.

[0035] In an alternative embodiment, the shaped protrusions maybe frustoconical or dome- shaped. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the shaped protrusions in this form may have a main body portion which is frustoconical with a partially spherical upper free end. The central axis of the shaped protrusion of this form may be provided at an angle to the outer surface of the body from which the shaped portion extends. The angle may be transverse or perpendicular or alternative angle may be provided dependant upon the massage effect desired.

[0036] As mentioned, the shaped protrusions will typically extend from an outer surface of the body of the device. The outer surface of the body of the device may have any shape. For example, the outer surface of the body may be substantially planar extending substantially perpendicularly between the side surfaces. In an alternate configuration, the outer surface of the body may be substantially planar extending an angle between the side surfaces. Still further, the outer surface of the body may be arcuate. For example, the outer surface may be convex or have an alternate more complex shape such as a convex portion followed by a concave portion.

[0037] The massage device of the present invention will normally be used in association with manipulator device and normally, the massage device of the invention will be mounted to a manipulator device. The manipulator device may mount one or more massage devices relative thereto and as mentioned above, the massage device where used in concert with other massage devices may be multiples of the same configuration of massage device or differently configured devices may be used.

[0038] The manipulator may have any one of the number of different configurations. In all configurations, the manipulator will typically have a substantially cylindrical body for mounting a massage device relative thereto and at least one gripping portion allowing a user to grip the manipulator and move the manipulator, thereby moving the massage device. The cylindrical body will typically correspond to the shape of the opening in the body of the massage device.

[0039] One type of manipulator may be an Olympic barbell or similar. A barbell is a piece of exercise equipment used in weight training, bodybuilding, weightlifting and powerlifting, consisting of a long bar with weights attached at each end. Barbells range in length from 4 feet (1.2 m) to above 8 feet (2.4 m), although bars longer than 2.2 metres (7.2 ft) are used primarily by powerlifters and are not commonplace. The central portion of the bar varies in diameter from 25 millimetres (0.98 in) to 2 inches (51 mm) (e.g. Apollon's Axle), and is often engraved with a knurled Crosshatch pattern to help lifters maintain a solid grip. A men's Olympic bar is a metal bar that is 2.2 metres (7.2 ft) long and weighs 20 kilograms (44 lb). The outer ends are 50 millimetres (2.0 in) in diameter, while the grip section is 28 millimetres (1.1 in) in diameter, and 1.31 metres (4.3 ft) in length. Bars of this kind have sleeves on each end (relative to which the weight plates are mounted) which rotate. It is preferred that the massage device(s) of the present invention will be mounted relative to one of the sleeves.

[0040] In this configuration, the massage device may be placed onto a sleeve of a barbell to abut an enlarged collar at the end of the sleeve and then the user can move the bar in order to move the massage device. The provision of a massage device on a barbell of this kind increases the effective weight of the massage device and allows a user to adjust the massaging effect through adjusting the weight applied by the barbell. It also means that the user does not have to apply all of the force during the massaging.

[0041] A locking collar or similar may be used adjacent to the outermost massage device used in a barbell this kind in order to hold the massage device(s) in place.

[0042] One or more weight plates may be used in association with the barbell in order to adjust the massaging force applied. Using the weight plates mounted to the barbell also means that a user can move the entire assembly with one hand.

[0043] For double-headed manipulation or in the massaging of areas which are easily accessible to a user themselves, an alternative configuration of manipulator may be used. In particular, the alternative configuration of manipulator may include a central, cylindrical body and a gripping portion provided at both ends. One or more massage devices can then be located relative to the cylindrical body which corresponds in external diameter to the internal diameter of the opening through the bodies of the massage devices. Again, normally one or more removable collars will be provided to allow assembly of massage devices onto the manipulator of this form and also removal.

[0044] The gripping portions will preferably allow rotation of the massage devices and/or the cylindrical body.

[0045] In this configuration, a user could use one or more resilient bands in combination with the manipulator, and in particular, mounted to the gripping portions in order to vary the force of the massaging effect such that the user does not have to apply all of the force and has the ability to vary the force to different levels was maintaining a consistent level once chosen.

However, the manipulator can be used without the one or more resilient bands. [0046] In another embodiment, the massage device of the present invention may be provided in the form of an internal mounting body and an external massage body. In this alternative configuration, both the internal mounting body and external massage body will preferably be substantially annular. The internal mounting body will preferably include a central opening in order to mount the mounting body relative to a manipulator. The external massage body will typically be attachable and detachable relative to the internal mounting body.

[0047] In a preferred form, the interlocking configuration discussed above may be provided on at least one of the internal mounting body and the external massage body. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the interlocking configuration discussed above is provided on the internal mounting body and preferably on a side surface of the internal mounting body.

[0048] The external massage body will preferably be attachable and detachable relative to the internal mounting body and preferably, positively engageable there with. For example, at least one ridge may be provided on either the external surface of the internal mounting body or an internal surface of the external massage body and a corresponding at least one slot provided on the other of the bodies in order to allow alignment of the at least one ridge with the at least one slot to positively engage the massage body with the mounting body. This will ensure that the massage body rotates in unison with the mounting body and that there is limited and preferably no relative rotation.

[0049] The internal dimension of the bore in the external massage body is preferably substantially the same as the external dimension of the internal mounting body. A friction fit may be used between the internal mounting body and the external massage body. The external massage body is preferably mounted concentrically outside the internal mounting body.

[0050] The provision of the external massage body can be in any configuration and a user can therefore quickly and easily swap the massage bodies in order to provide a different therapeutic effect.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the internal mounting body may be manufactured from a material which is hard and rigid in order to minimise wear and tear on the internal mounting body and the external massage body may be manufactured of the same or a different material such as a material which is to be soft or at least softer than the internal mounting body for a different or enhanced therapeutic effect.

[0100] The interlocking configuration may include a series of hollow teeth, alternating larger teeth with smaller teeth. The smaller teeth are preferably dimensioned to be received closely and at least partially within the hollow opening in the larger teeth such that if two internal mounting bodies are juxtaposed end to end and offset such that the larger teeth of one internal mounting body align with the smaller teeth of an adjacent internal mounting body, the bodies can be pressed together until the annular surfaces abut one another, locking the internal mounting bodies together until separated by drawing them apart in an axial direction. The external shape of the smaller teeth may correspond with the internal shape of the larger teeth but the shape need not be the same as the external shape of the larger teeth.

[0101] The internal mounting body may have an open lattice or cellular construction in order to provide strength but minimise weight and material used. In a preferred embodiment, a regular array of ribs including radially extending ribs and linear ribs may be provided with the outer edges of the ribs being in the same circumferential plane to abut in inner surface of the external massage body.

[0052] It can be seen that the massage device of the present invention and a system including one or more massage devices together with a manipulator allows a user to choose the type of massaging effect achieved as well is the adjustment of force applied during the massage treatment.

[0053] In use, a user can treat themselves or be treated by another person using one or more massage devices of the present invention mounted to a manipulator. The user can choose the type of massage device to be used or combination of massage devices to be used as well is the type of manipulator to be used, then assemble one or more massage devices relative to a manipulator, choose a force to be applied during the massage and then have confidence that the same force will be applied over time until a different force configuration is chosen in order to achieve efficient and effective massage treatment.

[0054] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0055] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0056] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[0057] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a massage device according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 2 is an end elevation view of the massage device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0059] Figure 3 is an isometric view of a massage device according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 4 is an end elevation view of the massage device illustrated in Figure 3.

[0061] Figure 5 is a front elevation view of a pair of massage devices as illustrated in Figure 4 interlocked to form an alternative massage device.

[0062] Figure 6 is a detailed isometric view showing a first preferred embodiment of interlocking mechanism.

[0063] Figure 7 is a detailed isometric view showing a second preferred embodiment of interlocking mechanism.

[0064] Figure 8 is a detailed view of the protrusions provided on the massage devices as illustrated in Figures 1 and 3.

[0065] Figure 9 is a detailed view of an alternate protrusion shape.

[0066] Figure 10 is a front elevation view of a barbell and with a number of alternative massage devices mounted relative thereto.

[0067] Figure 11 is an isometric view of a prior art barbell clamp or lock.

[0068] Figure 12 is a front elevation view of the barbell configuration illustrated in Figure 10 with the barbell clamp or lock of Figure 11 mounted thereto.

[0069] Figure 13 shows the configuration illustrated in Figure 12 with additional weight plates mounted to the barbell.

[0070] Figure 14 is a schematic front elevation view of a smaller mounting device to be used according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0071] Figure 15 is a front elevation view of the device illustrated in Figure 14 with a variety of massage devices mounted relative thereto.

[0072] Figure 16 shows the configuration of Figure 15 in one possible use.

[0073] Figure 17 shows the device illustrated in Figure 13 in one possible use.

[0074] Figure 18 is a side elevation view of an internal mounting body according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 19 is an isometric view from one end of the internal mounting body illustrated in Figure 18.

[0076] Figure 20 is an isometric view of an external massage body according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 21 is a side elevation view of the external massage body illustrated in Figure 20.

[0078] Figure 22 is an axonometric view of an internal mounting body of a massage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 23 is an isometric view of the internal mounting body illustrated in Figure 22.

[0080] Figure 24 is an isometric view of an external massage body of a massage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0081] According to a particularly preferred embodiment the present invention, a massage device 10 is provided.

[0082] The examples of massage device illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 in particular include a generally annular body with an opening 11 therein to allow mounting of the body relative to a manipulator forms of which are shown in Figures 10 and 14 at least, a pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces or planes 12 and a treatment configuration including a plurality of shaped protuberances 14 adapted to provide a massaging effect located relative to an external wall 13 of the body between the pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces or planes 12.

[0083] The device of the present invention may be used singly or preferably, with others of its general kind as illustrated in Figures 10 and 12, 13 and 15 to 17 to provide a required or desired massaging effect. Where provided in multiples, the devices 10 may have the same configuration or differing configurations in order to provide for enhanced effects stemming from the provision of devices having different treatment configurations with the overall effect of the different treatment configurations providing synergistic effects.

[0084] The massage device of the present invention is preferably used with a manipulator such as that illustrated in Figures 10 and 14 at least and in particularly preferred embodiments, is mounted to or relative to a manipulator in order to allow the massage device to be moved, by a user, over a body part to be treated as illustrated in Figures 16 and 17 for example.

[0085] The body of the massage device may be solid or hollow. It is preferred that the body is shaped in order to allow the treatment configuration to be externally available to treat patient body part.

[0086] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 particularly, the preferred shape of the body of the massage device is generally toroidal. The toroidal shape of the device of the present invention will preferably not involve revolving a circle shape in three-dimensional space, but revolving and alternate shape such as a rectangular shape in order to form a cylindrical toroid as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, a trapezoid shape as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 or other shapes such as an arcuate wall. The shapes form generally toroidal bodies of slightly different shapes useful for treatment.

[0087] It is preferred that the body of the massage device 10 is substantially rigid.

Preferably, the body is manufactured of a plastic material due to the material characteristics which can be achieved through selection from the available types of plastic and for relatively low-cost. The desired material characteristics will be relatively low weight with relatively high strength and preferably deformation resistance.

[0088] The opening 11 in the body is generally circular in cross- sectional shape but may be any shape. The opening illustrated is a bore extending transversely through the body and is used to mount the body and therefore the massage device relative to a manipulator.

[0089] The body of the device of the present invention includes a pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces. Both of the side surfaces are typically generally circular with the opening 11 through the body of the device rendering the side surfaces annular in shape. The side surfaces will typically abut a portion of the manipulator (see Figure 15), other devices such as weight plates or collars (Figures 12 and 13) or other adjacent massage devices (Figure 10). The side surfaces of the body may be planar but preferably include an interlocking configuration.

[0090] One or both of the side surfaces may be provided with a interlocking configuration in order to allow a first massage device to be at least temporarily fixed relative to one or more adjacent massage devices or other devices such as weight plates or collars or to a portion of a manipulator.

[0091] In the preferred embodiment illustrated, an alternating array of locking protrusions 15 and locking openings 16 are provided relative to at least one, and preferably both of the side surfaces.

[0092] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the locking protrusions 15 and locking openings 16 are wedge shaped which will increase the positive engagement between adjacent devices. When used in combination with adjacent devices with a similar array of locking protrasions and locking openings, the locking protrusions 15 of a side surface of one massage device 10 are received in the locking openings 16 provided in a side surface of an adjacent massage device 10 in order to lock a pair of massage devices relative to one another.

[0093] The locking protrusionsl5 and locking openings 16 may extend over the full height of the side surface, for example as illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 6 or alternatively, over only a part of the height of the side surface, for example as illustrated in Figures 3, 4 and 7.

[0094] It is further preferred that the corners of any locking protrusions 15 and locking openings 16 are chamfered 17 as shown in Figures 6 and 7 to assist with self alignment of the protrasions 15 in corresponding openings 16 during engagement. The locking protrusions 15 and locking openings 16 of the preferred embodiment are sized to provide a clearance fit.

[0095] The treatment configuration including a plurality of shaped protrusions 14 is provided on or relative to an outer surface 13 of the body of the massage device between the pair of spaced apart annular side surfaces or planes 12.

[0096] As mentioned above, the external surface 13 may be shaped. It is preferred that each of the plurality of shaped protrusions 14 is also shaped, hi this way, both the shape of the external surface 13 and the shape of the shaped protrusions 14 can be used to tailor the massaging effect which is provided by the massage device.

[0097] Usually, all of the shaped protrusions 14 on a single massage device will be of the same configuration but there may be situations where shaped protrusions of different shapes can be provided on a single body.

[0098] In a first preferred embodiment, the shape of the shaped protrusions 14 is ramp or aerofoil shaped. As best seen in Figure 8, these shaped protrusions 14 include an inclined surface 18 leading from an outer surface of the body of the massage device to a level above that outer surface, have an arcuate transition 19 and then a depending portion 20 extending back to the outer surface of the body. Generally, the depending portion 20 is substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the body and the inclined surface 18 will typically be at an angle of up to 45° but preferably, approximately 15° to 20° relative to the outer surface of the body.

[0099] The inclined surface 18 and the depending portion 20 may be slightly convex which may provide enhanced treatment by providing a shaped activation surface for activating or releasing muscles, tendons or nerves of the like.

[0100] The shaped protrusions 14 may be solid or hollow. It is preferred that the shaped protrusions 14 be closed on all sides as shown in Figure 8. The shaped protrusions in this form will typically be substantially rectangular when viewed in plan.

[0101] In an alternative embodiment illustrated in Figure 9, the shaped protrusions maybe frastoconical or dome-shaped. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the shaped protrusions in this form may have a main body portion 21 which is frastoconical with a partially spherical upper free end 22. The central axis of the shaped protrusion of this form may be provided at an angle to the outer surface of the body from which the shaped portion extends. The angle may be transverse or perpendicular or alternative angle may be provided dependant upon the massage effect desired.

[0102] The shaped protrusions 14 of the illustrated embodiments are provided in an array over the outer surface 13 of the body between the pair of side surfaces or planes 12. The array is a regular array. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the shaped protrusions 14 are provided in a series of rows of spaced apart shaped protrusions. In this configuration, alternating rows are typically offset from one another.

[0103] The shaped protrusions may have any size and in deed, the size of the shaped protrusions may be chosen for a particular massaging effect. A lesser number of larger shaped protrusions may provide a more targeted massaging effect whereas a larger number of small shaped protrusions may provide a more general effect by acting to spread the applied load over a larger surface area. Typically, where larger shaped protrusions are provided, a lesser number will be provided in where smaller shaped protrusions are provided, a larger number will be provided. [0104] The number of shaped protrusions in each row will typically depend upon the size of both the shaped protrusions and the dimension of the body. Where larger protrusions are provided such as is illustrated in the central massage device in Figure 10, the protrusions are provided with a pair of spaced apart protrusions in a first row followed by one protrusion in an adjacent row located substantially between the pair of spaced apart protrusions in the first row and then a third row including a pair of spaced apart protrusions is provided and so on about the device. Where smaller protrusions are provided such as is illustrated in the central massage device in Figures 1 to 4, the protrusions are preferably provided in alternating rows of either 2 or 3, or 3 or 4 spaced apart protrusions for example.

[0105] As mentioned, the shaped protrusions will typically extend from an outer surface of the body of the device. The outer surface of the body of the device may have any shape. For example, the outer surface of the body may be substantially planar extending substantially perpendicularly between the side surfaces. In an alternate configuration, the outer surface of the body may be substantially planar extending an angle between the side surfaces. Still further, the outer surface of the body may be arcuate. For example, the outer surface may be convex such as that illustrated in Figure 5 for example or have an alternate more complex shape such as a convex portion followed by a concave portion.

[0106] The massage device of the present invention will normally be used in association with manipulator device and normally, the massage device of the invention will be mounted to a manipulator device. The manipulator device may mount one or more massage devices relative thereto and as mentioned above, the massage device where used in concert with other massage devices may be multiples of the same configuration of massage device or differently configured devices may be used.

[0107] The manipulator may have any one of a number of different configurations. In all configurations, the manipulator will typically have a substantially cylindrical body for mounting a massage device relative thereto and at least one gripping portion allowing a user to grip the manipulator and move the manipulator, thereby moving the massage device. The cylindrical body will typically correspond to the shape of the opening in the body of the massage device.

[0108] One type of manipulator is an Olympic barbell 32 or similar as illustrated in Figures 10 to 13. A barbell is a piece of exercise equipment used in weight training, bodybuilding, weightlifting and powerlifting, consisting of a long bar with weights attached at each end. Barbells range in length from 4 feet (1.2 m) to above 8 feet (2.4 m), although bars longer than 2.2 metres (7.2 ft) are used primarily by powerlifters and are not commonplace. The central portion of the bar varies in diameter from 25 millimetres (0.98 in) to 2 inches (51 mm), and is often engraved with a knurled Crosshatch pattern to help lifters maintain a solid grip. A men's Olympic bar is a metal bar that is 2.2 metres (7.2 ft) long and weighs 20 kilograms (44 lb). The outer ends are 50 millimetres (2.0 in) in diameter, while the grip section is 28 millimetres ( 1.1 in) in diameter, and 1.31 metres (4.3 ft) in length. Bars of this kind have sleeves on each end (relative to which the weight plates are mounted) which rotate. It is preferred that the massage device(s) of the present invention will be mounted relative to one of the sleeves.

[0109] In this configuration, one or more massage devices are placed onto a sleeve 23 of a barbell 32 as shown in Figure 10 to abut an enlarged collar 24 at the end of the sleeve 23 and then the user can move the barbell 32 in order to move the massage device as illustrated in Figure 17. The provision of one or more massage devices on a barbell 32 of this kind increases the effective weight of the massage devices and allows a user to adjust the massaging effect through adjusting the weight applied by the barbell 32. It also means that the user does not have to apply all of the force during the massaging.

[0110] A locking collar 25 such as that illustrated in Figure 1 1 or similar may be used adjacent to the outermost massage device used in a barbell 32 this kind in order to hold the massage device(s) in place. This is illustrated in Figure 12.

[0111] One or more weight plates 26 as illustrated in Figure 13 may be used in association with the barbell 32 in order to adjust the massaging force applied. Using the weight plates 26 mounted to the barbell 32 also means that a user can move the entire assembly with one hand.

[0112] For double-headed manipulation or in the massaging of areas which are easily accessible to a user themselves, an alternative configuration of manipulator such as that illustrated in Figures 14 to 16 may be used. In particular, this configuration of manipulator includes a central, cylindrical body 28 and a gripping portion 29 provided at both ends to form a "rolling pin" manipulator 27. One or more massage devices 10 can then be located relative to the cylindrical body 28 as illustrated in Figure 15 which substantially corresponds in external diameter to the internal diameter of the opening through the bodies of the massage devices. Again, normally one or more removable collars 30 are provided to allow assembly of massage devices 10 onto the manipulator of this form and also removal.

[0113] The gripping portions 29 will preferably allow rotation of the massage devices 10 and/or the cylindrical body 28.

[0114] In this configuration, a user could use one or more resilient bands 31 in combination with the manipulator, and in particular, mounted to the gripping portions 29 in order to vary the force of the massaging effect such that the user does not have to apply all of the force and has the ability to vary the force to different levels was maintaining a consistent level once chosen. An example of this usage is illustrated in Figure 16. However, the manipulator can be used without the one or more resilient bands.

[0115] In another embodiment, the massage device 10 of the present invention may be provided in the form of an internal mounting body 50, one form of which is illustrated in Figures 18 and 19 and an external massage body 51 one form of which is illustrated in Figures 20 and 21. In alternative configuration, both the internal mounting body 50 and external massage body 51 are substantially annular as illustrated. The internal mounting body 50 includes a central opening 52 in order to mount the mounting body 50 relative to a manipulator.

[0116] In a preferred form, the interlocking configuration discussed above may be provided on the side surfaces of the internal mounting body as illustrated in Figure 19.

[0117] The external massage body 51 preferably has a bore 53 with the internal dimension of the bore 53 in the external massage body 51 substantially the same as the external dimension of the internal mounting body 50. A friction fit may be used between the internal mounting body 50 and the external massage body 51. The external massage body 51 is preferably mounted concentrically outside the internal mounting body 50.

[0118] The external massage body 51 may have any treatment configuration on an external surface and a user can therefore quickly and easily swap the external massage body 51 in order to provide a different therapeutic effect.

[0119] In a preferred embodiment, the internal mounting body 50 may be manufactured from a material which is hard and rigid in order to withstand wear and tear on the internal mounting body 50 and the external massage body 51 may be manufactured of the same or a different material such as a material which is to be soft or at least softer than the internal mounting body 50 for a different or enhanced therapeutic effect.

[0120] Figures 22 to 24 illustrated an alternative embodiment of the internal mounting body 55 (illustrated in Figures 22 and 23), and an external massage body 56, one form of which is illustrated in Figure 24. In this configuration, both the internal mounting body 55 and external massage body 56 are substantially annular as illustrated. The internal mounting body 55 includes a central opening 57 in order to mount the mounting body 55 relative to a manipulator. [0121] In the preferred form illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, an interlocking configuration is provided on the side surfaces of the internal mounting body 55. In this embodiment, the interlocking configuration includes a series of hollow teeth, alternating larger teeth 59 with smaller teeth 60. The smaller teeth 60 are dimensioned to be received closely and at least partially within the hollow opening in the larger teeth 59 such that if two internal mounting bodies are juxtaposed end to end and offset such that the larger teeth 59 of one internal mounting body 55 align with the smaller teeth 60 of an adjacent internal mounting body 55, the bodies can be pressed together until the annular surfaces 12 abut one another, locking the internal mounting bodies together until separated by drawing them apart in an axial direction. The external shape of the smaller teeth corresponds with the internal shape of the larger teeth but the shape need not be the same as the external shape of the larger teeth as is illustrated.

[0122] The internal mounting body 55 has an open lattice or cellular construction in order to provide strength but minimise weight and material used. A regular array of ribs including both radially extending ribs 61 and linear ribs 62 is provided with the outer edges of the ribs being in the same circumferential plane to abut in inner surface of the external massage body 56.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment, the internal mounting body 55 may be manufactured from a material which is hard and rigid in order to withstand wear and tear on the internal mounting body 55.

[0124] The external massage body 56 illustrated in Figure 24 has a bore 58 with the internal dimension of the bore 58 in the external massage body 56 substantially the same as the external dimension of the internal mounting body 55. A friction fit may be used between the internal mounting body 55 and the external massage body 56. The external massage body 56 is preferably mounted concentrically outside the internal mounting body 55.

[0125] The external massage body 56 may have any treatment configuration on an external surface and a user can therefore quickly and easily swap the external massage body 56 in order to provide a different therapeutic effect. Normally a number of external massage bodies of different configurations will be provided and simply swapped as required.

[0126] The external massage body 56 may be manufactured of the same or a different material such as a material which is to be soft or at least softer than the internal mounting body 55 for a different or enhanced therapeutic effect. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 24, a central annular potion of the external massage body 56 is manufactured of a rigid material, similar to that of the internal mounting body 55 a sleeve of softer material or at least softer than the internal mounting body 55, is provided about the cylindrical surface of the external massage body 51

[0127] It can be seen that the massage device of the present invention and a system including one or more massage devices together with a manipulator allows a user to choose the type of massaging effect achieved as well is the adjustment of force applied during the massage treatment.

[0128] In use, a user can treat themselves or be treated by another person using one or more massage devices of the present invention mounted to a manipulator. The user can choose the type of massage device to be used or combination of massage devices to be used as well is the type of manipulator to be used, then assemble one or more massage devices relative to a manipulator, choose a force to be applied during the massage and then have confidence that the same force will be applied over time until a different force configuration is chosen in order to achieve efficient and effective massage treatment.

[0129] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0130] Reference throughout this specification to One embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0131] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.