Method and an apparatus for joint-controlled training of different motoric units for development of functional muscle strength and proprioceptivity

DETAILED DESCRIPTION We claim: 1.
An apparatus for joint controlled training of motoric units for development of functional muscle strength and proprioceptivity, the apparatus comprising: means for arresting a joint axis associated with a muscle group or motor unit to be trained; brace means provided below the joint axis; at least one arm pivotally connected to the arresting means at the joint axis; load application means connected between the arm and the arresting means for applying a load to the muscle group or motor unit to be trained; angle adjusting means connected between the arm and the brace means for adjusting an angle under which the load is applied to the muscle group or motor unit to be trained.
2.
An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for arresting comprises: a first orthosis member extending above the joint axis associated with a muscle group or motor unit to be trained; a second orthosis member extending below the joint axis; orthosis connecting means for connecting the first orthosis member and the second orthosis member; and wherein the arm is pivotally connected to the orthosis connecting means at the joint axis.
3.
An apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first orthosis member, the second orthosis member, and the brace means are all adapted to be attached to a limb; and wherein the arm, the load application means, and the angle adjusting means are situated substantially entirely to one side of the limb.
4.
An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the arm has a substantially arcuate shape, the arm having a curved projection on a plane perpendicular to the joint axis.
5.
An apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein the arm has means at a plurality of positions thereon for selective attachment of the load application means to one of the positions thereof.
6.
An apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the arm has a plurality of equi-distantly spaced-apart attachment holes thereon for attachment of the load application means to one of the holes thereof