Device for promoting reflective neuromuscular training

Abstract

A device for promoting reflective neuromuscular training. The device is a moderately compressible member having a planar lower surface and an incongruent upper surface. When used in proprioceptive rehabilitation, the device stimulates sensory pathways to improve balance and neuromuscular responses.

1 ) A device for promoting reflective neuromuscular training, comprising: 
 a moderately compressible member having a planar lower surface for positioning said device on a flat horizontal surface;    and an incongruent upper surface;    whereby when a user stands on said device, said irregular surface causes various points of application to the bones, muscles, and tendons of said user's foot, thus improving proprioceptive balance of said user.    
   
   
       2 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said member is constructed from rubber.  
   
   
       3 ) The device of  claim 2 , wherein said rubber comprises foam rubber.  
   
   
       4 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said incongruent surface contains a concave area.  
   
   
       5 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said incongruent surface contains a convex area.  
   
   
       6 ) A therapeutic exercise device, comprising; 
 a resilient member having a planar lower surface for positioning said device on a flat horizontal surface, and an irregular upper surface;    whereby when a user stands on said device and attempts to maintain balance, proprioceptive skills of the user are improved.    
   
   
       7 ) The device of  claim 6 , wherein said member is constructed from foam rubber.  
   
   
       8 ) The device of  claim 7 , wherein said foam rubber is moderately compressible.  
   
   
       9 ) The device of  claim 6 , wherein said member is constructed from a dense foam rubber having minimal compression.  
   
   
       10 ) A training system for improving proprioceptive skills, comprising: 
 a plurality of planar first mats, which each mat having a resilient member extending from said mat, with said member having an incongruent upper surface for eliciting certain neuromuscular responses when a user stands on said member with a foot, and each mat having an interlocking edge whereby said mats can be connected together to maximize a rehabilitative regimen for a user.    
   
   
       11 ) The system of  claim 10 , wherein each of said mats contains a member which differs in the degree of proprioceptive/balance difficulty.  
   
   
       12 ) The system of  claim 1   1 , wherein said member on each mat is marked with an indicia which denotes the degree of difficulty.  
   
   
       13 ) The system of  claim 10 , further including a plurality of second mats having compliant surfaces which are interconnected with said first mats to elicit additional neuromuscular responses.  
   
   
       14 ) The system of  claim 13 , wherein a second mat simulates a grasslike surface.