DEVELOPMENT OF A LUMBAR SPINE AND EXTENSOR ORTHOPAEDIC RECOVERY SYSTEM

A simple lumbar spine (low back) and extensor (muscle) orthopaedic recovery system have been developed in this study. The system is designed to assist in overcoming logistics constraints associated with treatment and recovery of musculoskeletal ailment and neurologic injuries by implementation of controlled therapeutic exercise without unwarranted complexities and obstructions especially for low income earners. The structural frame comprising of the head rest, back rest, bed rest, hand rest and the leg support was designed and fabricated. The system derives its reciprocating motion from the combination of an electric motor and a slider crank mechanism. The system was designed for a maximum body mass of 125.80 kg. The slider crank mechanism attains a maximum stroke of 175 mm. The orthopaedic recovery system would go a long way to effectively mitigate the socioeconomic burden and condition of individuals suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain and impaired function at the lumbar area. Furthermore, the living condition, resourcefulness and productivity of victims of musculoskeletal impairment would be greatly improved; and sickness related expenses are also expected to reduce due to enhanced recovery rate of low back orthopaedic patients.